Shibare Festival

Overview

The Shibare Festival is a winter event held in Rikubetsu Town, Tokachi region, Hokkaido, that started in 1982. The word "shibare" is a Hokkaido dialect term meaning "to be severely cold," and the name reflects the intention to make the most of Rikubetsu's reputation as the coldest town in Japan. The festival is held annually in early February on Saturday and Sunday over two days at the Event Plaza in Uenbetsu, Rikubetsu.

The festival takes the extreme cold, which can drop below minus 10 degrees Celsius, and turns it into a unique attraction. Its signature event, the "Human Cold Resistance Test," where participants spend a night in an ice igloo, is a rare experiential event that draws visitors from across Hokkaido and beyond. People come to experience the cold itself, not just endure it, making this a one-of-a-kind winter celebration.

History and Origins

Rikubetsu Town is located in inland Hokkaido, where winter minimum temperatures frequently fall below minus 30 degrees Celsius. This led to the idea of using the extreme cold as a resource. The first festival was held in 1982 and has continued annually ever since, becoming a beloved winter tradition.

The name "Shibare" was chosen for its warmth and familiarity, turning a harsh natural phenomenon into a positive symbol. Initially a small local event, the festival gained attention through the unusual concept of sleeping in ice igloos. The Hokkaido Shimbun's Obihiro branch joined as a co-organizer, providing media coverage that boosted its recognition.

The "Human Cold Resistance Test" was developed as a way for participants to personally experience Rikubetsu's title as the coldest place in Japan. The igloos, called "Balloon Mansions," are designed to block the wind while maintaining an internal temperature close to the outside air. Participants sleep in sleeping bags and face the challenge of spending the entire night in this frigid environment. This simple yet extreme test has remained the festival's biggest draw.

In recent years, global warming has made it more difficult to obtain ice thick enough to build igloos. For the 42nd edition, this year's target was set at 33 igloos, while a new tent camping area was introduced as an alternative. The festival committee continues to adapt to environmental challenges while preserving the core spirit of the event.

Highlights

Human Cold Resistance Test The Human Cold Resistance Test is the festival's main attraction. Participants spend a night in an ice igloo, experiencing the extreme cold of Rikubetsu firsthand. This event was born from the idea of enjoying the cold rather than merely enduring it. In temperatures that can drop below minus 20 degrees Celsius at night, participants wrap themselves in sleeping bags and sometimes sing karaoke to stay warm and connected. Many participants have successfully completed the challenge over the years, creating a strong sense of camaraderie.

Shibare Fireworks The climax of the two-day festival is the Shibare Fireworks display, organized by Rikubetsu Town and the Hokkaido Shimbun Obihiro Branch. Approximately 1,500 fireworks are launched into the freezing night sky. Unlike summer fireworks, the clear, dry winter air makes the colors appear especially vivid. The smoke trails rising against the stark winter background create a dramatic contrast, drawing cheers from the crowd.

Stage Events A variety of performances take place on the festival's outdoor stage. The opening ceremony features the lighting of the "Flame of Life" and a taiko drum performance by students from Rikubetsu Elementary School. Children's dance performances and comedy shows follow, providing entertainment for all ages. The stage serves as a gathering point where participants and visitors can laugh and forget the cold for a while.

Festival Arcades and Attractions For general visitors, attractions such as a snow slide, giant pinball game, and horseback riding are set up. These activities are designed to be enjoyed by children and adults alike. The slide is built from snow and ice, offering a thrilling ride as one speeds down the frozen slope. The arcade area includes classic games like shooting galleries and ring toss, creating a festive atmosphere for families.

Game Events and Prize Drawings Children's game events and prize drawings are held as regular parts of the program. The mascot characters Shibare-kun and Tsurara-chan play rock-paper-scissors with children, and a prize drawing uses tickets distributed to visitors. These activities create lasting memories for young festival-goers. The prize drawing takes place just before the closing ceremony, building excitement among participants.

Closing Ceremony with Mochi Throwing The festival concludes with a traditional mochi (rice cake) throwing ceremony. This is a celebration of the festival's end, where participants can catch and enjoy warm rice cakes. The mochi throwing marks the final moment of shared joy before everyone leaves the site.

Event Information and Access

• Dates: Held annually in early February on Saturday and Sunday. For the latest schedule and confirmation, please check the official website.
• Venue: Event Plaza (Uenbetsu, Rikubetsu Town, Ashoro County, Hokkaido).
• By Car: Approximately 10 minutes from Michi-no-Eki (Roadside Station) "Aurora Town 93 Rikubetsu". A free shuttle bus runs between the venue and the town office during the festival.
• Parking: Free parking available.
• Inquiries: Shibare Festival Executive Committee Office. Hours: 8:45 AM to 5:30 PM.
• Clothing and Gear: Complete cold-weather gear is essential: winter coat, gloves, hat, and hand warmers. Participants in the Human Cold Resistance Test must bring equipment specified by the organizers.

Surrounding Area

Rikubetsu Town is known as the coldest town in Japan, with winter temperatures sometimes dropping below minus 30 degrees Celsius. The town has a roadside station called "Aurora Town 93 Rikubetsu," where local agricultural products and processed goods are sold. This station also serves as a departure point for the free shuttle bus during the festival, making it a convenient base for visitors.

Rikubetsu is located in the eastern part of the Tokachi region, about 1.5 hours by car from Obihiro City. Nearby attractions include Lake Nukabira and the Taushubetsu River Bridge, though access can be limited in winter. The neighboring town of Ashoro operates a public hot spring facility, which is ideal for warming up after the festival.

Accommodation in Rikubetsu is limited, so early booking is essential during the festival period. For general visitors not participating in the Human Cold Resistance Test, a day trip from Obihiro is possible, but those staying for the evening fireworks must arrange their own transportation. Most visitors come by car, but road conditions can be icy, so winter tires are mandatory and carrying tire chains is recommended.

Related Information

• Human Cold Resistance Test Details: This is an overnight stay in ice igloos (Balloon Mansions). Advance registration is required and closes once capacity is reached. Early confirmation of the application period is recommended.
• Tent Camping Option: In recent years, a tent camping area has been added as an alternative. This also requires advance registration and has a set application period.
• Volunteer Information: The festival committee recruits volunteers to help with operations. Details are posted on the official website and social media channels such as Instagram.
• Climate Change Adaptation: Due to warming temperatures reducing ice availability, the committee has adjusted the number of igloos and introduced tent areas, showing flexible management.
• Media Coverage: The Hokkaido Shimbun newspaper, a co-organizer, provides pre-event information and on-site reports in print and digital formats.
• International Recognition: The festival is featured on the official Hokkaido tourism website "HOKKAIDO LOVE!" and is introduced to overseas tourists, including those from Taiwan.

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