Japan’s Snowbombing Returns.
This March, Snow Machine drops back into Japan, blending high-energy beats, deep powder, and mountain vibes into one unforgettable week. Set across Hakuba Valley and Myoko Kogen, this isn’t just a music festival—it’s a full-blown alpine escape with turntables in the snow and après-ski parties that go until sunrise. Whether you’re a raver, skier, or both, this is a festival that cuts through the noise and carves out something seriously unique.
Snow Machine Festival 2025 dates and mountain venues
Split across two of Japan’s most iconic ski areas, Snow Machine 2025 runs from March 4–9:
- Hakuba Valley: March 4–6
- Myoko Kogen: March 7–9
This dual-destination setup lets you pick your vibe or take on both. Think endless snow, open-air stages, powder for days, and a community of partygoers from around the world. Each location offers a slightly different flavour—but the energy stays sky-high from start to finish.
Peggy Gou, Foals and the Snow Machine 2025 lineup
This year’s lineup delivers a proper genre blend—house, techno, indie, and beyond. Headliners include Peggy Gou, DJ Snake, and UK festival mainstays Foals, supported by a rotating cast of live acts and late-night selectors.
Half the sets happen up on the slopes—literally on the mountain—with stage builds carved into the snow. Expect sunrise sets on the piste, dusk raves under falling snow, and a serious sound system to match the altitude. Whether you’re dancing on skis or in snow boots, this is peak-stage magic.
Festival extras in Hakuba Valley: beyond the music
Hakuba is more than just a ski town—it’s a cultural pocket with serious depth. During the festival, you’ll find Japanese drumming sessions, sushi-making classes, and street food stalls dishing out takoyaki, ramen, and local sake. It’s part of what makes Snow Machine so immersive—you’re not just dancing, you’re stepping into a layered Japanese winter world.
Ski and snowboard schools offer beginner-friendly courses, and gear rentals make it easy for first-timers to hit the slopes. For more relaxed moments, slip into a traditional onsen and soak under the snow.
Why Myoko Kogen makes this two-stop tour essential
If Hakuba is the high-energy opening, Myoko Kogen is the deep-cut closing chapter. Known for its heavier snowfall, fewer tourists, and old-school onsens, Myoko adds a chilled intensity to the lineup. The stages here are more intimate but no less wild, with hidden parties popping up in forest clearings and lodge rooftops.
Off the dancefloor, the terrain is ideal for off-piste adventure. Tree runs, powder bowls, and long glides keep adrenaline high, while natural hot springs wind you down before the next night kicks in.
Final words on Snow Machine Festival 2025: Japan’s Snowbombing Returns
Snow Machine Festival 2025 brings together two ski resorts, dozens of artists, and a global crowd chasing beats and snow. With performances on the peaks, immersive cultural moments, and a setup that lets you build your own adventure, it’s not just a festival—it’s a full-on alpine experience. Whether you’re there for the music, the mountains, or the madness between, Snow Machine proves that some of the best festivals happen below freezing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Snow Machine Festival 2025 happening?
It takes place in Hakuba Valley and Myoko Kogen, two major ski resorts in Japan.
What are the dates for Snow Machine 2025?
March 4–6 in Hakuba, and March 7–9 in Myoko.
Who’s performing at the festival?
Peggy Gou, DJ Snake, and Foals are headlining, with many more artists across genres.
Is the festival suitable for beginner skiers?
Yes. Both venues offer lessons, rentals, and beginner-friendly slopes.
Can I attend both locations?
Absolutely. Many festival goers travel from Hakuba to Myoko to do the full six-day run.
