15 Questions That Save You From Ruining the
Sapporo Snow Festival
Avoid the classic mistakes: crowds, melting sculptures, closed areas, and wasting time in the cold.
When exactly is the festival?
February 4 (Wed) to February 11 (Wed, public holiday), 2026.
Biggest mistake: showing up on the 12th thinking it's "probably still there." Japan is strict with schedules—when it's over, teardown starts immediately.
Where is the festival held, and how do the 3 areas differ?
Sapporo Snow Festival is held in Sapporo and has three main areas:
- Odori Site (Odori Park) — the main stage. Giant snow statues + smaller sculptures along a long park.
- Susukino Site — the neon district becomes an ice sculpture zone.
- Tsudome Site — the family site with snow slides and activity zones.
What's so special about this festival, and why should you go?
It started in 1950 when students made six snow sculptures—and it grew into one of Japan's biggest winter events. Today, the scale is massive: the Odori sculptures span a long stretch of the park, and millions come each year.
How do I actually get to the Sapporo Snow Festival?
You'll typically fly into New Chitose Airport, then go into Sapporo.
- Odori Site: easiest access via Odori area / central Sapporo.
- Susukino Site: close to Odori and accessible by subway.
- Tsudome Site: access details on official page (includes shuttle guidance).
What should you actually see at Odori Park?
Odori is the heart of the festival. Here's what matters:
- The giant snow sculptures (the "main statues").
- Night illumination / projection mapping — sculptures lit from sundown until 10:00 PM.
- Sapporo TV Tower — best "whole festival from above" shot.
What makes the Susukino ice sculpture site special?
If Odori is snow, Susukino is ice. The big reason to go: it's a totally different atmosphere—ice carvings + neon city backdrop.
What can families do at the Tsudome site?
Tsudome is the family/play site: slides and snow activities.
It runs on a more limited schedule than central Odori/Susukino, so don't assume it's "anytime."
Are there special events or contests I should look for?
Yes! The most important one is the International Snow Sculpture Contest at Odori 11-chome.
Contest dates (2026): Feb 2 (Mon) – Feb 7 (Sat). You can watch teams building on specific days.
How many days should you stay for the snow festival?
3 to 4 days is ideal if you want to enjoy it without rushing:
- One pass in the daytime for details
- One pass at night for lighting/projection vibes
What is the best time of day to visit?
Use three windows:
- Early morning (7:00–9:00): clean photos, minimal crowds
- Sunset window (~4:30–5:30): best transition shots (especially from TV Tower)
- Late night (after 9:00): calmer vibe (Odori lights run to 10:00 PM)
What should you wear and pack?
Key problem: indoors can be hot, outdoors is freezing → you sweat → then you freeze.
- Zip layers (easy on/off)
- Waterproof boots with grip
- Gloves + hat/ear coverage + scarf
- Disposable hand warmers (kairo)
Is the snow festival really free to enter?
In general: yes, entry is free, but the experience isn't always free (tower, rentals, food, activities).
Where should I stay, and when do I book?
If you want central hotels near Odori/Susukino, book early—festival week fills fast.
Festival week is the busiest hotel period in Sapporo. Expect higher prices.
- Prefer hotels near Odori or Sapporo Station
- If missed best hotels, stay a few subway stops away and commute in
How do I avoid crowds and get the best photos?
Do these three things:
- Go to Odori at 7:00 AM for clean shots
- Go to Sapporo TV Tower around sunset for the "whole park glowing" view
- Prefer Monday/Tuesday evenings (generally lighter than weekends)
What other winter events can I see besides the Sapporo Snow Festival?
Three add-ons that pair perfectly with Snow Festival week:
- Otaru Snow Light Path Festival — Feb 7–14, 2026
- Asahikawa Winter Festival — Feb 6–11, 2026
- Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival — Jan 31–Feb 23, 2026
Pair These With Snow Festival
Otaru Snow Light Path
Romantic canal-side candle displays in the historic port city.
Asahikawa Winter Festival
Japan's second-largest winter festival with even bigger sculptures.
Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival
Blue ice sculptures lit up at night on a frozen volcanic lake.
Ready to Plan Your Visit?
Use the Murphy Route for a complete 7-day winter Hokkaido itinerary that includes the Snow Festival.
View Murphy Route Itinerary