The Japanese love a good festival. Festivals the length and breadth of the country mark all sorts of occasions, most often to celebrate the seasons. Perhaps the biggest celebrations happen across the country at the start of spring when the cherry blossoms come into season. But in snowbound Kutchan, the biggest festival of the year celebrates the depth of winter – Yukitopia.
One weekend in mid February each year the town grinds to a halt to enjoy the festivities – stalls, games, rides, slides, competitions and demonstrations. The highlight is the skiing across a pool of icy water competition. For a great cultural experience and a whole lot of fun, get the family down to K-town for Yukitopia!
Buses to Kutchan leave from the main street near Seicomart. The bus stop is a few small signs on the roadside opposite PowPow. Buses leave every half hour or so during the day and cost ¥380. The night bus is free and leaves every hour or so from 5pm. Timetable on the back of the resort’s course map.