From January 29 to February 5, the “Snow Candle Way” illuminated Jozankei Shrine (Minami-ku, Sapporo) after sunset with light from candles made of snow. Approximately one thousand lights bathed the silvery white shrine grounds in a magical glow.

The event was organized by the Jozankei Tourist Association, and is the 12th installment. Alongside other industries, the hot spring district has also been impacted by the COVID-19 reemergence, as seen in the proliferation of hotel reservation cancellations. Amidst this impact, the Association extended the event schedule to include three more days than usual in an effort to rejuvenate the area as much as possible. That resulted in an eight-day installment this year. Admission was free of charge.

The snow candles were crafted over a five-day period by a total of one hundred staff members at lodging facilities and restaurants in the hot spring district. Skill and creativity were given to the presentation of the candles as well, with features such as placing candles in heart shape patterns, the use of projection mapping, and music.

Jozankei Tourist Association Manager Tacihbana promoted the event, “Snow candle events of this scope are rare. We want people to enjoy the kind of winter evening you can only see at Jozankei.”