Now, Discover Hokkaido’s Winter Wonderland: Sapporo Snow Festival Returns with Giant Sculptures

Published on December 16, 2025

The highly anticipated Sapporo Snow Festival is set to return in 2025, promising an extraordinary showcase of giant snow and ice sculptures that will captivate visitors from around the world. Unveiled on December 12, the lineup for this year’s festival will feature a striking castle sculpture alongside creations inspired by the iconic “Star Wars” franchise. The festival, scheduled to take place from February 4 to 11, 2025, will display a total of 210 snow and ice works across the event’s three main venues, continuing its legacy as one of Japan’s premier winter events.

The Sapporo Snow Festival is a symbol of winter tourism in Japan, attracting millions of visitors every year to the capital of Hokkaido. It’s known for its breathtaking snow sculptures, vibrant atmosphere, and festive ambiance. Each year, artists from across the globe participate in the festival, transforming blocks of snow and ice into intricate works of art. The event offers both local and international tourists an opportunity to experience the beauty of winter uniquely and artistically.

Major Highlights of the 2025 Festival

This year’s festival will be highlighted by two monumental sculptures: a famous castle and a Star Wars-themed creation. These pieces are expected to become major focal points for visitors to the festival, drawing in crowds eager to witness the grand scale and detail of these artistic displays.

The castle sculpture, a traditional favorite at the festival, will pay homage to the rich cultural and historical significance of castles in Japan. Typically, such sculptures are inspired by real-life castles, and they often feature intricate architectural details, bringing the beauty and elegance of these iconic structures to life in snow and ice.

Meanwhile, the Star Wars sculpture is sure to delight fans of the legendary film series. The inclusion of this sculpture demonstrates the festival’s ability to blend popular culture with traditional art, appealing to a wide range of visitors. The Star Wars display will likely feature well-known characters, spacecraft, and settings from the galaxy far, far away, offering a visual treat for movie fans and tourists alike.

These sculptures, alongside the 208 other snow and ice works, promise a diverse and exciting experience for festivalgoers. The artworks will be displayed across the three main venues of the festival: Odori Park, Susukino, and Tsu Dome. Each venue offers a different perspective on the event, with Odori Park showcasing the largest snow sculptures, Susukino offering ice sculptures, and Tsu Dome providing a family-friendly space for interactive snow activities.

Tourism and Visitor Experience

The Sapporo Snow Festival is more than just an art event—it is also a major tourism draw for the city and Hokkaido. The festival’s annual visitor count surpasses 2 million, with tourists flocking from all over Japan and the world to experience the beauty and creativity of the sculptures. In addition to the sculptures, the festival offers various events, food stalls, and entertainment options, making it a comprehensive winter celebration.

Sapporo, the capital city of Hokkaido, offers a unique winter experience for tourists, with its snow-covered streets, vibrant nightlife, and ski resorts. The Sapporo Snow Festival is an integral part of the city’s tourism calendar, drawing visitors to explore the region’s natural beauty and cultural offerings. Beyond the festival, Sapporo is home to other winter attractions such as Sapporo Beer Museum, Odori Park, and nearby ski resorts like Niseko and Furano, making it a prime destination for both cultural and adventure tourism.

For tourists looking to enjoy winter activities, Hokkaido is a paradise. The region is renowned for its world-class ski resorts, hot springs, and stunning snowy landscapes. Visitors to Sapporo during the festival can also take advantage of the nearby mountains for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports. The city is well-connected to major airports and transportation hubs, making it easily accessible for international and domestic tourists.

A Global Event with International Appeal

The Sapporo Snow Festival has evolved into a global event, attracting international visitors from countries such as China, South Korea, and the United States. Its international appeal is due to the combination of the artistic sculptures, the unique winter experience, and the cultural significance of the festival. In addition to the sculptures, the festival often hosts international competitions, cultural performances, and exhibitions, creating a truly global atmosphere.

The festival also promotes local Hokkaido cuisine, including famous dishes such as ramen, soup curry, and fresh seafood. Food stalls at the festival provide an opportunity for visitors to sample these regional specialties, adding another layer to the tourism experience.

For international visitors, the event serves as a gateway to exploring other parts of Hokkaido, with its natural beauty, scenic towns, and vibrant local culture offering additional attractions. Sapporo’s proximity to popular tourist destinations like Otaru and Niseko makes it a convenient starting point for further exploration of the region.

Looking Forward: The Future of Sapporo Snow Festival

The Sapporo Snow Festival continues to innovate, offering new experiences and attracting a global audience. The 2025 edition promises to be one of the most exciting yet, with the inclusion of monumental sculptures, including a Star Wars masterpiece that will surely draw fans of all ages. As the festival grows, it will continue to showcase the unique talents of sculptors and artists from around the world, strengthening its position as one of the most iconic winter festivals globally.

For visitors, the Sapporo Snow Festival is an unmissable winter event, combining artistic brilliance, cultural exchange, and the beauty of Hokkaido’s snowy landscapes into an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning guest, the festival offers something for everyone, from awe-inspiring sculptures to delicious local cuisine and vibrant entertainment.

Conclusion

The Sapporo Snow Festival is more than just an event—it’s a celebration of art, culture, and winter tourism. With stunning sculptures, including a Star Wars creation and a historic castle, the 2025 festival is set to be a landmark occasion for both locals and tourists. As one of Japan’s most popular tourism events, it offers visitors the chance to explore the beauty of Sapporo and the surrounding Hokkaido region while experiencing the magic of snow and ice artistry.