Snow Festivals

Japan's northernmost island, celebrated for its vast natural landscapes and rich food culture. From the lavender fields of Furano to the UNESCO World Natural Heritage site of Shiretoko and world-class powder snow ski resorts, Hokkaido offers year-round tourism appeal complemented by acclaimed seafood and local cuisine.

Winter festivals held nationwide, including the famous snow festival in Sapporo, Hokkaido. Characterized by massive snow and ice sculptures showcasing creativity and engineering, they attract approximately 10 million visitors annually, representing Japan's winter tourism events. They exemplify fusion of regional development and cultural dissemination.

Fireworks festivals held across Japan as quintessential summer events. From the Sumida River Fireworks to Omagari, tens of thousands of fireworks illuminate the night sky. Together with the tradition of wearing yukata, they have become iconic symbols of the Japanese summer.

Natural 'snow monsters' formed by snow and ice on Aomori fir trees. A globally rare phenomenon, the illuminated nighttime juhyo are fantastical. Enjoyable alongside skiing.

The world's only spot to see Japanese macaques bathing in hot springs. Snow monkeys enjoying onsen are enormously popular with international tourists and featured on LIFE magazine's cover.

One of the world's largest snow and ice festivals held annually in February centered on Sapporo's Odori Park. Approximately 200 works including giant snow sculptures, projection mapping, and ice carvings attract about 2 million visitors. It began in 1950 when local students built six snow sculptures.

One of Japan's most representative fire festivals held annually in August in Aomori City. Giant illuminated floats called nebuta depicting warrior scenes parade through nighttime streets while haneto dancers leap to calls of 'rassera.' Attracting over 3 million visitors annually, it is designated a national Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property.