In Japan, events of all sizes take place throughout the year.
Some are unique, showcasing the local culture and traditions of each region—fun for both adults and children!
In this article, we introduce 13 events taking place from January to March 2026.
From world-famous snow festivals to cherry blossom celebrations, we’ve picked a variety of Japan’s most captivating events.
Take a look and get inspired for your next trip!
Contents
Japan is full of exciting events!
13 Must-See Winter Events in Japan
Hokkaido
Chitose-Shikotsuko Hyoto Festival
Sounkyo Onsen Hyoubaku Festival
Toyako Onsen Illumination Street & Illumination Tunnel
Tohoku
Hirosaki Castle Snow Lantern Festival
Shizuoka
Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival
Tokyo
Osaka
Nagai Botanical Garden × teamLab Botanical Garden Osaka
Kyushu
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Japan is full of exciting events!
When it comes to Japanese festivals, the Nebuta Festival and Gion Festival are among the most famous.
Many of these festivals originated from prayers for good fortune, warding off evil, or longstanding local beliefs.
However, most traditional festivals are held in summer. This is partly because the hot, humid summer months made communities more susceptible to epidemics, prompting rituals to appease the gods and drive away evil spirits.
In this article, we introduce 13 events taking place from January to March 2026.
Find an event that catches your eye and start planning your next trip!
13 Must-See Winter Events in Japan
Winter events in Japan feature unique elements such as snow and illuminations, offering visitors from abroad a truly fresh and memorable experience.
Hokkaido
Sapporo Snow Festival
Massive snow sculptures and illuminated winter festival
The Sapporo Snow Festival is one of Japan’s largest winter events, held annually in Sapporo, Hokkaido.
It began in 1950 as a small local snow sculpture competition and has since grown into an international festival attracting artists and tourists worldwide.
Hundreds of snow and ice sculptures line Odori Park, Susukino, and Tsudome, showcasing both traditional Japanese themes and modern designs.
Visitors can enjoy interactive snow slides, workshops, and seasonal Hokkaido food, experiencing both winter fun and local culture.
The festival provides a unique chance to see Japanese creativity, winter traditions, and community spirit come alive in a snowy setting.
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Basic Information Dates: from 4th to 11th of February 2026 (about 1 week) Locations: Sapporo city (Odori Park, Susukino, Tsudome venue) Access: About 40 minutes by train from New Chitose Airport to Sapporo Station; city transport via subway and bus Highlights: Giant snow and ice sculptures, illuminated displays, international event Admission: Free at Odori Park and Tsudome (some special exhibitions may have fees) |
Chitose-Shikotsuko Hyoto Festival
Ice art museum by the lakeside
The Chitose-Shikotsuko Hyoto Festival is a magical winter event held annually at Lake Shikotsu in Hokkaido.
Ice sculptures and towers along the lakeside are illuminated, turning the area into a stunning ice art museum at night.
Visitors can enjoy ice tunnels, slides, and other interactive attractions, making it popular with families.
The combination of snow and ice creates a breathtaking winter landscape perfect for photography.
Local foods and warm drinks are also available, offering a unique seasonal experience in Hokkaido.
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Basic Information Dates: 31st of January 2026 to 23rd of February 2026(about 3 weeks) Location: Lake Shikotsu, Chitose, Hokkaido Access: About 30 minutes by car from New Chitose Airport; around 40 minutes by bus from JR Chitose Station Highlights: Illuminated ice sculptures and towers along the lakeside, interactive attractions like ice tunnels and slides Admission: Free (food and some attractions may have fees) |
Sounkyo Onsen Hyoubaku Festival
Shining frozen waterfalls in a scenic gorge
The Sounkyo Onsen Hyoubaku Festival is a winter ice festival held annually at Sounkyo Onsen in Hokkaido.
Illuminated ice sculptures and frozen waterfalls in the scenic gorge create a magical atmosphere.
Visitors can enjoy interactive attractions such as ice tunnels and fountain shows.
Combined with the nearby hot spring town, it offers a unique winter experience in Hokkaido.
The festival is popular with families, couples, and photography enthusiasts alike.
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Basic Information Dates: 25th of January to 9th of March 2026 Location: Sounkyo Onsen, Kamikawa District, Hokkaido Access: About 2 hours by car from Asahikawa Airport; 40 minutes by bus from JR Kamikawa Station Highlights: Ice sculptures, illuminated frozen waterfalls, interactive attractions Admission: Free (food and some attractions may have fees) |
Toyako Onsen Illumination Street & Illumination Tunnel
A winter wonderland of illuminated light arches
The Toyako Onsen Illumination Street & Illumination Tunnel is a winter light festival held at Toyako Onsen in Hokkaido.
The streets of the hot spring town are decorated with colorful lights, creating a magical atmosphere.
The Illumination Tunnel features arches of lights that make visitors feel as if they are walking through a dream world.
The lake and surrounding mountains provide a stunning backdrop for photography.
This winter event is popular with families, couples, and international tourists alike.
