Overview
Immerse yourself in Hokkaido’s crystalline winter magic on this enchanting day trip from Sapporo, where the Chitose/Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival’s illuminated sculptures sparkle against the island’s deepest non-freezing lake, and Marukoma Onsen’s lakeside baths offer soothing mineral waters amid snowy peaks.
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Contact Jasumo Now →Running January 11–March 25, 2026, the festival transforms Shikotsu’s shores into a frozen art gallery with massive ice carvings, lantern-lit paths, and interactive exhibits—entry included for hassle-free wonder. Journey 1.5 hours south to this UNESCO Geopark jewel (265m deep, crystal-clear), then indulge 2 hours at Marukoma Onsen Ryokan, a secluded ryokan on Shikotsu’s edge, soaking in open-air baths (rotemburo) with volcano views while savoring a included lunch of local seafood or Hida beef (¥2,000 value).
With comfortable coach transfers from ANA Crowne Plaza Sapporo (8:50 AM meet, 9:00 AM depart) and return to JR Sapporo North Exit (4:00 PM), this ~7-hour escape is perfect for families, couples, or culture seekers craving Japan’s winter serenity—book for mid-February 2026 when ice glows brightest under northern lights.
Why Choose This Experience?
- Ice Festival Spectacle: Chitose/Shikotsu’s annual event (January 11–March 25, 2026) features 50+ sculptures by international artists—lanterns, slides, and photo zones in a non-freezing lake’s glow.
- Lakeside Onsen Bliss: Marukoma’s private ryokan baths (sodium bicarbonate springs, skin-softening) overlook Shikotsu—winter steam rising from snow is poetic.
- Culinary Comfort: Included lunch at ryokan (Hokkaido salmon, miso soup ~¥2,000) pairs with onsen soak—traditional kaiseki vibes without overnight stay.
- Hassle-Free Sapporo Base: Direct coach from ANA Crowne Plaza (central, easy JR access)—multilingual staff (English/Japanese) ensure smooth flow.
- Winter Wellness: Shikotsu’s clarity (100m visibility) and onsen minerals detoxify—mid-February 2026 peak for festival crowds and snow depth.
- Family-Friendly Magic: Ages 4+ enjoy ice slides; under 4 free—short duration suits all.
Highlights
- Chitose/Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival: 1.5 hours amid 50+ illuminated sculptures—massive ice towers, lantern paths, and interactive zones on Shikotsu’s frozen shores (January 11–March 25, 2026; entry ~¥1,200 included).
- Marukoma Onsen Ryokan Soak: 2 hours in open-air baths with Shikotsu views—sodium bicarbonate waters soothe skin amid snowy pines; traditional nude bathing (towel rental ~¥200).
- Lakeside Lunch: Included ryokan meal (Hokkaido seafood, miso, rice ~¥2,000)—warm flavors overlooking the caldera lake.
- Shikotsu Serenity: Japan’s deepest non-freezing lake (265m, 100m visibility)—stroll shores, spot wild swans, breathe geopark air (0–5°C winter).
- Guided Comfort: English/Japanese staff share festival lore and onsen etiquette—easy from Sapporo’s ANA Crowne Plaza.
- Seasonal Glow: Mid-February 2026 festival peak—ice lanterns flicker under aurora hints.
Pricing
From ¥12,800 per person
Includes
- A (BASIC): Transportation, English/Japanese speaking staff, Ice Festival admission (¥1,200), Marukoma lunch (¥2,000), Onsen entry (~¥1,500).
- B (PREMIUM): Transportation, English/Japanese speaking staff, Ice Festival admission, Marukoma lunch, Onsen entry, Private bath upgrade (~¥3,000).
- C (FAMILY): Transportation, English/Japanese speaking staff, Ice Festival admission, Marukoma lunch, Onsen entry, Kid-friendly activities (slides ~¥500).
- D (RELAX): Transportation, English/Japanese speaking staff, Ice Festival admission, Marukoma lunch, Extended onsen soak (2.5 hours).
Note: Prices for 2026; child (4–12) ~50% off, under 4 free (lap-held). Option A base; B/C/D extras self-paid. Book mid-February for festival peak (January 11–March 25, 2026).
Itinerary
Starting location:
札幌ANA皇冠假日酒店 (ANA Crowne Plaza Sapporo)
Lake Shikotsu
Photo stop, Visit, Free time, Sightseeing (1.5 hours)
- Explore Chitose/Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival (January 11–March 25, 2026): Illuminated sculptures, lantern paths, ice slides—entry included (~¥1,200).
Break time, Lunch, Free time, Swimming (2 hours)
- Marukoma Onsen Ryokan: Soak in open-air baths with Shikotsu views, enjoy included lunch (seafood/miso ¥2,000), relax in mineral waters (¥1,500 entry).
