Hirosaki Castle Snow Lantern Festival
Snow FestivalTohoku(Aomori)
Annual eventDates
2026-02-08 — 2026-02-11
Venue
Hirosaki Castle / Hirosaki Park
Admission
Free
Crowd Level
Moderate crowdSnow lantern festival at Hirosaki Castle with hundreds of snow lanterns.
The Hirosaki Castle Snow Lantern Festival transforms the historic castle grounds into a winter wonderland with hundreds of snow lanterns, miniature kamakura, and large snow sculptures. The castle keep, illuminated against the snowy landscape, creates a breathtaking backdrop. Cherry tree silhouettes dusted with snow offer a preview of the park's famous spring hanami season.
Highlights
Hundreds of snow lanterns and miniature kamakura illuminated across Hirosaki Park; Hirosaki Castle keep beautifully lit against the snowy landscape; Large snow sculptures and light installations throughout the historic grounds
Access
JR Hirosaki Station, then Konan Bus to Shiyakusho-mae (City Hall) stop (approx. 15 min), 5-minute walk. From Shin-Aomori Station, take JR Ou Main Line to Hirosaki (approx. 35 min).
Tips for Visitors
Evening illumination (sunset to 21:00) is the most atmospheric time to visit. The lanterns are handmade by local citizens and each is unique. Free entry but dress warmly — temperatures hover around -5°C. Good practice visit before the famous Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival in spring.