If you’re wondering where to go this weekend, we have three recommended events for you to choose from on Saturday, December 27th to Sunday, December 28th, including an exhibition of manga artist Ikuemi Aya’s works set in Sapporo, a collaboration between a world-famous character and an aquarium, and an exhibition event that can be enjoyed by parents and children.

EVNET
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“Ikuemi Aya Original Art Exhibition: Our Stories -from Sapporo-” also features works set in Sapporo

Ikuemi Aya Original Art Exhibition

This exhibition features original drawings by Ikuemi Aya, a manga artist who has been based in Sapporo for over 40 years. Her works naturally blend Sapporo’s scenery, Hokkaido dialect, and the unique atmosphere of each era. Her meticulous portrayal of the emotions of characters who seem to be living in the midst of everyday life has captured the hearts of many readers. This exhibition focuses on works set in Sapporo, and displays over 100 original drawings, including her most famous works. You can get a close-up feel of the moment a story is born from each delicate line and expression. Materials revealing the creative process are also on display, making it a highlight to follow her path as a leading artist.

■Dates: Saturday, December 20, 2025 – Sunday, January 18, 2026

Weekdays 12:00-19:00 / Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays 11:00-19:00

*Admission is until 30 minutes before closing.

■Closed: December 31st (Wednesday), January 1st (Thursday)

■Admission fee: Adults 1,700 yen / Junior and senior high school students 1,000 yen

■ Venue: Sapporo Factory, 3rd floor, 3rd Jo Building (Kita 2-jo Higashi 4-chome, Chuo-ku, Sapporo)

For details and maps on “Ikuemi Aya Original Art Exhibition: Our Stories -from Sapporo-“, please click here.

EVNET
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A collaboration between the world-famous character and the aquarium, “PINGU™ x AOAO SAPPORO SWEET AQUARIUM: A Winter Aquarium of Love”

PINGU™×AOAO SAPPORO SWEET AQUARIUM

Sapporo’s urban aquarium, AOAO SAPPORO, is holding a winter-only event in collaboration with the world-famous character Pingu, celebrating his 45th anniversary. This special event delves into the secrets of love, perfect for the snowy winters of Sapporo. Inside the aquarium, you can observe northern rockhopper penguins up close as they enter their mating and breeding seasons, and learn about the ecology of these creatures with themes of family love and friendship. There will also be a stamp rally and interactive programs that you can enjoy while immersed in the warm world of Pingu.

■Dates and times: Friday, December 19, 2025 – Sunday, March 22, 2026, 10:00-22:00 (last entry until 21:00)

■Price: High school students and above: 2,200 yen / Elementary and junior high school students: 1,100 yen / 3 years and above: 200 yen / Free for children under 3 years old

■ Venue: AOAO SAPPORO (4th floor, moyuk SAPPORO, 20 Minami 2-jo Nishi 3-chome, Chuo-ku, Sapporo)

For details and maps on “PINGU™ x AOAO SAPPORO SWEET AQUARIUM Winter Aquarium of Love,” click here.

EVNET
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“Tomica Plarail Festival in Sapporo” featuring giant dioramas and interactive attractions that parents and children can enjoy

Tomica Plarail Festival

This event allows you to see, play with, and enjoy “Tomica” and “Plarail,” which are loved by people of all ages. The venue will feature a spectacular exhibition zone that will captivate you, including a “Tomica & Plarail Giant Diorama” and an exhibit that recreates a Shinkansen train depot.

Tomica Plarail Festival

The Attraction Zone will be packed with fun and hands-on activities, including “Tomica Fishing,” “Tomica Assembly Factory,” and “Plarail Amidakuji.” Event commemorative products and other Tomica and Plarail goods will also be on sale.

■Dates and times: Saturday, December 27, 2025 – Monday, January 12, 2026, 10:00-17:00 (last admission at 16:30)

■Closed: December 31st (Wednesday), January 1st (Thursday)

■Price: Advance tickets for ages 3 and up: 750 yen / Advance tickets with Tomica fishing rod (limited quantity): 1,250 yen / Same-day tickets: 800 yen

■ Venue: Sapporo Factory Atrium, Sapporo Factory Room (Kita 2-jo Higashi 4-chome, Chuo-ku, Sapporo)

For details and maps of the “Tomica Plarail Festival in Sapporo” please click here

*All information is current as of the time of publication in December 2025.

*All published information may be subject to change, so please check the official website for details.

Sapporo Event

AloJapan.com