Confirmed Dates for Matsumoto Ice Sculpture Festival 2026

Are you looking for the official dates for Matsumoto Ice Sculpture Festival 2026? This famous winter event returns to the historic Matsumoto Castle grounds in January 2026. It is one of the most stunning festivals in Japan. Visitors can see expert artists transform ice into works of art.

The festival happens during the coldest part of winter in the heart of Nagano. You can watch local carvers work through the night to finish their pieces. The sight of these sculptures against the black castle walls is truly magical. Use our Matsumoto winter travel guide 2026 to plan your entire trip today.

Many travelers visit this event to enjoy the unique winter atmosphere of Matsumoto city. This guide provides all the timing and location details you need for 2026. We help you find the best viewing times and local food stalls. Gather your warm clothes and prepare for an incredible Japanese winter experience.

What Are the Dates for Matsumoto Ice Sculpture Festival 2026?

For the most up-to-date details, check Lonely Planet Matsumoto before you go.

For practical details and last-minute changes, use Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO).

The main events for the festival take place from January 23 to January 25, 2026. Most activities happen during the weekend for local and international visitors. These dates align with the coldest weather to keep the ice solid. It is the peak time to visit the castle grounds for sculptures.

Friday, January 23, marks the start of the festival setup and initial carving preparations. Saturday night is when the real action begins for dedicated fans of the craft. Artists work from late Saturday evening through the early hours of Sunday morning. This overnight session is a highlight for many visitors who brave the cold.

By Sunday morning, January 25, every sculpture is complete and ready for public display. This is the best time to see Matsumoto ice sculptures before they begin to melt. The sculptures usually remain on display until the late afternoon. Plan to arrive early to beat the largest crowds of the day.

If you visit during these specific dates, you can also enjoy the castle illumination. The lighting creates a dramatic backdrop for your winter photos. Admission to the festival area in the park is free for everyone. Check the weather forecast before you leave to ensure a safe journey to Matsumoto.

Overnight Ice Carving and Weekend Schedule

The most exciting part happens between 6:00 PM Saturday and 6:00 AM Sunday. This is the period when international carving teams create their masterpieces. You can watch the carvers use chainsaws and chisels on massive ice blocks. The noise and energy in the park are very exciting to witness.

Each team has a limited amount of time to finish their unique designs. They work through freezing temperatures to achieve incredible detail in every piece. Watching the process helps you appreciate the hard work behind the art. Many teams include professional ice carvers from around the world and Japan.

Sunday morning features an awards ceremony for the best sculptures in the competition. Judges look for technical skill, creativity, and the overall beauty of the work. You can walk among the entries and vote for your own favorite piece. The park usually feels very festive during this morning awards period.

Local food stalls open early on Sunday to serve hot soup and snacks. You can try traditional Japanese winter foods like oden and roasted sweet potatoes. These snacks help you stay warm while exploring the different sculpture displays. Don't forget to grab some hot sake or tea at the park.

Best Locations to View the 2026 Sculptures

The main display area is the Honmaru Garden near the historic Matsumoto Castle. This spot allows you to photograph ice art with the black castle tower behind. It is often called the Crow Castle because of its unique dark color palette. This contrast makes for stunning pictures during the morning light and evening shows.

Additional sculptures are sometimes placed near the Matsumoto Station and the main city streets. These smaller displays give you a taste of the festival as you enter the city. Walking from the station to the castle takes about fifteen to twenty minutes. It is a scenic walk through the charming streets of old Matsumoto.

The night illumination at the castle is an essential part of the festival experience. Special lights make the ice carvings glow in different colors against the dark sky. The reflection on the frozen castle moat adds to the beauty of the scene. Make sure your camera battery is fully charged for these evening shots.

We recommend starting your walk at the station and heading toward the castle park. This route takes you past local shops that participate in the winter celebrations. You might find smaller ice displays outside restaurants and boutiques throughout the town. It creates a wonderful festive atmosphere across the whole city center.

Planning Your Trip to Matsumoto in January

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Booking your accommodation early is very important for the 2026 festival weekend. Hotels near Matsumoto Castle and the main station tend to fill up quickly. Many travelers visit specifically for the dates for Matsumoto Ice Sculpture Festival 2026. Use a Matsumoto ice sculpture festival guide to find the best local lodging options.

Winter temperatures in Matsumoto often drop well below freezing at night and early morning. Expect temperatures between -5°C and 5°C (23°F to 41°F) during the festival. You must wear high-quality thermal layers and a heavy winter coat for comfort. Thermal heat packs, called kairo, are also very helpful for your hands and feet.

Public transportation from Tokyo or Nagoya is the easiest way to reach the city. The Limited Express Azusa train runs directly from Shinjuku Station to Matsumoto. The journey takes roughly two and a half hours through beautiful mountain scenery. Make sure to reserve your train seats a few days in advance.

Once you arrive, the city is very easy to navigate on foot or by bus. The Town Sneaker bus circles the main tourist areas for a small fee. This is a great option if the weather is too cold for walking long distances. Most festival locations are within the flat city center area for easy access.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there an entry fee for the Matsumoto Ice Sculpture Festival?

No, there is no entry fee to visit the main festival grounds. You can view the ice sculptures in the public park for free. There is a fee if you wish to enter the actual Matsumoto Castle tower. Most sculptures are located outside the paid castle area for easy public viewing.

What should I wear to the festival in 2026?

You should dress in multiple warm layers for the cold Nagano winter. Wear a windproof outer jacket and thick thermal underwear. Sturdy boots with good grip are necessary for walking on icy or snowy paths. Do not forget a hat, scarf, and warm gloves for the evening.

Can I see the sculptures at night during the festival?

Yes, the sculptures are illuminated with colorful lights during the evening hours. The best time for night viewing is between 6:00 PM and 9:00 PM. This is when the castle also features special winter lighting effects. It is a perfect time for photography if you have a tripod.

The dates for Matsumoto Ice Sculpture Festival 2026 offer a perfect chance to experience Japanese winter. You can enjoy incredible art, historic views, and delicious local food in one weekend. Be sure to arrive in late January to see the artists in action. Explore the city further with our other travel resources before you head out.

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