Held annually in early February within the historic Hirosaki Castle Park, the Snow Lantern Festival sees hundreds of hand-crafted snow lanterns and miniature kamakura placed throughout the castle grounds. Their warm candlelit glow reflects off the surrounding moats and snow-covered lawns, framing the illuminated castle tower in a scene of quiet winter beauty. The event also features local food stalls selling Aomori specialities such as apple cider and hot joppari nabe stew. As one of Aomori's premier winter events, it draws visitors seeking a more intimate alternative to larger regional snow festivals.
- Type
- Festival
- Category
- Snow/Winter
- Season
- Winter
- Month
- Early–Mid February
- Region
- Tohoku
- Prefecture
- Aomori
- City
- Hirosaki
Highlights
- ◆Hundreds of handmade snow lanterns dotting the castle park
- ◆Illuminated Hirosaki Castle tower reflected in the moat
- ◆Local Aomori food stalls including apple cider and nabe
- ◆Intimate atmosphere within a UNESCO Tentative-listed castle site
- ◆Held annually in early February