Kai Alps, nestled within the Northern Alps in Nagano Prefecture’s Ōmachi Onsenkyō, will host its inaugural winter illumination event, “Snow Country Gangia Akari”, from 20 December 2025 to 28 February 2026.
Enjoy the enchanting snowy scenery along the illuminated covered walkway
The covered walkway of Kai Alps is the very picture of a “snow country post station”. This winter, warm lights will illuminate the walkway, transforming it into a fantastical corridor woven from snow and light. Snow will accumulate atop the walkway, allowing you to savour a luxurious Japanese snow scene. The gently falling snow, illuminated by the lights, will quietly colour the nostalgic night of the snow country.
Experience making a Kamakura snow lantern and lighting a candle within it
The ganki was once a place where children played in the snow and people fostered connections. At Kai Alps, we have prepared experiences unique to snow country, set within this ganki corridor. The “Kamakura Snow Lantern”, where guests craft their own miniature snow huts and light candles within them, further enhances the fantastical space woven by snow and light.
Mochi toasted over charcoal in the hearth and warmed sake
Beyond the snow-lit corridor of covered walkways lies a space warmed by the glow of a hearth fire. Here, you can experience roasting mochi over the charcoal embers of the hearth – a cherished tradition during Nagano’s cold winters. Savour Nagano’s typical square mochi accompanied by two types of miso made at local breweries: green onion miso and sesame-walnut miso. Nagano is particularly renowned as a prime walnut-producing region. It offers a moment to deeply appreciate the regional character.
Around the hearth, traditional crafts from the local Nagiso region, known as “Nagiso Neko”, are provided, designed to facilitate winter handicrafts. Some are made using Kai Alps original Shinshu tsumugi silk, allowing you to warm yourself while engaging with traditional rural activities. Warm sake is also available, offering a moment to warm not just your chilled body but your heart too.
Overview of 'Snow Country Lanterns'
| Period: |
20 December 2025 to 28 February 2026 |
| Fee: |
Free (participation limited to hotel guests) |
| Times: |
Kamakura snow lantern making: 16:00–, 16:30– (30 minutes each)
※Capacity: 10 groups of 20 people each
Light-up viewing: 19:00–20:00
Local Treats (Grilled Rice Cakes & Warmed Sake): 19:00–21:30 |
| Note: |
The experience may be unavailable depending on weather conditions and the state of the snow huts. |
＞Booking.
