Sapporo: Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival & Lakeside Onsen Retreat

Planning a winter escape in Hokkaido? This tour promises a blend of breathtaking ice sculptures, tranquil hot springs, and local flavors, all packed into a manageable 10-hour adventure. We’re here to give you the lowdown on what truly makes this trip worthwhile—and what to consider before booking.

What we love: The stunning visual spectacle of the ice sculptures glowing in winter light, the peaceful lakeside onsen experience, and the chance to enjoy authentic Japanese cuisine amid nature’s winter show.
One thing to keep in mind: The tour’s pace is quite full, so it’s best suited for active travelers who don’t mind a busy schedule.
Who it’s perfect for: Those craving a balanced mix of scenic beauty, cultural indulgence, and relaxation—ideal for first-time visitors to Hokkaido or anyone wanting a comprehensive winter day trip.

Key Points

• Stunning Ice Sculptures: The Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival transforms the landscape into a glowing winter wonderland.
• Relaxing Onsen Experience: The natural hot springs at Marukoma offer tranquil lakeside views and soothing baths.
• Taste of Local Flavors: Enjoy a delicious, typically Japanese meal at the ryokan, adding a cultural touch to your day.
• Hassle-Free Planning: All admission fees are included, so no stressing about extra costs or tickets.
• Comfortable Transportation: A comfortable bus and small group size make for an easy, intimate experience.
• Scenic Landscapes: Expect stunning winter scenery both at the festival and during the drive.

You can check availability for your dates here:

First Impressions: What the Tour Delivers

Starting from Sapporo Station’s North Square, the tour kicks off with a comfortable bus ride into the snowy heart of Hokkaido. The journey itself, with a small group of just 13 participants, feels intimate and manageable, allowing for easy conversation and personalized attention from guides.

The Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival: A Winter Wonderland

Once you arrive at Lake Shikotsu, the highlight is the Ice Festival, which is renowned across Hokkaido and beyond. The festival features a diverse collection of large and small ice sculptures, each uniquely carved and illuminated, creating a dreamy, almost surreal scene. As one reviewer notes, “the sculptures glow magically in the winter light, making for incredible photo opportunities.”

The festival grounds are set against the backdrop of the snow-covered lake and mountains, adding to the visual drama. You’ll have about an hour and a half here—ample time to stroll, take photos, and soak in the crisp winter air. Many guests appreciated the variety of sculptures and the peaceful atmosphere, which feels less crowded than other winter events, giving it an authentic feel.

Relaxing at Marukoma Onsen

Next, the tour guides you to Marukoma Onsen Ryokan, a well-regarded lakeside hot spring hotel. Here, guests typically spend around two hours soaking in the natural mineral-rich waters. Several reviews highlight how soothing these baths are, especially after walking around the ice sculpture festival in the chilly air.

The onsen’s scenic lakeside views are an added bonus, making your soak even more memorable. As the ryokan is traditional, bathing nude in the onsen is customary—so travelers with tattoos might want to ask about private baths or covering tattoos with waterproof bandages beforehand. The onsen experience offers genuine relaxation, often described as “a perfect way to warm up and unwind.”

Delicious Local Flavors

After your bath, a lunch at the ryokan provides a chance to enjoy authentic Japanese cuisine, often featuring local ingredients and seasonal flavors. Guests rave about the quality of the food—simple, hearty, and packed with flavor. It’s a great way to recharge before heading back to Sapporo.

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The Day in Detail: What to Expect

Starting Point: Sapporo Station North Square
The tour departs early, ensuring you maximize your day. Expect a brief introduction from your guide, who will be available in multiple languages including English, Chinese, and Japanese, making it accessible for international travelers.

Lake Shikotsu Stop (1.5 hours)
Arriving at Lake Shikotsu, the group can enjoy a photo stop and free time. The scenic lake, often cloaked in snow, offers tranquil views and photo opportunities—perfect for capturing that winter magic. The ice sculptures are the main event here, but many guests also take time to simply breathe in the crisp air and appreciate the scenery.

Marukoma Onsen (2 hours)
Post-festival, the walk to the hot spring hotel is a highlight. Many reviews mention how relaxing the onsen is, especially after the cold exposure outside. The setting by the lake enhances the calm atmosphere, making it feel like a true retreat from winter’s chill.

Return to Sapporo
The journey back is a good time to reflect on the day’s highlights, with the comfort of the bus ensuring a smooth ride. The tour concludes back at the North Square around 7-8 hours after departure.

Transport & Group Dynamics

The comfortable bus and small group size are notable advantages, allowing for a more personalized experience. Guides are attentive, languages are well-covered, and the schedule is thoughtfully planned to balance sightseeing and relaxation without feeling rushed.

Cost and Value

Considering the inclusion of admission fees, transport, lunch, and hot spring access, the tour offers solid value for those wanting a hassle-free, all-in-one winter experience. The price might seem high compared to independent visits, but the convenience and guided insights make it worthwhile. Especially for travelers unfamiliar with local transportation or language barriers, this tour simplifies the process.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Dress in layers: temperatures can fluctuate, especially in the snow and at the hot springs.
• Bring a towel and cash for souvenirs or tips—though most expenses are covered.
• Tattoo policies: Japanese onsens traditionally require nudity, and visible tattoos may need covering. Check with the ryokan if you have concerns.
• Photography: the ice sculptures are stunning, so bring a camera or smartphone with plenty of storage.
• The small group size makes it easier to ask questions or adapt the pace, so don’t hesitate to engage your guide.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

This experience offers a well-rounded taste of Hokkaido’s winter charm. The spectacular ice sculptures create magical photo moments, while the lakefront onsen provides genuine relaxation after a day outside. The included local lunch adds a cultural depth that elevates the trip from just sightseeing to a true cultural experience.

It’s especially suited for those who want to enjoy a scenic winter event without the hassle of planning multiple stops. The intimate group setting and knowledgeable guides make it a comfortable, engaging journey.

While it’s a full schedule, the balance of outdoor beauty, culture, and relaxation makes it a memorable day. If you’re looking for a mix of stunning visuals and authentic Japanese hospitality, this tour delivers.

FAQs

What should I bring for this tour?
Bring warm clothing in layers, a towel for the onsen, and some cash for souvenirs or tips. The weather can be very cold, especially near the lake and during the ice sculpture walk.

Are the admission fees included?
Yes, all admission fees—such as entry to the Ice Festival and the onsen—are included in the tour price, making it a convenient all-in-one experience.

How long do we spend at each stop?
You’ll have around 1.5 hours at Lake Shikotsu for sightseeing and photos, and approximately 2 hours at Marukoma Onsen for soaking and relaxing. The rest of the day is spent traveling and enjoying meals.

Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?
The tour’s pace is moderate, and the focus on scenic views and relaxation suits most ages. However, make sure to check individual health considerations, especially regarding walking distances and hot springs.

Can I bring my camera or smartphone?
Absolutely. The ice sculptures and winter scenery are incredibly photogenic. Just be mindful of the cold and keep your devices protected.

What if I have tattoos?
Japanese onsen culture traditionally requires nudity, and tattoos might need to be covered with waterproof bandages. Check with the ryokan in advance about private baths or tattoo policies.

Is there free time during the tour?
Yes, there’s a bit of free time at each stop for photos, browsing, or simply soaking in the scenery, giving you some flexibility to enjoy the day at your own pace.

This tour is a fantastic way to see some of Hokkaido’s winter highlights without the fuss of self-organizing. Whether you’re into dazzling ice art, peaceful hot springs, or local cuisine, it offers a well-balanced day in the snow.

You can check availability for your dates here: