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If you’ve ever dreamed of walking through a real-life Narnia, where towering palaces are carved from ice and the air smells of roasted scallops and hot sake, then the Sapporo Snow Festival (Sapporo Yuki Matsuri) belongs at the very top of your bucket list.
Every February, the capital of Hokkaido transforms into a shimmering gallery of ephemeral art. Whether you’re a photographer chasing the “blue hour” glow or a foodie looking to warm up with legendary miso ramen, this festival is the pinnacle of Japanese winter culture.
Sapporo Snow Festival 2026 Dates & Schedule
Planning is crucial for Hokkaido’s peak season. The festival typically runs for eight days in early February.
- Sapporo Snow Festival 2026 Dates: February 4th – February 11th, 2026 (Tentative).
- Sapporo Snow Festival 2027 Dates: Early February (Expected Feb 4th – 11th).
While the sculptures are available for viewing 24/7, the illuminations—which bring the ice to life with projection mapping—usually start at sunset and end at 10:00 PM.
Pro Tip: If you want to avoid the heaviest crowds, visit during the first two days of the festival or on a weekday morning.
Exploring the Three Main Sites
The festival is spread across three distinct locations in Sapporo, each offering a unique vibe.
1. Odori Site: The Heart of the Festival
Located in Odori Park, this 1.5km stretch is where you’ll find the Giant Snow Sculptures. These massive structures, often reaching 15 meters in height, depict everything from historical Japanese landmarks to popular anime characters.
- Don’t Miss: The International Snow Sculpture Contest (International Square).
- Food: The “Hokkaido Food Park” is located here, serving fresh seafood and regional delicacies.
2. Susukino Site: A Crystal World
Located in Sapporo’s famous entertainment district, the Susukino Site focuses on intricate ice sculptures. The clarity of the ice against the neon lights of the city is breathtaking.
- Highlight: The “Illumination Street” and the ice bar where you can enjoy a drink in a glass made of ice.
3. Tsudome Site: Family Fun & Snow Slides
If you’re traveling with kids (or you’re just a kid at heart), the Tsudome Site is the place to be. It features massive snow slides, snow rafting, and indoor food stalls.
Survival Guide: Tips for a Flawless Winter Trip
1. Master the Layering System
Sapporo in February is freezing, with temperatures often dropping to -5°C to -10°C (23°F to 14°F).
- Base Layer: Uniqlo Heattech (Ultra Warm).
- Outerwear: A windproof, waterproof heavy down jacket.
- Footwear: Boots with excellent grip. Ice is everywhere! You can buy “slip-ons” (spikes) at New Chitose Airport or local convenience stores.
2. Book Accommodations Early
Hotels in Sapporo sell out 6–10 months in advance for the festival dates. If Sapporo is full, consider staying in Otaru (30 mins by train) or Asahikawa, though commuting in the snow can be tricky.
3. Pair Your Trip with Other Festivals
Japan’s winter is full of magic. If you are traveling through Honshu before heading north, don’t miss the Chichibu Night Festival, which offers a completely different, fire-and-float traditional experience.
What to Eat: Hokkaido’s Winter Comfort Food
You cannot visit the Sapporo Snow Festival without indulging in the local cuisine. Look for these “Big Three” at the festival stalls:
- Sapporo Miso Ramen: Rich, salty, and topped with a knob of butter and sweet corn.
- Kani (Crab): Hokkaido is famous for King Crab and Snow Crab.
- Genghis Khan (Jingisukan): Grilled lamb cooked on a convex metal skillet, perfect for a cold night in Susukino.
Conclusion: Is the Sapporo Snow Festival Worth It?
Absolutely. There is a reason millions of people flock to this icy corner of the world every year. It’s a testament to human creativity and the beauty of embracing the cold.
Are you planning to witness the 2026 Sapporo Snow Festival? Start your hotel search today to secure the best spots! If you have questions about the logistics or the best photography spots, drop a comment below—I’d love to help you plan your dream Hokkaido winter trip.
