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When the festival happens
The Sapporo Snow Festival runs for one week in early February each year. Book accommodation in central Sapporo as soon as the dates are announced; hotels sell out months in advance.
Winter event
Sapporo Snow Festival with the JR Pass: getting there in February
The Sapporo Snow Festival is Japan's biggest winter event. The JR Pass covers the Hokkaido shinkansen from Tokyo to Shin Hakodate Hokuto and the limited express on to Sapporo, making the trip surprisingly straightforward.
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Getting to Sapporo by train
- Tokyo to Shin Hakodate Hokuto by Hayabusa shinkansen: about 4h 10m, JR Pass covered.
- Shin Hakodate Hokuto to Sapporo by Hokuto limited express: around 3h 30m, JR Pass covered.
- Total journey time: roughly 8 hours with transfer time.
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Festival highlights
- Massive snow and ice sculptures in Odori Park.
- Illumination after dark.
- Ice sculpture site in Susukino.
- Tsudome family site with snow slides.
Frequently asked questions
Quick answers to common questions.
Is Sapporo covered by the JR Pass?
Yes. The Hokkaido shinkansen and Hokuto limited express are both fully covered.
Should I fly instead?
Flying is faster, but the JR Pass already in your pocket makes the train a smart use of an existing investment.
When should I book hotels?
Six months ahead is ideal. Central Sapporo hotels sell out fast for the festival week.
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