Snow and light create a magical winter experience at the Sapporo Snow Festival, where towering snow sculptures and shimmering ice art transform the city into a wonderland. This iconic event draws visitors from across the globe.
This guide offers essential tips for first-time visitors to Japan , including must-see spots, what to wear, and how to avoid the biggest crowds.
With travel advice, sample itineraries, and photo-worthy highlights, it’s your go-to resource for enjoying the Sapporo Snow Festival to the fullest.
Contents
How to Get to Sapporo Snow Festival
Check the latest weather forecast before your visit: [weathernews ]
By Train
Tokyo Station
Take the JR Tohoku/Hokkaido Shinkansen “Hayabusa” to Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station (approx. 4 hr 20 min).
Transfer to the JR Limited Express “Hokuto” to reach Sapporo Station (approx. 3 hr 40 min).
Shin-Osaka Station
Take the JR Tokaido Shinkansen “Nozomi” to Tokyo Station (approx. 2 hr 30 min).
From Tokyo, take the JR Tohoku/Hokkaido Shinkansen “Hayabusa” to Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station (approx. 4 hr).
Transfer to the JR Limited Express “Hokuto” to Sapporo Station (approx. 3 hr 50 min).
Hakodate Station
Take the JR Limited Express “Hokuto” to Sapporo Station (approx. 3 hr 40 min).
One Point Advice
Visitor Information: Hours, Fees & Access
Event Dates: February 4 (Tue) – February 11 (Tue, public holiday), 2025
Venues: Odori Site, Susukino Site, Tsudome Site (3 locations)
Opening Hours:
Admission: Free at all Sapporo Snow Festival venues (some activities may require a fee)
Closed Days: Open every day during the event (note: some activities may be canceled due to severe weather)
Reservation: Not required (checking crowd levels in advance is recommended)
Official website: https://www.snowfes.com/en
Sapporo Snow Festival Highlights & Sample Itinerary
Odori Site｜Giant Snow Sculptures & Light Show
The Odori Site, the heart of the Sapporo Snow Festival, showcases giant snow and ice sculptures stretching 1.5 kilometers from the Sapporo TV Tower. At night, colorful illuminations turn the area into a surreal snow theater.
Be sure to catch the International Snow Sculpture Contest , along with stunning projection mapping shows.
Time required: Approximately 60–90 minutes (including photo stops and breaks)
Admission: Free
Model Course: 15:00 Depart from Odori Station → Walk through each sculpture block in sequence
Susukino Site｜Illuminated Ice Sculptures & Night Views
At the Susukino Site, you’ll come face to face with intricately carved ice sculptures , their crystal beauty glowing under neon bar signs. Animal figures appear almost alive, while the lively nightlife creates a striking contrast that’s impossible to ignore.
Time required: Approximately 30–45 minutes
Admission: Free
Model Course: 17:00 Start from Susukino Crossing → Stroll between ice sculptures on foot
Tsudome Site｜Family Snow Activities & Indoor Rest Area
The Tsudome Site invites both kids and adults to enjoy active winter attractions like giant snow slides and snow rafting. Indoors, you’ll find cozy rest areas and food booths, making it a perfect spot for families and couples to warm up and unwind.
Time required: Approximately 90–120 minutes
Admission: Free (some activities require separate fees)
Model Course: 10:00 Depart from Sapporo Station → Subway Toho Line → Sakaemachi Station → Shuttle bus to venue
Nearby Spots & Day Trips from Sapporo Snow Festival
Sapporo TV Tower｜Walkable Snow Viewpoint
At the end of Odori Park, the Sapporo TV Tower offers a sweeping view of the snow-covered festival from its 90-meter-high deck. As twilight casts a warm orange glow over the white city, it creates a magical winter finale you’ll never forget.
Shiroi Koibito Park｜By Train from City Center
After the Sapporo Snow Festival, take a short subway trip to Shiroi Koibito Park , where you can make sweets or explore a charming chocolate museum. The cozy, whimsical interior and illuminated winter displays create a perfect blend of snow and sweetness.
Otaru Day Trip｜Retro Snow Town Experience
Just 45 minutes by train from Sapporo, Otaru welcomes you with stone warehouses, a historic canal, and snow-covered rooftops glowing under gas lamps. This peaceful escape offers a quiet contrast to the city , perfect for ending your winter journey with a warm, reflective moment.
Travel Tips & Visitor Questions
How long does it take to visit each site and how do I move between them?
Subway is convenient, and you can also walk between Odori and Susukino venues. A half-day is enough to explore all sites.
Do I need a reservation?
Entry is free and does not require a reservation, but booking hotels and tours early is recommended.
What is the most efficient route to visit the venues?
Visit Tsudome in the morning, Odori in the afternoon/evening, and Susukino at night for the illuminated sculptures.
When is the best time to see the snow sculptures?
The first 3 to 4 days of the festival typically showcase the sculptures at their best. Nighttime offers great photo opportunities with lighting.
Is cold weather gear necessary?
Temperatures range from -5°C to -10°C. Warm clothing, gloves, and hand warmers are essential.
Final Thoughts & Next Steps
The Sapporo Snow Festival is more than a seasonal event—it’s a stunning blend of snow, art, and culture that captivates the senses. From towering sculptures to playful activities, each site offers something unique.
Thanks to smooth train access and clear signage, even first-time visitors can explore Odori, Susukino, and Tsudome with ease.
Start planning your winter escape—your snow-filled story begins in Sapporo.
