The Hokkaido Snow Festival takes place every year in February, and is one of Japan's most famous winter events. During the festival, you can admire hundreds of snow and ice sculptures throughout the city of Sapporo, including large-scale structures like castles and temples. There are also other activities, such as snow slides, live music performances, and food stalls offering local specialties. Visitors can experience the unique wintertime atmosphere and enjoy the magical winter wonderland. The festival attracts millions of visitors every year from all over the world.
From the New Chitose Airport, you can take a bus or train to Sapporo City. Once in Sapporo, you can navigate the city by subway or bus. During the festival, there are also special shuttle buses available.
The best time to visit the Hokkaido Snow Festival is in February, when the festival takes place.
During the festival, the temperatures are usually below freezing, with an average of -4°C. It is important to dress warmly and wear appropriate shoes. Hokkaido is known for its heavy snowfall and can experience blizzards during the winter months.
Accommodation costs vary depending on the type of lodging you choose. A budget hotel room can cost around 6,000 yen per night, while a luxury hotel can be 20,000 yen or more. Alternatively, there are also capsule hotels and hostels for around 2,000-4,000 yen per night.
There are many food stalls and restaurants offering local specialties like ramen and seafood during the festival. Prices range from around 500 yen for a simple meal to 2,000 yen or more for a more upscale dining experience.
Japan is generally considered a safe country, with low crime rates and a strong sense of public safety. However, as with any large event, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure. It is also recommended to avoid any areas with large crowds or potential disturbances.
Hokkaido is the second largest island in Japan, and the Hokkaido region has a population of around 5.3 million people. The population is diverse, with a mix of Japanese and indigenous Ainu people. The majority of people speak Japanese, although there are also regional dialects.
The main activity during the festival is admiring the snow and ice sculptures, but there are also other winter activities available such as snowmobiling and ice fishing. Additionally, visitors can explore the city of Sapporo and its many tourist attractions, such as the Sapporo Beer Museum and the Odori Park ice skating rink.