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January 13, 2025 | 11:46 pm
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The end of 2024 does not mean the end of Japan's winter festival season. This beloved time of year continues to enchant visitors, as Japan's stunning landscapes are transformed into a magical wonderland filled with snowy spectacles and vibrant events.
From January to March, exciting winter festivals await you in Japan, where the energy is palpable and the spirit is truly unique.
List of Top 10 Japan’s Winter Festivals for 2025
Klook and Rakuten Travel highlight the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival among the must-see Japan’s winter festivals this year. Other premier events to look out for include:
1. Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival
Date: February 1 – 24
Imagine strolling along the frozen shores of Lake Shikotsu, where the landscape is transformed into a dazzling winter wonderland. For nearly the entire month of February, the lake is lined with stunning ice sculptures, creating an enchanting scene that is as beautiful by day as it is by night.
Don’t miss the electrifying fire shows and the rhythmic beats of taiko drumming—this is an absolute Japan’s winter festival that will captivate your senses.
2. Sapporo Snow Festival
Date: February 4 – 11
Sapporo, known for its exciting things to do all year round, is particularly magical in February. The Sapporo Snow Festival, one of Japan’s most iconic winter celebrations, attracts nearly two million visitors each year. Celebrating its 75th edition this year, the festival features impressive ice sculptures across three venues, fun winter activities for all ages, and delicious food stalls.
3. Yokote Snow Festival
Date: February 15 – 16
Step into a snowy fairy tale at the Yokote Snow Festival, where over 450 years of tradition come to life. The highlight of this festival is the Kamakura—adorable snow domes built to honor the water deity and pray for good fortune. As you sip on warm rice wine and nibble on rice cakes alongside friendly locals, you will feel the joyous spirit of this centuries-old celebration.
4. Otaru Snow Light Path Festival
Date: February 8 – 15
If you have ever dreamed of wandering through a winter wonderland, the Otaru Snow Light Path Festival is your chance to make it a reality. As night falls, thousands of snow lanterns flicker to life, casting a soft glow over the picturesque Otaru Canal.
5. Asahikawa Winter Festival
Date: February 6 – 11
Known as the second-largest winter festival in Japan, the Asahikawa Winter Festival captivates visitors with its grand snow sculptures and ice art. Each year, the event is marked by a grand fireworks display that kicks off the festivities in spectacular fashion. Music, live performances, and interactive ice exhibits ensure there is never a dull moment at this winter extravaganza.
6. Sounkyo Ice Festival
Date: January 25 – March 9
Prepare to be amazed by the frosty beauty of the Sounkyo Ice Festival. Set in a region where temperatures can drop below -20°C, this festival is a true winter wonderland. The frozen waterfall that lights up at night is simply mesmerizing, and the chance to explore ice caves, try ice tubing, or even take on ice climbing will make this an unforgettable experience.
7. Hirosaki Castle Snow Lantern Festival
Date: February 7 – 11
Feel the magic of winter at the Hirosaki Castle Snow Lantern Festival, where countless snow lanterns light up the grounds of the historic Hirosaki Castle. Surrounded by snowy landscapes and intricately carved snow sculptures, this is a celebration of winter’s beauty like no other. Take in the peaceful ambiance and enjoy traditional performances that will transport you back in time.
8. Lake Saiko Ice Festival
Date: January 21 – February 10
Nestled against the iconic backdrop of Mount Fuji, the Lake Saiko Ice Festival is a sight to behold. Towering ice trees, some reaching 5 meters high, create an awe-inspiring spectacle. Visit at night when the ice structures are illuminated, and the view is nothing short of magical.
9. Tsunan Snow Festival
Date: March 8
The Tsunan Snow Festival is another remarkable Japan’s winter festival that you can’t miss. For over 50 years, the event has continued to embrace the magic of winter with a mix of traditional and modern festivities. The highlight of this festival is the breathtaking lantern display that lights up the night sky, creating a dreamy atmosphere that will stay with you long after you leave
10. Aizu Painted Candle Festival
Date: February 7 – 8
The Aizu Painted Candle Festival is a visual masterpiece, with nearly 10,000 hand-painted candles lighting up the snowy streets of Aizu. Against the backdrop of the historic Tsuruga Castle, the scene is like something out of a fairy tale. The warm glow of the candles combined with the crisp winter air creates an unforgettable ambiance.
Don’t miss your chance to create an unforgettable winter experience by visiting these remarkable Japan's winter festivals. Make sure to mark your calendars and get ready for an adventure!
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