Sapporo: Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival Small-Group Day Tour

Exploring Japan’s winter wonderland just got easier with the Sapporo: Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival Small-Group Day Tour. This thoughtfully designed experience combines stunning natural sights, tranquil hot springs, and the chance to see one of Japan’s most beautiful ice festivals — all in one relaxed, well-paced day. Whether you’re traveling with family, a loved one, or flying solo, this tour offers a gentle mix of sightseeing and downtime, ideal for those who prefer a slow, meaningful journey over a whirlwind checklist.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is its small group size, capped at nine guests. That means more personalized attention, less rushing, and plenty of room for authentic moments. We also love the balance between scenic stops — like Lake Shikotsu — and flexible free time to enjoy Jozankei Onsen at your own pace. The only thing to consider is that the ice festival entry isn’t included, so budget a little extra for that. Overall, it suits travelers seeking a peaceful, immersive winter experience with a touch of cultural charm.

Key Points
– Small group size ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
– Flexibility in activities allows you to choose snow rafting, hot springs, or peaceful walks.
– Stunning scenery around Lake Shikotsu and snowy mountains creates memorable photo opportunities.
– Long free time at Jozankei Onsen offers genuine relaxation away from tour rush.
– Night illumination adds a magical glow to the Ice Festival, unforgettable at sunset.
– Comprehensive itinerary balances scenic stops with leisure, ideal for slow-paced travelers.

A Day Out in Hokkaido: What to Expect

This tour starts early at Sapporo Station, where your driver greets you in the morning. From there, it’s about a 1.5-hour drive into some of the island’s most pristine natural areas. The first major stop is Lake Shikotsu, Japan’s northernmost lake that remains ice-free during winter, thanks to its volcanic heat source. This provides a striking contrast to the surrounding snow-covered mountains and offers plenty of opportunities for photos. We loved the way the crystal-clear water reflects the winter landscape — truly a scene straight out of a postcard.

Expect about two hours here, which is enough time to walk along the lakeside trail, enjoy the views, or relax by the shore. If you’re feeling adventurous, snow tubes are available for free, adding a playful element to the visit. One guest mentioned, “The snow tubes made the lakeside visit even more fun, a perfect mix of scenery and activity.”

Next, the group heads to Jozankei Onsen, located roughly 1.5 hours away. This hot spring area is famous for its tranquil atmosphere and snowy mountain backdrop. The tour offers around 3.5 hours of free time, giving you plenty of space to soak in the onsen, take a peaceful walk in Futami Park, or try snow rafting along the Toyohira River (if pre-booked). Multiple reviews highlight how much guests appreciated the flexibility here: “I loved being able to choose how I spent my time — hot spring baths, a snow walk, or just relaxing with a hot drink in the cozy cafés.”

For those who want more activity, snow rafting offers a fun, adrenaline-pumping ride along the river, with the chance to spot wildlife like deer and frozen waterfalls. This optional activity is booked separately, but many guests found it well worth the extra. Alternatively, the Futami Park snow walk is perfect for a tranquil hike through snow-blanketed forests, with trails suitable for all levels.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival: The Nighttime Magic

After leaving Jozankei, the tour proceeds approximately 1.5 hours to Lake Shikotsu’s ice festival area. Here, you’ll have about three hours of free time, which allows you to enjoy both daytime vistas and the illuminated sculptures after sunset. This festival is renowned for its intricate ice sculptures, which glow vividly under colorful lights, transforming the landscape into a fairy-tale scene.

Travelers have described the experience as “magical,” especially when the ice sculptures are lit up after dark. Entry to the festival is not included, costing around 1,000 JPY, but most find it worth the small extra expense. During your time here, you can stroll along the lakeside walking path, which offers stunning views of the snow-covered mountains and frozen lake surface. Kids especially enjoy snow tubing, which is provided free of charge, adding a playful element to the evening.

You can also unwind at a cozy café overlooking the lake, savoring a warm drink or dessert before heading back to Sapporo. The return journey takes about an hour and a half, arriving at JR Sapporo Station around 7:30 pm — a satisfying end to a day filled with natural beauty and peaceful moments.

Transportation and Group Size

The tour uses a comfortable vehicle suitable for small groups, with a maximum of nine guests. This size fosters a more personal experience compared to large bus tours, meaning your guide can give more tailored insights and accommodate special requests. The drive between stops is smooth, and the driver is knowledgeable, often sharing interesting tidbits about local sights and customs in multiple languages — Chinese, English, and Japanese.

Timing is well-planned, with ample free time at each stop to explore without feeling rushed. The itinerary’s slow pace is appreciated by many, especially those who want to savor the winter scenery and not merely tick off sites.

Price and Value

While the tour fee excludes some optional activities and admission fees (like the Ice Festival entry), the overall value is solid considering the personalized approach, quality transportation, and the variety of experiences packed into a 9.5-hour day. The small group size enhances comfort, and the flexibility to choose how to spend your free time makes it appealing for different interests.

This tour fits well for travelers who prioritize tranquility, natural beauty, and authentic experiences over busyness. It’s an excellent choice if you want a comprehensive yet relaxed taste of Hokkaido’s winter side, without the chaos of bigger tours.

Final Thoughts

This small-group day tour offers a chance to see some of Hokkaido’s most stunning winter landscapes, from the shimmering Lake Shikotsu to the snowy serenity of Jozankei Onsen. The optional activities and free time mean you can tailor the experience to your mood, whether you want to relax in hot springs, enjoy a peaceful snow walk, or have fun snow tubing.

The highlight for many is the evening visit to the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival — a truly enchanting display of ice sculptures glowing under nightfall. The tour’s thoughtful pacing means you won’t feel hurried, making it perfect for slow travelers or those seeking a peaceful, scenic escape.

Whether you’re a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or just looking for a relaxing winter day out, this experience offers a genuine taste of Hokkaido’s winter charm in comfort and style. It’s particularly well-suited for families, couples, or anyone wanting relaxation combined with visual spectacle.

More Great Tours Nearby

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour can be enjoyed by families, especially since snow tubing is included for free. The slow pace and flexibility also make it kid-friendly.

What should I bring for the day?
Warm clothing, including layers, waterproof gear, and sturdy footwear, are essential. Don’t forget a camera, as the scenery is photographic gold.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. However, there are cozy cafés at Lake Shikotsu and Jozankei where you can enjoy hot drinks and desserts.

Can I participate in snow rafting?
Yes, snow rafting is optional and can be booked in advance for the 11:30 session. It’s a fun way to add some adventure to your day.

Is the Ice Festival admission fee included?
No, the approximately 1,000 JPY fee for entry is paid separately on-site.

How long is the drive between stops?
The drive from Sapporo to Lake Shikotsu is about 1.5 hours, and from there to Jozankei Onsen, it’s roughly the same. The return trip from Lake Shikotsu to Sapporo takes about an hour and a half.

What languages does the guide speak?
Guides communicate in Chinese, English, and Japanese, ensuring clear explanations for international travelers.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in case your plans change.

This tour is a well-balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural charm, and relaxing leisure, making it an excellent choice for those wanting a peaceful, authentic winter experience in Hokkaido.

You can check availability for your dates here: