LANGUAGE
Enjoy
Sapporo in
Winter
by Making Your
Own
Sculpture
Special Event at Sapporo
Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill
during the Sapporo Snow Festival
- Period
- 2024.2.4SUN - 2024.2.11SUN
available here
by Making Your
Own
Sculpture
Special Event at Sapporo
Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill
during the Sapporo Snow Festival
During the same period as the Sapporo Snow Festival, there will be an event open to the general public at Sapporo Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill. Expert instructors will guide international visitors in the art of creating snow sculptures.
2024 Sapporo Snow Festival (74th) will take place in 2024. Alongside the Harbin Ice Festival in China and the Québec Winter Carnival in Canada, this winter celebration in Hokkaido ranks among the world's top three major winter festivals. This year, the iconic Sapporo Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill, one of Sapporo's most renowned scenic spots, will host an interactive event designed specifically for international visitors.
01
The experience of a lifetime!
Participate in a snow-sculpture-making activity in Sapporo in winter!
The highlight of this event is the snow-sculpture-making activity, with sculptures reaching heights of nearly 2 meters. Unlike the typical events of the Sapporo Snow Festival, primarily held in Odori Park, where you can observe snow sculptures, Sapporo Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill offers visitors the chance to create their own snow sculptures. Instructors who have been involved in setting up large snow sculptures at the Sapporo Snow Festival for many years will support the snow-sculpture-making process to ensure that even newcomers to snow can enjoy the activity.
Reservations will be closed as soon as the maximum number of participants is reached
02
Recommended for those who want to enjoy making snow sculptures casually!
Can be completed in only 2 hours! Take on the challenge of making mini snow sculptures and snap a memorable photo!
If you want to experience making snow sculptures casually, we recommend crafting 50-90 centimeter tall mini snow sculptures. Start by collecting freshly fallen snow using a sled to create a base, then boldly sketch your design with a pen. How you transform it into a three-dimensional work of art depends entirely on your skill. You can craft a unique snow sculpture by carving it with specialized tools or adding snow to the surface. Since it can be completed in about 2 hours, even those with children can have fun.
Reservations will be closed as soon as the maximum number of participants is reached
03
A local sensation! Adorable little animals made of snow can be found here!
Enjoy snow art through the Snow Art Activity at Snow Art Forest!
Over the last couple of years, charming snow sculptures featuring animals and insects have graced parks and various locations throughout Sapporo, drawing considerable acclaim. Snow sculptures by the artist Ms. Tanaka Hiromi, the genius behind these artworks, will be set up in a snow-covered grove. Visitors are welcome to embellish the forest with their own creations. The artistic potential that white snow offers knows no bounds. Experience the wintry landscapes of Hokkaido with a touch of creativity.
Reservations required, same-day reservations accepted
04
Available for a limited time! Special night opening at Sapporo Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill. Experience the enchanting snowscape at the Snow Art Forest's Illumination Event!
Sapporo has earned its place among Japan's Three New Beautiful Night Views. While Mount Moiwa and Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium are renowned for their captivating night views, the Sapporo Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill is also celebrated for its scenic beauty. Unfortunately, during the winter season, the observatory typically closes at 5:00 PM, making night views unavailable. However, for this special event, the observatory will remain open until 8:00 PM. Bask in the romantic night of the northern country within the Snow Art Forest illuminated by enchanting lights.
1Snow-sculpture-making activity
2Making mini snow sculptures
3Snow Art Activity at the Snow Art Forest
4Snow Art Forest’s Illumination Event
Why is an interactive event with public involvement so fantastic!?
The innovative aspect of the snow-sculpture-making event at Sapporo Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill
While the numerous snow sculptures, often considered symbols of Sapporo's winters, are well-known to the locals, the reality is that not many residents have ever created snow sculptures. Even at the Sapporo Snow Festival, which features a category for residents' snow sculptures, the applications for participation through public submissions is generally 5-6 times the available slots. In other words, making snow sculptures is a very rare experience, even for Sapporo's residents.
Worried about the cold? Don't worry!
Even if you're not accustomed to snow, feel free to join us
For those residing in regions with no snowfall, the cold weather can seem intimidating. In Sapporo, a city famed for its snowy environment, facilities are well-prepared with extensive cold-weather provisions. This holds true even at the Sapporo Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill, where guests can partake in outdoor activities while having access to a designated resting area where they can warm up. Additionally, all necessary tools for activities such as snow-sculpture making are available for rental, allowing visitors to come and enjoy themselves without any worries.
Think making snow sculptures is difficult? Don't worry!
Professionals with years of experience at the main venue of the historic Sapporo Snow Festival will provide guidance
The construction of the large snow sculptures at the Sapporo Snow Festival is carried out by skilled staff who have supported the event for many years. For the snow-sculpture-making activity, we've enlisted seasoned professionals who have honed their skills in snow sculpture crafting at the Odori Park 7-chome venue of the Sapporo Snow Festival. In addition to the instructors, interpreters are also available, ensuring a worry-free and enjoyable experience.
It's a highly popular spot that's well-known to people in Japan!
What is the Sapporo Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill, where you can overlook Sapporo City, a metropolis of 2 million people?
In guidebooks about Hokkaido have you ever come across an image of a man raising his hand high? This image represents Dr. Clark, an American who held the position of the first vice president at Hokkaido University and is recognized as the father of Hokkaido's development. Accompanied by his famous quote, "Boys, be ambitious," this statue is a favorite among tourists. The Sapporo Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill is a well-loved tourist destination, drawing around 400,000 visitors each year, with many making a special trip to see Dr. Clark's statue.
Once you've had your fill of snow-filled fun, satisfy your appetite!
Enjoy authentic Jingisukan (lamb BBQ) at the rest house with grills lined up!
When it comes to cherry blossom viewing in spring, or summer beach outings, Jingisukan is the go-to choice. In Hokkaido, Jingisukan represents a delectable and enjoyable time spent with friends. The rest house at Sapporo Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill provides around 140 seats, each featuring tables equipped with dedicated grills. It is famous for providing a dining experience amid the expansive surroundings. Give it a try and relish the flavor and ambiance distinct to Hokkaido.
You might be concerned about staying warm...
A Hokkaido-area resident will tell you the appropriate clothing for outdoor activities on snowy days!
During winter in Hokkaido, it's common to wear warm outerwear, including down jackets, hats, scarves, and gloves. The key is to eliminate any uncovered areas to prevent skin exposure, and you can consider wearing ear muffs too. When partaking in snow activities, like creating snow sculptures, it's vital to have waterproof gloves. Opting for skiwear with excellent waterproofing offers an extra layer of security. Wearing shoes specifically designed for walking on slippery, snow-covered roads is highly recommended.
1 Hitsujigaoka, Toyohira-ku,
Sapporo, Hokkaido
062-0045