Japan's most magical snow festivals are coming soon！ The most famous ones are mostly here

Yokote Kamakura Festival in Akita. (Image source: General Incorporated Association Vz?yos? Yama no Ie)

Hirosaki Castle Snow Lantern Festival in Aomori. (Provided by HowToTrip)

Namahage Torch Festival in Akita. (Image source: Oga Navi)

Japan’s snow festivals will kick off successively in February, featuring exquisitely carved ice sculptures, snow statues, novel and fun igloos and ice slides, as well as romantic and enchanting fireworks and light displays, all adding a lively atmosphere to the cold winter. Among Japan’s top 10 snow festivals, eight are located in the Tohoku region, making it a hub of the very best snow festival experiences. Travelers wishing to experience snow festivals should consider visiting Tohoku during this time.

The most famous snow festivals in Tohoku are the Michinoku Big 5 Snow Festivals, namely the Namahage Torch Festival in Akita, the Hirosaki Castle Snow Lantern Festival in Aomori, the Iwate Snow Festival, the Yokote Kamakura Festival in Akita, and the Hachinohe Sansha Taisai Festival. Each festival has its own unique charm. Among them, the Namahage Torch Festival in Akita, recognized as one of Japan’s “New 100 Tourist Spots,” is a traditional folk event meant to drive away laziness and ward off evil. Visitors can enjoy powerful performances such as the “Namahage Dance” and “Namahage Drumming,” which are truly awe-inspiring and captivating.

The Yokote Kamakura Festival in Akita is arguably the most dreamlike event among the Michinoku snow festivals. Hundreds of large and mini igloos are scattered across the snowy landscape, and when night falls and candles are lit, the white snow domes glow with tiny lights, shining brightly throughout the night, creating a fairytale-like, romantic scene. The Hachinohe Sansha Taisai Festival, designated as a “National Intangible Cultural Asset,” has an 800-year history. It features the “Rice Planting Dance” as a ceremonial performance to welcome spring and pray for a bountiful harvest, offering visitors a chance to experience the charm of traditional Japanese culture.

Now in its 51st year, the Iwate Snow Festival will be held at six venues this year. In addition to activities such as snow sculptures, skiing, snow mazes, and fireworks shows, the “snow cave barbecue” is a must-try popular experience. Described as a winter fantasy woven from white snow and light and shadow, the Hirosaki Castle Snow Lantern Festival in Aomori displays about 200 snow lanterns each year in the misty white Hirosaki Park. The hazy glow of the lanterns radiates a graceful ambiance, adding a touch of romance to the solemn and imposing castle tower.

HowToTrip has seized this annual celebration and launched the “Tohoku Snow Festival Special Tour” theme package, currently the most comprehensive and cost-effective option for experiencing the major snow festivals on the market. Limited to just three groups, the tours depart on February 10, 14, and 17. Each itinerary includes two major Michinoku snow festivals as well as a visit to the fun and delicious Lake Towada Winter Story. Prices start from 35,900 yen (tax included). For more details, please visit HowToTrip.