Hokkaido Winter Dreamy Illumination Day Tour | Blue Pond & Ningle Terrace Dual Illumination Festival, Shikisai-no-oka Snow Park, Shirahige Waterfall, and Christmas Tree Sightseeing
- Winter Shikisai-no-oka: Experience the snow park activities at your own expense and feel the thrill and purity of the vast powder snow.
- Biei Twilight Christmas Tree: Head to the famous Christmas tree in the evening, presenting the softest winter tones intertwined with the sunset and snow.
- Shirahige Waterfall Blue Light: Feel the beauty of the pale blue light of the waterfall on a winter night.
- Biei Blue Pond Illumination: After nightfall, visit the winter illumination of the Blue Pond, where the blue light on the lake surface and the silver-white of the waterfall intersect, as if stepping into a fantasy world.
- Ningle Terrace Illumination: Finally, stroll through the Ningle Terrace in the forest town, surrounded by warm light, and feel the most healing moment of a northern winter night.
- Biei Station Sightseeing: Stroll through the town of Biei and feel the leisurely, quiet atmosphere and unique streetscapes.
Package Options
Product Info
- Attraction Introduction -
- 【Shikisai-no-oka Snow Park】
In winter, Shikisai-no-oka transforms into a vast snowfield, offering breathtaking views of Hokkaido's magnificent snowy landscapes and rolling hills. The park features seasonal winter activities such as snowmobiling and sledding, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the charm of Hokkaido's winter wonderland.
※ From mid-to-late December, you can enjoy snowmobiling at 'Shikisai-no-oka' for an additional fee—it is thrilling and fun! Even if you are a beginner, snowmobiling is easy to pick up, letting you enjoy the excitement of racing across the snow.
※ Shikisai-no-oka will be closed from December 31, 2025, to January 1, 2026. The route will be adjusted accordingly, and the specific arrangements will be subject to the actual conditions on the day.
- 【Biei - Christmas Tree】
In the evening, we will visit the iconic Hokkaido landmark, the 'Christmas Tree.' Standing alone in the snowfield, it looks like a scene from a postcard under the glow of the sunset. The golden twilight and snow-covered hills create a romantic atmosphere, making it a must-visit spot for photography enthusiasts.
- 【Shirahige Waterfall - Winter Blue Illumination】
On winter nights, Shirahige Waterfall reveals a mysterious charm under soft blue lighting. The waterfall cascades down from the cliffs, blending with the ice and snow to create a dreamlike landscape. The blue and white tones evoke the unique tranquility of a Hokkaido winter, making the night atmosphere particularly enchanting.
- 【Biei Blue Pond - Winter Limited Illumination】
As night falls, we will visit the Biei Blue Pond, which features a special winter illumination. The pond glows with a deep blue light, reflecting the snow-covered forest as if you have stepped into a fairy tale. The serene and magical atmosphere makes it one of the most iconic night views in Hokkaido during winter.
- 【Ningle Terrace - Winter Illumination】
Finally, we arrive at the popular 'Ningle Terrace' nestled in the forests of Furano. Small wooden cabins are scattered throughout the snowy woods, with warm yellow lights illuminating the forest, creating a fairy-tale and healing atmosphere. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll and shop for handmade crafts, bringing a warm conclusion to the journey.
- 【Important Notes | Seasonal Lighting Differences】
Daylight hours in Hokkaido during winter vary by month.
From late November to December, the sun sets earlier, so some attractions may have a more pronounced nighttime atmosphere. After January, daylight hours gradually increase, and the scenery will lean more towards bright, snowy vistas.
Please be aware that the actual scenery may vary depending on weather, snowfall, and on-site lighting conditions. We appreciate your understanding.
【Shikisai-no-oka】In winter, it transforms into a vast, pure white snow park. One of the most popular experiences is the 'Snowmobile.' Ride a snowmobile across the magnificent snowfields, breathe in the crisp Hokkaido air, and enjoy the winter charm woven by speed and snowy landscapes.
【Christmas Tree】When the sunset hits, golden light reflects on the pure white snow, creating a classic postcard-like scene. The quiet atmosphere exclusive to winter attracts countless photography enthusiasts.
【Shirahige Waterfall Illumination】During winter, the waterfall presents a dreamy and mysterious northern atmosphere under the reflection of ice, snow, and blue lights. The pure white snow scene combined with the deep blue stream is known as one of the most iconic winter night views in Biei.
【Biei Blue Pond Illumination】Exudes a dreamy blue light under the illumination, like a mysterious secret realm in the ice and snow. The snow-covered larch trees and the pond water interweave into a rich, layered blue and white landscape, creating the quiet atmosphere unique to Hokkaido winter nights.
【Ningle Terrace Illumination】Like a fairy-tale world after the winter night illumination. Cabins covered in white snow are scattered along the forest path, with warm yellow lights reflecting on the snow, creating a warm and dreamy atmosphere. Strolling through it feels like walking into a fairy tale of a northern winter night.
Purchase Notice
【Travel Conditions】
Departure/Destination: Hokkaido
Duration: Same-day round trip
Transportation: Chartered bus
Bus Company: Doushin International Co., Ltd.
Meals: Breakfast 0, Lunch 0, Dinner 0
Accommodation: None
Minimum Group Size: 6
Tour Leader: 1
Tour Guide: 0
【Travel Planning/Implementation】
Operating Company: Doushin International Co., Ltd.
