Sapporo Snow Festival | Review by 黃國棟

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Sapporo Snow Festival

Snow and ice ring in winter at this major Sapporo event, named one of the world’s top three snow festivals.

8 Sep 2026 See More

This time, I specifically planned my itinerary around seeing the annual Sapporo Snow Festival, and it definitely didn't disappoint! As one of the “world's three major snow festivals,” the entire event is filled with huge sculptures made of snow and ice, creating a very magical and lively atmosphere.

Besides the spectacular snow sculptures, there are also plenty of attractions to enjoy. Adults and children alike can have a great time, playing until they're completely worn out.

There's no need to worry when you get tired, either. The venue is very well organized, with plenty of tables and chairs for resting, as well as many food stalls nearby where you can eat and recharge.

Overall, the event is really well planned. If it's your first winter trip to Hokkaido, I highly recommend adding the Sapporo Snow Festival to your itinerary!

Other Reviews by 黃國棟

Ogonzaki Cape

Located in the Bikuni area of Shakotan, Hokkaido, Ogonzaki Cape is a scenic spot known for breathtaking views of the beautiful sea called Shakotan Blue and dramatic cliffs. The well-maintained walking trail has three entrances, from the Route 229 side, the Bikuni Port side (Chatsu Tunnel side), and the Chatsu district side, making it easy to enjoy a stroll in nature.
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The magnificent scenery created by the interweaving of Shakotan Blue and sheer cliffs is truly unforgettable at first sight! On this visit to Ogonzaki Cape, the snow-covered mountains and deep blue sea complemented each other, making the whole scene look like a painting.

Near the entrance to the observation deck, there is a place in front of the municipal office that resembles a visitor information center, where you can get some information first. There was quite a bit of snow on the path in winter, but previous visitors had made a narrow trail, so I was able to walk up slowly even in sneakers.

When I finally reached the viewpoint, the scenery before me was truly breathtaking! The snow-covered mountains, blue sea, and white snow blended together so beautifully that I didn't want to leave. This trip was really worth it. Thank you, nature, for this beautiful winter scenery!
Lake Kussharo

Lake Kussharo is Japan's largest caldera lake, stretching approximately 20 kilometers north to south, and the largest freshwater lake that freezes over on its entire surface. Mt. Mokoto, which created Lake Kussharo, is known for its volcanic eruptions that covered the entire Hokkaido region with its ash in ancient times.
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What impressed me most when I arrived at Lake Kussharo in Hokkaido was the vast winter scenery before me. Lake Kussharo is Japan's largest caldera lake, surrounded by mountains, and its rich natural landscape feels especially magnificent.

I visited in winter this time, when the lake was covered in a layer of ice and snow and the distant mountaintops were also blanketed in white. Combined with the deep blue sky, clouds, and mist, the whole scene had a quiet, magical beauty. Looking out over the lake from a high vantage point, the view was incredibly expansive, and I couldn't stop taking photos. Lake Kussharo in winter is less lively but more pristine. It's definitely worth seeing for yourself!
Sounkyo Onsen Ice Waterfall Festival

The Sounkyo Onsen Ice Waterfall Festival is held annually from late January to mid-March at Sounkyo Onsen, one of the premier hot spring destinations in Hokkaido. Utilizing the riverbed of the Ishikari River, the festival spans an area of about 10,000 square meters, lined with various sizes of ice sculptures, making it one of Hokkaido's three major winter festivals.
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8 Sep 2026 See More

If you're visiting Hokkaido in winter, I really recommend adding the Sounkyo Onsen Ice Waterfall Festival to your itinerary! It's one of Hokkaido's three major winter festivals, held every winter at Sounkyo Onsen. The roughly 10,000-square-meter snow and ice venue is built on the riverbed of the Ishikari River.

There are ice sculptures and ice huts of all shapes and sizes. With the colorful lights, the entire icy world looks incredibly magical, and at night it's so beautiful you won't want to leave. Besides admiring the ice sculptures, you can play on the ice slide or rent a tube and have fun sliding on the snow.

There are also fireworks at 8:00 p.m., which look especially romantic against the snow and ice. Although it was absolutely freezing, the beautiful scenery made it completely worth it! You really have to experience the charm of winter in Hokkaido for yourself.