[Yunishigawa Onsen Kamakura Festival] A spectacular winter scene of fantastic snow and lights

What is the Yunishigawa Onsen Kamakura Festival?

The Yunishigawa Onsen Kamakura Festival is a magical snow festival held every winter at Yunishigawa Onsen in Nikko City, Tochigi Prefecture.

It is famous for the countless "kamakura" snow huts illuminated by lights, creating a fantastical landscape.

This festival is recognized as a Japanese Night View Heritage site and offers a variety of events to experience warm hospitality amidst the cold!

Many tourists visit to enjoy this special experience of traditional Japanese winter scenery.

In this article, we will delve into the charms of the Yunishigawa Onsen Kamakura Festival, how to enjoy it, and access information!

The Charms of the Yunishigawa Onsen Kamakura Festival

1. The magical sight of countless lit kamakura

The biggest attraction of the Yunishigawa Onsen Kamakura Festival is the fantastical scenery created when countless small "kamakura" are illuminated at night.

① The Beauty of the Kamakura Light-up

During the festival, small kamakura line the riverbanks and the plaza of the venue, and the candlelight reflecting off the snow creates a magical atmosphere.

The scenery woven by snow and light provides an enchanting experience, as if you have stepped into a winter fairy tale.

② Special Experience Inside a Kamakura

• Dining inside a Kamakura: With a reservation, enjoy a warm pot meal inside a kamakura!
• Experience Making Mini Kamakura: Create your own kamakura and take commemorative photos.

2. A Variety of Winter Activities

The Kamakura Festival offers winter snow play and onsen experiences.

① Sledding and Snowman Making at the Snow Play Plaza

At the snow play plaza, which is fun for both children and adults, you can enjoy sledding and making snowmen.

For international tourists, this is a precious opportunity to fully enjoy Japan's snow.

② Snowshoe Experience

There are tours to explore the nature of Yunishigawa with snowshoes, offering a special experience of walking through the quiet snowy landscape.

③ Winter-only Onsen Experience

The area around the Kamakura Festival venue is rich with onsen facilities where you can warm your chilled body.

Yunishigawa Onsen is known as a "beauty hot spring," characterized by its smooth waters.

3. Feel the History and Culture of Yunishigawa Onsen

① A Hot Spring Town with Over 400 Years of History

Yunishigawa Onsen is known as a place where Heike refugees (warriors from the Heian period) hid, boasting a history of over 400 years.

In winter, not only the Kamakura Festival but the entire hot spring town is enveloped in snow, allowing you to feel the beautiful Japanese winter.

② Enjoy Traditional Food Culture

At the Kamakura Festival venue and the hot spring town, you can savor local specialty dishes.

• Irori Cuisine (river fish and mountain delicacies grilled over charcoal)
• Gibier Dishes with Venison and Bear Meat
• Onsen Manju and Local Sake are also popular!

Useful Information for Travelers

Event Period and Venue Information

• Event Period: Late January to early March annually
• Location: Yunishigawa Onsen (Nikko City, Tochigi Prefecture)
• Admission Fee: Free (special experiences are charged)

Access Information (How to get from Tokyo to Yunishigawa Onsen)

Access by Train

• From Tokyo: Take the Tobu Railway Limited Express "Revaty Aizu" to Kinugawa Onsen Station (about 2 hours) → Yagan Railway to "Yunishigawa Onsen Station" (about 40 minutes) → Bus for about 20 minutes

Access by Car

• From Tokyo: About 3 hours via Tohoku Expressway "Utsunomiya IC" → Nikko Utsunomiya Road "Imaichi IC"

Wi-Fi Information

• Free Wi-Fi is available at inns and cafes in Yunishigawa Onsen
• It is recommended to download maps as the signal may be weak in mountain areas

Language Support

• English pamphlets are available at the tourist information center
• Some inns and tourist facilities offer English and Chinese support



Summary and Frequently Asked Questions

The Yunishigawa Onsen Kamakura Festival is a unique Japanese winter festival where you can enjoy the magical scenery created by snow and light.

There are various ways to enjoy, including onsen, traditional cuisine, and winter activities!

As an event where you can fully experience the features of Japanese winter, do visit if you have the chance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When is the best time to visit the Kamakura Festival?

A: After sunset (17:30-20:00) is the most magical and recommended time!

Q: Do I need a reservation to dine inside a kamakura?

A: Yes, advance reservation is required. It's popular, so early booking is recommended.

Q: Is cold weather gear necessary?

A: Yes, it can drop below freezing at night, so warm clothing such as thick coats, gloves, and hats are essential.

Q: Where should I stay?

A: Accommodations in Yunishigawa Onsen town are recommended. Enjoy the onsen as well.

Q: What camera settings are best for taking photos?

A: For photographing the kamakura at night, "night mode" or using a tripod is best.

Q: Can I use the onsen for a day trip?

A: Yes, there are many day-use onsens available!

If you want to experience the beautiful winter scenery of Japan, the Yunishigawa Onsen Kamakura Festival is a must-see event!

Why not spend a special time wrapped in warm lights amidst the cold?