The kamakura is an igloo-like structure hollowed out after packing snow. It is round, and generally about 3.5 metres across and 3 metres tall. During the festival period, more than 100 kamakuras adorn the town, along with countless miniature kamakuras. Generally known in Japan as a small house, the kamakura is in fact traditionally used in Akita Prefecture as a shrine for the God of Water during the Lunar New Year, which generally falls between 15th to 20th January.
During the Yokote Kamakura Snow Festival, children inside the kamakura invite passers-by to join them, sometimes to pray to the God of Water, and serve rich, warm amazake, a sweet low-alcohol drink, as well as mochi rice cakes.
Date: 15 – 16 February 2019, Friday to Saturday, 10am to 9pm
Address: JR Yokote Station
Website: http://www.akitafan.com/en/archive/tourism/2333
Phone: not available
