Magical Snow Festivals, Dazzling Lights, and Unmissable Winter Fun in Japan (Dates Included!)
Did we mention how winter is our absolute favourite time of year? There’s just something about the frosty winter air, the mesmerising view of snowflakes falling through the air, and how everything just becomes more enchanting.
Winter in Japan, however, is on a whole other level. Don’t write off a visit during the chillier months: expect nothing less than spectacular landscapes, exciting festivals, magical illuminations, a whole slew of top-notch ski resorts, and scrumptious cuisine all thrown into the mix!
Winter Festivals in Japan
1. Sapporo Snow Festival
Photo credit: Japan National Tourism Organization
The Sapporo Snow Festival is the pinnacle of Japan’s winter festivals, and is conveniently located in the heart of Sapporo city.
Attracting over two million visitors every year (imagine that!), the festival troops out giant snow and ice sculptures that are truly a sight to behold. Have the best time at an ice rink, giant snow slides, live performances, food stalls, and even a fun snow play area for the little ones.
Where: Sapporo, Hokkaido
When: 4 to 11 February 2026
2. Otaru Snow Light Path Festival
Photo credit: HOKKAIDO LOVE!
Otaru is one of Hokkaido’s most charming port towns and, come winter every year, it transforms into a lovely winter vista. There aren’t any bells and whistles here at the Otaru Snow Light Path Festival; instead, you’ll find hundreds of lanterns floating in the Otaru canal, as well as small snow statues and a snow tunnel along an abandoned train track.
#KlookTip: In fact, Otaru is a mere 30-minute train ride from Sapporo, letting you experience both festivals above easily on the same trip!
Where: Otaru, Hokkaido
When: Early-mid February 2026 (Dates to be announced)
3. Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival
Photo credit: HOKKAIDO LOVE!
Did you know that the pristine waters of Lake Shikotsu are some of Japan's clearest waters? Nestled in Shikotsu-Toya National Park, the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival is a stunning display of larger-than-life ice sculptures which, you guessed it, are created using the lake waters. After dusk, the sculptures are vibrantly illuminated, looking much like a scene out of a fairytale.
There’s lots to do here: catch a fire show or taiko drumming performance, take a whirl on the ice slide, or warm up at the numerous food stalls. If you’re visiting with your significant other, seize this chance to declare your undying love with an ‘ice wedding’.
Where: Lake Shikotsu, Hokkaido
When: Early to late February 2026 (dates to be announced)
4. Asahikawa Winter Festival
Photo credit: Japan National Tourism Organization
The second-largest winter festival in Japan, the Asahikawa Winter Festival wows with a humongous frozen structure that also functions as a stage for live performances and fireworks. Back in the city centre, head to the main thoroughfare of Heiwa-dori street to witness craftsmen hard at work creating the sculptures.
#KlookTip: Not sure how to get there? Simply hop on a free shuttle bus from Asahikawa station.
Where: Asahikawa, Hokkaido
When: Early to mid-February 2026 (dates to be announced)
5. Sounkyo Ice Festival
Photo credit: HOKKAIDO LOVE!
If you’re looking to experience the epitome of winter, the Sounkyo Ice Festival takes the cake. Be prepared to brave temperatures of minus 20 degrees at the Ishikari River in Kamikawa town. It’s so cold that water from a waterfall freezes, which is then used to create stunning ice sculptures.
We recommend staying till after dark, when the structures light up in a myriad of colours. Venture through striking ice caves, go ice climbing, try ice tubing, and even sip on amazake — a traditional Japanese fermented rice drink — at an ice bar (where the entire thing is made of ice!).
Where: Kamikawa, Hokkaido
When: Late-January to mid-March 2026 (Dates to be announced)
Combine your visit to the magical Sounkyo Ice Waterfall Festival with a breathtaking sunset drift ice cruise aboard the GARINKO GO III・IMERU — a perfect way to experience Hokkaido’s winter wonderland from both land and sea.
6. Hirosaki Castle Snow Lantern Festival
Photo credit: Amazing Aomori
Known for its beautiful autumn foliage, Hirosaki Castle Park takes on another persona whenever winter rolls around. The stars of the show are the 200 handcrafted snow lanterns, which dot the grounds around the majestic castle. These are scattered amongst approximately 300 mini igloos, and a giant snow statue.
