Top 4 most attractive festivals you must try in February in Japan
February is the end of winter in Japan, and although the average temperature is still quite cold, the picturesque landscapes with snow continue to attract many tourists.
During this time, Japan welcomes many tourists to its snow resorts and hot springs, along with hosting many large-scale festivals. If you want to enjoy unique experiences and take advantage of exciting festivals, consider the following top 4 festivals in February!
1. Sapporo Snow Festival:
One of the most famous winter festivals in Japan, the Sapporo Snow Festival, is considered the largest winter festival in Japan, attracting around 2 million visitors every year. The festival lasts for 7 days (the second week of February) and features impressive ice sculptures displayed in Odori Park. In the evening, the sculptures are illuminated by sparkling lights, enhancing their beauty. Visitors also have the opportunity to participate in snow sports activities and indulge in delicious street food.
2. Yokote Kamakura Festival:
The Yokote Kamakura Festival is a popular winter festival held over two days on February 15-16, featuring 80 large and small snow huts. The festival is an occasion for locals to show their gratitude to the water deity, expressing wishes for clean water in the new year. The festival becomes especially enchanting at night when each snow hut is lit up by golden-orange candlelight, creating a dazzling scene.
3. Mito Plum Blossom Festival:
The Mito Plum Blossom Festival takes place from February 15 to March 29 at Kodokan Park in Ibaraki Prefecture. The festival celebrates the blooming of over 3000 plum trees, predominantly in shades of pink and white.
Visitors can try to taste local plum wine, participate in tea parties, and immerse themselves in a romantic atmosphere surrounded by blooming flowers and fragrances. The festival marks the transition from winter to spring, offering activities such as flower viewing and outdoor excursions.
The festival includes various events such as food fairs, traditional musical instrument performances, and festival merchandise stalls. Therefore, tourists can have a richer experience of Japanese cuisine and culture.
4. Hokkaido Snow Light Festival:
The Hokkaido Snow Light Festival is a dazzling event illuminated by lights on the snow, creating a surreal and romantic atmosphere. You can admire brightly lit streets and snow sculptures along the paths with rows of candles when attending the festival.
These experiences and activities mentioned above will be highlights for you to capture during your trip to Japan in February!
Images: mitotourism, livejapan_official, japanawaits, tohokutourism
