The Sapporo Snow Festival is an amazing winter event that turns Japan’s northern city into a magical place full of snow and ice. This festival is one of the most popular events in Japan, attracting millions of visitors every year.
People come to see the incredible sculptures, enjoy the colorful lights, and take part in fun winter activities. If you’re planning a trip in 2025, make sure to include the Sapporo Snow Festival on your list. Here’s everything you need to know about this incredible event.
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The origins of the Sapporo Snow Festival date back to 1950, when local high school students built six modest snow sculptures in Odori Park. What started as a small, local event has since grown into one of the world’s largest snow and ice festivals, drawing over 2 million visitors annually from around the globe.
Over the decades, the festival has expanded to include international ice sculpting competitions, dazzling light shows, and interactive exhibits. It’s become a prime example of how Sapporo celebrates its cold winters with innovation and joy, making it a centerpiece of Hokkaido’s winter season.
The Sapporo Snow Festival 2025 will take place from February 4 to February 11, giving visitors an entire week to revel in the snowy splendor. The festival spans three main venues:
Odori Park is the main festival site, spanning 1.5 kilometers in central Sapporo. This area features the largest and most impressive snow sculptures, some reaching heights of 15 meters.
These stunning works of art often depict historical landmarks, cultural icons, or creative designs. In addition to sculptures, Odori Park offers food stalls, stages for live performances, and mesmerizing light displays that make the park glow at night.
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Susukino, known as Sapporo’s vibrant entertainment district, hosts the Ice World. Here, intricate ice sculptures line the streets, showcasing themes ranging from mythical creatures to detailed wildlife.
At night, the colorful illumination of these sculptures creates a truly magical atmosphere. With many nearby bars and restaurants, Susukino also provides a great place to enjoy Hokkaido’s culinary delights.
The Tsudome site is perfect for families and those seeking hands-on winter fun. This venue features snow slides, snow rafting, and interactive snow sculptures. It’s an excellent spot to embrace the playful side of winter and enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere away from the bustling crowds of Odori Park and Susukino.
The highlight of the festival is undoubtedly the enormous snow sculptures at Odori Park. These artistic marvels are crafted by skilled teams who spend weeks meticulously shaping and carving the snow.
Past sculptures have included everything from historical buildings like Japan’s Himeji Castle to beloved characters from anime and global pop culture.
The ice sculptures at Susukino add a crystalline beauty to the festival. Often depicting fantastical creatures, wildlife, and intricate patterns, these sculptures demonstrate the incredible talent of international artists. Visitors can also vote for their favorite ice sculpture in the annual contest.
As evening falls, the festival transforms into a wonderland of lights. The sculptures at all three venues are illuminated, creating a magical atmosphere that’s perfect for photos and evening strolls.
In recent years, the festival has embraced technology, incorporating projection mapping and interactive displays into some sculptures. These features add a dynamic, modern twist to the traditional art of snow and ice carving.
Beyond admiring the artistic masterpieces, the festival offers a range of activities to engage visitors:
The Tsudome site’s snow slides and rafting attractions are a must-try for adventure enthusiasts. These activities cater to all ages, providing exhilarating fun amidst the snowy landscape.
In Susukino, visitors can dine in unique ice bars and restaurants, where everything from tables to walls is carved from ice. This one-of-a-kind experience combines culinary indulgence with artistic surroundings.
Throughout the festival, stages host live performances, including traditional Japanese music, dance, and theater alongside contemporary acts. These events enrich the festival’s cultural offerings and provide engaging entertainment for attendees.
The food stalls at Odori Park and other venues highlight Hokkaido’s cuisine. From steaming bowls of miso ramen to fresh seafood and sweet treats, the festival’s culinary options are sure to delight food lovers.
To make the most of your visit, keep these tips in mind:
Sapporo’s winters are cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Wear layers, insulated boots, gloves, and a hat to stay comfortable as you explore the festival.
Avoid the midday crowds by visiting the festival early in the morning or later in the evening. The sculptures are particularly stunning when illuminated at night.
Hotels in Sapporo fill up quickly during the festival. Reserve your accommodations well in advance to secure the best option.
Sapporo’s public transportation system is efficient and convenient, making it easy to get to all three festival sites without the hassle of driving.
Hokkaido is known for its unpredictable weather, so allow some flexibility in your schedule to account for potential delays.
While the Sapporo Snow Festival is the main draw, there’s plenty more to see and do in Sapporo and the surrounding region of Hokkaido:
Sapporo Beer Museum: Learn about the history of beer in Japan and sample some of Sapporo’s finest brews.
Mt. Moiwa: Take the ropeway to the summit for panoramic views of the city, especially stunning at night.
Nijo Market: A must-visit for seafood lovers, this market offers fresh crab, sea urchin, and other local specialties.
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Otaru: A charming coastal town known for its canal, glasswork, and fresh sushi.
Niseko: One of Japan’s premier ski destinations, offering world-class powder snow and stunning mountain views.
Asahiyama Zoo: Located in Asahikawa, this zoo is famous for its interactive exhibits, including the popular penguin walk.
The 2025 Sapporo Snow Festival promises to be particularly memorable, commemorating a significant milestone in its history. Organizers have planned exclusive exhibits, unique sculpture themes, and expanded activities to mark this special occasion.
With international travel resuming post-pandemic, the festival is set to draw an even larger and more diverse audience, further solidifying its reputation as a global cultural phenomenon.
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