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Basic Information Dates: 1st of November 2025 to 28th of February Lighting Hours: 17:00 – 22:00 1st of March 2026 to 27th of April 2026 Lighting Hours: 18:00 – 22:00 Location: Toyako Onsen, Abuta District, Hokkaido Access: About 2.5 hours by car from New Chitose Airport; 15 minutes by bus from JR Toya Station Highlights: Illuminated street, Illumination Tunnel, lakeside light displays Admission: Free (some attractions and food are charged) |
Sapporo White Illumination
Winter lights festival illuminating the streets of Sapporo
The Sapporo White Illumination is a winter light festival held annually in Sapporo.
Millions of LED lights decorate Odori Park, Ekimae Street, and surrounding areas.
Iconic Christmas trees and illuminated art installations create a magical nighttime atmosphere.
Visitors, both tourists and locals, enjoy walking and taking photos along the sparkling streets.
Easily accessible from Sapporo Station, it is one of the highlights of winter in Hokkaido.
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Basic Information Dates: Late November to mid March Location: Sapporo City – Odori Park, Ekimae Street, Minami 1-jo Street Access: About 40 minutes by train from New Chitose Airport to Sapporo Station; venues accessible by subway and walking Highlights: LED illuminations, light installations, iconic Christmas tree Admission: Free (some attractions or events may have fees) |
Hoshinoyume Illumination
A glowing star-shaped fortress that defines Hakodate’s winter.
This winter-only event illuminates the star-shaped Goryokaku Fort in Hakodate with a stunning glow.
From the observation tower, the entire star outline shines brightly as if floating in the night sky.
The combination of snow-covered scenery and soft lights creates a romantic, photogenic atmosphere.
A walk inside the park reveals quiet, glowing paths that add to the magical ambiance.
It’s one of Hakodate’s most iconic and beloved winter illuminations.
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Basic Information Dates: 1st of December 2025 to 28th of February 2026 Lighting Hours: – 19:00 Location: Goryokaku Park, Hakodate, Hokkaido Access: 15 min walk from Goryokaku-Koen-mae tram stop / About 10–15 min by taxi from JR Hakodate Station Highlights: Full star-shaped fort illuminated at night Best panoramic view from Goryokaku Tower Snow × lights create a magical winter scene Admission: Free (Goryokaku Tower observatory requires a ticket) |
Tohoku
Hirosaki Castle Snow Lantern Festival(Aomori)
A magical winter wonderland of snow and lights at Hirosaki Castle
The Hirosaki Castle Snow Lantern Festival is a magical winter event held annually in Hirosaki, Aomori.
Snow lanterns and sculptures are set up around Hirosaki Castle, illuminated at night for a stunning display.
The combination of snow and light creates a romantic and photogenic atmosphere popular with families, couples, and photographers.
Visitors can also enjoy snow and ice sculptures, local food, and festival stalls.
It’s one of Aomori’s most iconic winter festivals and a must-see when visiting Hirosaki Castle.
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Basic Information Dates: 6th of February 2026 to 11th of February 2026 Location: Hirosaki Castle, Hirosaki City, Aomori Prefecture Access: About 15 min walk from JR Hirosaki Station / Local buses available from Hirosaki Station to the castle grounds Highlights: Illuminated snow lanterns and sculptures Views of Hirosaki Castle under snow and lights Seasonal local food and festival stalls Admission: Free |
Yokote Kamakura Festival(Akita)
Illuminated snow huts, a charming winter tradition in Yokote
The Yokote Kamakura Festival is a traditional winter event held annually in Yokote, Akita Prefecture, with roots dating back over 400 years.
Originally a local ritual to pray for a good harvest, small snow houses called “kamakura” are built and lit with candles, symbolizing warmth and protection.
Inside the kamakura, visitors can enjoy local traditions such as sharing sweet sake and rice cakes with the community.
The festival combines winter fun with a glimpse into Akita’s rich cultural heritage and regional customs.
Walking among the glowing snow huts, visitors experience a magical blend of history, community, and Japanese winter charm.
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Basic Information Dates: 13th and 14th of February 2026 (varies slightly each year) Location: Yokote City, Akita Prefecture Access: About 10 min by bus from JR Yokote Station to the festival area / Some local shuttle services available during the festival Highlights: Illuminated snow houses (“kamakura”) Traditional winter activities and local food (sweet sake, rice cakes) Family-friendly, interactive experiences Admission: Free |
Zao Frost Tree Festival(Yamagata)
A magical forest of frost trees born from Yamagata’s winter
The Zao Frost Tree Festival is a spectacular winter event held on Mount Zao, Yamagata Prefecture, celebrating Japan’s unique “juhyo” or frost-covered trees.
These natural ice formations, shaped by wind and snow, have fascinated locals for centuries and are considered a symbol of winter in the region.
In 2026, Yamagata was selected by National Geographic as one of the world’s must-visit destinations, highlighting its natural beauty and cultural experiences.
