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February 1, 2026 at 10:00 am
Event date:
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February 20, 2026 at 9:00 am
Event end:
History
The Iwate Snow Festival is celebrated annually around the southern slopes of Mount Iwate, including the scenic Makiba area at Koiwai Farm. Known as one of Tohoku’s 5 Great Snow Festivals, it draws visitors from across Japan for its stunning snow sculptures and winter activities.
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Contact Jasumo Now →The festival was temporarily abolished in 2022 due to insufficient snowfall and low visitor turnout, but it has returned stronger than ever, highlighting the resilience and community spirit of Iwate. Over the years, the festival has become a platform for local families, schools, and artists to showcase creativity in the form of snow art.
Thousands of participants contribute to the event, crafting snow monuments of all shapes and sizes, turning the area into a winter wonderland. The festival embodies the harmony between nature, culture, and recreation in the Tohoku region.
Overview
The Iwate Snow Festival 2026 will take place in early to mid-February, offering visitors a unique chance to experience winter in Tohoku. The festival features large and small snow sculptures made by nearly 4,000 people, creating a magical snowy landscape across Koiwai Farm and surrounding areas.
In addition to admiring the snow art, visitors can enjoy sledding down giant snow slides, ride a charming snow train, or simply stroll among the illuminated snow displays in the evening. Fireworks light up the winter sky, adding a festive sparkle to the serene snowy environment. Food lovers can warm up inside snow domes (Kamakura) while tasting local specialties like Genghis Khan (Japanese-style grilled lamb) or milk ramen, made with Koiwai Farm’s famous dairy products.
Highlights
- Large and small snow sculptures created by thousands of participants.
- Sledding and snow train rides for families and children.
- Evening illuminations and fireworks creating a magical winter atmosphere.
- Tasting local specialties inside snow domes, including milk ramen and Genghis Khan.
- Koiwai Farm dairy products for a unique farm-to-table experience.
Why Jasumo Recommends?
- One of Tohoku’s 5 Great Snow Festivals, offering authentic regional winter culture.
- Enjoy interactive snow activities like sledding and snow trains.
- Experience the stunning light displays and fireworks at night.
- Taste local delicacies in a unique snow dome setting.
- Explore Koiwai Farm, famous for fresh milk, cheese, and dairy treats.
If you’re coming to Japan or already here and need any type of help—from custom tours and experiences to transportation or ticket bookings—just contact us through the Contact Us page on Jasumo.
Schedule
Dates: Early – Mid February 2026 (Exact dates TBC)
Location: Around Mt Iwate, including Makiba area at Koiwai Farm
Hours: Activities generally run daytime to evening, with illuminations after sunset
Pricing
Admission: Free to enter the festival grounds
Activity Fees: Sled rentals, snow train rides, and some food purchases may have small fees
Food & Souvenirs: Available at snow domes and local stalls
Location
Venue: Koiwai Farm and surrounding Mt Iwate area
Address: Maruyachi, Shizukuishi, Iwate District, Iwate Prefecture 020-0507, Japan
How to Get There:
Visitors can reach Iwate via JR Shinkansen to Morioka Station, then take a local bus or taxi to Koiwai Farm (approx. 30–40 minutes). Driving is also an option, with parking available near the festival site.
Accommodation Options
Iwate offers a variety of nearby accommodations, from local guesthouses and ryokans to modern hotels in Shizukuishi or Morioka. Popular choices include Hotel Mets Morioka and Koiwai Farm Lodge, providing convenient access to the festival and surrounding attractions.
Average prices range from ¥8,000 to ¥18,000 per night, depending on the style and location. Early booking is recommended as the festival attracts both domestic and international visitors.
FAQs
Q1. When is the Iwate Snow Festival 2026 held?
The festival will take place in early to mid-February 2026, exact dates to be confirmed closer to the event.
Q2. Is there an admission fee?
No, entry to the festival grounds is free, though some activities and food stalls may charge a small fee.
Q3. What can visitors do at the festival?
Enjoy snow sculptures, sledding, snow train rides, evening illuminations, fireworks, and tasting local food inside snow domes.
Q4. How do I get to Koiwai Farm for the festival?
Take the JR Shinkansen to Morioka Station, then a bus or taxi to Koiwai Farm (30–40 minutes). Driving is also an option with parking available.
Q5. Are there accommodations nearby?
Yes, there are hotels, ryokans, and guesthouses in Shizukuishi and Morioka, offering easy access to the festival.
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