Japan
Sapporo Snow and Ice Festival
Snow and ice sculptures in Odori Park
Our one-month journey through Japan begins in the bustling city of Sapporo, located on the northernmost island of the archipelago, Hokkaido. In 1972, Sapporo became the first Asian city to host the Winter Olympics, solidifying its reputation as a premier winter destination. If you enjoy beer, the city is home to the renowned Sapporo Brewery. For something sweeter, try "White Lovers"—a delectable white chocolate biscuit famous in Sapporo and exclusive to Hokkaido.
Sapporo is also the host of the annual Yuki Matsuri, or Sapporo Snow Festival, which draws over two million visitors from around the world each year. Held between February 5 and February 11, the event transforms the city into a winter wonderland filled with stunning ice sculptures. While snowfall can be heavy, those lucky enough to experience a sunny day will find Odori Park illuminated with dazzling displays of artistic craftsmanship. Despite the freezing temperatures, the festival is an unmissable attraction.
Be prepared to encounter excited schoolchildren eager to practice their English. Armed with maps, they’ll enthusiastically ask where you’re from, requesting you to mark your home country. While initially charming, the constant questioning can become repetitive—but their friendliness and enthusiasm make the experience endearing.
Massive, artistic, and dazzling ice sculptures
From Odori Park, a pleasant 30-minute walk takes you to the Sapporo Beer Garden, housed in the historic Sapporo Beer Factory. Here, you can indulge in a hearty lunch featuring local specialties, such as thinly sliced lamb and fresh vegetables that you grill yourself at the table. Afterward, a visit to the Sapporo Beer Museum offers insight into the brewery’s history, along with the chance to sample various Sapporo beers—all excellent in their own right.
The Beer Garden is also a popular spot for locals, and meeting friendly residents is part of the experience. Some older Sapporo natives may never have encountered a non-Asian tourist before, adding an intriguing cultural exchange. Embrace these moments—Japan is an incredibly safe country, and its people are exceptionally polite and welcoming.
Sapporo Beer Garden
Before leaving Sapporo, don’t miss the Snow Festival at night. Many of the sculptures are even more mesmerizing under the glow of illuminated lights, their details highlighted against the crisp winter air. Some of the larger installations feature dazzling colored light shows, enhancing the festival’s magical atmosphere.
We will continue heading south in the next installment of our journey through Japan.