Finish at:
札幌站 (JR Sapporo Station North Exit)
Note: Total ~7 hours; meet 8:50 AM at ANA Crowne Plaza for 9:00 AM departure, return ~4:00 PM. Times adjust for traffic/snow. Mid-February 2026 festival glow.
What to Expect
Meet at ANA Crowne Plaza Sapporo (8:50 AM for 9:00 AM departure), a central hub near JR Sapporo, where English/Japanese staff greet and board the comfortable coach for a 1-hour drive south to Lake Shikotsu.
Arrive by 10:00 AM for 1.5 hours at the Chitose/Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival (January 11–March 25, 2026): Wander lantern-lit paths amid 50+ glowing sculptures—massive ice towers, swan carvings, and interactive slides on Shikotsu’s frozen shores (265m deep, crystal-clear; entry ¥1,200 included, 0–5°C chill). Spot wild swans or breathe geopark air, capturing magical photos.
By 11:30 AM, head 20 minutes to Marukoma Onsen Ryokan for 2 hours of bliss: Soak in open-air rotemburo baths overlooking the lake and volcanoes (¥1,500 entry), steam rising from sodium bicarbonate waters that soothe skin and joints. Savor included lunch (Hokkaido salmon, miso soup, rice ~¥2,000) in ryokan dining, embracing traditional nude bathing (towel ~¥200 rental). Return by ~4:00 PM to JR Sapporo North Exit—serene for couples (onsen romance) or families (ice slides thrill kids 4+), with mid-February 2026 peak festival lights.
Pre-Departure Notice
- Meeting Point: ANA Crowne Plaza Sapporo (8:50 AM arrival for 9:00 AM departure)—near JR Sapporo; lateness forfeits tour (100% fee).
- Confirmation: Instant booking with email voucher; notify dietary restrictions/allergies/tattoos (onsen policy: small covered OK, private bath ~¥3,000 extra).
- Weather: Festival runs in light snow (layers essential); heavy storms may close baths (prorated refund). January 11–March 25, 2026 season.
- Health: Light walking (~1km); no pregnancy/extreme conditions. Onsen nude (tattoos: cover small, private for large ~¥3,000); test water temperature.
- Children: Ages 4+ full access (festival slides ~¥500 extra); under 4 free (lap-held, notify). Supervise near ice/edges.
Good to Know
- Age Rules: All ages; under 12 supervised at festival/onsen. Kids free under 12 at festival; onsen with adults.
- Group Size: Up to 40 (coach); shared tour, solo OK.
- Attire: Warm layers, waterproof boots, hat/gloves/scarf (0–5°C); towel (~¥200) for onsen (nude bathing, swimsuits prohibited).
- Duration: ~7 hours; festival January 11–March 25, 2026 (10:00 AM–8:00 PM; illumination 4:30–8:00 PM).
- Accessibility: Festival paths flat/icy; onsen stairs—limited wheelchair (notify). English/Japanese staff.
- Photos: Ice sculptures/lake views prime—staff tips; no drones.
- Sustainability: Geopark—no litter; respect ice (no touching sculptures).
Reviews
“Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival was mesmerizing—sculptures glowed like magic! Marukoma’s onsen lunch and bath were heavenly; easy from Sapporo. Winter must-do!”
“Family highlight: Kids loved ice slides, adults the warm soak. Ryokan views stunning, meal delicious. Guide’s English made it seamless—book early for February peak.”
“Chitose’s ice art was otherworldly; onsen melted away cold. Short but perfect day—Shikotsu’s clarity blew me away. Highly recommend for Hokkaido newbies.”
FAQs
When is the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival in 2026, and what’s the snow quality like?
January 11–March 25, 2026 (10:00 AM–8:00 PM)—light snow enhances sculptures; mid-February peak for depth and illumination.
Are onsen entry and lunch included in the tour price?
Yes—onsen (¥1,500) and lunch (¥2,000 seafood/miso) included; private bath extra (~¥3,000 for tattoos).
Is the tour suitable for beginners or kids, with safety measures?
Yes—ages 4+ enjoy slides (supervision); under 4 lap-held. Onsen with adults; staff ensure safe paths.
What if weather closes the festival or onsen?
Light snow fine (layers provided); heavy storms prorated refund. Alternatives: Indoor exhibits or Gotemba onsen (~¥1,500).
How long is the Sapporo round-trip bus, with amenities?
1 hour each way on air-conditioned coaches with rest stops; English/Japanese staff share tips.
Can I bring my own towel for onsen, and what’s the tattoo policy?
Yes—bring towel (¥200 rental); small tattoos covered OK, larger require private bath (¥3,000, cash ready).
What dining options are at Marukoma during lunch?
Included kaiseki: Hokkaido salmon, miso soup, rice (~¥2,000); vegetarian alternatives on request (notify booking).
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