When night falls, visitors are in for a treat with a light show projected onto the snow statue. Don’t forget to see the unique Tsugaru-Nishiki-e Cloister, which displays scenes from the Neputa Matsuri.
Where: Hirosaki, Tohoku
When: 6 to 11 February 2026
7. Yokote Kamakura Snow Festival
Photo credit: Japan National Tourism Organization
Part of the Michinoku Godai Snow Festivals, the Yokote Kamakura Festival in Akita Prefecture is a 450-year-old tradition where over 100 snow huts (kamakura) are built across the city to honour the water deity.
Inside each kamakura, children serve amazake and grilled rice cakes to visitors — a warm and welcoming experience in Japan’s snow country. Originally a spiritual event, it has since evolved into a magical winter attraction.
Credit: Tohoku Tourism
At night, the glowing kamakura against the snowy landscape create a breathtaking sight. For the best route, start at Yokote City Hall, then visit Yokoteminami Elementary School, Janosaki-kawara, old samurai residences, and the illuminated Yokote Castle.
Where: Yokote, Tohoku
When: 15 to 16 February 2026
8. Lake Saiko Ice Festival
Photo credit: Fujikawaguchiko Tourist Information
Who’s up for an ice festival with a splendid view of Mt. Fuji to boot? Held at Saiko Wild Bird Forest Park, the Lake Saiko Ice Festival troops out towering frost-covered trees. Indeed, some of these reach up to five metres high! These are illuminated after dark too, making for a rather unique sight.
#KlookTip: If you visit on a weekend, head over to Lake Kawaguchiko for a winter fireworks show.
Where: Saiko Wild Bird Forest Park, Fujikawaguchiko
When: 21 January to 10 February 2025
9. Tokamachi Snow Festival
Photo credit: Enjoy Niigata
Tokamachi Snow Festival is Japan’s first snow festival, and has continued to enthrall visitors ever since. Showcasing the town’s heartwarming community spirit, the festival showcases snow sculptures of all shapes and sizes.
Each district has their own hiroba (a central square of sorts), with various games and food stalls. The crowning glory is the Snow Carnival that happens on Saturday evening, which sees live music performances and fireworks play out on a huge snow stage.
Where: Tokamachi, Niigata
When: Mid-February 2026 (Dates to be announced)
10. Zao Juhyo Festival
Photo credit: Japan National Tourism Organization
Welcome to the land of snow monsters! Known as juhyo, these frosty giants form when icy Siberian winds coat Zao’s fir trees in layers of snow and ice, creating eerie, towering shapes that look straight out of a fantasy film.
Zao Onsen Ski Resort, Yamagata
Take the Zao Ropeway up the mountain for a stunning aerial view, then ski or snowboard down scenic slopes lined with these natural snow sculptures. As night falls, the juhyo are illuminated, turning the landscape into a surreal winter dream.
#KlookTip: Want to get even closer? Hop on the Night Cruiser snowcat for a unique ride through the illuminated juhyo field — perfect for photos and unforgettable memories.
Where: Zao Onsen Resort, Tohoku
When: 27 December 2024 to 27 February 2025
Planning a ski trip in the area? Check out our full Zao Onsen Ski Guide for everything you need to know!
11. Kamihinokinai Paper Balloon Festival
Photo credit: Japan National Tourism Organization
Every year on February 10, the quiet winter skies of Kamihinokinai (Akita Prefecture) are transformed as nearly 100 giant paper balloons, each up to 12 metres tall, float gracefully into the night.
These hand-drawn balloons often feature warriors, beautiful women, and even anime characters, carrying prayers and wishes into the heavens.
Credit: Tohoku Tourism
The balloons, lit from within like hot air balloons, are released between 6 PM and 8:30 PM, following a fiery countdown that fills the sky with glowing orbs. It’s a surreal, dreamlike spectacle you won’t forget!
#KlookTip: Plan to arrive before 5pm to have ample time to write your wish on one of the balloons.
