Japan Awaits

Immerse yourself in the magical world of the Yokote Kamakura Snow Hut Festival with our exclusive 2-day, 1-night tour! This enchanting festival, held for over 450 years, transforms the snow-covered city of Yokote into a winter wonderland, with hundreds of snow huts (kamakura) glowing with candlelight. Guided by a knowledgeable English-speaking guide, you’ll explore the festival’s rich traditions, enjoy local specialties like mochi and amazake, and experience the unique warmth and hospitality found within each snow hut. With expertly arranged accommodations and front-row access to the festival’s highlights, this tour offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and winter charm—an unforgettable experience in the heart of Japan’s snowy landscapes.

Celebrated for over 450 years, the Yokote Kamakura Snow Hut Festival transforms the snow-covered city of Yokote in Akita Prefecture into a glowing winter wonderland. This ancient festival was originally created to honor a Shinto water deity, with locals building kamakura—snow huts that serve as altars for offerings, where they would pray for water, a bountiful harvest, and the well-being of the community.

Today, the festival continues its deep-rooted traditions while offering visitors a mesmerizing experience. As night falls, more than 100 large kamakura are illuminated from within, casting a warm, flickering glow across the city. Visitors are warmly welcomed into these snow huts by local children, where they can enjoy freshly grilled mochi and sip on warm amazake, all while offering prayers at the altar for blessings of water and prosperity. Due to its popularity and the limited accommodations in this charming town, the festival sees extremely high demand, making early booking essential for those wishing to experience this unforgettable event.

Tour Format

This is a small-group (join-in) experience during the guided festival portion, where you will explore together with other travelers. Accommodation is arranged in private hotel rooms (not shared), ensuring a comfortable and personal stay.

Festival Schedule

Please note: This tour focuses on the Kamakura Festival (Feb 12–13, 2027). Bonden events take place on separate dates and are not included in this itinerary.

February 12 & 13, 2027

Kamakura Snow Huts (6:00 PM to 9:00 PM)

• Venue in front of Yokote City Hall Main Building
• Former Katano Residence
• Yokote Park Venue
• Futaba-cho

Mini Kamakura Snow Huts (6:00 PM to 9:00 PM)

• Janosaki River (3,500 mini kamakura snow huts)
• Yokote Minami Elementary School (Mini kamakura built by children)

Snow Art (6:00 PM to 9:00 PM)

• Komyoji Park and throughout the city (Snow sculptures created by local associations)

February 16, 2027

Bonden Figure Competition (9:30 AM to 12:00 PM)

• In front of Yokote City Hall Main Building

February 17, 2027

Asahi Okayama Shrine Bonden Figure Offering Festival (Morning)

• A traditional ceremony where bonden (wooden poles) are offered at the shrine, symbolizing prayers for safety, prosperity, and a bountiful harvest.

Tour Itinerary

Tour Date: February 12-13

Day 1 (February 12): Arrival & Guided Festival Orientation

• 4:00 PM – Hotel Check-in and Meet Your Guide
  Arrive at your hotel in Yokote, check in, and meet your English-speaking guide. You’ll receive a brief introduction to the Yokote Kamakura Festival, along with key insights and recommendations to help you make the most of your visit.

• 4:30 PM – 7:30 PM – Guided Festival Orientation & Evening Experience
  Join a 3-hour guided festival orientation designed to help you experience the Yokote Kamakura Festival with deeper insight and confidence. Your guide will walk you through the cultural significance of the kamakura snow huts, explain their traditions, and introduce the main festival areas before the evening illumination begins. As night falls, explore key locations such as Yokote City Hall, Former Katano Residence, Yokote Park, and the mini kamakura along the Janosaki River. Experience the magical atmosphere as hundreds of snow huts glow softly in the winter night. Before concluding, your guide will provide personalized recommendations—including suggested routes, must-see spots, and the best places for photos and local interaction—so you can continue exploring seamlessly on your own.

• 7:30 PM – Continue Exploring at Your Own Pace
  After the guided portion, continue your festival experience independently. Follow your personalized recommendations to wander through illuminated streets, visit kamakura, enjoy local treats like mochi and amazake, and connect with the warm hospitality of the local community.

Day 2 (February 13): Free Exploration of the Kamakura Festival

• Breakfast at the Hotel
  Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before heading out to explore more of the festival.

• Curated Free Exploration
  Enjoy a curated day of free exploration, using your guide’s recommendations to revisit your favorite spots, discover additional kamakura locations, and experience the festival at your own pace. This flexible time allows you to immerse yourself deeper into the atmosphere, interact with locals, and explore hidden corners of the festival beyond the main highlights.

• 11:00 AM – Hotel Checkout
  After breakfast, check out of your hotel. Feel free to continue exploring Yokote or relax based on your interests.

Pricing

• ¥66,000 per person (For 1 person only)
• ¥33,000 per person (For groups of 2 people or more)

Inclusions

• Overnight accommodation in Yokote City
• Breakfast at the hotel
• English-speaking tour guide on the first day
• Service fees and taxes

Exclusions

• Gratuities (optional)
• Drinks and additional meals
• Minibar, laundry, and other onsite services
  Other activities during free time

Accommodation

Since Yokote is a charming, small town, accommodation options are limited and in high demand during the festival. We partner with comfortable 3-star hotels that offer standard rooms—simple, clean, and cozy, providing a relaxing retreat after a day at the festival. Due to the high demand during this special time, we carefully secure these rooms well in advance to ensure our guests enjoy a comfortable stay amidst the festivities.

Attire

The Yokote Kamakura Snow Hut Festival takes place during winter, when temperatures often drop to around -3°C (26°F) or lower, especially in the evening. Please dress warmly and appropriately for these cold conditions. We recommend wearing insulated clothing, thermal layers, a heavy winter coat, a hat, gloves, and warm boots. In such cold weather, heat packs and scarves can also be helpful. The tour operates in all weather conditions (except in the event of a typhoon or other extreme circumstances). If needed, the itinerary may be slightly adjusted to accommodate weather changes.

Non-Smoking

While most places we visit may be non-smoking establishments, there are some places along the way that may allow smoking in designated areas. Please take note of this for guests who are sensitive to smoke.

Age Requirement

A booking must be made for each person. Adult pricing applies to guests age 5+.

Requirement

To secure your accommodations, please provide the full names and birth dates of all guests.
A valid passport is essential for travel and must be presented on the day of your departure.
Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Cancellation Policy

Strict Cancellation Policy:
Cancellation fee of 100% is charged if cancelled 45 days or less before the event

How far in advance should I book?

Due to high demand and limited room availability during the festival, we highly recommend booking your tour at least 1 month in advance to secure accommodations and ensure your spot. Rooms fill up quickly, so early booking is essential to guarantee your place during this special time.

Looking for a tour in a different city?

Japan Awaits is a licensed tour operator in Japan, with hundreds of registered and vetted tour guides nationwide. We offer tours in any location in Japan and manage all details, including transportation and tickets. Contact us and inquire about a custom experience today.