Snow Magic: Top Six Hokkaido Snow Festivals
Every year visitors flock from all over the world to Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island, as it transforms into a winter wonderland. To highlight the region’s gorgeous snowy landscapes, snow festivals are celebrated all over in a spectacular showcase of creativity, culture, and the magic of winter. They are truly a sight to behold! But how do you choose which one of these incredible festivals to go to? Check out this guide for the most famous Hokkaido snow festivals and what makes each of them unique!
1. Sapporo Snow Festival (さっぽろ雪まつり)
- When: Early February
- Where: Sapporo (Odori Park, Susukino, and Tsudome sites)
The Sapporo Snow Festival is Hokkaido’s most renowned winter event, attracting over two million visitors annually. This festival features breathtaking snow and ice sculptures, some towering over 15 meters tall and stretching dozens of meters wide! The sculptures range from intricate replicas of famous landmarks to creative works inspired by anime, pop culture, and global themes.
Highlights:
- Stroll through Odori Park, the main venue, to marvel at the large-scale sculptures illuminated at night.
- Visit the Susukino Ice World for shimmering ice sculptures and interactive displays.
- Enjoy snow slides and family-friendly activities at the Tsudome Site.
2. Asahikawa Winter Festival (旭川冬まつり)
- When: Mid-February
- Where: Asahikawa
Known for hosting one of the world’s largest snow sculptures, the Asahikawa Winter Festival is a must-visit. The centerpiece snow stage often serves as a venue for live performances and firework displays, making it a dynamic winter spectacle. It’s a bit of a drive from Sapporo, so try joining a full day bus tour or stay overnight to experience this magical display in its entirety!
Highlights:
- Admire the massive snow sculpture, often a castle or historical landmark.
- Visit the Ice Sculpture World Competition, featuring intricate works crafted by artists from around the globe.
- Enjoy family-friendly attractions such as ice slides and snow play areas.
3. Otaru Snow Light Path Festival (小樽雪あかりの路)
- When: Early to mid-February
- Where: Otaru
Otaru, a picturesque port town, becomes even more enchanting during its Snow Light Path Festival. The town is adorned with thousands of snow lanterns and lights, creating a warm and romantic atmosphere. Otaru is just about an hour away from Sapporo by train, making it an excellent wintery day trip!
Highlights:
- Walk along the iconic Otaru Canal, lined with glowing lanterns reflected in the water.
- Explore the Temiyasen Kaijo area, a former railway line transformed into a magical path of light and snow.
- Enjoy the cozy ambiance of this smaller, more intimate festival.
4. Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival (支笏湖氷濤まつり)
- When: Late January to mid-February
- Where: Lake Shikotsu, near Chitose
The Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival is famous for its naturally frozen sculptures and structures made from the clear waters of Lake Shikotsu, one of the clearest lakes in Japan. This festival is famous for its nighttime illuminations, so make sure you get there during the evening when these creations really start to glow! Just a bit over an hour away from Sapporo, this is another excellent day trip destination.
Highlights:
- Wander through ice tunnels, domes, and towers, each illuminated in vibrant hues.
- Experience unique events like fireworks displays and traditional performances.
- Warm up with hot local delicacies and drinks available at food stalls.
5. Sounkyo Onsen Ice Fall Festival (層雲峡温泉 氷瀑まつり)
- When: Late January to Mid March
- Where: Sounkyo Onsen
Sounkyo is located in a gorge up in the mountains of Hokkaido, and can be prone to freezing temperatures from the winds that pass through the gorge, making it an excellent location for an ice festival! What’s particularly unique about this location is that the “sculptures” are actually made using wooden structures that are then sprayed down with water from the river. In the cold winter air, the water soon freezes into surreal masses that the locals light up at night for beautiful displays of light and color.
Highlights:
- Check out the unique structures lit up at night that highlight the power of nature and man in syncronisity!
- Watch firework displays in the evening!
- Sounkyo gets particularly cold, so make sure to bundle up and grab a warm drink while you admire the ice and lights!
6. Tokachigawa Swan Festival (十勝川白鳥まつり)
- When: Late January to mid-February
- Where: Tokachigawa Onsen, Obihiro
This unique festival celebrates the 1,000 white swans that migrate to the Tokachigawa River in winter. Combining natural beauty with light art, the event features spectacular illuminations and a tranquil atmosphere. It’s about three hours from Sapporo, and the real show is at night when the light show begins, so make sure to stay overnight!
Highlights:
- Admire the Sairinka light show, where colorful lights dance in sync with music.
- Relax in the nearby onsen (hot springs) after enjoying the frosty air.
- Observe the graceful swans that gather in the waters of the river.
Tips for Enjoying Hokkaido Snow Festivals
- Dress warmly: Temperatures can drop significantly, so layer up with thermal clothing, waterproof boots, gloves, and a hat.
- Consider Cleats for Footwear: The ice can be very slippery, particularly for those not used to winter climates, so consider buying cleats that slip onto your shoes for more grip.
- Plan transportation: Many festivals are accessible by train or bus, but schedules can be impacted by snow. Consider renting a car for flexibility.
- Book accommodations early: Winter is peak season, and hotels near popular festivals fill up quickly.
Hokkaido snow festivals are a celebration of winter’s beauty, creativity, and the intersection of local and global culture. Whether you’re marveling at colossal snow sculptures, strolling through lantern-lit pathways, or enjoying interactive snow activities, these events offer unforgettable experiences for all ages. Bundle up and immerse yourself in the magic of Hokkaido’s snowy wonderland!
Interested in a tour? Ask our HIS agents about booking a private or group tour to one of these incredible snowy locations!
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