Top 7 unique winter festivals in Hokkaido - Discover the wonders of ice and snow in Japan

Winter in the Northern Islands of Japan is a great time to explore the unique winter festivals in Hokkaido , where snow not only covers every corner, but also becomes the material to create exquisite works. From wonders of ice and snow to sparkling light festivals, giving visitors a magical, unforgettable feeling.

1. Sapporo Snow Festival

The most famous Sapporo Snow Festival in Hokkaido (Photo source: Collected)

The Sapporo Snow Festival (Sapporo Yuki Matsuri) is the largest and most famous snow festival in Japan, held annually in Sapporo city, Hokkaido prefecture. Taking place in early February, the festival attracts more than 2 million visitors from all over the world . This festival is known for hundreds of beautiful sculptures made of snow and ice, including giant statues and small models displayed in three main areas: Odori Park, Susukino and Tsu Dome.

The most special thing about the Sapporo Snow Festival is that the snow and ice sculptures are lit up at night, creating a mysterious and magical atmosphere. In addition, visitors can also participate in winter games, enjoy special dishes at food stalls, and explore unique souvenir stalls. This winter festival in Hokkaido is not only an art event, but also a cultural festival imbued with Japanese identity, suitable for all ages and interests.

2. Otaru Snow Light Path Festival

Otaru Snow Light Road Festival shimmers in the middle of winter (Photo source: Collected)

About 30km west of Sapporo, Otaru city is a must-see destination on the journey to discover winter festivals in Hokkaido. The Otaru Snow Light Road Festival (Otaru Yuki Akari no Michi) takes place every February, with thousands of snow lanterns creating a mysterious and romantic road. Here, visitors can admire uniquely shaped ice and snow artworks, immerse themselves in a space filled with gentle light and participate in interesting activities such as enjoying hot wine, walking around ancient cafes, or simply enjoying the peaceful beauty of the port city in winter.

The festival typically attracts around 500,000 visitors each year, and is a great opportunity to explore the beauty of Otaru, a city known for its canals, ancient architecture and warm atmosphere, completely different from other snow festivals in the area.

3. Asahikawa Winter Festival

Asahikawa Winter Festival with many unique works (Photo source: Collected)

The Asahikawa Winter Festival is the second largest winter festival in Hokkaido, after the Sapporo Festival. Held in early February, the festival attracts over 1 million visitors every year. Featuring impressive ice sculptures and giant snow statues, the Asahikawa Festival offers a mesmerizing artistic space. The works displayed at the Asahikawa Festival are not only gigantic in size but are also illuminated at night, creating a mysterious and splendid scene.

In addition to the sculptures, the festival also features many exciting activities such as skiing, an ice skating rink, and free art performances. In particular, the stunning fireworks displays will leave visitors unable to take their eyes off.

4. Chitose Ice Festival

Colorful Chitose Ice Festival in the heart of Hokkaido (Photo source: Collected)

Located in the Shikotsu-Toya National Park, the Chitose Ice Festival (Shikotsu Ice Festival) is one of Hokkaido's signature winter festivals. Held at Lake Shikotsu, this Hokkaido winter festival offers visitors the chance to see giant ice sculptures and colorful illuminations at night. Lake Shikotsu, with its crystal clear waters, is one of Japan's most beautiful lakes and is the perfect place to host an ice festival.

In addition to ice sculptures, the festival also features exciting winter games such as skiing, children's entertainment activities, and local specialties. In particular, the festival also features stunning fireworks events taking place on weekends, creating a mystical and dreamy atmosphere amidst the snow-covered landscape.

5. Shikaribetsu Kotan Lake Festival

Unique winter festival in Hokkaido at Lake Shikaribetsu (Photo source: Collected)

The Lake Shikaribetsu Kotan Festival, held on the frozen surface of Lake Shikaribetsu in Shikaoi Town, Hokkaido, is one of the most unique winter festivals. The festival includes igloos, snow bars, a snow concert hall, and even an outdoor hot spring bath.

In particular, the Shikaribetsu Kotan Lake Festival also has activities such as ice carving, sledding, and many other interesting winter games. Visitors will enjoy a completely different space with unique activities on snow and ice, creating an unforgettable experience in the cold winter. This is an ideal place to explore the snow-covered space and relax amidst the majestic natural scenery of Hokkaido.

6. Sounkyo Onsen Ice Festival

Colorful winter festival in Hokkaido at Sounkyo Onsen (Photo source: Collected)

Taking place from late January to mid-March in the Sounkyo Onsen area of Hokkaido, the Sounkyo Onsen Ice Festival takes visitors into a magical world of giant ice structures, frozen waterfalls and ice caves shimmering with light. At night, LED lights are lit, creating a magical scene in the middle of winter. In addition to admiring ice art, visitors can also experience ice climbing, skiing and relaxing at the famous Sounkyo hot springs, enjoying the perfect combination of the cold of snow and the relaxing warmth of nature.

7. Hakodate Christmas Fantasy Festival

Bustling Hakodate Christmas Festival in Hokkaido (Photo source: Collected)

From December 1 to 25, the Hakodate Christmas Festival turns the Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse area into a fairy tale. A giant Christmas tree, decorated with thousands of sparkling lights, stands out on the windy bay. Every evening, the sky is lit up with colorful fireworks, attracting the eyes of visitors. In addition, the vibrant Christmas market is where you can enjoy specialties, hot drinks and find unique souvenirs. This is not only an opportunity to enjoy the festive atmosphere, but also an ideal time to explore the beauty of Hakodate in winter.

Winter Festival in Hokkaido is a perfect combination of snow-covered natural beauty and unique cultural features. The sparkling ice and snow spaces, attractive activities and warm festival atmosphere will make you unforgettable. Let's explore the unique snow wonders with Vietravel and enjoy this wonderful winter.

Source: https://www.vietravel.com/vn/am-thuc-kham-pha/le-hoi-mua-dong-o-hokkaido-nhat-ban-v16098.aspx