Sapporo Snow Festival: Giant Sculptures of Snow and Ice
A guide to the Sapporo Snow Festival: the 2027 dates, the Odori, Susukino and Tsudome sites, night light-ups, what to wear and the Otaru Snow Light Path.
Quick answer
- What it is: one of the world's biggest winter festivals, held in Sapporo each February.
- 2027 dates: 4 to 11 February 2027 at Odori Park and Susukino.
- Famous for: huge snow sculptures, ice carvings and evening light-ups.
- Time needed: one evening and one day.
- Cost: free to enter.
- Map: Open Sapporo Snow Festival in Google Maps
Every February, Sapporo fills its long central park with snow sculptures the size of buildings. By night they glow under lights and projection shows, and the whole city seems to come out to see them.
Why the Snow Festival is a wonder
It began in 1950 when local students built six snow statues in Odori Park. Today teams, including the Japan Self-Defense Forces, build massive scenes of famous buildings and characters.
Smaller sculptures by teams from around the world line the park too, along with food stalls selling hot ramen, corn and Hokkaido seafood.
Three sites
Odori Park is the main site, with the large snow sculptures. The Susukino site, in the nightlife district, is for ice carvings.
The Tsudome site, a short subway ride away, has snow slides and family activities.
Festival sites
| Site | What you see | 2027 dates |
|---|---|---|
| Odori Park | Giant snow sculptures and light-ups | 4 to 11 February |
| Susukino | Glittering ice sculptures | 4 to 11 February |
| Tsudome | Snow slides and play areas | check the official site |
| Sapporo TV Tower | Views over the Odori site | during opening hours |
| Otaru Snow Light Path | Lanterns in snow along a canal | 6 to 13 February |
When to go
- Evening: the sculptures are lit and look their best.
- Opening days: the sculptures are fresh and sharp.
- Weekdays: fewer crowds than the weekend.
- Book early: hotels in Sapporo fill months ahead.
Our tip: Take a day trip to Otaru during the Snow Light Path, when its old canal is lined with candles in snow. It is about 40 minutes from Sapporo by train.
Getting there
- From New Chitose Airport: about 40 minutes by train to Sapporo Station.
- To Odori Park: a short walk or one subway stop from Sapporo Station.
- To Tsudome: subway to Sakaemachi, then a short walk.
Staying warm and safe
- Wear warm layers, gloves, a hat and shoes with good grip.
- Walk carefully, as pavements can be icy.
- Do not touch or climb the sculptures.
- Check the official site for dates, hours and events.
Frequently asked questions
When is the Sapporo Snow Festival 2027?
4 to 11 February 2027 at Odori Park and Susukino.
Is the Snow Festival free?
Yes. Entry to the sites is free.
How cold is it?
Usually below freezing, often around minus 5 degrees Celsius at night.
Is it busy?
Very. Book your hotel well ahead.
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