The Tokamachi Snow Festival has been held every February since 1950 and is a true celebration of all of the snow that Tokamachi receives. Rather than fighting the snow, wouldn’t it be more beneficial to befriend it? This is how Tokamachi residents feel!

This charming event is rooted in old traditions and focuses heavily on the amazing, handmade snow sculptures, and the friendliness of the local residents featured at every festival hiroba, or plaza area.

■ – What are festival hiroba?
Every region of Tokamachi hosts a plaza area of sorts, also known as hiroba in Japanese. They usually feature different snow activities and good food.

■ – What are the snow sculptures?
These sculptures are made entirely of snow by local residents. They vary in size and scope every year but are typically larger than cars!