Experience Sapporo Snow Festival 2026: Winter Wonderland in Japan

If you are planning a winter trip to Japan, the Sapporo Snow Festival is one event worth building your itinerary around. Held annually in Sapporo, Hokkaido, this iconic festival turns the city into a massive open air gallery of snow and ice. In 2026, the festival will run from 4 to 11 February, giving visitors over a week to explore its impressive displays and seasonal attractions.

Overview of the Sapporo Snow Festival

The Sapporo Snow Festival is one of Japan’s largest winter events, attracting visitors from across the country and overseas. It began in 1950, when local students created a handful of snow statues in Odori Park. Over the decades, it has evolved into a major cultural event featuring large scale sculptures, ice art, performances, and winter activities. Most areas of the festival are free to visit, making it accessible for travellers on any budget.

Main festival sites and what to expect

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The festival takes place across three main sites, each offering a different experience.

Odori Park serves as the main venue and stretches through central Sapporo. This is where you will find the festival’s largest snow sculptures, some reaching 15 metres high and 25 metres wide. These sculptures often depict famous landmarks, historical scenes, or pop culture themes. In the evening, the displays are illuminated, creating a dramatic atmosphere that is especially popular for night visits and photography.

The Susukino site, located in Sapporo’s entertainment district, focuses on ice sculptures rather than snow. These detailed works of art line the streets and are lit up after dark, making this area ideal for visitors who want to combine sightseeing with dining and nightlife.

For families and travellers looking for hands on activities, Tsudome is the most interactive site. It features snow slides, snow rafting, and play zones, making it a popular choice for children and first time visitors experiencing snow.

Planning your visit

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Sapporo is easily accessible by air via New Chitose Airport, with direct transport links to the city centre. Winter temperatures can drop well below freezing, so warm clothing and proper footwear are essential. Visiting popular sites in the evening can help avoid daytime crowds, especially at Odori Park.

Whether you are interested in winter scenery, cultural events, or simply experiencing snow in Japan, the Sapporo Snow Festival 2026 offers a well rounded travel experience. With its long history, accessible locations, and variety of attractions, it remains one of the most memorable winter festivals in the country.