The Sapporo Snow Festival is one of Hokkaido’s most famous events, attracting visitors from all over the world. If you’re planning a trip to Hokkaido in winter, this iconic festival should be at the top of your list. From massive snow sculptures to delicious local food stalls, there’s something for everyone—and it’s especially fun for families! Let’s take a look at what you can expect at the 2025 Sapporo Snow Festival, along with some handy travel tips.

📍Japan, 〒060-0042 Hokkaido, Sapporo, Chuo Ward, Odorinishi

The main site of the Sapporo Snow Festival is Odori Park, located right in the heart of Sapporo. The festival also includes other locations like Susukino and Tsudome, each offering unique attractions and experiences.

Why Visit the Sapporo Snow Festival?

Here are some reasons why the Sapporo Snow Festival is a must-see winter event:

• Massive Snow and Ice Sculptures: These aren’t your average snowmen! The festival features intricate sculptures of famous landmarks, anime characters, and more.
• Fun for Kids: The Tsudome site has snow slides, snow rafting, and other kid-friendly activities.
• Local Food Stalls: Enjoy Hokkaido’s famous winter dishes like soup curry, fresh seafood, and hot sake.
• Evening Illuminations: The sculptures look even more magical at night when they’re lit up with colorful lights.

How to Get to the Sapporo Snow Festival

By Car 

Driving to Sapporo from Private Villa BIG EAST is a convenient option if you want to explore Hokkaido at your own pace. The drive takes about 43 minutes. It’s an easy route, and having a car means you can make stops along the way to check out other attractions.

From Private Villa BIG EAST, Sapporo is just a short drive away. For more details, please check here.

Other Options

If you prefer not to drive, here’s how you can get to Sapporo:

1. By Train:

   • Take the JR train to Sapporo Station. The trip takes about 50 minutes.

2. By Bus:

   • There are direct buses to Sapporo, which take about 1 hour.

Family-Friendly Activities at the Sapporo Snow Festival

1. Snow Slides and Snow Rafting:

   • Head to the Tsudome site for some fun winter activities that kids will love.

2. Ice Sculptures:

   • The Susukino site is known for its stunning ice sculptures. It’s a bit more adult-oriented, but still worth a visit.

3. Food Stalls:

   • Try local dishes like grilled corn, crab soup, and jingisukan (Hokkaido’s signature lamb dish).

4. Photo Opportunities:

   • Don’t forget to take lots of photos! The snow sculptures are truly one-of-a-kind.

Tips for Visiting the Sapporo Snow Festival

1. Dress Warmly:

   • Hokkaido winters are no joke. Make sure you have proper winter gear, including a warm coat, gloves, and boots.

2. Visit in the Evening:

   • The sculptures are lit up at night, creating a magical atmosphere.

3. Try Local Food:

   • The festival is a great place to try Hokkaido’s famous winter dishes.

4. Book Accommodation Early:

   • The festival attracts a lot of visitors, so make sure you book your accommodation well in advance.

5. Check the Weather:

   • The festival is an outdoor event, so check the weather forecast before heading out.

Final Thoughts

The Sapporo Snow Festival is a winter wonderland that everyone should experience at least once. Whether you’re admiring the massive snow sculptures or enjoying delicious Hokkaido cuisine, it’s a festival that will leave you with unforgettable memories.