Detailed Activities and Guide to Sapporo Snow Festival (2025) (Include Photos)
The Sapporo Snow Festival is one of Japan’s most anticipated winter events, drawing millions of visitors each year. Held annually in early February, the festival transforms Sapporo into a winter wonderland filled with massive snow sculptures, ice displays, food stalls, and exciting performances. I had the chance to experience it firsthand in early February 2025, and in this guide, I'll share key attractions, personal insights, and useful tips to help you plan your visit for next year.
Key Attractions & Highlights
1. Giant Snow Sculptures
Image: Marina Wee (06 Feb 2025)
Large snow sculpture, “That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime”.
The main highlight of the festival, featuring impressive large-scale sculptures.
Located at 3-chome Sapporo Smile Square and 4-chome STV Square.
Some sculptures are enhanced with projection mapping displays at night.
2. Ice Sculptures & Light Displays
Image: Marina Wee (06 Feb 2025)
Medium-size snow sculptures featuring mobile games, “Blue Archive” (left) and “Arknights” (right).
Stunning ice sculptures that are illuminated in the evenings for a breathtaking effect.
Some sculptures are interactive, allowing visitors to walk through or touch them.
3. Performance Stage at 4-Chome STV Square
Image: Marina Wee (07 Feb 2025)
Large snow sculpture, “A Thoroughbred Galloping Toward Sapporo” with a stage.
Live music, dance performances, and cultural showcases.
Located at 5-chome Hokkaido Shimbun Newspaper Snow Square.
A mix of traditional Japanese acts and contemporary performances.
Great for experiencing Hokkaido’s local arts and entertainment.
4. Food Booths & Festival Treats
Image: Marina Wee (07 Feb 2025)
Free Shin-ramen cup noodles samples at the snow festival.
Image: Marina Wee (06 Feb 2025)
Food stalls selling many snacks such as sausages, baked potatoes, corn soup and hot milk.
Image: Marina Wee (06 Feb 2025)
Showcasing their exclusive limited edition Coca-Cola for the 75th Sapporo Snow Festival. It costs 100 yen per can and can be bought at the vending machine at the event site.
Shin ramen – spicy and comforting in the cold weather.
Grilled seafood & butter potatoes – local specialties.
Corn soup & hot milk – warm and delicious winter drinks.
Limited edition Coca-Cola – a collector’s item with a special winter-themed design.
5. Interactive Activities & Ice Slides
Image: Marina Wee (06 Feb 2025)
Smile rink sapporo, ice skating sponsored by Shin-ramen. Entry fees up to 3,000 yen for adults and up to 500 yen for high schoolers and below.
Various areas featuring hands-on experiences such as ice slides.
Great for families and kids looking for an engaging activity.
Snow sculpting experiences available for visitors who want to create their own small sculptures.
6. Well-Organized Facilities & Services
Despite large crowds, the festival is well-managed with designated walking paths.
First aid booths, police assistance, and lost-and-found stations ensure visitor safety and convenience.
Tips for Visitors
1. Best Time to Visit
Image: Marina Wee (06 Feb 2025)
Sapporo Snow Festival, featuring Sapporo TV tower.
The festival usually runs for a week in early February. Visiting during weekdays helps avoid the biggest crowds.
Night time might be crowded, but worth going to see the light-up ice sculptures for a different experience.
2. Budget Considerations
Image: Marina Wee (07 Feb 2025)
Food stalls selling local seafood delicacies such as Teriyaki scallop skewers (600 yen) and Fried salmon sitck (500 yen).
Food is slightly pricier than usual but worth it for the experience.
Book hotels early to secure reasonable prices and convenient locations.
3. What to Bring
Image: Marina Wee (06 Feb 2025)
View of Odori park from Sapporo TV tower.
Dress warmly in layers, including gloves, scarves, and waterproof boots.
A good camera or smartphone to capture the stunning displays.
Conclusion
Image: Marina Wee (07 Feb 2025)
Food stall selling Sapporo Suntory Dry Beer.
The Sapporo Snow Festival is an unforgettable experience, offering a perfect blend of winter art, delicious food, and festive energy. Whether you’re planning to go next year or just dreaming of a winter getaway, this guide provides everything you need to make the most of your visit. Don’t forget to arrive early, dress warmly, and enjoy the magical atmosphere of Sapporo’s winter wonderland!
For more details, check the official websites:
