[Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival] A spectacular winter event where you can enjoy the fantastic world of ice

What is the Shikotsuko Ice Festival?

The Shikotsuko Ice Festival is a magical ice event held every winter at Lake Shikotsu in Chitose City, Hokkaido.

This festival features ice sculptures created by spraying the water of Lake Shikotsu. During the day, you can enjoy the transparent blue ice known as "Lake Shikotsu Blue," and at night, the illuminated, enchanting scenery.

This popular winter event offers beautiful natural art unique to cold regions, snow activities, and Hokkaido gourmet delights.

Access and Transportation Information

Access by Airplane

• From Tokyo (Haneda) to New Chitose Airport: Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes by plane.
• From Osaka (Kansai) to New Chitose Airport: Approximately 2 hours by plane.
• From New Chitose Airport to Lake Shikotsu: About 40 minutes by car, 1 hour by bus.

Access by Train and Bus

• From Sapporo Station to Chitose Station: About 30 minutes by JR Rapid Airport.
• From Chitose Station to Lake Shikotsu: About 1 hour by Hokkaido Chuo Bus (5 services daily).
• Direct bus from Sapporo Station to Lake Shikotsu (limited period): Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Access by Car

• From Sapporo City: About 1 hour and 30 minutes via Do-o Expressway.
• From New Chitose Airport: About 40 minutes via Route 16.
• Parking: Temporary parking available around the venue (paid).

Highlights of the Shikotsuko Ice Festival

1. Ice Sculptures and Lake Shikotsu Blue

The ice sculptures made by freezing the transparent water of Lake Shikotsu emit a unique blue glow known as "Lake Shikotsu Blue" during the day.

Various ice sculptures stand in a row, giving you the feeling of walking through an ice castle.

2. Night Illumination

After sunset, the ice sculptures are illuminated with colorful lights, transforming into a fantastical world.

The ice world, glowing in pink, blue, and green, resembles a fairy tale and is perfect for photography.

3. Ice Tunnel and Ice Slide

The venue also features an ice tunnel and an ice slide for everyone to enjoy, from adults to children.

The slide is particularly popular with children, who can enjoy the beautiful ice art as they slide.

4. Make a Wish at the Ice Shrine

The venue includes an "Ice Shrine," where you can pass through an ice torii gate to pray.

It is said that praying here brings good luck in relationships and fortune.

5. Weekend Fireworks Festival

On weekends, fireworks light up the night sky over Lake Shikotsu.

The collaboration of ice sculptures and fireworks is stunning, offering a spectacular winter view.

How to Enjoy the Ice Festival

1. Dress Warmly!

The area around Lake Shikotsu can drop to below -10°C, so proper cold-weather gear is necessary.

• Thick down jacket
• Gloves, hat, and scarf
• Non-slip shoes (snow boots recommended)

2. Enjoy Hokkaido Gourmet

The venue features food stalls offering Hokkaido specialties, serving warm dishes.

• Ishikari Nabe: A hot pot dish with salmon and miso, a Hokkaido specialty.
• Jaga Butter: A popular dish of hot Hokkaido potatoes topped with butter.
• Hot Milk and Hot Wine: Warm drinks that are especially delightful in the cold.

3. Warm Up in Hot Springs

The area around Lake Shikotsu has Shikotsuko Onsen, perfect for warming up your chilled body.

At places like "Shikotsuko Daiichi Hotel Suizantei" and "Lakeside Villa Suimeikaku," you can enjoy hot springs while overlooking the beautiful lake.

Seasonal Attractions of Lake Shikotsu

Winter (December-February): Ice Festival & Snow Activities

• Besides the Ice Festival, you can enjoy snowshoeing and smelt fishing around Lake Shikotsu.

Spring (March-May): Spring Arrival and Lakeside Strolls

• The clear blue of Lake Shikotsu after the snow melts is beautiful, ideal for a lakeside stroll.

Summer (June-August): Canoeing & SUP Experience

• Canoeing and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) on the clear lake are popular activities.

Autumn (September-November): Autumn Leaves and Hot Springs

• The surrounding mountains are painted with autumn leaves, offering breathtaking views.

Useful Information for Travelers

Event Period (2024)

• Late January to Mid-February (Check the official website for details)

Admission Fee

• Adults 500 yen (as an environmental protection cooperation fee)
• Free for elementary school children and younger

Recommended Accommodations

• Shikotsuko Daiichi Hotel Suizantei: A lakeside hot spring inn.
• Lakeside Villa Suimeikaku: A luxury inn with all rooms offering lake views.
• Business Hotels in Chitose City: Affordable accommodations available.

Wi-Fi Information

• No Wi-Fi at the venue.
• Free Wi-Fi available around Chitose Station and Sapporo Station.

Language Support

• Tourist information centers provide pamphlets in English, Chinese, and Korean.
• Some hotels and restaurants offer English support.

Summary and FAQs

The Shikotsuko Ice Festival is an event where you can enjoy the beautiful winter scenery unique to Japan.

Enjoy the transparent ice art and the illuminated, magical scenery while savoring the charm of Hokkaido's winter!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is the Ice Festival held even in the rain?

A: Yes, it is held even in rainy weather, but some areas may be closed depending on the weather.

Q: Is it slippery on the ice?

A: Yes, it is recommended to wear shoes with non-slip features.

Be sure to visit the Shikotsuko Ice Festival for a journey to enjoy the spectacular winter scenery of Hokkaido!