Experience a Sparkling New Year Celebration in Sapporo at Grand Mercure Odori Park

Celebrate New Year 2026 at Grand Mercure Sapporo Odori Park

As the clock strikes midnight on December 31, 2025, a new year will begin, and there’s no better place to celebrate than at the Grand Mercure Sapporo Odori Park. Nestled in the heart of Sapporo, Hokkaido, this city hotel is preparing an unforgettable New Year celebration from January 1 to 3, 2026. Guests will be treated to a series of unique experiences combining local ingredients and traditional Japanese New Year customs.

The Grand Mercure aims to deliver an immersive journey through cultural aspects and culinary delights specific to its location. During this special New Year period, guests will have the chance to participate in activities that center around Hokkaido's seasonal gifts and Japanese celebratory culture. A highlight of the event will be the traditional mochi (rice cake) making, a custom that symbolizes good fortune for the new year. This lively experience will be supported by hotel staff, making it a fun family event and a fantastic opportunity to engage with local traditions.

Mochi Making Experience

Event Dates: January 1 - 3, 2026
Time: 3:30 PM - 4:00 PM
Location: Hotel Lounge, 1st Floor
Notes: Participation is open to all hotel guests. Timing may vary based on circumstances.

This mochi making event features the use of locally sourced glutinous rice and adzuki beans, providing guests with freshly made rice cakes to enjoy. Participants will also be treated to seasonal local cuisine, including delicious zōni (traditional soup containing mochi) made from chicken stock, vegetables, and topped with ikura (salmon roe). This hearty dish reflects the flavors and customs of Hokkaido, giving guests a warm and authentic taste of the region.

Enjoy Fresh Mochi

Event Dates: January 1 - 3, 2026
Time: From 3:30 PM until supplies last
Location: Hotel Lounge, 1st Floor
Notes: Different from the mochi made during the hands-on experience.

While enjoying the mochi, guests will have the chance to savor it with three different accompaniments: sweet soy sauce with salmon, roasted soybean flour, and adzuki beans, all sourced from Hokkaido. The sincere flavors will indeed warm not just the body but the spirit as well.

Special Zōni Soup

Event Dates: January 1 - 3, 2026
Time: 7:00 AM - 10:00 AM (Last Order: 9:30 AM)
Location: Buffet Restaurant “Le Sensoriel” on the 1st Floor
Notes: Menu items may change based on supply conditions.

One cannot forget the cultural significance of the zōni soup during New Year's celebrations in Japan. This comforting dish will be served to breakfast guests, featuring a delicious broth extracted from chicken and enriched with root vegetables. Guests can personalize their zōni with round mochi, enhancing their experience of welcoming the new year in the comforts of the hotel.

Illumination Photo Booth

Additionally, guests can visit a stunning illumination photo booth set up in the hotel lobby, perfect for preserving memories of their travels. This winter-themed attraction caters to families and couples alike, creating magical moments to cherish.

Event Dates: Until February 28, 2026
Time: Open 24 hours
Location: Hotel Lobby, 1st Floor.

Discover Grand Mercure Sapporo Odori Park

This centrally located hotel allows guests not only to enjoy comfortable accommodations but also to experience Hokkaido's rich culture and nature. Proximity to the subway Odori Station makes it highly accessible, ideal for both leisure travelers and business guests. The hotel features restaurants specializing in local ingredients, ensuring an enriching dining experience during your stay.

With a starting price of 18,500 yen per night (including breakfast for one guest in a double occupancy), the Grand Mercure Sapporo Odori Park invites you to immerse yourself in a festive atmosphere while exploring local culture with ease.

For more details, visit the hotel's official website here.

This New Year celebration promises to create lasting memories, so don’t miss out on this unique opportunity! Celebrate the start of 2026 with joy, warmth, and the richness of Hokkaido's traditions.