Where: Kamihinokinai, Akita, Tohoku
When: 10 February 2026
12. Chichibu Night Festival
Photo credit: Chichibu Area Tourism Organization
Designated as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, the Chichibu Night Festival has a rich history of more than 300 years.
One of Japan’s top great float festivals, the festival is held at Chichibu Shrine. Travel back in time, and keep a lookout for the marvellous Hikiyatai float which, believe it or not, can even double up as a stage for Kabuki performances.
Where: Chichibu Shrine, Saitama
When: 2 and 3 December 2026
13. Aizu Erosoku Festival
Photo credit: Travel to Tohoku
Hailing from the Aizu area of Fukushima, the Aizu Erosoku Festival revolves around elegant traditional painted candles. These candles are adorned with paintings of seasonal flowers, and aim to highlight the skill of craft artisans. The candles are mostly found at Oyakuen Garden and Tsurugajo Castle.
#KlookTip: For a lovely aerial view, climb the tower at Tsurugajo Castle.
Where: Aizuwakamatsu, Fukushima
When: 13 and 14 February 2026
Christmas Markets in Japan
14. Christmas Markets in Tokyo
Photo credit: Danny Choo on Flickr Creative Commons
We’re all fizzy with anticipation because we just can’t wait to visit the numerous Christmas markets all over Tokyo! Trawl stalls adorned with sparkling decor, fill up on European fare like German sausages, sip on mulled wine, plus load up on plenty of souvenirs for family and friends back home.
Get into the mood at Meiji Jingu Gaien, Roppongi Hills, Tokyo Dome, Tokyo Skytree, Azabudai Hills (where teamLab Borderless is!), Ark Hills, Yebisu Garden Place, and more.
15. Christmas Markets in Osaka
Photo credit: Masayuki (Yuki) Kawagishi on Flickr Creative Commons
Load up on yuletide cheer at Osaka’s Christmas markets! The main party is happening in Tennoji Park, which has plenty of trinket stalls, food, gorgeous photo spots, and even snow globe or candle-making workshops.
Head over to Umeda Sky Building for another bustling Christmas market, or Hankyu Umeda main store for a quaint mini set-up.
16. Other Christmas Markets in Japan
Photo credit: Yokohama Official Visitors’ Guide
Less than an hour from Tokyo, the Yokohama Christmas Market is a grand affair set against the backdrop of red brick warehouses. Plus, it has a sparkling 10-metre-tall Christmas tree, and an Illumination garden with the cutest animal light structures. The Nagoya Christmas Market (1.5 hours from Tokyo) is also all set to impress with Christmas goods imported from Europe.
Around 1.5 hours from Osaka, Hiroshima is home to a charming Christmas market under the Urban View Grand Tower. A longer 2.5-hour train ride from Osaka will bring you to Fukuoka, which has a Christmas market right at Hakata station.
Further North, Kosuka in Akita has a homely Christmas market. In fact, Kosuka is said to be where Christmas in Japan first came about! Over in Hokkaido, its capital city of Sapporo has a Munich Christmas market in Odori Park.
Winter Illuminations in Japan
17. Winter Illuminations in Tokyo
Photo credit: E-lyn Tham
Watch the city come alive in a sparkling sea of lights! Fabulous Tokyo winter illuminations include those at Tokyo Midtown, Roppongi Hills, Shibuya Blue Cave, Maranouchi, Kitte Department Store, Shinjuku Southern Terrace, Caretta Shiodome, and Tokyo Skytree.
18. Winter Illuminations in Osaka
Photo credit: Festival of the Lights Osaka
Enjoy the winter wonderland of Osaka to the fullest, starting with the Osaka winter illuminations at Osaka Castle, Midosuji Avenue, Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan (marine-themed, of course), Expo’70 Commemorative Park, Nakanoshima (check out the amazing Osaka Hikari Renaissance), and Namba Parks.
Our favourite is at Umeda Sky Building, where the observation deck is transformed into a starry sky.
19. Nabana no Sato
Photo credit: Visit Mie
The longest-running winter illumination, Nabana no Sato is a complete showstopper. Be greeted by more than 5.5 million LED lights; the Kawazu Sakura light tunnel alone has 700,000 lights! Soak your feet in a free outdoor foot bath, or enjoy a panoramic view from the Fuji Island observatory.
