A Day in Hokkaido’s Winter Wonderland: Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival and Onsen

For lovers of winter scenery and authentic local experiences, the Hokkaido Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival Season Limited Day Tour offers a perfect mix of dazzling ice sculptures and relaxing hot springs. Priced at $155 per person, this 8 to 10-hour tour begins in Sapporo and takes you into the heart of Hokkaido’s winter highlights. It’s a thoughtfully curated trip that combines spectacular visual displays with the chance to warm up in traditional Japanese onsen.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the stunning ice sculptures at the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival are truly breathtaking—think intricate lanterns and larger-than-life figures carved from ice, creating a magical scene. Second, the Marukoma Onsen provides a perfect way to unwind after exploring cold landscapes, offering a private, authentic hot spring experience away from crowds.

A possible consideration? The trip relies on good weather—poor conditions could lead to cancellations or rescheduling. If you’re not fond of long bus rides or early mornings, the 8:00 am start time might feel a tad early, but it’s balanced by the full day’s worth of sights.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate visual beauty, enjoy local culinary experiences, and seek a relaxing soak after outdoor adventures. It’s especially appealing for those new to winter festivals or looking for an easy, guided experience that covers key sights without the hassle of planning.

Key Points

Spectacular Ice Sculptures: The Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival features displays of all sizes, from delicate lanterns to larger-than-life figures.
Comfort and Authenticity: The Marukoma Onsen offers a chance to warm up in a traditional setting, with the added bonus of a delicious included lunch.
Guided Convenience: An English-speaking guide makes navigation and explanations straightforward, enhancing your understanding of the sights.
Value for Price: The comprehensive package including transportation, admission tickets, lunch, and a guide offers good value for a full day of winter sightseeing.
Group Size: With a maximum of 27 travelers, the tour remains intimate enough for personalized attention.
Weather Dependency: The experience is weather-dependent, so check the forecast and be flexible if possible.

Planning more time in Sapporo? We've covered other experiences worth considering.

Exploring the Ice Festival and Beyond: What to Expect

Our journey begins in Sapporo at the early hour of 8:00 am, with a comfortable air-conditioned bus whisking us away towards Lake Shikotsu. This lake, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and scenic surroundings, serves as the backdrop for one of Hokkaido’s most charming winter festivals. When we arrive, we’re greeted with an array of intricate ice sculptures—a visual feast that captures the imagination. Think of towering lanterns, detailed ice carvings of animals, and luminous displays that glow softly against the winter sky.

A key highlight, as one reviewer shared, was the beauty of the ice lanterns, which create a scene that’s “absolutely beautiful” and unlike anything we’ve seen before. The festival is not just about viewing; it’s a chance to walk around, take photos, and soak in the creative artistry of local artisans. You’ll also find some stalls offering local food, adding aroma and flavor to the chilly atmosphere.

The admission ticket included allows ample time—about 1 hour and 30 minutes—for wandering and appreciating the sculptures at your own pace. We loved the way the sculptures seem to come alive when lit up at dusk, transforming the scene into something truly magical.

Next, we move to the Marukoma Onsen area for a traditional lunch and time to relax in the hot springs. The Ryokan setting is quietly secluded, offering an authentic Japanese onsen experience. The two-hour stop here is perfect for unwinding, soaking away the cold, and enjoying local cuisine. The included lunch, often featuring local delicacies, adds to the authentic feel of the experience.

Many travelers, including one enthusiastic reviewer, appreciated the delicious food and the chance to relax in a peaceful, natural environment. After all, warming up in a hot spring while surrounded by snow-capped mountains is one of those simple pleasures that makes Hokkaido special.

Finally, the tour wraps up with a comfortable ride back to Sapporo, ending near the Sapporo Station North Exit, making it easy to continue exploring or head to your accommodations.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

For $155, you’re getting a lot—admission to the ice festival, the hot springs experience, a guided tour, lunch, and transportation. The small group size (up to 27 travelers) helps ensure you’ll get personal attention, and the English-speaking guide makes understanding the sights easier.

The timing and location are well-planned, starting early to maximize daylight and visiting two of Hokkaido’s most iconic winter attractions in a single day. The inclusion of tips, fuel surcharge, and gratuities means there are no hidden costs, making this a straightforward, one-price experience.

While the weather could affect your plans, the tour provider offers flexibility—cancellations due to bad weather are fully refundable or can be rescheduled, ensuring peace of mind.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for first-time visitors to Hokkaido who want a comprehensive, guided adventure without the stress of planning logistics. It’s ideal for winter scenery lovers, photographers, and anyone curious about local winter festivals. If you enjoy relaxing in hot springs after outdoor activities, you’ll find the visit to Marukoma Onsen particularly rewarding.

Travelers seeking a peaceful escape from city life with a touch of dazzling art and warm comfort will find this tour a rewarding choice. It’s also suitable for those with limited time but a strong desire to experience the essence of Hokkaido’s winter culture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate. The tour is designed to be accessible and enjoyable for a wide range of ages.

Will I have enough time at the ice festival?
Yes. The 1 hour 30 minutes provided is sufficient for a leisurely walk, photo-taking, and enjoying the sculptures.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, an air-conditioned vehicle is included, making the trip comfortable and convenient.

Are meals included?
Yes, a traditional lunch is part of the tour, served at the Marukoma Onsen ryokan.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly, in layers, with waterproof clothing and sturdy shoes suitable for winter conditions.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll receive a full refund or a different date.

How many people typically join the tour?
Up to 27 travelers, ensuring a balance of group experience and personal attention.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the ANA Crowne Plaza Sapporo and ends near Sapporo Station, making it easy to continue exploring afterward.

Is the guide fluent in English?
Yes, the guide speaks English, providing explanations and answering questions throughout the day.

What makes this tour special compared to visiting the festival on your own?
The guided tour takes care of logistics, offers insights you wouldn’t get alone, and includes a relaxing onsen experience, all in one package.

While you're exploring Sapporo, here are other experiences we've looked into

Final Thoughts

For those seeking a well-rounded winter experience in Hokkaido, this tour offers a compelling mix of spectacular ice art and relaxing hot springs. It’s ideal if you want to see the highlights without the hassle of planning, and you appreciate guided insight into local culture and scenery.

The inclusion of lunch, transportation, and admission tickets makes it a practical choice, and the small group setting ensures you won’t feel lost in the crowd. The only real caveat is weather dependency—so checking the forecast before booking is wise.

In sum, this tour is a smart choice for travelers who want to capture stunning winter scenes, indulge in authentic Japanese relaxation, and enjoy a comfortable, guided experience in beautiful Hokkaido. Whether you’re a winter enthusiast or simply looking to see a different side of Japan, this day trip offers genuine value and memorable moments.