University of Michigan Student
Kyoto Center for Japanese Studies
Stanford Japan Center
February
2004 marked Sapporo's 55th Annual Yuki Matsuri . Beginning as
a local festival intended to bring a bit of festivity to Japan's northernmost
island, Hokkaido, the first snow festivals did not posses the same glamour
as today's Yuki Matsuri. Yuki Matsuri was an amazing
sight! There are three locations within the city of Sapporo where visitors
can view the snow and ice sculptures. The sculptures range in size from
that of a large car to that of an actual building. The subject matter
of the sculptures is also diverse. From Hello Kitty, to famous athletes,
to the Taj Mahal, one can see it all in snow and ice at Yuki Matsuri!
Despite the festival's unpretentious origins, Yuki Matsuri has
grown into a globally recognized event.
It is estimated
that the population of Sapporo doubles during the festival as a result
of the heavy influx of tourists from around the world. Once attended
only by those living in the region, Yuki Matsuri is now a major
attraction for international tourists. Many Sapporo residents I spoke
with during my stay in Hokkaido claimed they no longer visited the snow
festival, is it has lost its traditional charm and appeal somewhere amidst
the souvenir stands and hordes of tourists that descend upon the city
each year during the beginning of February. Yuki Matsuri boasts
an international snow carving competition, and teams from various countries
around the world strive to earn the first prize.
