🎎 Yokote Snow Festival横手かまくら（横手の雪まつり）

The custom of setting up altars to worship the water deity in houses made of snow, known as "Yukidō," is a traditional activity passed down in regions such as Akita and Niigata during the Little New Year. Every year on February 15th and 16th, the "Yukidō Festival" is held in the Yokote area of Yamagata Prefecture, famous for its heavy snowfall. It is one of the "Five Great Snow Festivals of Mutsu" and boasts a proud history of 450 years. There are four main venues for the festival. If you want to immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere, choose the "Yokote City Hall," which has the largest number of Yukidō and many vendor stalls. If you want to enjoy Japan's original scenery, consider visiting "Yokote Park," located at Yokote Castle. Additionally, mini Yukidō are set up on the campus of Yokote Minami Elementary School and at "Hebizaki Riverbank" along the Yokote River. The scene filled with countless small Yukidō illuminated by lights is quite dreamy. On the day of the festival, free buses circulate between the four main venues every 15 minutes. Although the venues are within walking distance, it is recommended to take the bus during nighttime or when there is accumulated snow.

As one of the "Mutsu Five Great Snow Festivals," it is a traditional event that has been passed down for 450 years. The snow festival takes place for two days on February 15 and 16 at the Yokote City Hall and other venues. It is recommended to take the free shuttle bus if you plan to travel between the various venues. The "Mini Snow Caves" held in the courtyard of Kawahara Elementary School are also very popular.