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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is there an admission fee for the Sapporo Snow Festival?
A: It is free to enter.
Q: Which site is most recommended?
A: First-time visitors should not miss the Odori site! Tsudome is great for families, and Susukino focuses on ice sculptures.
Experience the magical world woven from snow and light—come to Sapporo!
