Snow in Osaka is rare this time of year, but the organizers of the Umeda Snowman Festival aren't going to let that stop them from trying to create a winter wonderland.
The event, which takes place in the city's Umeda district, is ideal for families. There will be many activities, including a workshop where visitors can make their own wreaths, snow globes or Frosty the Snowman ornaments. There will also be dance and music performances twice a day on weekends and holidays.
Another activity is the Snowman Rally, which consists of 30 locations set up throughout the area where patrons can collect stamps. Participants who collect all 30 qualify to enter a raffle to win prizes such as gift certificates and concert tickets.
There are more coupons to be won as part of a photography competition that hopes to find the best shot at the festival, with a new camera as the top prize.
To further set the yuletide mood, a collection of drawings titled "Snowman 99 Stories" will be projected onto the surface of Osaka Station's North Gate Building. The 99 pieces that make up the project were submitted by local students.
The Umeda Snowman Festival takes place through Dec. 25 around the Umeda District of Kita-ku, Osaka. It is open from 11 a.m. till 10 p.m. (special event times may vary). For more information, visit www.umeda-connect.jp.