The Tree Soul Festival began in 1971, when a large Katsura tree was decorated with a Tree Soul Dragon and paraded through the town. The legendary dragon that has lived in the Hidaka Mountains since ancient times is regarded as a guardian deity, and people give thanks to the trees of the forest. Through the Tree Soul Festival, the spirits of the trees of the Hidaka mountains that have been protected by the dragon are passed on to future generations.

It is a popular event that anyone can participate in and experience, and you can enjoy a variety of events such as a delicious food market including local products, traditional performing arts and stage performances, and a spectacular fireworks display launched from the slopes of Hidaka International Ski Resort.