Gosetsu Jam 2015

Although not as famous as its Sapporo counterpart, Niigata's Tokamachi Snow Festival is also worth a visit, if only for the cozy small-town atmosphere and this outdoor music bash, happening on the last day of the festival. Taking the stage among the snow sculptures and fireworks are artists like vocalist Mika Arisaka with jazz trio Cro-Magnon, funk-poppers Indus & Rocks and smooth post-rock quartet Jizue, while the 'stall village' sells everything from festival food and clothing to local produce. Remember to check the weather forecast before heading over – the elements forced a cancellation of last year's edition.