Overview
The National Snow Mountain Thanksgiving Festival is a cherished winter tradition held annually at the Kurumayama Shrine, a sacred site perched 1,925 meters above sea level in Nagano Prefecture. Often referred to as the shrine in the sky, this location provides breathtaking, panoramic vistas of the Japan Alps and, on days with clear weather, the iconic silhouette of Mount Fuji. The festival serves as a profound way to honor Japan’s ancient history of mountain worship while offering collective gratitude for the snowy peaks and the natural bounty they provide to the region.
The shrine’s spiritual significance dates back centuries, with roots extending to the Jomon period, making it a site of deep cultural reverence. Historically, the local community has gathered here to offer prayers for safety, particularly focusing on those participating in winter sports like skiing, snowboarding, and climbing. These ceremonies underscore the inherent risks of mountain activities and promote a vital message of respect for the natural environment, blending spiritual devotion with a celebration of the winter season.
Participants begin the day with a serene purification ceremony held near the Kurumayama Kogen Sky Park Ski Resort lift station, followed by the main thanksgiving event at the shrine itself. As a symbolic token of the shrine’s blessings, attendees receive a complimentary Tenku Mairi sticker, which has become a popular keepsake for those who make the journey. The festival is a perfect blend of solemnity and festive spirit, inviting nature lovers and winter sports enthusiasts alike to experience the quiet beauty of the Nagano highlands.
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Event Highlights
- Participate in a traditional purification ceremony at the base of the Kurumayama Kogen Sky Park before ascending to the shrine.
- Witness the solemn and beautiful thanksgiving rituals performed at the high-altitude shrine to pray for safety during the winter season.
- Enjoy spectacular, unobstructed views of the Japan Alps and Mount Fuji from the vantage point of the shrine in the sky.
- Receive an exclusive and complimentary Tenku Mairi sticker as a commemorative symbol of the festival’s blessings and your visit.
Why Attend
This festival is ideal for those who wish to experience an authentic side of Japanese mountain culture that combines spiritual heritage with the beauty of a high-altitude winter landscape. It is particularly rewarding for winter sports enthusiasts who want to partake in a traditional prayer for safety before hitting the slopes, as well as for photographers and nature lovers seeking unique views in a tranquil setting.
The benefits of attending extend beyond the ceremony itself; it is a chance to slow down and appreciate the majesty of the Nagano highlands. Visitors often find that the combination of crisp mountain air, the peaceful atmosphere of the shrine, and the shared sense of gratitude among participants provides a refreshing perspective, making it a memorable highlight of any winter travel itinerary.
Date & Duration
- Event Date: Mid December 2026
- Event Duration: One day
Visiting this event? Don’t miss out on these amazing activities and local experiences while you’re here.
Ticket Information
- How Tickets Are Sold: This is a public religious and cultural event held at an open shrine site; no tickets or reservations are required for general attendance.
- Admission Type: Open public access for all visitors.
- Ticket Pricing: Free Admission.
- Special Seating Options: As this is a traditional outdoor shrine setting, there is no formal or reserved seating provided for attendees.
- VIP Options: There are no VIP tiers or exclusive access packages for this event; it is open equally to all participants.
Venue / Location
- City and Country: Chino, Japan
- Venue Name: Kurumayama Shrine
- Google Maps Address: 3413 Kitayama, Chino, Nagano 391-0301, Japan
Contact Information
- Official Website: https://en.japantravel.com/nagano/national-snow-mountain-thanksgiving-festival/71125
Accommodation Options:
The area surrounding the Kurumayama Highlands offers a variety of accommodations ranging from traditional mountain inns to modern ski resorts. Staying locally provides the best opportunity to experience the early morning mountain air and ensures you are well-positioned for the start of the festival ceremonies.
Many lodges in the vicinity feature soothing hot springs, which are highly recommended for warming up after spending time in the high-altitude winter climate. Whether you are looking for a rustic experience close to nature or the amenities of a resort, the local hospitality is well-suited to winter travelers.
Getting There
- Nearest Airport: Matsumoto Airport is the closest regional airport, though international travelers often arrive via Tokyo or Nagoya airports.
- Nearest Train/Metro Station: JR Chino Station on the Chuo Main Line.
- Bus Routes or Public Transport Options: Local bus services operate from JR Chino Station directly to the Kurumayama area, with a travel time of approximately one hour.
- Parking Availability: Public parking is available at the base of the Kurumayama Kogen Sky Park for those traveling by car.
- Directions by Car: Take the Chuo Expressway to the Suwa Minami Interchange, then follow National Route 152 and the Venus Line for approximately 50 minutes.
Dining Recommendations
- Breakfast Recommendations:
- Hotel-served traditional Japanese breakfasts featuring seasonal mountain vegetables and local rice.
