Yokote Snow Festival 横手の雪まつり

People from all around Japan flock to Akita Prefecture for the Yokote Snow Festival. This 450-year-old festival involves the creation of more than 80 kamakura igloos and countless miniature kamakura.

Inside each igloo is an altar to honor the water gods and pray for plenty of clear water, as well as offerings of sake and rice cakes. The festival typically takes place on February 15 and 16.

The main festival area is along the roadside park from Yokote City Hall in Yokote City . It is accessible by train from Akita Station, Omagari Station, and others in the area.

From Tokyo, take the JR Akita Shinkansen to Omagari Station. Then take the JR Ou Line to Yokote Station.

Doro Koen Park is in front of Yokote City Hall, which is a 10-minute walk from Yokote Station.

Lights inside hundreds of igloos give the night a glowing aspect, creating a warm and romantic atmosphere. Take a stroll along the igloo-lined paths or walk through them.

In addition to nighttime views, visitors can get a look at the history of the region by visiting the Akita Museum of Modern Art located in Akita Furusato mura in Yokote City .

This modern art museum is built on a small hill. With a glass exterior designed to reflect the changing views of the sky, the building sometimes appears to be floating in the air.

The permanent exhibits feature artists with a close connection to Akita Prefecture . The Western-style Akita Ranga paintings were painted by samurai in Akita in the 18th century.

Stroll around the musuem, where some 30 sculptures create an atmosphere for creativity and thought.

The latest information may differ, so please check the official website