Sapporo Snow Festival

Ranked as one of the world's top three snow festivals, the Sapporo Snow Festival is a coveted winter extravaganza held every February in Sapporo, Hokkaido. The even kicked off in 1950 when local middle and high school students created snow sculptures in Odori Park. The event has since grown into a massive festival that draws some two million visitors from around the world each year.

The festival takes place across three main venues: Odori, Tsudome, and Susukino. At the Odori venue, towering snow sculptures over 10 meters high and intricate citizen-made snow art line the park, leaving visitors in awe. The nighttime illuminations and projection mapping add a magical touch, creating a completely different atmosphere that’s only found after dark. The Tsudome venue offers heaps of dynamic fun including ice slides and snow rafting, making it a fun destination for both kids and adults. Meanwhile, the Susukino venue showcases crystal-clear ice sculptures, beautifully lit up at night to create a mesmerizing glow.

Beyond the breathtaking snow and ice sculptures, the Sapporo Snow Festival is also a paradise for food lovers. Settle in for a taste of Hokkaido’s finest tastes including fresh seafood and local specialties. The festival’s official shops sell limited-edition souvenirs, making this one chance to snag a special memento like nowhere else. Winter in Sapporo can be undeniably harsh, but the stunning scenery created by snow and ice makes braving the cold well worth it.

Plenty of programming awaits across the many event venues. Be sure to check the full schedule in advance so you can carve your favorite way to see the snow, ice displays, local eats and winter fun that Hokkaido has to offer.