Where: Nagashima Spa Land, Mie Prefecture
When: 18 October 2025 to 31 May 2026
20. Shirakawa-go light up
Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Shirakawa-go, made famous by its rustic thatched roof Gassho-zukuri houses. There aren’t any fancy winter illuminations here, but the illuminated houses blanketed in snow are quite a sight.
#KlookTip: Reservations are required to view the light-up; the easiest way to do so would be via a tour!
Where: Shirakawa-go, Gifu Prefecture
When: 12, 18, 25 January and 1 February 2026
21. Tottori Sakyu Illusion
Credit: Tottori City Tourism
Bet you didn’t know that there are sand dunes in Japan! See this once-in-a-lifetime sight, where the majestic Tottori sand dunes become a light and sound canvas.
Credit: Tottori City Tourism
Projection mapping transforms the dunes into a different themed scene every year, complete with light tunnels and illuminated trails.
Where: Tottori sand dunes, Tottori
When: December 2025 (Dates to be announced)
22. Yoimuriland
Photo credit: Yomiuriland
Easily reached within thirty minutes from Tokyo, Yomiuriland is a nostalgic amusement park that boasts a dazzling ‘Jewellumination’ each year. True to its name, the LED lights draped all over the park are jewel-coloured, resulting in a soothing pastel palette.
#KlookTip: The ferris wheel is a must-ride for a bird’s-eye view of the park’s illuminations. On a clear day, you’ll also be able to see Tokyo Skytree and Tokyo Tower.
23. Ashikaga Flower Park
Photo credit: Ashikaga Flower Park Facebook
Ashikaga Flower Park is a gorgeous year-round destination; but even more so in winter, when the illuminations mimic the park’s seasonal flowers!
The Garden of Illuminated Flowers is the main draw, with exhibits such as lights resembling hanging wisteria. Get your cameras ready for the One Earth for All exhibit, where you’ll see double with the lights reflected in a body of water.
Where: Ashikaga Flower Park, Tochigi
When: 18 October 2025 to 15 February 2026
24. Hirosaki Park
Photo credit: Japan National Tourism Organization
Hirosaki Park is a captivating sakura spot in spring but, in winter, its snow-covered tree branches will be lit up with a pink sheen to resemble cherry blossoms. ‘Full bloom’ occurs when the branches are completely covered with snow. What a unique sight, huh?
Where: Hirosaki Park, Tohoku
When: 7 to 11 February 2025
25. Sapporo White Illumination
Photo credit: Welcome to Sapporo
Sprawled across the city of Sapporo, the Sapporo White Illumination keeps the city sparkling all the way till midnight. Key illumination spots include Odori Park, Minami 1-jo dori, Sapporo Kita 3-jo Plaza, JR Sapporo Station South Exit Plaza, and Sapporo Station Ekimaedori.
Where: Sapporo, Hokkaido
When: 22 November 2024 to 11 February 2025 (varies with location)
26. Aze no Kirameki
Photo credit: Japan Travel by NaviTime
One of the most unique illuminations in Japan, Aze no Kirameko sees a terraced rice field in Wajima City light up bright in the night. Light bulbs are strategically placed along the field’s ridges, resulting in a mesmerising path of light. The best part? It’s not touristy in the least, which means you’ll be able to savour this spectacle sans crowds.
Where: Shiroyone Senmaida rice field, Wajima city, Ishikawa Prefecture
When: Mid-October to mid-March, exact dates to be determined
27. Kenroku-en
Photo credit: Visit Kanazawa
Considered to be one of Japan’s three most beautiful gardens, Kenroku-en in Kanazawa features a unique sight of yukitsuri, umbrella-like structures that are used to prevent branches from breaking under the weight of the snow. These symmetrical structures are illuminated at night, emitting an enchanting glow.
Where: Kenroku-en, Kanazawa
When: 1, 8, 15, and 22 February 2025
28. Biei Blue Pond
Hokkaido’s famous Biei Blue Pond freezes over in the winter, and is usually covered with snow. It’s then illuminated in various colours as part of the Aoike Illumination, creating an otherworldly scene.
