Guide
The Sapporo Snow Festival (Sapporo Yuki Matsuri) is a world-renowned winter celebration and a symbol of Sapporo's winter season. The festival features incredibly detailed, massive snow sculptures and intricate ice carvings that decorate the city. This historic event continues to captivate visitors through diverse programs, including local community-led builds and the prestigious International Snow Sculpture Contest, showcasing both the beauty of winter and artistic excellence.
The main draw is the overwhelming scale of the snow sculptures appearing throughout the city. These artistic masterpieces are stunning during the day, but the nighttime illuminations create a truly magical and dreamlike atmosphere that you cannot miss. You can enjoy a unique blend of local culture and international artistry through the International Snow Sculpture Contest and the local community-driven displays.
In 2026, the festival was held from February 4 (Wed) to February 11 (Wed, Public Holiday). Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information regarding future dates.
The festival is primarily spread across three main areas:
You can access the various sites via public transport from JR Sapporo Station. Please check the official website for detailed routes and transit updates.
Preparation is key to enjoying the art of snow and ice to the fullest. Since each venue offers a different experience, we recommend planning a route that hits your interests. The nighttime illuminations offer a completely different, enchanting atmosphere compared to the daytime, so consider visiting in the evening to see the sculptures glow.
The venues are extremely cold, and the ground can be very slippery due to snow and ice. We strongly recommend wearing heavy winter clothing and shoes with excellent grip to prevent slipping. Please check the official website for specific rules regarding the venues and local amenities.