1. What is the Sapporo Snow Festival?
The Sapporo Snow Festival (Sapporo Yuki Matsuri) is a globally renowned winter event held annually in Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan, every February. It began in 1950 when local middle and high school students created six snow sculptures in Odori Park. Today, the festival attracts over two million visitors from around the world.
The event is famous for its massive snow and ice sculptures displayed throughout the city. These artworks are not only visually stunning but are also illuminated at night with projection mapping, creating a magical atmosphere.
2. Venues and Highlights of the Sapporo Snow Festival
The festival takes place at three main venues.
① Odori Park Site
- The main venue located in central Sapporo’s Odori Park.
- Features enormous snow sculptures of global landmarks and characters.
- Nighttime illuminations and projection mapping create a mesmerizing view.
- Food stalls offer Hokkaido’s famous local delicacies.
② Susukino Site
- Located in Sapporo’s entertainment district, showcasing stunning ice sculptures.
- Features beautifully illuminated ice carvings, creating a dreamy ambiance.
- Hosts events such as the “Ice Queen Contest.”
- In 2025, strong winds caused the collapse of the ice bar, leading to increased safety measures.
③ Tsudome Site
- A family-friendly venue filled with snow-related activities.
- Includes snow slides and snow rafting, popular among visitors with children.
- Indoor facilities provide warmth and comfort from the cold weather.
3. Must-See Events at the Sapporo Snow Festival
In addition to snow and ice art, the festival hosts various events:
- Projection Mapping: Large snow sculptures become dynamic displays with lights and animations.
- Snow Sculpture Contest: Teams from Japan and abroad compete in creating intricate snow sculptures.
- Ice Bar: A unique experience enjoying cocktails in a bar made entirely of ice (Susukino Site).
- Live Performances: Concerts and shows featuring artists and idols.
- Electone on Stage: A Yamaha-sponsored Electone performance event held at Odori 5-Chome’s “Doshin Snow Plaza.” Many Electone enthusiasts showcase their talents here. The 2025 event runs from February 4 to February 11. I personally visit every year to enjoy these performances.
4. Enjoying Hokkaido’s Food at the Festival
One of the major attractions of the festival is the opportunity to savor Hokkaido’s winter cuisine.
- Sapporo Ramen: The region is famous for its miso ramen.
- Genghis Khan (Jingisukan): A specialty lamb barbecue dish.
- Fresh Seafood: Crab, sea urchin, and salmon roe are popular choices.
- Hokkaido Sweets: Shiroi Koibito, butter sand cookies, and an-butter dorayaki.
Food stalls are set up across the venue, allowing visitors to enjoy warm meals in the chilly weather.
5. Tips for Enjoying the Sapporo Snow Festival
① Clothing and Essentials
- Dress Warmly: Temperatures can drop below -10°C, so bring thick coats, gloves, hats, and scarves.
- Wear Non-Slip Shoes: The venue can be icy and slippery, so boots with anti-slip soles are recommended.
- Battery Precautions: Cold temperatures can drain phone and camera batteries quickly, so carry a backup battery.
② How to Get There
- By Air: Take a train from New Chitose Airport to Sapporo Station (about 40 minutes).
- By Subway: Odori Park is accessible via the Odori Subway Station; Susukino Site is within walking distance from Susukino Station.
- By Shuttle Bus: Special shuttle buses operate to the Tsudome Site.
③ Book Accommodation Early!
- Hotels in Sapporo get fully booked during the festival, so make reservations several months in advance.
- Accommodations near Odori Park or Susukino offer convenient access to festival sites.
6. Conclusion: The Sapporo Snow Festival is the Highlight of Winter in Hokkaido!
The Sapporo Snow Festival is one of Japan’s premier winter events, showcasing breathtaking snow and ice sculptures. Combined with delicious Hokkaido cuisine, it provides an unforgettable travel experience.
Prepare well for the cold weather and enjoy the magic of the Sapporo Snow Festival!
