Sapporo Winter Festival 2026: The Ultimate Guide for Muslim Travellers

For Muslim travelers seeking a breathtaking winter experience, Japan offers a jewel in its northern crown: the Sapporo Snow Festival. As we look forward to 2026, this iconic event is set to transform the capital of Hokkaido into a literal fairy tale of ice and snow.

Also read: 10 Muslim-Friendly Airbnbs in Sapporo, Japan 2025

Mark your calendars—the festival is scheduled to run from February 4 to 11, 2026. Whether you are traveling with family or as a couple, this week-long celebration offers a serene yet exciting atmosphere that caters perfectly to global travelers looking for Halal-friendly adventures in Japan.

A Legacy Carved in Snow

Image credit: @welcomesapporo_event

The Sapporo Snow Festival (or Sapporo Yuki Matsuri) is one of Japan's most prestigious winter traditions. Its humble beginnings date back to 1950, when a group of local high school students built six snow statues in Odori Park. What started as a small neighborhood gathering has evolved into a global phenomenon, attracting millions of visitors. Today, the festival showcases world-class artistry, from massive architectural replicas to intricate ice carvings, most of which are free to explore, making it an accessible dream for every budget.

The Three Sites of the Festival

The magic of the 2026 festival will be spread across three distinct venues, each offering a unique vibe:

1. Odori Park: The Heart of the Festival

Image credit: @welcomesapporo_event

Stretching through the center of Sapporo, Odori Park is the main stage. This is where you will find the colossal snow sculptures, some standing over 15 meters high. These masterpieces often depict world-class landmarks, scenes from popular culture, or historical events.

Image credit: @welcomesapporo_event

The Highlight: At night, the park transforms under a "projection mapping" show, where the sculptures are used as canvases for vibrant light displays and music.

2. Susukino: A Crystal Forest

Image credit: @welcomesapporo_event

Located in Sapporo’s famous entertainment district, the Susukino site trades snow for ice. Here, hundreds of detailed ice sculptures line the streets, glowing under the neon lights of the city. It is a sophisticated, artistic display that is best viewed after sunset, offering a perfect backdrop for stunning photography.

3. Tsudome: Family Fun & Winter Sports

Image credit: @welcomesapporo_event

If you are traveling with children or are experiencing snow for the first time, Tsudome is a must-visit. This interactive site features snow slides, snow rafting, and indoor play zones. It is less about looking and more about doing, providing a safe and joyful environment for kids to play in the powdery Hokkaido snow.

Available Gear Rentals for Free

As Japan’s largest winter event, the Sapporo Snow Festival is committed to ensuring a comfortable experience for every visitor. Navigating snowy terrain can be challenging, especially for seniors or travelers unaccustomed to icy paths. To address this, the festival provides free walking aids available at Odori Park:

• Trekking Poles: These help stabilize your steps and prevent slips. Rental stations are located at 1, 3, 6, 8, and 11-chome, with 1-chome being the closest to the main entrance.

• Wheelchairs: Specifically modified for flat, snowy surfaces, these are available for seniors and persons with disabilities. You can find them at the volunteer house in 6-chome; however, please note that quantities are limited.

Dedicated Guide for Muslim Travelers

Sapporo has become increasingly welcoming to Muslim visitors, with an expanding range of facilities to ensure your trip is comfortable and worry-free.

Prayer Spaces Near the Venues

Finding a place to perform your prayer is getting easier in Sapporo. Here is where you can go near the festival sites:

• Near Odori Park & Susukino: The Sapporo Factory mall offers a dedicated, clean prayer room with Wudu facilities. Hotel Mystays Premier also offers a dedicated prayer room available 24 hours a day, fully equipped with prayer mats and garments.

• Near Tsudome: This site is more suburban. While there are no permanent prayer rooms on-site, the indoor dome is quite large. We recommend bringing a travel prayer mat and asking the staff for a quiet corner, or utilizing the prayer room at the nearby Sapporo Masjid (about a 10-15 minute drive from the Tsudome area).

Halal Dining in Sapporo

• Halal Ramen: Look for Houryu Ramen in Susukino or Fukunoki; they have a long history of serving a delicious Halal-certified miso ramen.

• Seafood Delights: Enjoy fresh Sashimi or grilled fish at the Nijo Market (near Odori). Just be sure to ask for no mirin or no alcohol in any accompanying sauces.

• Indian/Pakistani Cuisine: There are several Halal-certified curry houses near Sapporo Station, such as The Kebab or JYOTI The Door to India, which offer a warm, spicy break from the cold.

Essential Travel Tips for 2026

• Direct Access: Most travelers fly into New Chitose Airport (CTS). From there, the "Rapid Airport" train takes you to Sapporo Station in just 35-40 minutes.

• Dress in Layers: Temperatures in February often hover around -5°C to -10°C. Wear thermal base layers (like UNIQLO Heattech), a heavy waterproof coat, and thick socks.

• Footwear Safety: The streets of Sapporo can become extremely slippery ice rinks. Buy "Ice Spikes" (removable rubber grips) at any local convenience store (konbini) like 7-Eleven or Lawson for about 1,000 Yen to prevent falls.

• Avoid the Midday Rush: To get the best photos and avoid large crowds, visit Odori Park in the early morning or during the twilight hour when the lights first turn on.

Also read: Sapporo Halal Food Guide: 13 Favorite Restaurants for Muslim Visitors

The Sapporo Snow Festival 2026 is an immersive experience of Japan's lively, winter beauty. Between the towering sculptures, the friendly locals, and the growing Halal infrastructure, your winter holiday in Hokkaido is sure to be a blessed and memorable one.

Cover image credit: @welcomesapporo_event