Where the weather shapes the human spirit...

Yukiguni, or the “Snow Country,” is a place where winter not only carves the landscape but also shapes the thoughts and spirit of the people who have chosen to live in its harsh conditions. In the region stretching from Niigata Prefecture through Nagano to Gunma, life is dictated by the rhythm of endless snowfall and relentless winter weather. For the residents of Yukiguni, snow is not just a natural element but an inseparable part of their identity—something that shapes their way of thinking, their values, and even their dreams. This unique environment of deep winter has created a distinctive philosophy of life and culture that is full of both simplicity and depth, humility and courage. To understand how people in Yukiguni live, we must first understand how they see the world—from a perspective that blends modernity with ancient traditions, respect for nature with acceptance of its inevitable forces.

The philosophy of life in Yukiguni can be described as the “wisdom of snow.” It is the awareness that life is a constant balancing act between control and surrender to the inevitable. Every snowstorm, every icy wind reminds the residents that there are forces greater than human desires and capabilities. In this continuous struggle with nature—not to conquer it, but to learn to coexist with it—the people of Yukiguni have found simplicity, humility, and deep respect for the world around them. This philosophy is a lesson in acceptance and flexibility, in the art of finding beauty and peace in everyday, challenging conditions. In an age when technology often seems to promise us control over every aspect of our lives, the people of Yukiguni remind us that true wisdom comes from learning to live in harmony with nature, not against it.

The rich culture of Yukiguni—from the legends of Yuki Otoko to unique crafts and unparalleled winter festivals—reflects the spiritual depth of this place and its inhabitants. It is here, in the shadow of snow-covered mountains and amidst endless forests, that stories and works of art are created that capture the essence of life in the “Snow Country.” Life here is not just about the daily struggle for survival, but also deep reflections on the meaning of existence in difficult conditions that force introspection and a constant search for harmony.

So, I invite you on a journey to Yukiguni—a place that not only wraps us in its cold, deep, white blanket but also, if we listen carefully, reveals some secrets about how we can see life and the world differently.

What Does Yukiguni Mean and Where Is It?

The term “Yukiguni” (雪国) literally means “Snow Country,” consisting of two kanji characters: 雪 (yuki), meaning “snow,” and 国 (kuni), meaning “country” or “land.” Yukiguni refers to the areas located in the northeastern part of Japan, mainly in the prefectures of Niigata, Nagano, and Gunma. Due to its specific climate and geographical location, this region is known for its long, snowy winters that last for many months, distinguishing it from other parts of Japan.

The climate of Yukiguni is characterized by an exceptional abundance of snow. Air masses from Siberia carry moisture from the Sea of Japan, leading to intense snowfall in the region. Snow often accumulates to several meters in height, affecting every aspect of life—from construction and transportation to daily activities. Residents must adapt their homes to harsh conditions, for example, by building steep roofs to prevent snow accumulation and using special heating techniques, such as yukimuro—natural “snow refrigerators” that help store food during the winter. Winter in Yukiguni is not just a challenge; for many, it is the essence of their cultural and life identity, based on cooperation with nature rather than overcoming it.

One of the most fascinating aspects of Yukiguni is how it differs from other regions at the same latitude. At 37 degrees north latitude, this region is at the same latitude as cities like Lisbon, Sicily, Athens, and San Francisco. However, unlike these places, which enjoy a mild climate, Yukiguni is known for its harsh, long winters and heavy snowfall. This contrasting geographical position creates unique climatic conditions that shape the lives and culture of its inhabitants. Yukiguni is a world of its own—a place where nature sets the conditions, and humans must learn to accept and adapt their lives to the rhythm dictated by snow and winter.

Life in the Snowdrifts

In Yukiguni (雪国), buried under a thick layer of snow for many months of the year, life has been shaped by the shadow of harsh nature for centuries. Winter here is not just a season of cold—it is a dominant force that shapes both the landscape and the mentality of its inhabitants. This cold climate, which affects every aspect of life, is not just a physical challenge but, more importantly, a profound test of endurance and character. The people of Yukiguni, since ancient times, like the Jomon period, have learned how to survive in conditions that require constant adaptation and symbiosis with nature. This is a place where snow is not an enemy but a partner in everyday life.

