Winter events featuring snow and impressive ice formations can be experienced even close to Tokyo in the Kanto region. This is due to the noticeable difference in climate between southern and northern Kanto. Here, we introduce various snow festivals and icicle illuminations mainly in northern Kanto, each with unique local traditions and activities. Enjoy a wide range of winter festivals across these different regions!

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1. Onouchi Hyouchu (Icicles) (Saitama)

One of the "Three Great Icicles of Chichibu," the Onouchi Hyouchu is a stunning wall of icicles that forms in the Onouchi Valley in Ogano Town, Chichibu-gun, Saitama Prefecture. In winter, when temperatures drop below freezing, water from Onouchisawa, fed by Mt. Ryokami, is sprayed over the mountainside. As the water drips and freezes, it creates a mesmerizing wall of artistic icicles.

The best viewing spot is from a suspension bridge over Onouchi Valley, where you can enjoy the breathtaking icicle formations, stretching approximately 250 meters wide and reaching heights of about 60 meters, against the scenic backdrop of the valley. In the evening, the icicles are illuminated, bathing them in a variety of colors, creating a mystical atmosphere. The Onouchi Hyouchu is a must-see spot where nature and people come together to create a captivating icy world.

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［klook]👉Three Icicles in Saitama & Chichibu One Day Tour from Tokyo

2. Misotsuchi Icicles – Otaki Ice Festival (Saitama)

The Misotsuchi Icicles in Otaki, Chichibu City, another of Chichibu’s Three Great Icicles, are formed as spring water flows over rocks and freezes. Spanning about 30 meters wide and 8 meters high, these natural ice sculptures change significantly each year due to the flow of spring water and shifts in temperature. The best viewing period is during the Otaki Hyou Festival, held from early January to late February, when the icicles are illuminated to sparkle like gemstones.

During the festival, a café near the Woodroof Okuchichibu Auto Campsite offers warm snacks, perfect for cozying up around a fire after viewing the icicles. The café’s view of the icicles also makes it a relaxing place to take in the natural ice formations.

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3. Ashigakubo Icicles (Saitama)

Also one of the "Three Great Icicles of Chichibu," the Ashigakubo Icicles in Yokoze Town are a massive display spanning about 200 meters wide and 30 meters high, created by spraying water from the river over the mountainside. During the day, the sunlight shimmers on the delicate icicles hanging from trees and branches, resembling fine glasswork. On weekends and holidays after sunset, the icicles are illuminated, transforming the serene winter landscape into a vivid world of colors. With a convenient location just a 10-minute walk from the train station and a well-maintained walking path, visitors can immerse themselves in this icy spectacle up close.

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4. Yunishikawa Onsen Kamakura Festival (Tochigi)

Yunishikawa Onsen, a historic hot spring with over 800 years of history, holds its iconic winter event, the Yunishikawa Onsen Kamakura Festival. A major highlight of the festival is the "Mini Kamakura" at Sawaguchi Riverside, which has earned recognition as a Japan Nightscape Heritage site. After sunset, hundreds of mini kamakura (snow domes) are lit with candles, creating a magical riverside landscape filled with flickering lights. At Heike no Sato, a nostalgic scene unfolds with traditional thatched-roof houses covered in snow alongside large and small kamakura. Visitors can also enjoy sledding, snow play, hot springs, and foot baths at Yunishigawa Mizu no Sato Snow Park.

* "Kamakura" refers to a small dome-like snow house or a sacred space for the water deity. The kamakura at Sawaguchi Riverside are miniaturized versions.

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• Location: Yunishikawa Onsen

• Address: Yunishikawa, Nikko City, Tochigi Prefecture
• Festival Dates: January 31 – March 2, 2025
• Light-up Time: Mini Kamakura at Sawaguchi Riverside, Friday–Sunday, 17:30–21:00 (Heike no Sato lights up daily)
• Nearest Station: Yunishikawa Onsen Station on the Yagan Railway, about 25 minutes by bus
• Official Website:https://www.nikko-kankou.org/

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5. Snow-covered Yumoto Onsen Fireworks Festival (Tochigi)

Okunikko Yumoto Onsen, known as the secluded retreat of Nikko, is a tranquil hot spring area on the shore of Lake Yuno with a history dating back 1,200 years. Each February, this scenic spot hosts the Yumoto Onsen Fireworks Festival. A dazzling array of colorful fireworks, including the vibrant starmine displays, light up the winter night sky, creating a picturesque blend of snow and fireworks. Visitors can enjoy the view from lakeside or from the warmth of nearby inns with a drink in hand.

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6. Kita-Karuizawa Festival of the Flame (Gunma)

Held on the second Saturday of February in Kita-Karuizawa, at the foot of Mount Asama, the Kita-Karuizawa Fire Festival is a winter celebration filled with tradition and warmth. The festival features a variety of events, such as a fire ceremony to pray for Mount Asama’s safety, candlelit fortune wishes, and traditional taiko drumming performances. The highlight is the candle art display, where around 2,000 candles are set on a snowy field, forming intricate designs by local artists. As night falls, fireworks burst over the softly glowing candle-lit landscape, creating a mesmerizing scene. Food trucks and bonfires add to the cozy ambiance, making it an event to enjoy in warmth and light.

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• Location: Kita-Karuizawa Fureai Square

• Address: 1990-5372, Kita-Karuizawa, Naganohara Town, Agatsuma District, Gunma Prefecture
• Festival Date: February 10, 2024
• Festival Hours: 16:00–19:00, Candle Lighting at 17:00
• Nearest Station: Karuizawa Station (JR, Shinano Railway), about 30–40 minutes by bus

7. Fujiwara Snow Festival (Gunma)

The Fujiwara Snow Festival, held at the Fujiwara Ski Resort in Minakami Town, offers a full day of winter fun. Activities include a "Sled Olympics" where participants compete for the longest slide, and a "Snowball Ice Tower Competition." As evening descends, the festival grounds are transformed with snow lanterns, creating a serene and magical atmosphere. A lively fire show by performance teams heats up the night, followed by vibrant fireworks over the snowy slopes.

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As many snow and ice destinations are located outside central Tokyo, involving multiple train or bus transfers, having internet access is essential for smooth navigation. A Japan-compatible SIM card allows for easy, on-demand data access, so you can stay connected wherever you are. Prepare one in advance to ensure you’re covered.

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Check Out the Winter Essentials

For a comfortable winter trip, check the essentials ahead of time. While Kanto generally has mild winters, the temperatures can drop on colder days. Layering is recommended—combine a thick outer layer with thinner tops and inner layers to adapt to temperature shifts. Also, consider windproof items for blustery spots.

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Check Out the Winter Clothing

While Kanto generally has a mild winter climate with few days falling below freezing, it can occasionally get chilly. Due to temperature fluctuations throughout the day, layering is recommended. Wear a warm outer layer over lighter tops and inner layers that can be adjusted as needed. In windy areas, windproof clothing is also a great addition to keep you comfortable and protected.

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