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Hokkaido Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival at night, with visitors strolling among numerous fantastical ice sculptures illuminated in vibrant colors, experiencing the unique charm of this winter event.

Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival Tour (Depart from Sapporo) | Japan

4.8Excellent
Sold 200+

Booking confirmed within 2 working day(s)
Duration:5 hour(s) 10 min(s)
Guided language: 日本語
Free cancellation 11 day(s) prior to experience date
Please present the e-voucher on-site

Experience the enchantment of illuminated ice sculptures at the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival! Explore the 'Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival,' one of Hokkaido's three major winter events. Be sure not to overlook the mesmerizing ice sculptures adorned with vibrant, colorful lights.

  • Discover a novel 'Ice Museum' that captures the splendor of Lake Shikotsu
  • Experience the brilliance of exquisitely lit snow sculptures at the Chitose - Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival
  • Witness the enchanting transformation of Lake Shikotsu as vibrant lights come alive at night, conjuring a truly magical atmosphere
[5% App discount] Code: APP5OFF , HK: APP15HK

Sightseeing Tours

Tour TypeShared tour
Transportation methodTransfer from meeting point
Minimum participant requirement1 traveler
Meal arrangementArrange yourself
Additional service & facilityLuggage Storage
Sightseeing typeNatural sights
TransportBus tour

Product Info

The content of this product is provided by machine translation and may not reflect the actual information, please take this into consideration before booking.

– What You Can Expect – 

Create a captivating experience as you witness Lake Shikotsu's nighttime transformation, where vibrant lights create a truly magical ambiance. Explore a unique 'Ice Museum' that beautifully expresses the lake's splendor, and be enchanted by exquisitely lit snow sculptures at the Chitose - Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival. 

You can fully enjoy this experience, as the tour fee already covers the admission fee.

– Tour Information –

  • A new style of "Ice Museum" expressing the beauty of Lake Shikotsu
    The “2026 Chitose Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival – Museum of Ice Art,” one of Hokkaido’s signature winter events, will be held from January 31 to February 23, 2026, at Lake Shikotsu Onsen in Chitose City, Hokkaido. This ice celebration takes full advantage of the harsh winter climate of Lake Shikotsu, creating a magical world illuminated by colorful lights at night. This is a half-day sightseeing bus tour that allows travelers to enjoy the winter scenery without the stress of driving on icy roads.
  • Enjoy the beautifully illuminated snow sculptures at Chitose - Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival
    Join us in witnessing the brilliantly illuminated and sparkling ice sculptures! Crafted from the crystal-clear waters of Lake Shikotsu, these ice sculptures, adorned with colorful lights, infuse the surroundings with a fantastical and mystical ambiance. And, naturally, don't miss the opportunity to capture trendy SNS-worthy photos!
  • Witness the highlights of the Chitose - Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival
    Discover a mesmerizing display of ice sculptures, each frozen into existence using Lake Shikotsu's water and aglow with vibrant lights at night, conjuring a magical atmosphere. The showstopper is a breathtaking ice sculpture, meticulously handcrafted by a dedicated team of over 10 artisans over two months, revealing its compelling beauty when seen up close.

– Meeting (Drop-off) Time & Location Information – 

  • ANA Crowne Plaza Hotel Sapporo (Meet at 3:40 PM/Depart at 3:50 PM)
  • The meeting place is the hotel lobby on the first floor.
  • Dismissal location: JR Sapporo Station North Exit (scheduled arrival 9:00 PM)

– Important Information – 

  • The meeting time is scheduled 10 minutes prior to departure. We kindly request all participants to arrive punctually as, in most cases, we are unable to accommodate late arrivals after the departure time, which will be treated as a "no-show"
  • You will not be able to get off at the hotel where you boarded on the way back

Purchase Notice

  • Infants under the age of 2 are free of charge if they do not need a seat (no seat, admission fee, or souvenir included).
    However, if a seat is required, the child rate will apply. When making a reservation, please fill in the name (furigana), gender, and age in the request column.
  • Large luggage such as suitcases will be stored in the trunk of the bus. Please note that you will not be able to take out or put in your luggage during the tour. Please prepare any items you may need for sightseeing in your carry-on baggage. Please inform the staff at the reception desk on the day of the tour that you have luggage to check in.

– Travel Conditions –

  • Departure/Drop-off point: Sapporo
  • Travel Duration: Day trip
  • Mode of Transportation: Chartered bus
  • Operating Bus Company: Sapporo Bus, and others
  • Meals: Breakfast 0, Lunch 0, Dinner 0
  • Accommodation: None
  • Minimum Number of Participants: 1
  • Tour Conductor: 1
  • Guide: 0

– Travel Planning / Operations – 

  • Company Name: Wonder Styles Co., Ltd. 
  • Address: 7F, Enasquare Odori Building, 10-4 Odori Nishi 6-chome, Chuo Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido 
  • Registration Number: Hokkaido Governor Registered Travel Agency No. 2-862 Affiliated Travel 
  • Association: None

– Commissioned Sales – 

  • KKday JAPAN Co., Ltd.
  • WESTALL Yotsuya Bldg. 2F, 1-22-5 Yotsuya, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-0004
  • Registered Travel Agency No. 2045 approved by the Commissioner of the Japan Tourism Agency
  • Membership: Member of the Japan Association of Travel Agents (JATA)

Reminders

  • Please arrive at the designated location 10 minute(s) before the scheduled departure time, as the tour will depart on time

  • Drop-off at the hotel where you boarded is not available for the return trip.

