Snow Festival in Hokkaido

Explore Hokkaido’s winter wonders. See the Sapporo Snow Festival for a magical snowy adventure.

Destination: Japan
Towns and Cities: Sapporo, Otaru, Obihiro, Abashiri, Asahikawa
Duration: February 1 to 8, 2027 (8D/5N)
Status: OPEN – Book Now!
Deadline to receive deposits: October 30, 2026

HIGHLIGHTS

A winter journey through Hokkaido is unlike any other. Snow-covered landscapes, frozen lakes, drifting sea ice, illuminated ice sculptures, traditional culture, charming towns, and unforgettable food come together in one remarkable adventure.

This tour takes you beyond Sapporo to discover some of Hokkaido’s most spectacular winter experiences, from the famous Sea of Clouds in Tomamu to the drift ice of Shiretoko and the colorful ice displays of Lake Shikotsu.

Sapporo: The Magic of the Snow Festival

Sapporo comes alive during its famous Snow Festival, when Odori Park is transformed into a spectacular winter wonderland.

See enormous snow and ice sculptures created by local and international artists, including towering monuments that can rise more than 15 meters high. After sunset, colorful projection mapping brings some of the sculptures to life. From an observation deck, enjoy a panoramic view of the glowing festival grounds.

The experience continues with more time to explore the festival and see roughly 100 intricately carved ice statues, including an ice bar where you can enjoy a drink served from a counter made entirely of ice.

This is winter in Japan at its most spectacular.

Tomamu: Above the Clouds

Head to Tomamu and ride the Unkai Gondola, famous for its breathtaking mountain views and the possibility of seeing the legendary “Sea of Clouds.”

Winter brings another magical experience. Visit the Terrace of Frost Tree, where trees become covered in frost and ice when moisture freezes at sub-zero temperatures. The result is a shimmering white landscape that feels almost otherworldly.

It is one of the most memorable ways to experience Hokkaido’s winter scenery.

Abashiri and Shiretoko: Into the Frozen Sea

Travel to Hokkaido’s northern coast and experience one of the region’s most extraordinary natural phenomena.

From Abashiri Port, embark on a Drift Ice Cruise at Shiretoko and see floating sea ice stretching across the frozen waters. Feel the crisp Arctic-like air as you take in a landscape that looks completely different from anything you’ll see in the cities.

This is Hokkaido at its wildest.

Lake Akan: Culture Amid Winter Scenery

Lake Akan is known for its tranquil beauty and rich cultural heritage.

During the tour, experience the Ainu Ancient Ceremonial Dance, a traditional performance that offers a glimpse into the history and culture of Hokkaido’s indigenous people.

This meaningful cultural experience adds another dimension to your winter adventure.

Shirogane Blue Pond: A Winter Glow

The famous Shirogane Blue Pond takes on a completely different character in winter.

See the pond frozen and covered in snow, then experience the magical atmosphere created when colorful lights illuminate the winter landscape at night.

It is one of those places that looks almost unreal when covered in snow and illuminated after dark.

Otaru: A Charming Canal Town

Discover the romantic winter atmosphere of Otaru, one of Hokkaido’s most charming towns.

Visit the Music Box Museum, explore the picturesque streets, and enjoy a scenic Otaru Canal Cruise. The combination of historic surroundings, snowy scenery, and the peaceful canal makes Otaru a memorable stop on the journey.

Hokkaido’s Sweet Side

Hokkaido is famous for its dairy products, chocolates, and confectionery, and this tour gives you several opportunities to experience them.

Visit Royce Cacao & Chocolate Town, where you can learn more about Hokkaido’s world-famous chocolate and shop for sweet treats.

Then discover Shiroi Koibito Park, where you can see how the famous cookies are made and even have the opportunity to make your own cookies or chocolate.

For anyone with a sweet tooth, this part of the journey is hard to resist.

Sapporo: Food, Views and Winter Fun

There’s more to Sapporo than the Snow Festival.

Visit the historic Sapporo Clock Tower, enjoy panoramic city views from the Mount Moiwa Ropeway, and explore the city’s winter atmosphere.

The tour also includes lunch at Sapporo Beer Garden, where you can enjoy draft beer and the famous Genghis Khan dish in a historic red-brick setting. Later, enjoy an all-you-can-eat meal at a Sapporo Crab Restaurant.

And for those who want some shopping time, the itinerary includes a stop at Mitsui Outlet Park.

Lake Shikotsu: A Festival of Ice

End your Hokkaido adventure with another spectacular winter festival.

The Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival features enormous ice sculptures created from the lake’s exceptionally clear waters. During the day, the ice takes on a natural blue hue. After dark, colorful lights transform the sculptures into a dreamlike winter spectacle.

It is a fitting finale to a journey filled with snow, ice, culture, food, and unforgettable scenery.

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