- Warm coffee and light pastries at cafes near the ski resort base.
- Hearty miso-based soups served at local inns to start the day.
- Lunch Recommendations:
- Warm udon or soba noodle bowls at restaurants near the Kurumayama Kogen area.
- Freshly prepared curry and rice dishes available at ski resort canteens.
- Local specialty set meals featuring grilled river fish or Nagano-grown produce.
- Dinner Recommendations:
- Izakaya-style establishments in Chino town serving grilled skewers and hot pot dishes.
- Upscale mountain lodges offering multi-course seasonal dinners.
- Casual dining spots in the Shirakaba Lake area providing comfort food and warm atmosphere.
- Local Specialties to Try:
- Shinshu Soba, which is famous throughout the Nagano region for its high quality.
- Oyaki, a traditional Japanese dumpling filled with savory ingredients like pumpkin or miso-eggplant.
- Locally sourced Shinshu apples and apple-based desserts.
What is this event?
The National Snow Mountain Thanksgiving Festival is an annual winter event at Kurumayama Shrine that honors Japan’s long-standing tradition of mountain worship. It serves as a spiritual gathering to pray for safety for all winter sports enthusiasts and nature lovers.
The festival brings people together to express gratitude for the snowy peaks that sustain the region throughout the year. It provides a unique opportunity for participants to witness age-old rituals in a breathtaking, high-altitude setting.
Why is it popular?
The festival is popular for its unique location at the 1,925-meter-high Kurumayama Shrine, which offers some of the most stunning views in the Japan Alps. Many visitors are drawn to the rare chance to view Mount Fuji while participating in a traditional, culturally rich ceremony.
It is also highly valued by the winter sports community as a symbolic start to the season where they can seek blessings and safety. The combination of spiritual tradition, scenic beauty, and the iconic Tenku Mairi sticker keeps people returning every year.
Tips before you go
- Wear high-quality winter gear, including heavy coats, gloves, and hats, as temperatures at 1,925 meters are significantly lower than in the town below.
- Choose sturdy, waterproof boots with good grip, as pathways around the shrine and ski area can be slippery due to packed snow and ice.
- Check the weather forecast for the Nagano highlands the day before; clear weather is essential for seeing Mount Fuji.
- Carry a portable power bank, as cold temperatures can significantly reduce the battery life of smartphones and cameras.
- Plan to arrive at the base station early to allow sufficient time for the travel and potential queues for the lift or shuttle services.
Tips for First-Time Visitors
- Allocate extra time to explore the beautiful Lake Shirakaba area, which is located nearby and offers a tranquil contrast to the mountain peaks.
- Familiarize yourself with the bus schedule from JR Chino Station in advance, as departures to the highlands are limited during the winter months.
- Visit the local hot springs (onsen) after the festival to experience the quintessential Japanese way to relax after time in the snow.
- Respect the shrine environment by keeping voices low and following all instructions provided by the shrine staff during the ceremonies.
- Capture photos of the Tenku Mairi sticker against the backdrop of the snow-capped mountains to create a perfect memory of your visit.
Attendee Experiences
- Standing at the shrine while looking out over the Japan Alps was a deeply spiritual and unforgettable experience for me.
- The purification ceremony felt very authentic and gave me a great sense of peace before heading out to the ski slopes for the rest of my trip.
- I loved the view of Mount Fuji in the distance; it was absolutely worth the cold hike up to the shrine to see it in person.
Location
FAQ
What is the significance of the purification ceremony?
The ceremony is a ritual intended to cleanse participants of negativity and prepare them spiritually for the mountain activities ahead. By purifying the mind and body, visitors show respect to the mountain deities and seek protection for a safe and prosperous winter season.
Is the hike to the shrine difficult during the winter?
While the shrine is accessible, the winter conditions can make the path snowy and icy, requiring appropriate footwear and a moderate level of physical fitness. It is recommended that visitors move slowly and use the designated paths to ensure their safety on the mountain trails.
Can I buy food and souvenirs at the shrine?
The shrine itself is primarily a place of worship and does not operate as a commercial site with food vendors or souvenir shops. Visitors should plan to purchase snacks and gifts in the nearby resort area or at the base of the mountain before beginning their ascent.
How should I prepare for the weather at such high altitude?
The temperature at the Kurumayama Shrine can be extremely cold, often accompanied by strong mountain winds, making proper layering essential. It is best to wear thermal base layers, a wind-resistant outer shell, and ensure that all exposed skin is covered to prevent frostbite and maintain comfort.
Is this festival suitable for families with children?
Yes, the festival is a family-friendly event, and many families attend to introduce children to Japanese traditions and mountain culture. However, parents should ensure their children are dressed appropriately for extreme cold and are capable of navigating the snowy conditions safely.
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