Visitors can enjoy guided walks, ropeway rides, and night illuminations that showcase the otherworldly frost trees.
The festival combines outdoor adventure, photography, and an opportunity to experience a destination recognized globally for its winter charm.
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Basic Information Dates: Late December – late February Location: Mount Zao, Yamagata Prefecture Access: About 40 mins by bus from Yamagata City Highlights: Natural frost trees (“juhyo”)/Night illumination of frost formations/Ropeway rides and winter mountain walks/Admission: Free (ropeway ticket required for mountain access) |
Shizuoka
Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival
A festival to welcome early spring with Kawazu’s famous cherry blossoms
写真提供:静岡県観光協会
The Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival is an iconic spring event held in Kawazu, Shizuoka Prefecture, celebrating early-blooming cherry trees.
First planted in the 1950s, the Kawazu cherry trees bloom from early February to March, earlier than most sakura in Japan.
The festival features over 8,000 cherry trees lining the river, creating a stunning pink tunnel that attracts photographers and travelers worldwide.
Visitors can enjoy traditional local food, souvenirs, and cultural performances while walking beneath the flowering branches.
It’s a perfect opportunity to experience Japan’s hanami (flower viewing) culture in a scenic coastal town.
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Basic Information Dates: 7th of February – 8th of March 2026 Location: Kawazu Town, Shizuoka Prefecture Access: About 2.5 hours by train from Tokyo via the JR Tokaido Line + Izu Kyuko Line/Local buses available from Kawazu Station to festival area Highlights: Early-blooming Kawazu cherry trees along the river Cultural performances, local food stalls, hanami experience Scenic walks under vibrant pink blossoms Admission: Free |
Tokyo
Blue Cave SHIBUYA
A blue-lit winter cave illuminating the streets of Shibuya
Blue Cave SHIBUYA is a stunning winter illumination event held along the streets of Shibuya, Tokyo.
The festival transforms the tree-lined streets into a tunnel of blue LED lights, creating a mesmerizing urban “cave” experience.
It began in 2014 and has quickly become a favorite spot for locals and travelers seeking unique winter illumination in Tokyo.
Visitors can enjoy walking through the illuminated tunnel, capturing Instagram-worthy photos, and experiencing Tokyo’s festive winter culture.
The event also highlights Japan’s modern urban creativity, blending seasonal charm with city life in a bustling metropolis.
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Basic Information Dates: 4th of December – 25th of December 2025 Location: Shibuya, Tokyo (along Keyaki-zaka and neighboring streets) Access: About 5 min walk from Shibuya Station (JR, Tokyo Metro, Tokyu lines) Highlights: Stunning blue LED light tunnel Street-level winter illumination experience Photo-friendly urban winter scenery Admission: Free |
Osaka
Nagai Botanical Garden × teamLab Botanical Garden Osaka
A luminous garden in Osaka where digital art meets nature
The teamLab Botanical Garden Osaka at Nagai Botanical Garden is an immersive digital art and nature experience in Osaka.
It combines the beauty of the botanical garden with cutting-edge teamLab digital projections, creating interactive floral displays and moving lights.
Visitors can explore illuminated paths, interact with projected flowers, and watch digital butterflies and blossoms respond to movement.
The exhibition blends art, technology, and nature, highlighting Japan’s innovation culture alongside traditional appreciation for seasonal plants.
It’s an unforgettable experience for families, couples, and art enthusiasts seeking a modern take on Japanese gardens.
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Basic Information Dates:7th of October 2025 – 4th January 2026(annual schedule may vary) Location: Nagai Botanical Garden, Osaka City, Osaka Prefecture Access: About 10 min walk from Nagai Station (JR, Osaka Metro Midosuji Line) Highlights: Interactive digital projections of flowers and nature Nighttime illumination combining art and plants Hands-on experience responding to visitor movements Admission: Paid (ticket required) |
Kyushu
Nagasaki Lantern Festival
A colorful Chinese-style lantern festival illuminating Nagasaki
The Nagasaki Lantern Festival is a vibrant celebration of Chinese New Year held annually in Nagasaki, a city with a rich history of international trade.
It began in 1994 to commemorate the city’s Chinese heritage and to promote tourism during winter.
Thousands of colorful lanterns, including traditional Chinese designs and zodiac animals, illuminate the streets, rivers, and historic Chinatown.
Visitors can enjoy cultural performances, dragon and lion dances, and local street food while exploring the festive cityscape.
The festival offers a unique opportunity to experience Nagasaki’s multicultural history, winter traditions, and photogenic night scenes.
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Basic Information Dates: 3rd of February – 23th February 2026 (during Chinese New Year) Location: Nagasaki City, Nagasaki Prefecture (Chinatown, main streets, river areas) Access: About 45 min by train from Nagasaki Station to Chinatown / festival areas Local buses and walking routes connect key sites Highlights: Thousands of illuminated Chinese-style lanterns Dragon and lion dances, cultural performances Street food and festive markets Admission: Free |
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