Hokkaido’s Snow Season Kicks Into High Gear – Ride a Snow Vehicle to See a Million-Dollar Night View

As early as late October, the mountainous areas and northern coastal regions of Hokkaido gradually see the first soft, white snowfall. Winter in the north doesn’t end until the cherry blossoms bloom in May of the following year. Though the long winter may seem monotonous at first glance, the wide variety of snow activities and grand festivals bring plenty of color and excitement to the season. From massive snow festivals and white illumination events to icefalls festivals, as well as snowmobile rides, dog sledding, skiing, and more — a wealth of activities await snow-loving travelers ready to experience the joys of the snowy country.

Towns and cities of all sizes across Hokkaido host ice and snow-themed festivals during the harsh winter months, but the most massive and unique of them all is the Sapporo Snow Festival. Held every February, it transforms Sapporo into an incredibly magical ice and snow kingdom. The festival’s main venue, Odori Park, is located right in the heart of Sapporo city. The richly designed ice sculptures often take inspiration from internationally renowned buildings or popular Japanese cartoon characters and celebrities, resulting in displays that are both lively and spectacular. Huge ice sculptures coupled with colorful laser lights create dazzling light effects, while a variety of performances ensure the lively atmosphere lasts from day to night.

In addition to the snow festival celebrations, the nearby Okurayama Jump Stadium — the competition venue for the 1972 Sapporo Winter Olympics — offers a chance to try different snow activities. During winter, the ski jump tower also hosts various practice sessions and competitions at irregular times. Watching athletes soar down from the 90-meter-high jump platform is nothing short of awe-inspiring.

Mount Moiwa, standing at an elevation of 531 meters, is a popular spot for taking in views of Sapporo’s cityscape and enjoying the night view. Visitors can first take the ropeway and then transfer to a chairlift to reach the mountaintop. During the deep winter season, when the chairlift is not in operation, visitors can opt to take a novelty and fun snow vehicle up the mountain. These snow vehicles use caterpillar tracks to navigate through soft snow, with open-air seating attached to the back of the cabin, allowing passengers to enjoy unobstructed views of the snowy surroundings. At the mountaintop observation deck, not only can you take in a panoramic view of Sapporo city from the top floor, but the attached observation restaurant “531” also serves refined meals. Through its large glass panels, a dazzling night view that sparkles like gemstones unfolds before your eyes — making it a perfect date spot.

Hokkaido’s winter only gets livelier the colder it gets, and experience activities throughout the region definitely don’t shut down for the season. Travelers should come for a grand snow festival experience and admire Hokkaido’s most beautiful silver world.

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