The Sapporo Snow Festival: A Must-See Winter Experience in Hokkaido

09 February, 2025 Xanthe Goldsack

Every February, the Sapporo Snow Festival transforms the city into a breathtaking winter wonderland. For an entire week, visitors can marvel at spectacular snow sculptures, dazzling light displays, and a variety of cultural experiences—offering something for everyone to enjoy.

Festival Highlights

The festival is spread across three main sites: Odori Park, Susukino, and Tsudome. Odori Park serves as the heart of the festival, stretching over 1.5 kilometers and featuring massive snow sculptures, some towering over 15 meters high. As night falls, these sculptures are illuminated, creating a magical atmosphere that captivates visitors.

A snow sculpture in the foreground of the photo with Odori park and the Sapporo Tower in the background
A snow sculpture ath the Odori Park site of the Sapporo snow festival of some anime characters
The Sapporo Tower in Odori park on a blue sky day
A snow sculpture of a race horse galloping amongst the landmarks of Sapporo

Culinary Delights

One of the sweet stands within the Sapporo snow festival selling confectionary
A cake and dessert fridge stand in one of the food courts surrounding the Susukino site of the snow festival
A bowel of Miso Ramen and Sapporo Ramen on 'Ramen Alley' near Susukino
Okonomiyaki being cooked at a chain of Fugetsu in Sapporo- the home of okonomiyaki

Beyond the visual spectacles, the festival offers a culinary journey through Hokkaido's rich food culture. Odori Park hosts numerous food stalls where you can savour local specialties like fresh seafood, hearty ramen, and delectable sweets. The nearby Nijo Market is also a must-visit for seafood enthusiasts, offering a chance to taste some of the freshest catches of the day.

Shopping and Attractions

Sapporo boasts excellent shopping opportunities, from the bustling Tanukikoji Shopping Street to modern malls like Sapporo Factory. For beer aficionados, the Sapporo Beer Museum provides an insightful look into the history of one of Japan's most iconic brews, complete with tasting sessions.

Some of the artifacts within the Sapporo Beer Museum
Old advertisements on display in the Sapporo Beer Museum
The Sapporo Tower light up at night in Odori Park
The entrance to the Sapporo Beer Museum

Getting There from Niseko

Traveling from Niseko to Sapporo is straightforward. By car, the journey takes approximately 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on road conditions. Alternatively, public transportation options include buses and trains. The bus ride to Sapporo typically takes around 2.5 hours, while taking the train involves a transfer at Otaru Station and takes approximately 3 hours in total.

Tips for Visitors

  • Dress Warmly: February in Sapporo is cold, with temperatures often below freezing. Layered clothing, gloves, and warm footwear are essential.
  • Plan Ahead: Given the festival's popularity, it's advisable to book accommodations and transportation in advance.
  • Explore Beyond the Festival: While the Snow Festival is the main attraction, Sapporo offers numerous other winter activities, including skiing, hot springs, and cultural tours.

Experiencing the Sapporo Snow Festival is a highlight of any winter trip to Hokkaido. From the mesmerising sculptures to the delightful cuisine and shopping, there's something for everyone to enjoy.