Sapporo City, Hokkaido
Sapporo Snow Festival is arguably the most famous of them all. Between Jan 31 and Feb 11, snow sculptures will invade the city centre. Do book flights and accommodation for this event as early as possible – it is huuuuuugely popular.
Nikko City, Tochigi
Honshu sees tons of snow every winter. Yunishigawa Onsen Kamakura Festival in Nikko offers a perfect mix of snow activities and hot springs – head there between Jan 26 and March 3.
Tokamachi City, Niigata
Tokamachi Snow Festival is a smaller version of the Sapporo event. It features snow architecture, fireworks and combines traditional and modern Japanese culture. Feb 14–16.
Zao Onsen, Yamagata
Zao Snow Monster Illuminations is a unique festival with real trees of Mount Zao buried in snow and best seen from the ropeway by night with full illumination. The festival starts Dec 28 and lasts till Feb 29.
Hirosaki Castle, Aomori City
Hirosaki Castle is better known as a perfect place for viewing cherry blossom, but snow has its way here, too. Hirosaki Castle Snow Lantern Festival is Narnia on earth. Come and check it between Feb 8 and 11.
Japan Prepares fro Snow Festivals. And You Should, Too!
News in Asia
Winter is here. For those of you who plan their winter travel in Japan, put these snow festivals on your must-visit list.