A lunar New Year event that boasts a tradition of around 450 years. Kamakura (igloo-like snow domes) were not originally for enjoyment, but for praying to the water god enshrined within them for the safety of one’s family, prosperity in business, an abundant harvest, and so on. About 60 kamakura are built in various locations throughout the city and are lit up. Children speak in the local dialect to call on passersby to enter the kamakura and pray to the water god, while offering them amazake (warm, sweet non-alcoholic rice wine). This snow country winter scene is so full of poetic sentiment that people are mesmerized by it.

Event Dates	February 15 and 16 each year
Event Details	See the official website for details.
Official site	https://www.yokotekamakura.com
Location (venue)	In front of the Yokote City Hall Main building, Yokote Park, and other areas within the city.
Address	8-12 Chuo-machi, Yokote-shi, Akita
Price	Essentially free admission

Region	Hokkaido Tohoku
Category	Illumination, Nature

Event organizers may change the date and time. Please check the official website.

update: Feb.20.2024