Winter is fast approaching! Have you booked your ticket to Hokkaido yet? If not, hurry up, as this winter will draw crowds, especially for the Snow Festival—an event so famous that it hardly needs an introduction. Known as the symbol of all snow festivals, the Sapporo Snow Festival began in 1950 and has been held every year since. The 2025 event will be the 75th edition!

The event will take place in 3 areas:

• Odori Site: February 4-11, 2025, light-up until 10:00 PM
• Tsudome Site: February 4-11, 2025, 9:00 AM-5:00 PM
• Susukino Site: February 4-11, 2025, light-up until 11:00 PM

❶ Odori Park (February 4-11, 2025)

Located in the heart of Sapporo, this well-known spot stretches 1.5 kilometers. It will feature snow sculpture competitions, various performances, and plenty of food stalls. At night, don’t miss the enchanting light-up displays that bring the magnificent snow sculptures to life. For a panoramic view, head up the TV Tower to capture the entire scene and make unforgettable memories. Such a grand event attracts countless visitors, both Japanese and international.

❷ Tsudome Sports Dome (February 4-11, 2025)

Normally used for sports like soccer and baseball, Tsudome transforms into a winter playground during the Snow Festival. Here, you can enjoy snow tubing down a hill, snow kayaking, and many other activities, both indoors and outdoors. It’s a great spot for family fun with fewer crowds compared to Odori Park.

❸ Susukino (February 4-11, 2025)

Sapporo’s famous nightlife district will showcase ice sculptures along Station Avenue. These icy artworks are on display day and night, with beautiful light effects at night, making it a magical sight.

Travel Tips:

• Book your tickets and accommodation early, as the event draws massive crowds, both local and international, and hotel prices rise quickly.
• The festival is held in the middle of winter, so be cautious when walking on snow and ice to avoid falls.
• To experience everything in one day, start at Tsudome in the morning, visit Odori Park in the afternoon, and end your day at Susukino for the night ice displays.
• If accommodation in Sapporo is full, consider staying in Otaru, just a 35-minute train ride away with frequent services.
• Winter is the best time for crab, so book your restaurant in advance to enjoy the freshest seafood.
• Make sure to fully charge your camera, as batteries deplete quickly in the cold.

Map:

Sapporo Snow Festival Official WebSite: https://www.snowfes.com/en/

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