Where: Shirogane, Biei, Kamikawa District, Hokkaido 071-0235, Japan
When: Throughout Winter season
Winter activities in Japan
29. Skiing and snowboarding
Photo credit: Niseko Tourism on Facebook
Japan has some of the world’s best ski resorts, complete with fantastic pow! Take to the slopes at multiple ski resorts in Hokkaido, such as Niseko ski resort, Hoshino Resorts Tomamu, Furano ski resort, Mt. Moiwa ski resort, Kiroro ski resort, and Rusutsu ski resort.
If you’re not intending to go up to Hokkaido, did you know that there are ski resorts within easy reach (read: less than three hours travel) of Tokyo and Osaka too? Ski resorts near Tokyo include Gala Yuzawa, Fujiyama snow resort, Sayama Snow Resort, Maiko snow resort, Norn Minakami ski resort, Fujiten ski resort, and Naeba ski resort.
30. Ice walking
This activity definitely deserves a spot on your #bucketlist. From mid-January to late March, see Ryuhyu drift ice in the Okhotsk Sea from an icebreaker ship, or even take an exhilarating ice walk across the ice itself.
31. Snowmobiling
Zip across vast snowy expanses on a snowmobile at places like Sapporo Snowmobile Land or Bibai Snow Land, where you can try various snow activities. Snowshoeing or snow rafting, anyone?
32. Snowshoeing
Think of snowshoeing like trekking, but taken up a notch. Go on a snowshoeing tour that’s led by an English-speaking guide for an unforgettable experience!
33. Paragliding
Or, how about soaring through the skies with a paragliding experience? It’s just a short drive away from Nagano’s Hakuba ski resort too, so you can kill two birds with one stone.
34. Soaking in an onsen
Granted that you can soak in an onsen all year round, but it feels all the more amazing in winter. Head to the popular onsen towns of Beppu, Noboribetsu, Kusatsu, Hakone, Nozawa Onsen, and more. Alternatively, go all out with a stay at these onsen hotels in Tokyo, onsen hotels in Osaka, and onsen hotels in Kyoto.
Unique views in Japan
35. Fort Goryokaku
An icon of Hakodate city, Fort Goryokaku sports a unique star shape — which is best viewed from Goryokaku Tower.
36. Ningle Terrace
Doesn’t this look like a scene straight out of a storybook? Comprising an enclave of shops housed in log cabins, Ningle Terrace (which is found on the grounds of Shin Furano Prince Hotel) is a shopping experience that’s truly like no other.
37. Shirahige Waterfall
Also known as White Beard Waterfall, Shirahige Waterfall is unique in the sense that the water trickles through gaps in the cliff, forming a beard of sorts. Part of it freezes over in the winter, making it especially beautiful!
38. Snow monkeys at Nagano
Monkeys… soaking in an onsen? You read that right! See this novel sight at Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park, which is around 50 minutes from Nagano.
#KlookTip: You’ll need to walk a 1.6-kilometre-stretch through the forest to reach the park, and the path might be icy in winter. To make things easier, head to the gift shop at the start of the trail to rent crampons, which you can easily strap onto your shoes.
39. Penguin Parade
This is the cutest thing: during winter, the penguins at Asahiyama Zoo go on a daily penguin parade as part of their exercise routine. Catch it if you can!
40. Ice Village
Photo credit: Hoshino Resorts Tomamu, Japan on Facebook
Have an icy good time at Hoshino Resorts Tomamu’s ice village, where you can hang out in rooms made entirely out of ice, order a drink at the ice bar, check out an ice chapel, or buy snacks at an ice general store.
41. Frost Flowers
Photo credit: Hokkaido Love!
Found in Akan National Park, these frost flowers form as a result of ice crystals on the surface of Lake Akan. They only form in windless conditions, and in temperatures negative 15 degrees celsius and below. They can form as whole flowers or isolated petals, and are absolutely beautiful.
42. Tancho crane dance
Photo credit: Nancy O on Flickr Creative Commons
Venture to Kushiro to catch sight of the Tancho Japanese red-crowned cranes. If you’re lucky, you might even be able to watch them dance.
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