A unique philosophy of life has emerged in Yukiguni, which naturally connects people with the surrounding world, its cycle of life and death, with the harshness and beauty of winter. What for many others would be an obstacle has become here a source of wisdom and reflection. As an old saying from this region goes:

"Yuki no naka ni koso, ki ga sodatsu"
(雪の中にこそ、木が育つ)
"It is in the snow that trees grow."

This proverb reflects the philosophy of the people of Yukiguni—difficulties are inevitable, but it is precisely these challenges that can become the foundation for growth and development, both for trees and for people.

Living in the constant presence of snow and ice shapes a specific way of thinking—one that accepts the inevitability of natural forces but also sees them as partners rather than adversaries. The people of Yukiguni understand that snow, which can paralyze daily life, is also a source of inspiration and beauty. Instead of fighting the winter, they have learned to live with it, finding peace and harmony within it. Snow, while it can ruin plans, also acts as a veil that shields their world from the noise of modernity, allowing them to reflect and live in a rhythm that is not disrupted by the rush and the garish distractions that we know in our world of better weather.

Perseverance, adaptation, and community are the cornerstones of Yukiguni culture. In a region where solitude can be deadly, the community plays a crucial role in survival. The snow that cuts off roads and separates from the outside world simultaneously brings people closer together. This shared experience of harsh winter, the necessity of mutual help, and sharing resources create strong social bonds. In places like Akiyama-go, where the Matagi—traditional hunters—still hunt according to ancient customs, community and tradition drive life. Adaptation here becomes an art of living—the inhabitants learn to make use of what nature provides, even if it is harsh and demanding. They use snow not only for building igloos or preserving food in natural refrigerators but also for maintaining the quality of their famous sake, which ferments at a constant, low snow temperature, gaining a unique flavor.

The philosophy of life in Yukiguni is also an art of appreciating simplicity and humility. In a region where harsh nature sets the limits of human capabilities, the inhabitants learn that less is more. This simplicity is not a choice but a necessity, which becomes a source of deep wisdom. Understanding that not everything is in our hands brings relief and peace.

“Mizu no you ni, yuki no you ni”
(水のように、雪のように)
“Like water, like snow”

—says another local maxim, reminding us of the necessity to be like these elements: flexible, adaptable, yet full of strength. This is what you have to be in Yukiguni. And I think it’s good to be like that even in our overstimulated world.

Life in Yukiguni in Practice

Everyday life in Yukiguni is a constant struggle against the cold, snow, and harsh climatic conditions that shape the daily lives of its inhabitants. Homes in Yukiguni are built with the aim of surviving harsh winters; traditional wooden houses, known as kominka, are equipped with raised floors and irori—open hearths that provide warmth and serve as the center of domestic life. The roofs of the houses have steep slopes, allowing snow to slide off easily, and windows and doors are specially sealed to protect the interiors from wind and cold. Heating is a key element of daily life, with traditional methods such as burning wood in stoves and fireplaces being complemented by modern underfloor heating systems that draw energy from local geothermal resources.

Agriculture in Yukiguni is adapted to harsh winter conditions. The people of this region are experts in growing crops that are resistant to low temperatures, such as “yukishita ninjin”—carrots that grow under the snow. The snow protects them from frost and pests and triggers chemical reactions that make the vegetables sweeter and richer in nutrients. Additionally, wild mountain vegetation, known as sansai, is a popular staple in the local diet.

Winter survival also depends on food preservation skills. Residents use various traditional methods, such as yukimuro—natural snow refrigerators where vegetables, fruits, and sake are stored. The snow maintains a constant, low temperature, allowing long-term food storage without the need for electricity. Pickling and drying are other important techniques; pickled nozawana radishes, dried persimmons, and other vegetables are not only practical but also symbolic, reflecting the spirit of survival and the ability to fully utilize natural resources.

In Yukiguni, the importance of community cannot be overstated. In a harsh climate where snow can cut off access to the outside world for months on end, mutual assistance and support are crucial. Traditions such as collectively preparing winter supplies, organizing winter festivals like the Echigo Urasa Naked Festival, or practicing Zen meditation together build strong social bonds. This communal approach to life helps residents survive the harshest winters and celebrates traditions that have endured for generations.

Gastronomy of Yukiguni

The cuisine of Yukiguni reflects the harsh living conditions in this region, as well as its natural abundance. One of the most traditional dishes of the region is kirizai—a bowl of rice with toppings such as natto (fermented soybeans), takuan (pickled daikon radish), and nozawana (pickled mountain radish). This dish is not only healthy but also symbolic, showing how the people of Yukiguni can use local resources to create something simple yet full of flavor.

