The “Yokote Snow Festival” held in Yokote City, Akita Prefecture, will feature the latest digital technology. The “Yokote Kizuna Project”, jointly planned by foriio Inc., Yokote City Tourism Association, and Kizuna AI Inc., will be held on February 13-14, 2026. This special project is an attempt to globally introduce regional charm in a new way by combining traditional “kamakura” snow houses with cutting-edge “VTuber” characters. For more details, visit the official website and X account.

Otherworldly Hospitality Experience with Giant Kamakura x VTuber

The highlight of the event is the opportunity for attendees to be welcomed in real-time by popular VTubers through monitors installed inside the larger-than-usual “giant kamakura”. The interaction with these characters using VR technology offers attendees a “mysterious experience where tradition and innovation merge”, providing newfound enjoyment.

The World Participates! “Yukinko Kizuna” Design Contest

Additionally, a design contest for the official mascot of the snow festival, “Yukinko Kizuna”, was held and the winning designs announced. The grand prize-winning design, “Snow Crystal and Kamakura”, was created by the popular illustrator Ikomochi, garnering high praise. These art pieces are displayed in the east-west free passage of Yokote Station, delighting visitors.

Special Items Born from Collaboration

During the event, various official goods featuring “Yukinko Kizuna” and an original Junmai Ginjo sake in collaboration with Asamai Brewery Co., Ltd., “Tennoto Brewmaster”, will be available for purchase. The specially labeled sake is sure to be a delightful souvenir.

Talk Session Discussing the Future of Entertainment x Regional Revitalization

Furthermore, on the second day of the event, February 14, a talk session themed “The Future of Entertainment x Regional Revitalization” will be held at Yokote City Exchange Center Y2 Plaza. Diverse guests will share the latest information on business and production. For more details and to register for participation, please check here.

Impressions and Outlook

The “Yokote Kizuna Project” demonstrated a new way of linking rural areas with digital entertainment. This bold initiative offers an excellent opportunity to preserve and communicate regional cultural heritage with the world. We look forward to seeing such efforts spread globally and become established as a new model for regional revitalization.

Source: PR TIMES