Explore Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival (Night Tour)

Hokkaido’s Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival is a captivating winter event that transforms the frozen landscape into a mesmerizing display of ice sculptures and illuminated pagodas. Visitors can experience the enchanting festivities on a night tour, which includes round-trip shared transfers for hassle-free exploration. With a maximum group size of 16, travelers can savor warm local cuisine and marvel at the shimmering lights reflecting on the icy surface. This unforgettable adventure promises an unforgettable glimpse into Hokkaido’s enchanting winter wonderland.

Key Points

• Experience the enchanting atmosphere of the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival in Sapporo, Japan during an illuminated evening tour.
• Marvel at the intricate ice sculptures, towering ice pagodas, and captivating light displays reflecting on the frozen lake.
• Enjoy warm local cuisine and hot beverages from the food stalls while admiring the winter wonderland.
• Convenient round-trip shared transfers and an experienced guide ensure a seamless and memorable experience.
• The tour is suitable for most travelers, but not wheelchair accessible and has a maximum group size of 16.

Event Overview

Explore Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival, a special annual event that takes place in Sapporo, Japan. The festival features magical ice buildings, intricate sculptures, and evening illuminations.

It’s an ideal winter evening activity in Hokkaido, providing visitors with a unique and enchanting experience. The festival showcases the region’s stunning natural beauty, with the frozen lake serving as the backdrop for the ice-themed displays.

Whether you’re admiring the intricate details of the sculptures or wandering through the illuminated ice structures, the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival is a must-see event for anyone visiting Sapporo during the winter months.

Tour Details

The tour includes round-trip shared transfers, eliminating the need for participants to organize their own transportation.

The evening visit enhances the experience, as the festival’s magnificent illuminations come alive after dark. Travelers can explore the various ice displays and installations, marveling at the intricate sculptures and structures.

The tour is designed to provide a seamless experience, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the beauty of the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival without the hassle of logistics.

Participants can look forward to a memorable winter evening in Hokkaido.

Meeting and Pickup Information

Where exactly is the meeting point for the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival tour?

The tour meets at the Doutor Coffee located at 3-chōme-2‐1 Kita 6 Jōnishi, Kita Ward, Sapporo.

This spot is easily accessible via the North Exit of the main JR Train Station.

Travelers can look for a guide holding a Travel Hokkaido sign at the meeting point.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it may use a multi-lingual guide and can accommodate strollers.

With a maximum of 16 travelers, the tour isn’t suitable for those with serious medical conditions.

Additional Information

According to the information provided, the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival tour may be operated by a multi-lingual guide and is stroller accessible. The tour is not wheelchair accessible, but it can accommodate infants upon request. It’s important to note that the tour may not be suitable for individuals with serious medical conditions. The maximum number of travelers on the tour is 16, and you will receive a confirmation after booking. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the experience starts.

Accessibility	Languages	Group Size	Cancellation
Non-wheelchair	Multi-lingual	Max 16 travelers	Free up to 24 hrs
Stroller-friendly	–	Infant seats available	–
Not for serious medical conditions	–	–	–

Pricing and Reviews

The Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival tour is priced from $39.05 per person, offering a lowest price guarantee.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience, travelers have flexibility to adjust their plans.

The tour has an impressive overall rating of 5.0 based on 6 reviews, with no negative feedback recorded.

This suggests the tour provides a high-quality experience that meets or exceeds traveler expectations.

Whether seeking a magical winter evening in Hokkaido or an unforgettable illuminated ice display, the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival tour offers an excellent value proposition for those interested in exploring this unique annual event.

Highlights of the Ice Festival

As visitors stroll around Lake Shikotsu, they’ll be captivated by the magical ice buildings, intricately carved sculptures, and dazzling evening illuminations that transform the area into a winter wonderland. Highlights of the festival include:

Feature	Description
Ice Sculptures	Intricate ice carvings depicting scenes from nature and folklore.
Ice Pagodas	Towering structures made entirely of ice, illuminated at night.
Light Displays	Captivating light shows that dance across the frozen lake’s surface.
Food Stalls	Warm local cuisine and hot beverages to enjoy amidst the ice and lights.

Visitors can wander through this enchanting winter landscape, marveling at the creativity and craftsmanship on display.

What to Expect During the Tour

What can visitors expect during the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival tour? The evening tour offers a magical experience, with the opportunity to explore the festival’s stunning ice displays and illuminations.

Visitors can look forward to:

• Admiring the intricate ice sculptures and buildings that are beautifully lit up in the evening.
• Strolling through the festival grounds and taking in the serene and enchanting atmosphere.
• Capturing breathtaking photos of the ice structures bathed in colorful lights.

The shared transfers provided eliminate the hassle of transportation, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the winter wonderland.

Preparing for Your Visit

Preparing for your visit to the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival involves a few key considerations.

First, dress warmly in layers as the evening temperatures can be chilly. Bring gloves, a scarf, and sturdy winter boots to navigate the frozen landscape comfortably.

It’s also a good idea to bring a portable charger for your phone or camera to capture the stunning ice sculptures and illuminations.

Be sure to arrive at the meeting point, Doutor Coffee near the JR Train Station, on time to join the tour group.

Finally, leave any medical conditions or mobility issues with the tour operator to ensure your safety and enjoyment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Food and Drink Available at the Festival?

The event details do not mention any food or drink options being available at the festival. Visitors will need to plan ahead and bring their own refreshments if they wish to have any during the evening tour.

How Much Time Is Spent at the Ice Festival?

The tour lasts approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, allowing visitors ample time to explore the magical ice buildings, intricate sculptures, and magnificent evening illuminations at the festival.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

There are no age restrictions for the tour, and infant seats are available upon request. The tour is suitable for all ages, though it may not be suitable for individuals with serious medical conditions.

Can I Bring My Pet to the Festival?

Unfortunately, pets are not allowed at the festival. The event organizers do not permit animals to attend for safety and hygiene reasons. Guests should leave their furry friends at home when visiting the enchanting ice displays.

Can I Take Photographs During the Tour?

Yes, visitors are allowed to take photographs during the tour. The event organizers encourage capturing the magical ice displays and illuminations to share the experience with others.

The Sum Up

The Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival’s night tour offers a captivating experience. Visitors can marvel at stunning ice sculptures and illuminated pagodas against the frozen lake’s backdrop. With convenient round-trip shared transfers, travelers can effortlessly explore the magical displays and indulge in warm local cuisine. This unforgettable winter adventure provides an enchanting opportunity to experience Hokkaido’s winter wonderland.