The Sounkyo Ice Fall Festival in Japan offers an exhilarating one-day adventure for those seeking a winter wonderland experience. Enjoy the captivating world of ice drift and icebreaker cruises, where you’ll witness stunning ice sculptures and performances. With a Japanese tour leader guiding you, this immersive experience promises breathtaking views, potential wildlife sightings, and a day filled with unforgettable memories. Whether you’re a family or an adventure seeker, the Sounkyo Ice Fall Festival is a must-visit destination that’ll leave you eager to explore more.
Key Points
- The Sounkyo Ice Fall Festival one-day tour includes a 60-minute icebreaker cruise on the Okhotsk Sea, with possible sightings of Steller’s sea eagles and seals.
- The tour features transportation, a Japanese tour leader, and admission fees to the Sounkyo Ice Waterfall Festival and the Okhotsk Tower.
- Participants must dress warmly in layers, including thermal clothing, gloves, and hats, and bring their own lunch due to limited dining options.
- The tour offers a reserve now, pay later option, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- In case of weather cancellation of the icebreaker, refunds are provided, and alternative destinations are offered.
Overview and Pricing
The Sounkyo Ice Fall Festival activity offers an immersive experience, with a package that includes an Ice Drift, Icebreaker, and the festival itself.
Priced from Kč 4,258 per person, the 12-hour tour features free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option.
The itinerary highlights include visiting the Ocean Exchange Museum, a 60-minute Icebreaker IMERU cruise, and the cultural celebration at the Sounkyo Ice Waterfall Festival.
The tour includes transportation, a Japanese tour leader, and admission fees, though food and beverages aren’t provided.
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Itinerary Highlights
First, visitors can explore the world’s first ice-sea observatory, the Ocean Exchange Museum, which stands 38.5 meters above sea level.
It features a 360-degree observation deck, ice drift radar images, and marine life displays.
Next, guests embark on a 60-minute icebreaker cruise on the Okhotsk Sea, where they may spot Steller’s sea eagles and seals.
The average February temperature is around -10°C.
The tour culminates at the Sounkyo Ice Waterfall Festival, a cultural celebration with ice sculptures and performances, showcasing Hokkaido’s enchanting winter charm.
Inclusions
The tour package includes air-conditioned transportation, designated area pickup and drop-off, and a Japanese tour leader who can assist with communication via translation software. The tour also includes the following:
| Inclusions | Pricing |
|---|---|
| Icebreaker IMERU cruise fee | Sounkyo Ice Waterfall Festival admission fee |
| Okhotsk Tower admission ticket (800 yen) | Lunch and beverages (not provided) |
Participants must prepare their own lunch, as eating in the vehicle is not allowed. The refund policy states that if the icebreaker is canceled due to weather, adults receive a 3,000 yen refund, and children receive 2,000 yen, with alternative destinations provided.
Important Information
Arriving 10 minutes early is crucial to finding your guide at the meeting point.
Each participant is allowed one piece of luggage, so inform the organizers in advance if you have additional bags.
If the icebreaker cruise is canceled due to weather, adults receive a 3,000 yen refund, while children get 2,000 yen. Alternative destinations will be provided in such cases.
While the staff speaks Japanese, translation software is available to assist with any questions.
Dress warmly and prepare your lunch beforehand, as dining options are limited during the day-long excursion.
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Dressing warmly and comfortably is crucial for the trip, as the temperatures can be bitterly cold. Bundling up in layers, including thermal clothing, gloves, and hats, will help participants stay comfortable throughout the day’s activities.
Sturdy, waterproof boots are also recommended to navigate the icy terrain. Packing a thermos of hot tea or coffee can provide a welcomed reprieve from the chilly weather.
Plus, bringing snacks and a packed lunch is advised, as dining options may be limited during the excursion. By being prepared for the cold, visitors can fully enjoy the winter wonderland of the Sounkyo Ice Fall Festival.
Ocean Exchange Museum
One’s first stop on the excursion is the Ocean Exchange Museum, situated 38.5 meters above sea level.
This world-first ice-sea observatory features a 360-degree observation deck, allowing visitors to gaze upon stunning ice drift radar images and marine life displays.
Guests can learn about the region’s unique ecosystem and weather patterns at this interactive museum.
With its cutting-edge technology and educational exhibits, the Ocean Exchange Museum offers an immersive introduction to the icy wonders of the Okhotsk Sea before continuing the adventurous day ahead.
Icebreaker IMERU Cruise
After exploring the captivating exhibits at the Ocean Exchange Museum, guests board the icebreaker IMERU for a 60-minute cruise on the Okhotsk Sea.
During the journey, visitors may spot Steller’s sea eagles and seals amid the chilly February temperatures around -10°C.
The icebreaker navigates through the frozen waters, offering passengers a unique perspective of the icy landscape.
This excursion provides a thrilling experience to witness the power of nature and the resilience of wildlife in the harsh winter environment of Hokkaido.
Sounkyo Ice Waterfall Festival
The cultural celebration of the Sounkyo Ice Waterfall Festival showcases Hokkaido’s enchanting winter charm.
Visitors can marvel at the intricate ice sculptures that line the festival grounds. Traditional Japanese performances captivate the audience, highlighting the region’s cultural heritage. Guests can warm up with hot beverages as they stroll through the picturesque winter wonderland.
The festival provides a unique opportunity to take in Hokkaido’s breathtaking icy landscapes and vibrant cultural traditions. It’s a must-see event for those seeking to experience the beauty and wonder of Japan’s northern island during the winter season.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Tour Accessible for People With Disabilities?
The tour’s accessibility for people with disabilities is not explicitly mentioned. Travelers with special needs should contact the tour operator in advance to inquire about accommodations and suitability.
Can Children Participate in the Activities?
Yes, children can participate in the activities. The tour itinerary includes child-friendly attractions like the Okhotsk Tower and the Sounkyo Ice Waterfall Festival. The icebreaker cruise also welcomes children, with a 2,000 yen refund if it’s canceled.
Are There Any Safety Precautions for the Icebreaker Cruise?
The icebreaker cruise includes safety precautions like life jackets and experienced staff to ensure participants’ well-being. Passengers should follow the crew’s instructions and dress appropriately for the cold weather conditions during the tour.
Can We Take Photos During the Tour?
Guests are encouraged to take photos during the tour, as the itinerary includes several scenic locations like the Okhotsk Sea and the Sounkyo Ice Waterfall Festival. However, photos may be restricted in certain areas for safety reasons.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
Unfortunately, the tour package doesn’t offer an extension option. The duration is fixed at 12 hours. Customers can’t customize or lengthen the tour. But they’re free to take photos during the activities.
The Sum Up
The Ice Drift and Icebreaker experience at the Sounkyo Ice Fall Festival offers a captivating one-day adventure. Participants can enjoy a thrilling icebreaker cruise, wildlife sightings, and the stunning ice sculptures and performances at the festival. With a Japanese tour leader, this immersive experience promises a memorable day in a winter wonderland, perfect for families and adventure seekers.
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