Winter in Japan is not severe and varies by location. On the Pacific coast the climate tends to be dry, and the skies are frequently blue. The southern regions of Japan like Kyushu have mild and even warm weather. In the North, in areas like Hokkaido and the central mountain ranges, the winter is very cold with plenty of snow. Each year Hokkaido hosts the Sapporo Snow Festival, which features giant, intricately carved snow sculptures. The sculptures attract nearly 2 million people every year.
Warm clothes such as coats, sweaters, and boots are a necessity for winter.