Hokkaido University Autumn Leave Light Up
October 25 – November 4
*2026 dates won’t be confirmed by the committee until late summer, but it usually runs from the middle of October to early November*.
Every autumn, Hokkaido University’s famous Ginkgo Avenue is transformed into a breathtaking tunnel of golden leaves. Stretching for around 380 metres along Kita 13-jo Street, the avenue is one of Sapporo’s most beautiful places to enjoy the changing colours of the season.
The annual Hokudai Kon’yousai (Golden Leaf Festival) celebrates the spectacular display with evening illuminations, local food stalls, and live entertainment, including the much-loved street piano. Visiting after sunset offers a completely different atmosphere, as the glowing golden canopy creates a magical setting.
The ginkgo trees usually reach their peak from late October to early November, although this varies slightly depending on the weather each year. The festival is typically held over a weekend during peak colour, with the official 2026 dates expected to be announced by the student organisers in late summer.
In previous years, the illuminations have run from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm, giving visitors plenty of time to experience one of Sapporo’s most iconic autumn sights.