Yokote Snow Festival (Kamakura Festival) Guide
Yokote Snow Festival: A Winter Wonderland of Kamakura and Snow Sculptures Guide
Experience the magic of winter at the Yokote Snow Festival, also known as the Kamakura Festival, a spectacular event held annually in mid-February. This festival transforms Yokote into a winter wonderland, with hundreds of illuminated snow huts (kamakura) and impressive snow sculptures dotting the landscape. It's a truly unforgettable cultural experience that draws visitors from all over Japan and beyond. The Kamakura Festival has a long and fascinating history, dating back over 450 years. The tradition originated as a way to honor the water gods and pray for a good harvest. Children would build small snow huts and invite passersby to come inside, offering them amazake (sweet rice wine) and mochi (rice cakes) in exchange for prayers. Today, the festival continues to celebrate this tradition, with local children welcoming visitors into the kamakura and sharing stories about the festival's history. During the festival, visitors can explore the numerous kamakura, each uniquely decorated and illuminated. Step inside one of these cozy snow huts and enjoy a cup of amazake while chatting with the local children. In addition to the kamakura, the festival also features impressive snow sculptures, created by local artists and community groups. The festival is a feast for the senses, with the soft glow of the lanterns, the crisp winter air, and the delicious taste of local treats. The festival offers a unique opportunity to experience Akita's culinary traditions, with vendors selling local specialties such as kiritanpo (mashed rice on a stick) and inaniwa udon (thin wheat noodles).
Transportation
During the Yokote Snow Festival, special shuttle buses operate from Yokote Station to the main festival areas. Look for signs and announcements at the station for the most up-to-date information on shuttle bus schedules and routes. The festival sites are also within walking distance of each other, allowing you to easily explore the various attractions.