Niseko Snow Stage

A Summer Festival in Kutchan

Chris Barnes Aug 11, 2013 - 1 min read

The ski pool challenge was a big attraction with many enthusiastic riders falling victim to the icy cold waters

This was by far the most delicious looking lunchtime option on offer

Children play around on the snow jump until the sun went down

No festival is complete in Hokkaido without brilliant Taiko drummers

An LED light show concluded each day's celebrations

Snowboarders attempt the rail jam whilst kids enjoy sliding down the slopes on tubes and sleds

Local farmers got the chance to sell their fresh produce which is always popular at summer festivals

Adults blindfolded and attempting to crack the watermellon

There was no shortage of fresh food available at the festival

The rain effected beer garden scared a few visitors off this year but those who came had a great time

A jumping castle was very popular with the children

There was a small flee market was at the event this year as well as some beautiful hand-crafted goods

Niseko Snow Stage in Kutchan is an annual event held in early August to celebrate summer with a slice of winter fun. As the name suggests, a giant snow stage is built with stored snow and is used to host concerts, light shows, adults and children's games, karaoke, and a ski & snowboard jump. The event features many food vendors, a crafts stall and an array of activities for the whole family to enjoy: My favorite being the ski challenge, which challenged riders to make their way across a shallow pool of icy cold water. The crowds were scared away by the unpredictable weather this year but those who came had a great time nonetheless.

Chris Barnes @chris.barnes

A little while ago i began exploring the world. I started in Japan, and after 29 countries of amazing adventures, i find myself back in Japan fully absorbed in its culture, its people and its beauty.