Address: 3F, 422, Minami 8-jo Nishi 4-chome, Chuo-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido
License Number: Hokkaido Governor Registered Travel Agency No. 2-674
Travel Agency Association: Japan Association of Travel Agents (JATA) Cooperative Member
Reminders
A minimum of 6 traveler(s) are required for the tour to depart. If the number of participants does not reach the minimum requirement, the tour will be canceled. An email regarding tour cancellation will be sent 4 day(s) before the departure date
In the event of inclement weather such as typhoons or snowstorms, a decision on whether to cancel the tour will be made 1 day(s) before departure (local time 15:00). Notifications will then be sent via email
Please arrive at the designated location 10 minute(s) before the scheduled departure time, as the tour will depart on time
The departure notification will be sent to your email by 5:00 PM on the day before departure. Please check your email (including your spam folder) for important information such as the tour guide's contact details and the vehicle license plate number.
If you need to bring luggage (including large items such as strollers and wheelchairs), please inform us in advance so we can properly arrange vehicle space for a smoother and more comfortable journey. We arrange vehicle types based on the number of passengers. If you confirm that luggage can be carried 3-5 days before departure, a handling and space reservation fee of 1,500 JPY per item (cash only) will be charged for luggage space and loading/unloading arrangements, to be paid to the tour guide before boarding.
Weather and road conditions in Hokkaido during winter are unstable. We do not recommend scheduling other activities or dinner reservations after the tour on the same day. The platform and service provider will not be liable for any losses incurred.
Please adhere to the scheduled itinerary. If you are late, it will be considered an automatic cancellation, and the paid fees will not be refunded.
Shikisai-no-oka is closed from December 31, 2025, to January 1, 2026. The route will be adjusted accordingly, and the actual arrangement on the day will prevail.
Due to snow conditions, the Shikisai-no-oka Snow Park may be closed after 3/20.
Itinerary or stay duration at each attraction may be adjusted due to traffic congestion, facility maintenance, etc.
Ningle Terrace may sometimes be inaccessible due to traffic control. This cannot be predicted in advance and will depend on the situation on the day.
All travel itineraries provided by our company do not include personal travel insurance. Outdoor activities involve specific risks and dangers. Guests must assess their own health or abilities. The company is not responsible for any physical damage or injury caused by accidents or unforeseeable factors.
FAQ
1. Why does Shirahige Waterfall appear blue?
The water source for Shirahige Waterfall comes from mineral-rich spring water that erupts from underground. As the spring water cascades down through rock crevices, it combines with the surrounding snow and light refraction, creating a unique pale blue hue. Especially on winter nights, the waterfall is adorned with special blue lighting, which further enhances its blue light effect, creating a dreamlike landscape.
2. How much time is recommended to visit Shirahige Waterfall?
It is generally recommended to allocate about 30 minutes to 1 hour for a visit to Shirahige Waterfall. This time is sufficient for you to stroll to the observation deck, admire the waterfall's blue spectacle, and capture the unique scene of winter snow and blue light. If you wish to experience it more deeply, you can arrange extra time to briefly stay in the surrounding area.
3. How can I get to Shirahige Waterfall?
Shirahige Waterfall is located in Biei Town. When visiting in winter, it is generally recommended to join a local tour bus or a day trip, such as those departing from Sapporo. This is the most convenient way to reach it and connect with other attractions in the Biei and Furano regions. If you are traveling by yourself, you can consider taking a taxi or renting a car from Furano or Biei, but winter road conditions require special attention.
4. What are the features of the Blue Pond in Biei after winter illumination, and when is the best time to see it?
In winter, the Blue Pond in Biei is illuminated after nightfall, casting a dreamy blue glow on its surface. The snow-covered trees intertwined with the lake create a picturesque and fantastical world. The best viewing time is usually from dusk after the lights turn on through the night. During this period, you can fully appreciate the serene and mysterious atmosphere of the winter Blue Pond.
5. What snow activities are available at Shikisai-no-oka in winter?
In winter, Shikisai-no-oka transforms into a snow park offering a variety of snow activities. Visitors can opt for thrilling snowmobile rides, banana boat rides, or enjoy rides on snow tubes at their own expense. These activities allow you to experience the unique fun and excitement of winter in a vast expanse of powder snow.
6. What is the best photo spot for Biei's Twilight Christmas Tree?
Biei's Twilight Christmas Tree is famous for its unique scenery standing amidst a snow-covered landscape. The best photo spot is during dusk, when the lingering rays of the setting sun illuminate the snow and tree, bathing them in soft winter colors and creating a tranquil and dreamy atmosphere. Combining this with distant mountains or clouds can result in postcard-worthy photographs.
7. What are the unique craft shops and the nighttime ambiance at the Forest Elf Terrace?
Forest Elf Terrace is a unique cluster of creative shops nestled in the forest. It features many small and exquisite handmade craft stores selling Hokkaido specialty items such as glass art, wood carvings, and leather goods. At night, the terrace is lit with warm lights, creating a fairytale-like romantic atmosphere, allowing you to experience a warm and healing northern winter night amidst the snowy forest.
8. During winter, what are the typical operating hours for the blue light at Shirahige Waterfall and the illumination at the Blue Pond?
The blue light at Shirahige Waterfall and the illumination at the Blue Pond typically begin after sunset when night falls. Both locations become more enchanting due to the nighttime lighting effects, so tours are scheduled for the evening and after dark to allow visitors to fully experience their dreamy blue worlds. The exact start and end times for illumination are adjusted based on the sunset times of the season.
