Hokkaido in winter is a mesmerizing wonderland, drawing visitors from across the world with its snowy landscapes and unique seasonal traditions. The festivals held here during the winter months celebrate the beauty of ice, snow, and light, transforming the cold season into an extraordinary experience. Whether you're captivated by intricate ice sculptures, atmospheric illuminations, or simply the thrill of snow-filled adventures, these Hokkaido winter festivals are not to be missed. Let’s explore the top five winter festivals in Hokkaido that will make your trip unforgettable.

Sapporo Snow Festival

When: February 4, 2025-February 11, 2025
Where: Odori Park, Susukino Site and Sapporo Community Dome (Tsudome)
The Sapporo Snow Festival is arguably the most famous winter event in Japan, held each February in the capital of Hokkaido, Sapporo. Since its start in 1950, this festival has grown into a large-scale celebration attracting millions of visitors every year. The festival stretches over three main sites: Odori Park, Susukino, and Tsudome.
The centerpiece of the festival, Odori Park is lined with spectacular snow and ice sculptures, some towering as high as 15 meters. These impressive works of art, often themed around famous buildings, pop culture icons, and historical scenes, are illuminated at night, adding a magical touch to the surroundings.
Known for its vibrant nightlife, Susukino transforms into an "Ice World" with intricate ice carvings displayed along the streets. Visitors can even find sculptures featuring regional animals, popular Japanese characters, and mythical creatures, often crafted with mesmerizing detail.
Tsudome is a family-friendly area with snow slides, snow rafting, and even a snow maze. It's a fantastic destination for those looking to experience the festival beyond viewing sculptures.
The Sapporo Snow Festival is easily accessible and packed with delicious Hokkaido street food and local treats, making it an experience to remember.

Sounkyo Hyoubaku Festival

When: January 25, 2025-March 9, 2025
Where: Kamikawa City Sounkyo Onsen special event venue
Tucked away in the scenic Daisetsuzan National Park, the Sounkyo Hyoubaku (Ice Waterfall) Festival is an awe-inspiring event that brings winter’s raw beauty to the forefront. The festival is held in the Sounkyo Gorge, surrounded by dramatic cliffs and mountainous landscapes.
Frozen Waterfalls and Ice Sculptures: Large ice structures, including icy tunnels and walkways, are crafted to resemble frozen waterfalls, creating a surreal atmosphere. Lit up in an array of colors, these icy formations seem almost otherworldly against the night sky.
The festival offers ice-climbing opportunities and snowshoeing through the beautiful, rugged terrain, perfect for those seeking adventure amidst the icy ambiance.
Weekend visitors are treated to spectacular firework displays, lighting up the gorge in vivid colors that reflect off the snow and ice, adding an unforgettable dimension to the event.
The Sounkyo Hyoubaku Festival is ideal for visitors who want to immerse themselves in Hokkaido's wilderness while enjoying a unique winter spectacle.

Otaru Snow Light Path

When: February 8, 2025-February 15, 2025
Where: Otaru Canal, Temiya Line ruins, Mt. Tengu Observatory
The Otaru Snow Light Path, or Otaru Yuki Akari no Michi, transforms the charming city of Otaru into a glowing fairyland each February. Known for its canal and preserved historic buildings, Otaru becomes a winter wonderland as lanterns and snow candles line the streets and pathways.
Otaru Canal is lined with glowing lanterns that reflect off the water, creating a stunningly romantic and serene atmosphere. Snow-covered pathways and the flickering lights provide a warm contrast to the crisp winter air.
Temiya railway line becomes an illuminated snow path with artistic snow and ice lanterns, creating a surreal landscape. Walking through this part of the festival feels like entering a magical world. Around the town, you’ll find small, intricate snow sculptures created by local artists and community members. Visitors can also purchase unique handicrafts and souvenirs, making for a memorable keepsake from the festival. To add, they can buy discount tickets for restaurants such as sushi, ramen and sweets during the festival time.
There are many volunteer who can speak English, so that visitors do not have to worry about troubles. The Otaru Snow Light Path is perfect for those looking for a peaceful, enchanting experience with a romantic ambiance, where snow and light intertwine to create a dreamlike setting.

Asahikawa Winter Festival

When: February 6, 2025-February 11, 2025
Where: Ishikari River Asahi Bridge downstream riverside and Heiwa Dori Kaimono Park
Located in Hokkaido’s second-largest city, the Asahikawa Winter Festival is a celebration of winter in all its forms. This festival, held in early February, is famous for its grand snow sculptures, often even larger than those at the Sapporo Snow Festival.
The highlight of the festival is its massive snow sculptures, including replicas of famous Japanese and international landmarks. Some of these sculptures are so big that visitors can even climb on them, providing unique photo opportunities.
Visitors can enjoy snow slides that cater to both children and adults, while an ice bar offers local Hokkaido beverages in cups made from ice—a unique experience that adds a touch of luxury to the festival.
As night falls, the snow sculptures are illuminated with colorful lights, creating a dazzling spectacle that adds a vibrant contrast to the white snow. Fireworks displays also take place, reflecting off the snow and creating a magical winter atmosphere.
Asahikawa Winter Festival is perfect for families and travelers who want to experience grand snow art and enjoy a wide variety of winter activities.

Chitose Shikotsu Lake Ice Festival

When: February 1, 2025-February 24, 2025
Where: Shikotsu Lake Onsen
For those looking to escape into Hokkaido’s natural landscapes, the Chitose-Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival is a breathtaking experience. Held along the shores of Lake Shikotsu, this festival is a celebration of ice, nature, and tranquility.
The festival features elaborate ice sculptures created by spraying water from the lake, which has some of the clearest water in Japan. The result is a collection of stunningly pure ice formations that change color when lit at night, shifting from crystal-clear blue to a gentle pink.
Due to the lake’s pristine water quality, the ice remains remarkably transparent, making the sculptures unique in their beauty and clarity.
Festival-goers can warm up with foot baths and hot springs nearby, offering a relaxing break amidst the chilly winter air.
On certain nights, cultural performances and fireworks displays provide additional entertainment, enhancing the festive atmosphere.
The Chitose-Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival offers an immersive experience, combining Hokkaido’s natural beauty with the artistry of ice, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and those seeking a serene winter retreat.

Conclusion

Each of these five Hokkaido winter festivals brings something unique to the table, showcasing the beauty of snow and ice in different, captivating ways. From the bustling Sapporo Snow Festival with its massive sculptures to the serene Otaru Snow Light Path with its romantic glow, Hokkaido’s winter festivals offer unforgettable memories for any visitor. Whether you're exploring towering ice formations, enjoying colorful lights reflected off snowy landscapes, or savoring warm food and drinks, Hokkaido's winter festivals provide a magical experience that will stay with you long after the snow has melted.