Japanese name：さっぽろ雪まつり
Event period：February
Venue：Hokkaido
A snowy and icy fantasy that colors the winter of the northern country
【history】
The Sapporo Snow Festival began in 1950 when local junior and senior high school students created six snow statues in Odori Park. This small effort captured the hearts of the citizens and became a popular event attracting about 50,000 visitors, eventually establishing itself as a winter tradition in Sapporo.
In 1953, the first large snow statue, standing 15 meters tall, was introduced, and from 1955, the participation of the Self-Defense Forces made it possible to create larger and more elaborate snow sculptures. The festival gained international recognition with the Sapporo Olympics in 1972, and in 1974, the International Snow Sculpture Contest was launched. With the participation of overseas teams, it developed into an event rich in international flavor. Official Sapporo Snow Festival website
Today,
【Feature】
The charm of the Sapporo Snow Festival lies, above all, in the scale of the huge snow and ice sculptures that fill the city.
Main venues and their features
| Venue | Features |
| Odori Venue | The main venue in the heart of Sapporo, Odori Park, is lined with giant snow statues. Snow sculptures over 10 meters tall and stage events are also held. |
| Susukino Venue | A fantastical space where ice sculptures stand among the neon streets. The nighttime lighting is beautiful. |
| Tsudome Venue | An interactive area for families. Packed with snow slides and activities. |
Features of the snow sculptures
Every year, about 160 to 200 snow and ice sculptures are created.
The massive snow sculptures, standing 10 to 15 meters tall, are spectacular.
They are made by a diverse range of participants, including the Self-Defense Forces, local volunteers, and international teams.
Themes change each year, featuring anime, movies, historical architecture, and more.
The intricacy of these sculptures, made entirely from snow and ice, is truly a testament to craftsmanship and passion.
【Content】
The Sapporo Snow Festival is not just an exhibition event; it’s a week when the entire city transforms into a winter theme park.
Main Ways to Enjoy It
Viewing Giant Snow and Ice Sculptures
By day, enjoy the silver-white sculptural beauty; by night, the illumination creates a magical atmosphere.
International Snow Sculpture Contest
A popular event where teams from around the world compete in skill.
Stage Events
A variety of events including music concerts, projection mapping, and performances.
Snow Play and Experience Corners (Tsudome Venue)
Slides, snow activities, and hands-on experiences for children are plentiful.
Gourmet Food
You can enjoy Hokkaido’s winter delicacies (ramen, jingisukan, seafood, soup curry, etc.) at food stalls.
How was it? There are still many fun things in Japan. Please be sure to try them when you visit Japan.
Let’s Enjoy！
コメント