Ice Fishing a Winter Tradition with a Jingisukan Lunch

A Unique Winter Day in Sapporo: Ice Fishing, Genghis Khan, and Chocolate Treats

If you’re craving an authentic winter adventure in Sapporo, this tour offers a delightful combo of ice fishing for smelt, a hearty Genghis Khan BBQ lunch, and a sweet stop at Royce’s Cacao & Chocolate Town. For around $164, you’ll spend about 8 to 10 hours exploring some of Hokkaido’s most interesting winter traditions, all with the comfort ofair-conditioned transportation and the guidance of a knowledgeable local guide.

What we love about this experience are the friendly, beginner-friendly ice fishing—which makes it accessible even if you’ve never fished through ice—and the delicious Genghis Khan BBQ, served with fresh vegetables and rice, giving you a taste of local cuisine. Also, the visit to Royce’s chocolate shop is a perfect way to unwind and indulge after the outdoor activities.

A potential consideration is that this tour is quite full day, so it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities and are prepared for some winter weather. If you’re looking for a laid-back, relaxed sightseeing day without too much physical effort, this might not be the perfect fit.

This tour suits those who want to combine adventure, local flavors, and unique cultural experiences—a perfect choice for curious travelers eager to see a different side of Sapporo’s winter charm.

Key Points

• Accessible for Beginners: The ice fishing experience is described as very easy and friendly, making it suitable even for first-timers.
• Authentic Local Cuisine: The Genghis Khan BBQ is served with generous portions of meat, vegetables, and rice, providing a hearty, satisfying meal.
• Sweet Shopping: Royce’s Cacao & Chocolate Town offers a chance to enjoy and purchase some of Japan’s best chocolates at your own pace.
• Comfortable Transportation: Air-conditioned vehicles and a small group size (max 27 people) ensure a comfortable, personalized experience.
• Guided Experience: An English-speaking guide helps you understand the cultural significance and makes the day more engaging.
• Weather-Dependent: The activity relies on good weather; if conditions are poor, you’ll get a different date or a full refund.

In-Depth Review of the Sapporo Winter Ice Fishing Tour

Starting Off in Comfort and Style

The tour begins early at 8:00 am from the ANA Crowne Plaza Sapporo, conveniently located near public transportation. From there, you’ll hop into an air-conditioned vehicle, which is a relief in the cold winter months, and head toward the day’s first adventure. The group is capped at 27 travelers, offering a nice balance between social interaction and individual space.

Ice Fishing at Toretagoya Fujii Farm

The highlight for many is the ice fishing at Toretagoya Fujii’s farm campsite, set alongside the scenic “para-to sunset river.” Here, the focus is on smelt fishing, a traditional winter activity that’s surprisingly accessible. We loved the way the guide explained how straightforward it is—even if you’ve never fished through ice, you’ll find it manageable.

You can rent fishing rods and winter clothing if needed, removing the hassle of bringing your own gear. Sitting in a cozy hut, we enjoyed chatting and sharing laughs with fellow travelers while trying our luck. The experience is about patience, but also about having fun—everyone is encouraged to participate. As one reviewer put it, “We sat together in a small hut fishing. Then we grilled the fish and ate it together,” highlighting the communal, laid-back nature of the activity.

Genghis Khan BBQ — A Satisfying Lunch

After about two and a half hours of fishing, everyone gathers around a genghis Khan-style barbecue. The Genghis Khan (or Jingisukan) lunch features slices of lamb or mutton grilled with vegetables, served alongside rice. It’s an authentic, hearty dish that’s both delicious and filling—perfect after a morning of outdoor activity. We appreciated the generous portions, which make this a value-packed meal, especially considering it’s included in the tour price.

Shopping at Royce’s Cacao & Chocolate Town

The afternoon includes a peaceful stop at Royce’s Cacao & Chocolate Town. Here, you can browse Japan’s famous chocolates, sample some delectable treats, and purchase souvenirs. The free 30-minute visit is a nice break from the outdoor cold and offers a relaxed atmosphere to enjoy some sweet indulgence. Many travelers find this a delightful way to wind down and add a little luxury to their day.

Considerations and Final Thoughts

While this tour offers a well-rounded experience, keep in mind that it is weather-dependent. If winter storms or poor conditions hit, the activity might be canceled, but the tour provider offers a full refund or rescheduling, providing peace of mind.

The overall value of this tour lies in the blend of authentic outdoor activity, delicious local cuisine, and culture. The guide’s insights help deepen your understanding of the region’s winter traditions, making it more than just a sightseeing trip.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventurous travelers who want to try something different and enjoy the outdoors, even in winter. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate authentic local foods and are comfortable with a full day out. Families with children, groups of friends, or solo travelers seeking a memorable winter activity will find plenty to love here.

If you’re looking for a calmer, less active experience or don’t enjoy outdoor weather, this tour may be less suitable. Still, the friendly guide, comfortable transport, and delicious meal make it accessible for most travelers.

The Sum Up

For an authentic taste of Sapporo’s winter traditions, this tour delivers a mix of adventure, culture, and cuisine that’s hard to beat. You’ll get the thrill of fishing for smelt without needing previous experience, enjoy a hearty Genghis Khan BBQ, and end with a sweet treat at Royce’s Chocolate Town. The small group size and knowledgeable guide ensure a personalized, engaging day.

If you’re eager to experience local winter customs first-hand and don’t mind a bit of cold, this tour offers excellent value and unforgettable memories. It’s a wonderful way to connect with Sapporo’s winter spirit, especially if you’re seeking something more than typical sightseeing.

FAQ

Is the ice fishing suitable for beginners?
Yes, the experience is described as very easy and friendly to beginners. Fishing rods and winter clothing are available for rent, making it accessible.

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes transportation, an English-speaking guide, ice fishing equipment, winter clothing rentals if needed, lunch (Genghis Khan BBQ), and visits to Toretagoya Fujii farm and Royce’s Cacao & Chocolate Town.

How long does the tour last?
The total duration is about 8 to 10 hours, starting at 8:00 am from Sapporo and returning in the late afternoon or early evening.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts at the ANA Crowne Plaza Sapporo and ends with drop-off at Sapporo Station North Exit.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly in layers, especially for outdoor activities. Winter clothing rentals are available, but bringing your own comfortable winter gear is recommended.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If weather conditions are poor, the activity might be canceled, but you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I take this tour if I am traveling alone?
Absolutely. The group size is limited to 27 travelers, creating a friendly environment for solo adventurers.

Is there any shopping involved?
Yes, at Royce’s Cacao & Chocolate Town, you can browse and purchase chocolates at your leisure during the 30-minute stop.

How do I book or get more information?
You can book through the provider, QHTravel, or visit the link provided in the source. Contact details are available if you need further assistance.

This comprehensive review aims to give you a clear, honest picture of what to expect and why this tour might be a highlight of your winter visit to Sapporo. Whether you’re after a new adventure or simply curious about Japan’s winter traditions, this experience offers a memorable glimpse into Hokkaido’s cold season charms.