Fermented foods, known as hakkou shokuhin (発酵食品), play a crucial role in the diet of Yukiguni's residents. Pickling, fermenting, and drying are techniques that not only allow for the preservation of food through long winters but also enhance the taste and nutritional value of dishes. For example, local sake stored in yukimuro (snow cellars) gains a unique flavor and aroma due to the fermentation process, which is aided by the low, constant temperature of the snow.

In the region, there are many restaurants that promote traditional Yukiguni cuisine, such as Satoyama Jujo, where dishes are prepared with local ingredients. Another example is Irori Jinen, which offers dishes made from wild plants and mountain vegetables gathered according to tradition. These restaurants not only offer local delicacies but also preserve and promote the unique culinary culture of this region, allowing guests to experience the true taste of Yukiguni.

Literature and Legends of Yukiguni

A Classic of Snow Literature

Literature always plays an important role in documenting and transmitting information about the way of life of the world's peoples, and it is no different in the case of Yukiguni. One of the most significant literary works that reflects life in this region is "Hokuetsu Seppu" (北越雪譜) by Bokushi Suzuki. First published in 1837, this collection of stories and essays serves as a compendium of knowledge about the daily life, customs, beliefs, and practices of the inhabitants of the "Snow Country." Suzuki, born in Minamiuonuma, was not only a writer but also an active community member (he was a fabric trader), which allowed him to deeply understand and describe life in Yukiguni from both a cultural and economic perspective.

In "Hokuetsu Seppu" (北越雪譜), Suzuki presents many aspects of life in Yukiguni, including methods for coping with harsh winter conditions, such as building snow-resistant houses and food preservation techniques. He also describes local celebrations, such as winter festivals, and legends that are still alive in oral tradition. His works not only document daily life but also illustrate the philosophy of the residents, who have learned to accept and coexist with the forces of nature. "Hokuetsu Seppu" has inspired many later authors and is still valued both in Japan and worldwide for its literary and cultural significance.

The Legend of the "Japanese Yeti"

One of the most famous legends from Yukiguni is the story of "Yuki Otoko" (雪男), or the "Japanese Yeti." This tale of a mysterious, enormous creature covered in white fur, said to inhabit the mountainous regions of the "Snow Country," is the Japanese equivalent of Western myths about the Yeti or Bigfoot. In the legends, Yuki Otoko is often depicted as a gentle giant who helps lost travelers survive in the mountains, although the story is sometimes used to scare misbehaving children. Despite its mystery, this myth reflects local beliefs in mutual support and coexistence with nature. The story of Yuki Otoko is so popular that it has found a place in pop culture, appearing in popular anime and games like "Yo-kai Watch."

The Legend of the Abbot Hokko

Another fascinating figure from the literature and legends of Yukiguni is Abbot Hokko of the Untoan temple in Minamiuonuma. Hokko, who lived in the 16th century, was known for his spiritual powers and became the subject of many local legends. One of them describes how Hokko confronted a demon Kasha—a giant cat with a flaming tail that disrupted a funeral procession. According to the story, Hokko faced the demon during a snowstorm and ultimately defeated it using his sacred powers. Relics associated with Hokko, including his allegedly magical robes, are still kept at Untoan, where they are considered sacred.

"Snow Country"

The influence of Yukiguni's literature extends beyond the region, shaping the perception of the "Snow Country" both in Japan and around the world. Works such as "Hokuetsu Seppu" not only attracted the attention of cultural scholars but also inspired writers and artists to explore themes related to life in harsh conditions. An example is Nobel laureate Yasunari Kawabata, whose novel "Snow Country" (雪国, "Yukiguni") is a tribute to the region and its unique atmosphere. Kawabata, inspired by Bokushi Suzuki's works, captured the essence of Yukiguni—its beauty, harshness, and philosophy of life—in his book, for which he was awarded the Nobel Prize. For readers who have become interested in the topic, Kawabata's book seems the most natural starting point. Especially since it is available in Polish.

