The Art of Ice – Nafuku Shichijo Otaki Snow Trekking Tour – Slightly difficult (Medium)

If you’re seeking a winter adventure in Hokkaido that combines breathtaking scenery with a bit of physical activity, the Nafuku Shichijo Otaki Snow Trekking Tour might just be what you’re after. This moderately challenging experience takes you through snow-covered landscapes, revealing awe-inspiring ice formations and the majestic Otaki waterfall covered in ice. With a focus on safety, authentic natural beauty, and manageable duration, this tour offers a memorable taste of Japan’s winter wonderland.

What we particularly like about this experience is how it balances spectacular views with practical comfort—you’ll get the chance to walk through pristine snow, observe natural ice sculptures, and even see animal footprints along the way. However, keep in mind that the cold weather, especially if it’s a particularly frigid day, calls for good layering and warm gear. This tour suits those who are comfortable with moderate physical activity and eager to explore natural scenery beyond the typical sightseeing spots.

If you love nature photography, snowy landscapes, or simply want to experience a unique winter trek, this tour offers a solid value. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy a bit of adventure but don’t want to venture into very difficult terrain or spend all day outdoors. Families with older children and those with moderate fitness levels will find this experience accessible yet rewarding.

Key Points

• Stunning Ice Formations: Witness breathtaking icicles and natural sculptures, especially spectacular in colder weather.
• Moderate Difficulty: Designed for those with a decent level of physical fitness, walking on snowshoes and navigating snowy paths.
• Authentic Nature: See animal footprints and explore tree-lined snow-covered trails, adding to the immersive winter experience.
• Safety First: The tour is conducted by a dedicated shop that prioritizes safety, with all necessary gear included.
• Flexible Options: Two daily sessions allow you to choose a time that suits your schedule.
• Cost-Effective: At approximately $54.12 per person, it offers good value considering the included gear, guide, and transportation.

Exploring the Tour in Detail

Starting Point and How It’s Organized

The tour begins at a shop located in Shikotsuko-onsen, Chitose, where you’ll complete a consent form and pay the fee. The starting price is $54.12 per person, a reasonable rate considering the gear rentals and guide services included. The entire experience lasts about 2 hours, making it suitable for a half-day adventure without feeling rushed.

You can opt to meet at the shop or head there via private vehicle or the provided shuttle from the shop. The tour accommodates a maximum of 15 participants, which helps keep the group intimate and manageable, especially important when walking in snowy terrain.

The Journey to Otaki Waterfall

After a quick warm-up and safety briefing, you’ll hop into a vehicle—either your own or the shop’s—to reach the waterfall, approximately an hour away. The scenic drive itself is part of the charm, offering glimpses of the snowy landscape and allowing you to settle into the winter mood.

Once you arrive, the real magic begins. The highlight is walking in snowshoes along gentle, straight paths covered in fresh snow, which provides a smooth, accessible trekking experience. You’ll love the way the snow muffles sound, heightening the sense of winter silence and tranquility.

The Ice-Covered Otaki Waterfall

The main attraction is the Otaki waterfall, transformed into an icy masterpiece. The waterfall, normally a roaring cascade, becomes a frozen sculpture covered in thick ice, creating an “ice palace” atmosphere. The icicles extend majestically, their grandeur amplified on cold, clear days. As you stand near the waterfall, you’ll notice how the colder weather intensifies the majestic exterior of the ice formations—a hallmark of this tour.

Unique Natural Details

Walking through snow-covered animal footprints adds an authentic wildlife glimpse—possible signs of local foxes or deer, which are part of the charm in these remote areas. The trail is lined with giant trees, their branches heavy with snow, creating a fairy-tale-like landscape. The contrast between the white snow, dark tree trunks, and shimmering ice makes for excellent photos, even if the tour itself doesn’t include photography as a standard part.

Refreshment and Return

After exploring and soaking in the views, you’ll take a break with hot tea—a small but appreciated comfort after the cold trek. Then, it’s back the way you came, returning to the shop and disbanding. If you prefer, private vehicles can be used for a quick departure straight from the site.

