Winter is a special time in Japan. Much of the country transforms into a snowy wonderland, with winter illuminations lighting up the major cities.

 

There are many things that you can only experience during this time of the year. One unmissable winter activity is to attend snow festivals that are held all over Japan. From spectacular snow sculptures to romantic snow igloos, here are three exciting snow festivals in Japan to add to your winter itinerary!

 

1. Sapporo Snow Festival in Hokkaido Prefecture

 

The Sapporo Snow Festival is a major winter event that takes place every year in February.

 

The Sapporo Snow Festival is the largest winter festival in Sapporo – Hokkaido’s capital city. Featuring larger-than-life snow and ice sculptures, this highly-anticipated event attracts over 2 million visitors from Japan and around the world every year.

 

It all started in 1950, when local middle and high school students created six snow sculptures in Odori Park. They were inspired by winter community events and decided to organize their own, complete with snowball fights and popular square dances. Since then, the Sapporo Snow Festival has grown into an annual winter extravaganza that showcases the best of Hokkaido’s natural resources.

 

Be wowed by snow sculptures of all sizes created by the locals and talented artists.

 

For the 74th (2024) festival, the event will be held at three sites, each with its own unique activities and atmosphere. At the main site in Odori Park, stretching up to 12 blocks or approximately 1.5km, look forward to a variety of towering snow sculptures with the most intricate designs. The snow sculptures are also lit up at night, so you can enjoy them at any time of the day. The Susukino Site greets visitors with impressive ice sculptures that are illuminated for the most remarkable photo opportunity. 

 

Frolic in the fluffy snow and play to your heart’s content at the Tsudome Site.

 

For a bit of snow play, head to the family-friendly Tsudome Site which is back again for the first time in four years. This venue features outdoor winter activities such as snow slides and snow rafts for a fun-filled family day out.

 

 

2. Yokote Kamakura Festival in Akita Prefecture

 

Kamakura (snow huts) stand silently in the winter night, beckoning visitors with their warm glow.

 

Yokote is an area known for having one of the heaviest snowfall in Akita Prefecture. Every year in February, this snow-laden city comes alive with the glow of lighted igloos during the annual Yokote Kamakura Festival.

 

This enchanting festival has a history of around 450 years and was originally intended for the people to worship and offer prayers to the water deity enshrined in the kamakura (snow hut). They prayed for the well-being of families, business prosperity, and a bountiful harvest. Over time, it gradually developed into a tourist attraction where visitors are allowed to enter and experience the warmth of the locals’ hospitality. 

 

Mini kamakura lit up with candles dot the snowy grounds at the Yokote Kamakura Festival.

 

In the darkness of the night, approximately 80 beautiful snow huts illuminate with a soft orange glow, creating a magical atmosphere. If you have the chance to be invited to enter the igloo, you can also enjoy some tasty grilled rice cakes and amazake (a traditional fermented rice drink) with the locals.

 

Along the bank of the Yokote River, another mesmerizing sight awaits. Hundreds of small snow domes are constructed and they light up when night falls, just like a scene out of a fairy tale. Countless of these mini kamakura are also placed at various locations across Yokote City. Follow this river of light and take a romantic stroll on a crisp winter night.

 

 

3. Zao Juhyo Festival in Yamagata Prefecture

 

The magnificent Zao Snow Monsters are an incredible natural winter phenomenon. ©Yamagata Prefecture

 

For some of the most unique snowy landscapes in Japan, head over to Mount Zao, where snow monsters come out to join in the fun at the Zao Juhyo Festival!

 

These snow monsters, also known as juhyo, are actually giant rime-covered trees. This phenomenon occurs when icy winds from Siberia travel across the North Japan Sea and blow over the huge fir trees, coating them with frost and transforming them into what resemble gnarly monsters.

 

 

From late February to early March every year, the snow monsters are lit up in various colors at night during the Zao Juhyo Festival. Immerse in this mystical experience with illuminations on the Uwanodai Slopes and in the hot spring town near the area.

 

©Yamagata City Sightseeing Association Corporation

 

You can also choose to take a ride on the massive Night Cruiser snowcat vehicle for an up-close tour of the lighted Juhyo. The bizarre beauty of the rime-covered trees surrounded by the darkness of the night is a memorable experience unlike any other.

 

Another not-to-be-missed festival event is the "1000 Torch Run", which will be held on February 3, 2024, where skiers glide down the slopes holding LED lights that look like torches from afar. Fireworks will go off after the skiers make their way down and paint the winter night sky in vibrant hues. There are lots of other fun activities for both adults and children to enjoy at the Zao Juhyo Festival — so bring the whole family!

 

Note: Activities may be canceled depending on the weather.

 

Japan’s snow festivals are a time for people to come together and embrace the beauty of winter. It is also an opportunity to be a part of Japanese winter traditions, so do not miss these fantastic winter events on your next trip!

 

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