Get ready to be dazzled by the 75th annual Sapporo Snow Festival, running from February 4 to February 11, 2025. Famous for its incredible snow and ice sculptures, this iconic winter event attracts millions of visitors to Sapporo, Hokkaido, every year. Here’s everything you need to know about this year’s festival.
Three Major Venues to Explore
The Sapporo Snow Festival is spread across three main venues, each offering unique attractions:
- Odori Site: The centerpiece of the festival, Odori Park, will showcase jaw-dropping large-scale snow sculptures and intricate designs. Key highlights include:
- A massive snow sculpture at 4-chome, featuring “That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime”, marking the festival’s first-ever tribute to an isekai anime.
- At 5-chome, the snow sculpture of thoroughbreds will feature cutting-edge 360-degree surround sound and projection mapping, creating a fully immersive experience.
- A new Snow Miku sculpture at 6-chome, themed around “sparkling snow material,” will feature innovative COUGEN lighting technology that synchronizes illumination with music.
- 10-chome will host a massive snow sculpture of “Monster Hunter Wilds”, perfect for gaming fans.
- Susukino Site: Known for its lively nightlife, Susukino will transform into an open-air gallery of ice sculptures. Visitors can enjoy illuminated displays and the Ice Sculpture Contest, which showcases talent from around the world.
- Tsudome Site: Making its long-awaited return after a four-year hiatus, the family-friendly Tsudome Site is a must-visit. Highlights include:
- A 100-meter-long snow slide, perfect for kids and adults alike.
- Thrilling activities such as snow rafting and snow tubing.
- Indoor attractions like playgrounds for kids, gourmet food booths, and spacious rest areas. Operating from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM, the Tsudome Site offers an authentic Hokkaido winter experience for visitors of all ages. While entry is free, some activities may require a small fee.
Why This Year Is Special
The return of the Tsudome Site is one of the festival’s biggest highlights, offering a wide variety of activities for all ages. Combined with innovative snow sculptures at the Odori Site and the vibrant atmosphere of Susukino, the 2025 festival promises to deliver something for everyone. Whether you’re an anime fan, foodie, or just looking for some snowy fun, this year’s event has it all.
Practical Information
- Odori and Susukino Sites: Open 24 hours a day, with illuminations ending at 10:00 PM.
- Tsudome Site: Open daily from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
- Admission to all sites is free, though some activities and food may have additional costs.
Stay Comfortable and Safe
Navigating snowy streets can be challenging, but the festival provides helpful resources. Free ski pole rentals are available at official Odori venue shops, and snow-friendly wheelchairs can be borrowed at the 6-chome Welfare Volunteer House. Dress warmly and wear proper footwear to stay comfortable while exploring.
The Sapporo Snow Festival 2025 is set to be a spectacular celebration of winter wonder. Mark your calendar, bundle up, and experience the magic of snow and ice in the heart of Hokkaido!