Practical Aspects of the Tour

What to Bring

Since outerwear is not provided, packing warm ski or snowboard gear is crucial. Think insulated jackets and pants, layered fleece for comfort, gloves, hats, and warm socks. The tour staff offer free rentals for boots, hats, gloves, and neck warmers at the Cairo store, which is helpful if you’re traveling light or don’t have proper gear. Remember, inner layers are your responsibility, so pack accordingly to prevent frostbite or discomfort.

Conditions of Participation

This tour is suitable for primary school students in 4th grade and above (foot size 22 cm or larger). Children must be accompanied by a guardian. The experience is designed for walkers with moderate physical fitness; participants should be comfortable in cold weather and able to walk in snowshoes. Pregnant women or those with pre-existing medical conditions are advised to refrain for safety reasons.

When to Go

The tour operates from late December to mid-March, aligning with peak winter conditions. The exact experience depends on weather, with colder days producing even more dramatic ice formations. The schedule offers two slots daily: mornings (9:00-11:00) and early afternoons (12:30-14:30), allowing flexibility.

Cost and Value

At $54.12 per person, this tour is quite competitive, considering the included gear, guide, and transportation. For the price, you get a guided experience in a stunning natural setting that’s otherwise hard to access without a private vehicle or extensive planning. The fee for adults (either 2 or more participants or solo) is listed as 7,000 yen or 10,000 yen respectively, but the tour’s online price simplifies the process.

Weather and Cancellation

The tour is weather-dependent; poor conditions could lead to cancellation, but you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. Cancellation policy is flexible—free if canceled at least 24 hours in advance—making it less stressful to plan.

Why This Tour Could Be a Great Choice

This snow trek is ideal for travelers who appreciate natural beauty and aren’t afraid of a little cold. It offers a chance to see dramatic ice sculptures up close in a safe, guided environment. For those interested in photography, the icy waterfalls and snow-laden trees provide superb opportunities.

It’s also a good pick for families with older children, especially those who enjoy outdoor activities and are comfortable walking in winter conditions. The tour’s manageable length makes it less tiring than full-day excursions, yet it offers plenty of memorable sights.

The Sum Up

The Nafuku Shichijo Otaki Snow Trekking Tour combines stunning icy vistas with accessible snowshoeing, making it a compelling choice for winter travelers in Hokkaido. The opportunity to witness a frozen waterfall that looks like an art installation is a special highlight. The inclusion of gear rental, safety measures, and flexible scheduling add to its value, providing a hassle-free experience.

While it requires moderate fitness and appropriate clothing, the effort pays off with unforgettable views and the thrill of walking through a shimmering winter landscape. It’s particularly well-suited for those who want a guided, safe, yet adventurous nature experience that captures the essence of Hokkaido’s winter beauty.

If your goal is to see spectacular ice formations while enjoying a manageable trek in the snow, this tour offers a well-rounded, authentic experience you won’t forget. It’s perfect for curious travelers eager to explore Japan’s icy landscapes without the extremes of more challenging hikes.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children in 4th grade and above with a foot size of 22 cm or larger can participate, but they must be accompanied by a guardian and be comfortable with moderate physical activity.

What should I wear?
Wear warm, layered winter gear such as ski wear or snowboard clothing, including fleece jerseys, gloves, hats, and warm socks. Outerwear is not rented, so you should bring your own or use the free gear rental at Cairo store.

Are the gear rentals free?
Yes, boots, hats, gloves, and neck warmers are available for free rental at the Cairo store.

What is the tour duration?
The entire experience lasts approximately 2 hours, including transportation, exploration, and breaks.

Can I choose a specific time slot?
Yes, tours are available in the morning (9:00-11:00) and early afternoon (12:30-14:30).

Is transportation included?
Transportation to the waterfall site is either via your own car or the shop’s bus, with the tour beginning and ending at the shop.

What is the maximum group size?
Tour groups are limited to 15 people, ensuring a more intimate and manageable experience.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

How much does the tour cost?
The online price is about $54.12 per person, which covers guide fees, insurance, gear rentals, and transportation.

In essence, this tour offers a visually stunning, well-organized winter adventure that highlights some of Japan’s most spectacular ice scenery, perfect for those looking to combine light trekking with awe-inspiring sights.