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Tokamachi Snow Festival
Japan’s oldest snow festival, where the entire city transforms into one massive event venue! Admire the traditional snow sculptures, each crafted with masterful skill and filled with the spirit of true craftsmanship.
Held every mid-February in Tokamachi City, Niigata Prefecture, this is one of the largest snow festivals in the region, first launched in 1950 under the theme “Be friends with snow, enjoy the snow.”
The main venue, located about a 10-minute walk from Tokamachi Station at the Tokamachi Municipal Nishi Elementary School grounds, features a wide variety of food stalls, stage performances, and snow activities that both adults and children can enjoy. As night falls, the sky is illuminated by the “Rainbow Snow Fireworks,” a breathtaking display that paints the snowy landscape in vivid colors.
Throughout the city, multiple “Festival Plazas” (Omatsuri Hiroba) are set up, each offering local food stalls, entertainment, and events that showcase the community’s character. Visitors can also admire the impressive Snow Art Exhibition, featuring intricate snow sculptures handcrafted by local residents. These creations-born from both creativity and skill-embody the spirit and artistry that have made the Tokamachi Snow Festival a beloved winter tradition for over seven decades.
Highlights
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A snow festival held every mid-February in Tokamachi City, Niigata Prefecture.
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The Nishi Elementary School grounds host food stalls and various stage events.
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Multiple “Festival Plazas” (Omatsuri Hiroba) are set up across the city, each showcasing local character and charm.
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The Snow Art Exhibition displays numerous handcrafted snow sculptures made by local residents.
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At night, fireworks light up the snowy sky, creating a magical winter scene.
Photos
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Food stalls and stage events fill the Nishi Elementary School grounds with lively energy.
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The Snow Art Exhibition showcases stunning, high-level snow sculptures created each year.
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Various events are held throughout the festival period, bringing excitement to every corner of the city.
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Multiple “Festival Plazas” (Omatsuri Hiroba) are set up across Tokamachi, each with its own local charm.
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Simply strolling through the snow-covered townscape is a delightful experience in itself.
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At night, the sky is illuminated by the vivid “Rainbow Snow Fireworks,” painting the winter scenery in brilliant color.
Reviews
Details
- Name in Japanese
- 十日町雪まつり
- Postal Code
- 948-0072
- Location
- １-365-12 Nishihoncho, Tokamachi City, Niigata
- Telephone
- 025-757-3100 (Tokamachi Snow Festival Executive Committee Office)
- Schedule
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Held annually in mid-February
For 2026, the festival will take place from Friday, February 20 to Sunday, February 22. - Access
- About 10 minutes walk from JR any Line’s Tokamachi Station.
- Official Website
- Official Website (English)