Bundle up and head to the Asahikawa Winter Festival, one of Hokkaidō’s biggest winter events.
What happens?
The Asahikawa Winter Festival is one of Hokkaidō’s premier winter events, bringing together snow, ice, fireworks, and illuminations. This six-day celebration attracts over one million visitors annually to the frosty city of Asahikawa.
The centerpiece of the event? Enormous snow sculptures crafted by volunteers from around the region. The main sculpture is a record-breaking creation — 140 meters wide and 20 meters high — that has to be seen to be believed. At night, these icy masterpieces come alive with color projection-mapping displays that light up the festival grounds in dazzling hues.
For a bite to eat, head to the Winter Marche, where you can expect to find stalls selling steaming bowls of ramen, Shiretoko pork sausages, buttered potatoes, and more. See the complete list of vendors here.
History
First held in 1960, the Asahikawa Winter Festival began as a way for locals to embrace and celebrate the city’s snowy climate rather than dread it. Over the decades, it has grown into one of Japan’s largest winter events.
How to get there
From JR Sapporo Station, take a Limited Express train to JR Asahikawa Station (about 90 minutes). The main venue at Ishikari Riverbed is a short taxi or shuttle ride from the station.
You could also fly into Asahikawa Airport and take a 30-minute taxi to the festival grounds.
Organizers may cancel events, alter schedules, or change admission requirements without notice. Always check official sites before heading to an event.