  • If the number of participants is small, a small bus or jumbo cab may be used.

  • Please note that there will be no stops (including restroom breaks) between departure and the local venue.

  • Smoking is prohibited on the buses used on the tour. The bus does not have a toilet.

  • Time spent at the festival is subject to change due to road conditions and other factors.

  • There may be a delay in arrival due to road conditions. Also, in case of bad weather, the tour may be canceled on the day.

  • If you are on a trip to Hokkaido / Sapporo, please do not participate in this tour on the last day of your trip. (There is no compensation for bus delays.)

  • Children's rates apply to ages 3-11.

  • Chinese and English are available via the app.

Cancellation Policy

  • Cancellations 11 day(s) (inclusive) before the selected date are allowed. Unused orders can be canceled for free
  • For cancellations made 8 to 10 days prior to selected date, a cancellation fee of 20% will apply
  • For cancellations made 2 to 7 days prior to selected date, a cancellation fee of 30% will apply
  • For cancellations made 1 to 1 days prior to selected date, a cancellation fee of 40% will apply
  • Cancellation is not allowed between 0–0 days from the selected date. Orders cannot be canceled or modified, and refunds will not be granted.
NOTE
  • Due to time zone differences, the confirmed cancellation date is based on the supplier’s local time. Please allow 2–5 business days to process your cancellation request, after which the cancellation fee will be charged according to the product’s cancellation policy. Once the cancellation is confirmed, you will receive your refund within 14 working days.

FAQ

1. Is the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival a worthwhile winter experience?

The Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival offers a truly enchanting winter experience, showcasing illuminated ice sculptures crafted from the lake's crystal-clear waters. As one of Hokkaido's major winter events, it transforms the lakeside into a magical, vibrant landscape, especially at night. Visitors can explore a unique 'Ice Museum' and enjoy the stunning artistic creations, making it a memorable destination for those seeking a distinct seasonal spectacle.

2. What are the transportation options to reach the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival from Sapporo?

From Sapporo, visitors can reach the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival by various transportation options. One convenient way is to take an organized tour departing directly from Sapporo, which often includes round-trip transportation. Alternatively, you can take a JR train from Sapporo Station to Chitose Station, then transfer to a local bus bound for Lake Shikotsu Onsen. Direct shuttle buses may also be available during the festival period from major transportation hubs.

3. Where is the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival held, and when does it usually take place?

The Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival is held annually at the Lake Shikotsu hot spring area in Chitose, Hokkaido, Japan. It typically takes place from late January to late February, though exact dates can vary each year. The festival grounds are situated along the picturesque shores of Lake Shikotsu, offering a stunning natural backdrop for the ice and snow creations.

4. What unique experiences can visitors expect at the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival?

Visitors to the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival can expect to discover a novel 'Ice Museum' that captures the splendor of the lake, featuring intricately designed ice sculptures. The festival truly comes alive at night, with exquisite ice formations adorned with vibrant, colorful lights, creating a magical atmosphere. Beyond the visual spectacle, guests can enjoy traditional Japanese festival food, and experience the crisp winter air surrounded by Hokkaido's natural beauty.

5. What kind of ice sculptures are featured at the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival?

The Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival features a diverse array of ice sculptures, all created using the remarkably clear waters of Lake Shikotsu. These frozen artworks often include impressive ice stalactites, large ice domes, and whimsical animal figures, some reaching several meters in height. The sculptures are often illuminated with colorful lights, enhancing their natural bluish tint and creating a dazzling, ethereal display.

6. Is the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival suitable for families with children?

Yes, the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival is generally suitable and highly enjoyable for families with children. The expansive grounds allow for exploration, and the visually stunning ice sculptures and vibrant illuminations captivate visitors of all ages. There are typically open spaces for children to enjoy, and various food stalls offer warm treats and drinks, making it a comfortable outing for families.

7. What is the best time to visit the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival to see the illuminations?

The best time to visit the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival to experience its captivating illuminations is in the evening, shortly after sunset. This is when the vibrant, colorful lights adorning the ice sculptures are fully activated, transforming the festival grounds into a truly magical and enchanting display. The contrast of the illuminated ice against the night sky creates a breathtaking spectacle.

8. Are there any facilities or amenities available at the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival?

Yes, the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival provides several facilities and amenities for visitors' comfort. You can typically find various food stalls offering local Hokkaido snacks and warm beverages, as well as souvenir shops. Public restrooms are usually available, and nearby hot spring resorts offer opportunities for relaxation and warmth, enhancing the overall festival experience.

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