The Shibare Festival, held in early February in Shihoro Town in the Tokachi region of Hokkaido, is a unique winter event built around the idea of enjoying extreme cold, with temperatures often dropping below –20°C.
Ice and snow sculptures decorate the venue, and the illuminated night scenes create a magical atmosphere.
One of the festival’s most iconic features is the “Balloon Mansion,” an igloo-like ice and snow hut where participants spend the night. Sleeping in this small dome-shaped shelter with just a sleeping bag is famously known as the “human cold endurance test,” offering a challenging yet unforgettable experience.
With local food stalls and lively stage performances, the festival showcases the spirit of Hokkaido—embracing winter’s harshness with creativity and fun.
