If you've visited the Minamiuonuma area of Niigata before, you may already know that the region receives some pretty impressive amounts of winter snowfall. A summertime event draws on that, and utilizes snow stored from the winter season to create a refreshing wonderland during the hottest time of year.
Held near the summit of the Hakkaisan Ropeway, the Summer Sky Snow Festival includes a sledding slope, stage performances, appearances from local Niigata mascots, and more.
Because of the venue's altitude at 1,147 meters, the average temperature sits around 25°C – that's approximately 5°C lower than the foot of the mountain at this time of year.
While admission to the event itself is free, the purchase of a ropeway round-trip ticket is required to reach the venue. These are priced at ¥2,600 for adults, and ￥1,500 for children from April 27 to September 30. Festival guests are able to utilize their ticket for unlimited rides on the ropeway on the day.
