Sapporo: Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival & Hot Spring Day Trip
Active
7h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Immerse yourself in the enchanting winter wonderland of Hokkaido with a day trip to the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival from Sapporo. Marvel at stunning ice sculptures, take leisurely strolls through the festival grounds, and enjoy the serene beauty of the lakeside setting. Afterward, unwind in the soothing waters of Marukoma Onsen, where you can experience traditional Japanese onsen culture. A delicious lunch enhances your day, making this tour perfect for families and travelers seeking a unique winter experience.
- Visit the captivating Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival and admire intricate ice sculptures
- Relax at Marukoma Onsen and soak in natural hot springs
- Enjoy a hearty lunch amidst beautiful winter landscapes
- Convenient bus transport from Sapporo with a duration of 7 hours
Available options
Sapporo: Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival & Hot Spring Day Trip
What's included
Lunch
Admission to Chitose/Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival Lunch
Hot spring bath
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Arrive at the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival, one of Hokkaido's representative winter events. Marvel at a wide variety of large and small ice sculptures that glow magically in the winter light. You'll have ample time to walk through the festival grounds, take photos, and immerse yourself in the chilly, beautiful atmosphere. Your admission fee is included for a hassle-free experience.
2
Stop 2
After exploring the festival, warm up and relax at the secluded Marukoma Onsen Ryokan on the shores of Lake Shikotsu. Soak in the natural hot springs (onsen), known for their soothing properties and beautiful lakeside views. A delicious lunch is included, allowing you to savor local flavors. This is the perfect way to experience a traditional Japanese onsen culture amidst a winter landscape.
What's not included
Personal expenses
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Available languages
Guide guide
CMN
JA
EN
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Please meet your group at ANA Crowne Plaza Sapporo by IHG. The activity provider will send you your guide's phone number, the exact meeting point location, and license plate number the night before your trip. Please check your email (and spam folder) and save your guide's phone number
Important notes
The activity provider will send you your guide's phone number, the exact meeting point location, and license plate number the night before your trip. Please check your email (and spam folder) and save your guide's phone number
Our business hours are from 10:00 to 22:00 JST on everyday, during which we are unable to respond to emails. For any on-site issue, please call your guide directly.
Please stay with the group during the tour. During the tour, please call your guide immediately if you cannot find your group or vehicle
Kindly arrive at the meeting point 10 minutes before departure. We are unable to accommodate delays or wait for any reason. The tour will depart promptly as scheduled to respect all customers' time.
If you are late or a no-show, you will not receive a refund or an alternative date
About Sapporo
Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido, is known for its stunning winter landscapes, vibrant cultural scene, and delicious seafood. The city hosts the famous Sapporo Snow Festival and offers a unique blend of modern urban life and traditional Japanese charm.
Top Attractions
Sapporo Beer Museum
Learn about the history of beer in Japan and the Sapporo Beer brand. The museum offers beer tasting and a chance to see the brewing process.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free entry, beer tasting costs vary
Odori Park
A large park in the heart of Sapporo, known for its beautiful gardens, fountains, and the famous Sapporo Snow Festival held here in February.
Nature
1-3 hours depending on the season
Free
Sapporo TV Tower
A landmark of Sapporo, offering panoramic views of the city from its observation deck. The tower is illuminated at night, creating a beautiful sight.
Architecture
1 hour
¥790 for adults
Must-Try Local Dishes
Sapporo Ramen
A rich, miso-based ramen with corn, butter, and pork. A must-try local specialty.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains pork, can be made vegetarian with modifications.
Soup Curry
A spicy, flavorful curry soup with vegetables and meat, a Hokkaido specialty.
Lunch/Dinner
Can be made vegetarian or vegan.
Genghis Khan
Grilled lamb or mutton, a popular dish in Hokkaido, often cooked on a dome-shaped grill.
Dinner
Contains lamb, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Popular Activities
Skiing in Niseko
Snowboarding in Rusutsu
Hiking in Daisetsuzan National Park
Onsen (hot spring) bathing
Strolling through Odori Park
Shopping in Tanukikoji
Visiting the Sapporo Beer Museum
Exploring Otaru's historic district
Best Time to Visit
December to February (Winter) and July to August (Summer)
Winter is ideal for snow festivals and skiing, while summer offers pleasant weather for outdoor activities and festivals.
Winter: -5°C to 0°C, Summer: 18°C to 25°C
Winter: 23°F to 32°F, Summer: 64°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Japanese
- Widely spoken: English, Chinese, Korean
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
Currency
Japanese Yen (JPY)
Time Zone
GMT+9
Electricity
100VV, 50/60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Very safe
Sapporo is a very safe city with low crime rates. However, petty theft and scams can occur, especially in tourist areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas.
- • Use licensed taxis and agreed-upon fares.
- • Be wary of strangers offering help or services, especially in tourist areas.
Getting there
By air
- New Chitose Airport • 40 km from city center
By train
Sapporo Station
By bus
Sapporo Station Bus Terminal, Susukino Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
The subway system is clean, efficient, and easy to navigate. It consists of three lines: Namboku, Tozai, and Tohoku-Johetsu.
Taxis
Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Susukino
Odori
Tanukikoji
Day trips
Niseko
110 km from Sapporo • Full day or overnight
A popular ski resort known for its powder snow, Niseko offers excellent skiing and snowboarding in winter, and outdoor activities in summer.
Otaru
30 km from Sapporo • Half day or full day
A charming port city known for its historic buildings, canals, and fresh seafood. Otaru offers a mix of history, culture, and scenic views.
Furano
140 km from Sapporo • Full day or overnight
Known for its lavender fields in summer and skiing in winter, Furano offers a mix of natural beauty and outdoor activities.
Festivals
Sapporo Snow Festival • Early February
Sapporo Beer Festival • Late July to early August
Yosakoi Soran Festival • Early June
Pro tips
- Visit the Sapporo Beer Museum for a unique beer tasting experience.
- Try Sapporo's famous ramen at Ramen Republic or other local ramen shops.
- Explore the historic Tanukikoji Shopping Arcade for souvenirs and street food.
- Experience the Sapporo Snow Festival if visiting in February.
- Take a day trip to Otaru for its charming canals and fresh seafood.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
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