Yukiguni is Japan—so there is no shortage of matsuri

Tokamachi Snow Festival (十日町雪まつり)

Second weekend of February

Tokamachi, Niigata Prefecture

The Tokamachi Snow Festival is one of the most famous events in the Yukiguni region. Held annually in February, this festival attracts thousands of tourists who come to admire the spectacular ice and snow sculptures set up at various sites throughout the city of Tokamachi. The sculptures, often inspired by local legends, characters from Japanese culture, and popular motifs of contemporary pop culture, can reach gigantic sizes and are illuminated with colorful lights, giving them a magical appearance at night.

In addition to the sculptures, the festival offers a wide range of attractions, such as fireworks displays, performances by traditional dance and music groups, competitions, and the opportunity to enjoy local hot springs (onsen). The festival is also an opportunity to sample local delicacies such as kirizai (a mix of rice and vegetables) and traditional sake. The Tokamachi Snow Festival not only celebrates winter but also showcases how the people of Yukiguni can transform harsh climatic conditions into a celebration full of joy, creativity, and community spirit.

Echigo Urasa Naked Festival (越後浦佐裸押合大祭)

First Saturday of March

Urasa, Minamiuonuma, Niigata Prefecture

The Echigo Urasa Naked Festival, also known as "Hadaka Matsuri," is one of those stranger festivals in Yukiguni for us foreigners. Its history dates back over 1,200 years, and the main purpose of the festival is to pay homage to Bishamonten, one of the Four Heavenly Kings of Buddhism, considered the deity of protection and wealth. The festival takes place in the winter scenery of Bishamondo Temple in Urasa, where thousands of men dressed only in traditional loincloths (fundoshi) gather to participate in ritual struggles.

The main part of the festival involves crowds of semi-naked participants trying to reach the "sacred gate" of the temple, symbolizing spiritual and physical strength and purification. Participants raise loud shouts meant to ward off evil spirits, and the entire atmosphere of the event is full of energy. The Echigo Urasa Naked Festival is an example of a unique way of celebrating Yukiguni's culture and traditions, combining spiritual, historical, and sporting elements, making it one of the most characteristic events in the region.

Mukonage and Suminuri Festival (婿投げ・墨塗り)

January 15th

Matsunoyama Onsen, Tokamachi, Niigata Prefecture

Mukonage and Suminuri are two combined festivals held in the small mountain village of Matsunoyama Onsen. "Mukonage" literally means "throwing the groom" and is an ancient ritual in which newlyweds are symbolically thrown from a small hill into the snow by local residents. This act is believed to bring luck and purification to both the newlyweds and their families. Although this custom may seem unusual, it reflects the humor and community spirit of the region's inhabitants.

"Suminuri," on the other hand, is the part of the festival where residents, painted black with soot, walk around the village touching people they meet, symbolizing the transfer of happiness and prosperity for the coming year. Both traditions are deeply rooted in local beliefs and practices, serving as a testament to the living culture and traditions of Yukiguni. The festival attracts both local residents and tourists who want to experience an authentic, traditional Japanese festival in a winter setting.

Snowy Reflections

Yukiguni, the "Snow Country," is a place that seems isolated and harsh, yet it holds a deep, almost mystical connection with nature. It is precisely in this harsh climate that people have found not only a way to survive but also a philosophy that teaches acceptance, patience, and humility. In Yukiguni, winter is not just a season; it is a teacher, a spiritual guide, and an inseparable companion. Here, one learns to live in harmony with what is immutable and powerful while finding joy in simple, everyday moments—the warmth of a fire in a home hearth, the taste of fermented radish, the snow sculpture carved at a festival.

For the modern person, who often does not even realize in the hustle, rush, and noise of colorful modern life what silence and true peace in life are, and that they have lost such a thing altogether—Yukiguni offers a valuable lesson. It shows that in one of the most modern countries in the world, it is possible to live in harmony with nature on a level much deeper and more honest than what is usually "promoted" to us. This place is a reminder that to truly understand yourself and your place in the world, sometimes you need to pause and open yourself to the lessons that come from nature—even if it means living with some weather inconveniences.

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 A connoisseur of Asian culture with a deep-seated appreciation for various philosophies of the world. By education, psychologist and Korean philologist. By heart, an Android developer and an ardent tech aficionado. In tranquil moments, he champions a disciplined way of life, firmly believing that steadfastness, perpetual self-enhancement, and a dedication to one's passions is a sensible path for life.

Personnal Motto:

"The most powerful force in the universe is compound interest."  - Albert Einstein (possibly)

  Mike Soray

(aka Michał Sobieraj)

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