For many, the Sapporo Snow Festival (Sapporo Yuki Matsuri) is a must-see winter event. Known as a winter tradition, this festival features spectacular snow and ice sculptures across multiple venues, along with nighttime illuminations and family-friendly activities. In addition, we’ve highlighted some of the local gourmet delights and nearby tourist spots to enhance your visit.

Note: This information is current as of January 2025. Please check official websites for the latest updates.

What is the Sapporo Snow Festival?

The Sapporo Snow Festival is a large-scale event held every February in Sapporo, Hokkaido. It’s one of the most well-known winter festivals worldwide, drawing visitors from across the globe. The festival showcases various snow and ice sculptures, with attractions like curling and slides. At night, the illuminated sculptures create a magical atmosphere. Visitors can also enjoy seasonal gourmet offerings and events at nearby tourist attractions.

A Brief History of the Sapporo Snow Festival

The festival began in 1950 when local high school students created six snow sculptures in Odori Park. Its popularity led to its continuation, with the event growing larger each year. In 1955, the Japanese Self-Defense Forces began contributing large-scale sculptures. The festival gained international fame during the 1972 Sapporo Olympics. The 74th edition in February 2024 saw about 2.4 million visitors.

When is the Next Sapporo Snow Festival?

While dates may vary slightly each year, the festival typically takes place from the first to the second week of February. In 2024, it ran from February 4th to 11th across three venues: Odori (大通り), Tsudome (つどーむ), and Susukino (すすきの). The 2025 festival is scheduled for the same dates. Odori and Susukino venues are open throughout the event, with illuminations until 10 PM at Odori and 11 PM at Susukino. The Tsudome venue, full of activities, is open from 9 AM to 5 PM.

Top 3 Ways to Enjoy the Sapporo Snow Festival

1. Marvel at Snow and Ice Sculptures

Odori Park in central Sapporo is the main venue, featuring a 1.1 km stretch of snow sculptures. Highlights include five massive snow sculptures, along with smaller ones created by locals. The themes often include famous landmarks and popular anime characters. Susukino hosts an array of ice sculptures, offering a picturesque setting perfect for photography.

2. Family-Friendly Activities

Unlike the sculpture-centric Odori and Susukino venues, Tsudome offers a range of activities for families. Kids and adults can enjoy the snow tube slider, snow strider for younger children, and snow rafting. These fun attractions make Tsudome a family favorite.

3. Savor Winter Gourmet and Projection Mapping

The indoor area at Tsudome features hot meals like ramen, hot drinks, and snacks such as zangi (fried chicken). Odori Park has food stalls offering various treats and drinks, and nearby Susukino Market is perfect for a culinary stop. Don’t miss the nighttime projection mapping at Odori, where snow sculptures are transformed with dynamic visuals, and Susukino’s illuminated ice sculptures.

Night Illuminations

One of the festival’s highlights is the enchanting illuminations that light up the snow and ice sculptures at night. Odori Park’s illuminations are on until 10 PM, while Susukino’s ice sculptures glow until 11 PM. These evening displays create a magical, fairy-tale-like atmosphere, making them a must-see part of the festival experience.

How to Access the Sapporo Snow Festival Venues

Odori Venue

• Location: Odori Park
• Access: A short walk from Odori Station on the Namboku, Tozai, and Toho Subway Lines.

Tsudome Venue

• Location: Sapporo Community Dome (Tsudome)
• Access: Shuttle buses are available from Odori Park and Sapporo Station during the festival. Alternatively, take the Toho Subway Line to Sakaemachi Station, then a short taxi or bus ride.

Susukino Venue

• Location: Susukino

• Access: A short walk from Susukino Station on the Namboku Subway Line.

Important Tips for Visitors

Note that not all venues offer the same gourmet and activity options. For 2025, Odori will feature winter attractions and a skating rink. Susukino will host interactive areas like the “Ice World” for photos and “Fureai Hiroba” to touch and explore ice sculptures. Be sure to consult the official map and website for detailed information on each venue.

Enjoy the magic of the Sapporo Snow Festival with these tips and insights!