Yokote Kamakura Snow Festival横手の雪まつり（かまくら）

A Little New Year (koshōgatsu) observance in Yokote in which the water deity is enshrined at the back of snow chambers called kamakura; it is said to have a history of about 450 years.

In February, snow kamakura are built across Yokote. Inside, children invite passers-by with "haitte tanse" — please come in — and offer amazake and mochi. Lit from within amid the snowy dusk, the kamakura bring together winter life and prayer in a single scene.

According to Yokote City, the city's kamakura are said to have about 450 years of history, having grown from two customs that merged over time: a fire rite held within square snow enclosures in the samurai quarters, and the making of snow hollows beside wells to honour the water deity in the merchant quarters. The architect Bruno Taut, who visited Yokote in 1936, famously praised their beauty.

Source: 横手市(external site, opens in a new tab)

Kamakura is a Little New Year observance dedicated to the water deity, whose altar is set at the back of each snow chamber. Gratitude for the water on which life depends, and wishes for the household and the harvest, are passed on to the next generation together with the children's hospitality.

Source: 横手市(external site, opens in a new tab)

1. 01

   Kamakura snow chambers

   Snow chambers with an altar to the water deity, where children welcome visitors with amazake and mochi.

2. 02

   "Haitte tanse" hospitality

   Children call out "please come in" in the local dialect and invite visitors inside.

• Yokote Kamakura Snow Festival横手のかまくらとは

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From 2026 the festival moved to the second Friday and Saturday of February. Kamakura can also be experienced year-round at the Kamakura-kan. Check Yokote City's information for details.

Traffic controls, seating and fees change every year. Always check the official website for the latest information.

Official website — city.yokote.lg.jp(external site, opens in a new tab)

• Each kamakura enshrines the water deity; when you enter, pay your respects at the altar and behave quietly.
• Greet the children who host you before stepping in.
• Do not touch or climb on the snow walls.

1. 1.（冬）横手のかまくら(external site, opens in a new tab)横手市 · Accessed 2026-09-26
2. 2.Yokote, Akita - Wikipedia(external site, opens in a new tab)Wikipedia · Accessed 2026-09-26