[Sapporo Snow Festival] Enjoy giant snow sculptures and a fantastic winter festival!

What is the Sapporo Snow Festival?

The Sapporo Snow Festival is a major winter event held every February in Sapporo, Hokkaido, and is one of Japan’s most iconic winter festivals.

It began in 1950 when local middle- and high-school students built snow statues, and has grown into a world-famous snow celebration that attracts more than 2 million visitors from Japan and abroad.

At the festival you can enjoy huge snow and ice sculptures at the main sites, mesmerizing shows using projection mapping, and a variety of snow activities.

It’s beloved as an event where visitors can fully experience the charms of Hokkaido’s winter.

Access and Transport Information

By Plane

From Tokyo to New Chitose Airport: about 1 hour 30 minutes by plane.
From Osaka to New Chitose Airport: about 2 hours by plane.
From New Chitose Airport to Sapporo Station: about 40 minutes by the JR Rapid Airport train.

By Train / Bus

From Sapporo Station to the Odori site: take the Subway Namboku Line and get off at Odori Station (about 5 minutes).
To the Susukino site: take the Subway Namboku Line and get off at Susukino Station (about 7 minutes).
To the Tsudome site: take the Subway Tōhō Line to Sakaemachi Station, where free shuttle buses are available.

By Car

Traffic in Sapporo can be congested and parking is often hard to find, so using public transportation is recommended.

Main Festival Sites

1. Odori Site (Main Site)

The central site of the Sapporo Snow Festival, where huge snow and ice sculptures line Odori Park across several blocks.

At night, projection mapping is displayed, creating a magical show.

Each year new themed sculptures are created, often featuring detailed works such as anime characters or historic buildings that draw a lot of attention.

Highlights:

Giant snow sculptures more than 10 meters tall
Projection mapping and musical performances
Ice carving contests featuring artists from Japan and abroad

2. Susukino Site (Ice Sculptures)

The Susukino entertainment district transforms into an icy world at this site.

Beautiful objects made of ice and illuminated ice sculptures are displayed here.

Highlights:

Exhibits from the ice carving contest
Enjoy special drinks at ice bars
Atmospheric nighttime lighting

3. Tsudome Site (Family-Friendly)

A site filled with activities for children and adults alike.

On a vast snowy field you can try snow tubing and explore a snow maze, among other experiences.

Highlights:

Snow slides (tube sliders)
Snowball fight areas and snowmobile experiences
Plenty of Hokkaido gourmet food stalls

How to Enjoy the Sapporo Snow Festival

1. Enjoy the different atmospheres of day and night

During the day you can closely admire the fine details of the snow sculptures, while at night the lighting and projection mapping create a magical atmosphere.

The nighttime shows at the Odori site are a must-see!

2. Taste Hokkaido’s gourmet food

Many food stalls line the sites, letting you enjoy Hokkaido specialties.

Sapporo miso ramen: rich broth with chewy noodles.
Jingisukan (grilled lamb): deliciously savory lamb.
Seafood rice bowls (kaisendon): topped with fresh uni, ikura, and scallops.
Hot wine and amazake: warming drinks for cold weather.

3. Prepare well for the cold

Temperatures in Sapporo in February can sometimes drop to .

Thick coats or down jackets
Gloves, hats, and scarves
Non-slip shoes (snowy paths can be very slippery)

Attractions of Sapporo by Season

Winter (Dec–Feb): Sapporo Snow Festival and winter sports

Besides the Snow Festival, you can enjoy skiing and snowboarding
Warming up at nearby onsen areas (e.g., Jozankei Onsen) is also recommended

Spring (Mar–May): Cherry blossoms and fresh greenery

Cherry blossoms at Maruyama Park and Goryokaku are in bloom
Spring vegetables and seafood from Hokkaido are at their best

Summer (Jun–Aug): Lavender and scenic drives

Lavender fields in Furano and Biei are in full bloom
Cooler temperatures make it ideal for outdoor activities

Autumn (Sep–Nov): Autumn leaves and seasonal flavors

Beautiful autumn foliage in Odori Park and on Mount Moiwa
Seasonal seafood like pacific saury and salmon are in season

Useful Information for Travelers

Event Period (2024)

Held for one week in early February (check the official site for exact dates)

Recommended Hotels

JR Tower Hotel Nikko Sapporo: directly connected to Sapporo Station—very convenient for sightseeing.
Cross Hotel Sapporo: a stylish hotel close to the Odori site.
Sapporo Prince Hotel: comfortable accommodation with onsen facilities.

Wi‑Fi

Free Wi‑Fi is available around Odori Park and Susukino
Wi‑Fi is also provided at Sapporo Station and tourist information centers

Language Support

Tourist information centers have staff available in English, Chinese, and Korean
Signage at the Odori site includes multilingual information

Summary and Frequently Asked Questions

The Sapporo Snow Festival is one of Japan’s premier winter events where you can enjoy giant snow and ice sculptures, projection mapping, gourmet food, and snow activities.