Our Winter Adventure at the Sapporo Snow Festival

Every winter, we pack our bags and head for an adventure, and this year, we chose the Sapporo Snow Festival. Nestled in Japan’s northernmost island of Hokkaido, this festival turns Sapporo into a lively canvas of ice, lights, and cultural delights. For those who’ve never been, imagine a city taken straight out of a snowy fairy tale, with massive ice sculptures that light up the night and streets buzzing with excitement.

Our journey began in Odori Park, the heart of the Sapporo Snow Festival. In the winter, the park transforms into a wonderland that feels almost magical. As we strolled through, surrounded by the glow of colorful lights and the sound of laughter, the vibe was infectious. We couldn’t help but join in with the crowds, each of us wrapped up in our warmest winter gear, faces lit by the shimmering ice sculptures.

The highlight for many is the Ice Sculpture Competition in the Susukino area, where we watched talented artists turn huge blocks of ice into incredible works of art. Standing there, watching these artists at work, you can’t help but be amazed at how they turn simple ice into intricate designs—it’s mesmerizing! Every chisel and carve brought their frozen visions to life, and we stood there, in the chill, completely captivated. We went up to the Sapporo TV Tower to see the sculptures from the sky!

But it’s not just about the ice. The Sapporo Snow Festival is a feast for the senses, especially the taste buds. Local food stalls line the streets, serving up some of Hokkaido’s best flavors. We warmed up with steaming bowls of miso ramen and savored skewers of juicy grilled seafood. And of course, we couldn’t miss out on the hotpot—it’s a communal dish that’s perfect for sharing and warming up from the inside out.

Seeking a bit of thrill, we laced up our ice skates and hit the rink. There’s something truly special about skating outdoors, surrounded by the buzz of the festival. For a slower pace, we took a horse-drawn carriage ride through the snowy streets. It felt like stepping back in time, the clip-clop of horse hooves mixing with the laughter and chatter around us.

The Sapporo Snow Festival also gave us a peek into Japanese culture. We were treated to energetic taiko drumming and watched dancers in traditional attire perform with grace and beauty. And no visit to Sapporo is complete without a stop at the Sapporo Beer Museum. After days out in the cold, learning about Japan’s famous beer and warming up with a pint was just perfect.

Looking back, our trip to the Sapporo Snow Festival was more than just a visit; it was an experience, a celebration of winter’s beauty and the warmth of community. It’s the kind of trip that leaves you with stories to tell and memories to cherish. So if you’re thinking about where to go next winter, consider Sapporo. It’s not just a festival; it’s an adventure that you’ll never forget.