Explore Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival (night tour)

Experience the Enchantment of the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival Night Tour

Hokkaido winters are famous for their stunning ice displays, and the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival is a standout among them. This guided night tour offers a chance to explore this winter wonderland comfortably, with round-trip shared transfers included, so you can focus on the sights rather than logistics. Whether you’re an avid photographer, a family seeking fun, or a traveler craving a magical evening, this tour packs in plenty of highlights.

One of the best features of this experience is the evening illumination, which turns the sculptures into glowing masterpieces. We love how the night setting adds an extra layer of magic, making the sculptures and ice buildings look even more mesmerizing. However, potential travelers should consider that food and drinks are not included, so a little planning for snacks is advisable. This tour suits visitors who want an easy, guided way to enjoy one of Hokkaido’s most beautiful winter events without the hassle of organizing transport or missing the evening’s special lighting effects.

Key Points

• Convenience: Round-trip shared transfers make travel easy and stress-free.
• Evening Magic: Experience the festival after dark when ice sculptures are beautifully lit.
• Authentic Artistry: See local community-created sculptures, ice caverns, and buildings.
• Family Friendly: Suitable for all ages, with special attractions like an ice rink and slide.
• Affordable Value: At just $30, this tour offers a lot of value for an immersive winter experience.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Friendly guides who add insights and keep the atmosphere relaxed.

Setting the Scene: What Is the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival?

The Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival is an annual event that transforms the area into a sparkling display of ice art. Unlike the larger, more commercial festivals, this one stands out for its community-driven sculptures and natural features—such as ice caverns and intricate ice buildings—created by local people using water from the neighboring lake. When you visit, you’ll get a chance to walk among these stunning creations, which are sprayed, sculpted, and frozen by local volunteers, giving it an authentic and warm community vibe despite the icy setting.

What truly sets this festival apart is the nighttime atmosphere. As the sun sets, the festival lights up, casting a glow on the sculptures and creating an almost surreal scene. Reviewers consistently mention how magical the scene becomes after dark, with beautiful lighting and illuminated sculptures. Many describe it as a “scenic” and “impressive” sight, especially for children, who love the ice rink and slide—highlighting that this is a family-friendly activity as well.

The Itinerary: A Step-By-Step Breakdown

The tour starts in Sapporo city center, where your guide will meet you at a convenient location—likely near public transport options like Odori or Susukino stations. The initial 15-minute transfer is straightforward, setting a relaxed tone for the evening. This short transfer is ideal for those who want to skip the stress of finding their own way and focus instead on the event itself.

Next, you’ll head over to Chitose Shikotsu Lake, where the festival is held. This segment lasts around two hours, giving ample time to explore the sculptures, ice buildings, and caverns at your own pace. Reviewers have noted how the local community’s creativity shines through in these displays, with some sculptures described as “beautiful” and “creative.” The open layout allows for good photo opportunities, especially with the added glow from evening lighting.

The highlight of this tour is experiencing the festival at night. The illuminated sculptures create a magical scene, transforming the entire area into a luminous wonderland. Many visitors mention how the lighting makes the sculptures appear even more striking, and the atmosphere feels almost otherworldly. This is a rare chance to see the festival in its most breathtaking lighting conditions without the crowds of daytime visitors.

Finally, after roughly two hours of exploration, the group is transported back to Sapporo. The entire experience lasts about four hours, making it a perfect evening activity—leaving plenty of time to continue your night exploring Sapporo or relaxing afterward.

What’s Included and What to Consider

The tour offers round-trip shared transfers, which means you won’t need to worry about arranging transportation or dealing with tricky winter roads. This is especially valuable in Hokkaido, where snowy conditions can make driving challenging—even for the most experienced drivers. The guide, often multi-lingual, also provides local insights and ensures a smooth experience.

Cost-wise, at $30, this tour offers impressive value. It covers your entrance fee to the festival, the transportation, and the guiding services. However, it’s worth noting that food and drinks are not included, so bring some snacks or plan to purchase something at the festival if you wish. Reviewers mention that the tour is “cosily warm,” likely due to the guides’ efforts and the overall friendly atmosphere, but dressing warmly is essential.

The group size is limited to 16 travelers, creating a more intimate and relaxed environment. Many reviews mention how guides like Peta, O-Chan, and Tiana foster a friendly, welcoming vibe, which enhances the overall experience. Knowing that guides are attentive and knowledgeable adds comfort, especially in winter conditions.

Authentic Experiences and Hidden Gems

One of the delightful surprises of this tour is the chance to see the local community’s craftsmanship. Unlike larger festivals that may be heavily commercialized, the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival feels more authentic. Local volunteers create sculptures that reflect winter traditions and artistry. Some reviews mention the “beautiful creative artistry” of the ice sculptures, which are often lit with colorful illuminations, heightening their visual impact.

The ice caverns and buildings are not just static displays—they’re intricate creations that showcase local skill. If you’re lucky, the guide might share stories about the process or point out details you might not notice on your own.

Children particularly enjoy the ice rink and slide, making this a family-friendly event. Reviewers have noted that this festival is a “great place to take your kids,” emphasizing its accessible and fun atmosphere. The lighting, sculptures, and ice activities create a cozy, festive environment perfect for making memories.

Practical Tips for Visiting

• Dress very warmly. Layering is key, as you’ll be outside in cold, possibly snowy conditions for a couple of hours.
• Bring a camera or smartphone for capturing the stunning lit-up sculptures—tripods may help with low-light shots.
• Pack some snacks or buy refreshments at the festival if you’re hungry, as food isn’t included.
• Arrive at the meeting point on time—your guide will start the tour promptly at 5:00 pm.
• Be prepared for winter driving conditions—trust the knowledgeable driver and enjoy the comfortable ride.
• The tour is suitable for most travelers, with a maximum of 16 participants, ensuring plenty of interaction and personalized attention.

The Sum Up

This Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival night tour offers an engaging blend of cultural authenticity, stunning visuals, and hassle-free logistics. The included transfers, friendly guides, and striking illuminations make it a fantastic choice for anyone visiting Sapporo during winter. Whether you’re seeking incredible photo opportunities, family fun, or simply want to experience Hokkaido’s legendary ice art, this tour delivers.

The experience’s real strength lies in its balance: it’s affordable, well-organized, and offers a genuine glimpse into a charming local celebration. The guides’ knowledge and the festival’s enchanting lighting create an atmosphere that’s hard to match elsewhere. Just remember to bundle up and bring your camera!

Ideal for families, solo travelers, or couples looking for an evening of winter magic, this tour combines comfort, authenticity, and visual wonder in one compelling package. It’s a memorable way to add a special highlight to your Hokkaido winter trip.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention children enjoying the ice rink, slide, and the festive atmosphere, making it a family-friendly activity.

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes round-trip shared transfers, a guide, local taxes, and entry to the festival. Food and drinks are not included.

How long does the tour last?
The total duration is approximately 4 hours, starting at 5:00 pm and ending back at the meeting point.

Do I need to bring my own equipment?
No, the tour provides transportation and guidance. However, dressing warmly in layers is recommended for comfort in the cold.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour. Cancellations made less than 24 hours in advance are non-refundable.

Is the tour operated in multiple languages?
It may be operated by a multi-lingual guide, ensuring accessibility for international travelers.

What makes this festival special?
Unlike larger festivals, the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival features local-created sculptures and unique natural ice structures, all beautifully lit at night, creating an intimate and magical atmosphere.