Kamakura Snow Festival

Yokote Japan is a place where you will find little snow caves built by children. A straw mat will be placed on the floor of the snow hut that resembles an igloo. A hibachi which is a charcoal stove is used to keep the hut warm. The hibachi is also used to heat soup and tea. Families will visit each other's snow caves as well. 

We all know that snow and ice is cold but it can keep you warm. How is this done?? The snow and ice will block out the cold winds and insulate you from cold outside temperatures. The candle or hibachi provides a source of heat that will warm the air inside the snow hut. Think of the snow as a sleeping bag or blanket, it keeps the warm air in and cold air out. The smaller the hut the easier it is to warm up. In a tiny snow cave your body heat may be all that is needed.