Sapporo offers a unique winter experience with the enchanting Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival. This half-day tour, departing from the ANA Crowne Plaza Hotel, provides a chance to take in a captivating display of ice sculptures and the Ice Museum. Roundtrip transportation and two hours of free time allow visitors to fully appreciate the festival’s stunning artistry. Whether seeking to capture the beauty of winter or create cherished memories, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure.
This experience is showcased in the ultimate list of 20 amazing Tours in Sapporo.
Key Points
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This half-day tour departs from ANA Crowne Plaza Hotel Sapporo at 3:50 PM and returns to JR Sapporo Station North Exit by 9 PM.
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The tour includes roundtrip transportation and admission to the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival, where visitors can explore ice sculptures and the Ice Museum.
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Participants will have 2 hours of free time at the festival site to enjoy the colorful illuminated ice sculptures and take photographs.
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The tour is wheelchair accessible, and Japanese-speaking staff is available to assist, but meals are not included.
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Infants can join the tour for free, but photography and video recording are not permitted, and alcohol and drugs are strictly prohibited.
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Tour Overview
This half-day tour offers visitors the chance to discover the enchanting Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival, with roundtrip transportation and admission included in the price of $45.25 per person.
The 5-hour excursion departs from Sapporo’s ANA Crowne Plaza Hotel at 3:50 PM, arriving at the festival site after a 1-hour drive. Guests have 2 hours of free time to explore the festival, featuring mesmerizing ice sculptures illuminated by colorful lights.
The tour includes Japanese-speaking staff and is wheelchair accessible, allowing everyone to fully enjoy the icy wonderland before returning to Sapporo by 9 PM.
Itinerary Details
The tour departs from the ANA Crowne Plaza Hotel Sapporo’s 1st Floor Lobby at 3:50 PM, with the bus scheduled to leave promptly at 3:50 PM.
The travel time to Lake Shikotsu is approximately 1 hour.
Once at the Ice Festival, guests will have 2 hours of free time to explore the magical ice sculptures and the Ice Museum showcasing the crystal beauty of the lake.
The return journey is expected to arrive at the JR Sapporo Station North Exit by 9:00 PM, though timing may adjust due to potential traffic conditions.
Festival Highlights
The Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival features magical ice sculptures that are illuminated by a vibrant array of colorful lights, creating a mesmerizing visual experience.
The festival’s highlights include:
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The Ice Museum, which showcases the crystal beauty of Lake Shikotsu, the source of the ice used for the sculptures.
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The main sculpture, crafted by about 10 people over two months, standing as a testament to the artistry and dedication of the ice sculptors.
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The ideal setting for photography and social media sharing, as the sculptures are created from the frozen lake water and vary in size.
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The festival’s ability to transport visitors into a winter wonderland, where the beauty of nature is celebrated through the artful crafting of ice.
Transportation and Accessibility
Bus/coach transportation is provided for the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival tour, ensuring a convenient and comfortable journey for participants.
Japanese-speaking staff are available on board to assist guests as needed.
The tour is wheelchair accessible, accommodating visitors with mobility challenges.
Each passenger is allowed to bring one suitcase weighing up to 30 kg.
While the tour doesn’t include meals, participants can enjoy the festival’s food and drink offerings independently.
Traffic congestion is common on weekends, so the tour’s stops may be adjusted accordingly to account for any delays.
Important Information
While no meals are included in the tour, participants can enjoy the festival’s diverse dining options independently.
For personal expenses, cash is recommended as the tour doesn’t accept credit cards or mobile payments. Plus, alcohol and drugs are strictly prohibited during the tour.
Lastly, translation services are available, but the Japanese-speaking staff can only provide assistance in the Japanese language.
Attendees should be aware that:
- Infants (0-2 years) can join the tour for free but won’t be provided a seat unless the child fare applies.
- Traffic congestion is common on weekends, which may require adjustments to the tour stops.
- Each passenger is allowed one suitcase with a maximum weight of 30 kg.
- No photography or video recording is permitted during the tour.
Meeting Point and Departure
Attendees will meet at the ANA Crowne Plaza Hotel Sapporo, 1st Floor Lobby at 15:40. The bus departs promptly at 15:50, allowing ample time to board. The journey to Lake Shikotsu takes approximately 1 hour.
| Meeting Point | Departure Time | Travel Time |
|---|---|---|
| ANA Crowne Plaza Hotel Sapporo, 1st Floor Lobby | 15:50 | 1 hour |
Depending on traffic conditions, the expected arrival at the JR Sapporo Station North Exit is by 21:00. Guests can anticipate a smooth and efficient transfer to the festival site.
Return and Estimated Arrival Time
Upon returning from the ice festival, the tour group is expected to arrive at the JR Sapporo Station North Exit by 21:00.
The estimated return time allows for:
- Enough time to fully explore the festival’s enchanting ice sculptures and exhibits.
- Navigating through any potential traffic congestion common on weekends.
- A buffer for unexpected delays or schedule adjustments along the way.
- Providing a convenient drop-off location for participants to continue their evening plans in the city center.
While the itinerary is subject to change, the tour’s goal is to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for all.
Flexibility and Adjustments
The tour itinerary is subject to change due to factors like traffic conditions, which are common on weekends.
Stops along the route may be adjusted accordingly to ensure a smooth and timely return. The tour operator give you a seamless experience, with Japanese-speaking staff available to assist passengers.
While the general schedule is outlined, flexibility is necessary to account for real-time situations. Guests are advised to be prepared for potential minor delays or rearrangements.
This approach allows the tour to adapt to circumstances, prioritizing the overall enjoyment and satisfaction of participants.
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Things To Know
Can I Purchase Additional Tickets at the Festival?
Yes, additional festival admission tickets can be purchased on-site at the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival. Visitors have the option to extend their time at the event by buying extra tickets at the entrance.
Are There Any Food or Drink Options Available On-Site?
The festival doesn’t include any meals, but visitors can find various food and drink options on-site. There are vendors selling local delicacies, hot beverages, and snacks to enjoy while exploring the stunning ice sculptures.
Is There a Dress Code for Visiting the Festival?
The festival has no formal dress code, though warm, layered clothing is recommended as the outdoor event takes place in winter. Comfortable walking shoes are also advised to navigate the frozen lake setting safely.
Can I Extend My Stay at the Festival Longer Than 2 Hours?
The tour itinerary allows for 2 hours of free time at the Ice Festival. Extending the stay would require making your own transportation arrangements, as the tour group’s return time is fixed. Independent exploration beyond the scheduled time is possible but not included in the tour package.
What Is the Minimum Number of Participants Required for the Tour?
The tour does not specify a minimum number of participants. It’s an open-enrollment tour, and travelers can reserve their spots individually. The fixed itinerary and group transportation are provided regardless of the group size.
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Sum Up
The Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival is a must-see winter event, offering a captivating blend of natural beauty and artistic wonders. With a convenient half-day tour from Sapporo, visitors can enjoy the enchanting icy landscapes, marvel at the intricate ice sculptures, and create lasting memories. This tour provides an effortless way to experience the festival’s enchantment, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a memorable winter adventure.