Sapporo: Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival & Hot Spring Day Trip

Sapporo: Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival & Hot Spring Day Trip — An Authentic Winter Experience

If you’re planning a winter visit to Hokkaido, this day trip to the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival combined with a relaxing soak at Marukoma Onsen could be just what you need. We’ve reviewed this tour, and while it’s not perfect, it offers a solid glimpse into Hokkaido’s icy beauty and traditional hot spring culture.

What we particularly like are the spectacular ice sculptures that fill the festival grounds with color and glow, and the peaceful hot springs that let you unwind after a chilly day outdoors. The tour’s comfortable coach ride makes the journey enjoyable rather than a slog, and the included local lunch adds a tasty, authentic touch.

A possible consideration is the timing, which might feel rushed if you’re a slow walker or want more time at each stop. Also, for those with tattoos, note that public onsens in Japan often have restrictions, which could affect your experience.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate authentic winter sights, want to experience Hokkaido’s natural beauty, and enjoy hot springs but don’t want to spend days doing it. It’s perfect for those seeking a balanced mix of sights, culture, and relaxation — especially if you’re based in Sapporo and want a manageable day trip.

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Key Points

• Stunning ice sculptures at Lake Shikotsu’s festival glow beautifully in winter light.
• Relaxing onsen experience with scenic lake views provides a peaceful break.
• Comfortable bus ride makes traveling between sights hassle-free.
• Delicious local lunch offers a taste of Hokkaido’s regional flavors.
• Tour duration of 7 hours is well-paced for a full day but may feel a bit rushed during busy seasons.
• Cultural norms about tattoos and public bathing should be considered.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

This tour starts at the ANA Crowne Plaza Hotel Sapporo, a central location that’s easy to find and well-connected. Arriving by 8:50 AM for a 9:00 AM departure ensures you’re ready for a smooth start. From here, the comfortable coach whisks you away toward the snowy landscapes of Hokkaido. The drive itself offers glimpses of the winter scenery that makes this region so special — snow-covered pines, frozen lakes, and mountains cloaked in white.

The Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival — A Winter Wonderland

Your first major stop is the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival, which lasts approximately 1.5 hours. This event is one of Hokkaido’s most recognized winter attractions, drawing visitors for its beautifully illuminated ice sculptures and intricate displays. The sculptures vary from large, elaborate figures to smaller, delicate pieces, all shimmering under winter sunlight or evening lights.

Walking around the festival grounds, you’ll notice the glow of sculptures in the snow, creating a magical atmosphere. Many visitors comment on how photo-friendly the site is, so be prepared to snap plenty of pictures. The included admission fee means you can explore without extra cost, making it a straightforward visit.

One traveler notes, “The sculptures are surprisingly detailed, and the way they reflect the light makes the whole place feel like a fairy tale.” For others, the chilly air and the crowds might be a drawback, but most agree that the sight is worth a little frostbite risk.

Warming Up at Marukoma Onsen — A Tranquil Retreat

Post-festival, the tour takes you to Marukoma Onsen Ryokan, a secluded hot spring on the lakeshore. This part of the trip is especially cherished by those who love a good soak after outdoor cold. The natural hot spring waters are famed for their soothing qualities and scenic lakeside setting.

You’ll spend about 2 hours here, which is enough to relax, enjoy the delicious lunch, and perhaps dip in the private bath if you prefer to avoid the cultural norm of bathing nude in public. The lunch at the ryokan offers local flavors, giving you a taste of Hokkaido’s culinary specialties.

Many reviews highlight how this part of the trip feels like a mini-retreat, with the gentle sound of the water and the views of snow-covered trees enhancing the experience. Some mention that tattoos may pose a challenge in public onsen, but renting a private bath is an available option.

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Scenic Return and Practical Considerations

The return journey begins around 4:00 PM, giving you plenty of time to reflect on the day and appreciate Hokkaido’s winter scenery during the bus ride back to Sapporo. The coach drops you off at JR Sapporo Station North Exit, a convenient spot for continuing your evening plans or heading to dinner.

Practical Details and Tips for Travelers

• Dress warmly: Layers, a winter coat, hat, gloves, and waterproof boots are essential. The outdoor parts are cold, and you’ll want to stay comfortable.
• Tattoos and public baths: Japanese onsen often restrict people with tattoos. If you have small tattoos, covering them might work; larger tattoos may require renting a private bath.
• Timing: The schedule is tight but manageable. If you’re slow-moving or want extra time at the festival, you might find it a bit rushed.
• Food restrictions: If you’re vegetarian or have dietary needs, inform the tour provider when booking. They’ll try to accommodate, but options may be limited.
• Luggage: Bring only what’s necessary — space is limited, and large bags are discouraged.
• Weather: The tour operates in winter snow and cold, but severe weather could lead to cancellations.
• Communication: The guide contacts you via WhatsApp the night before — install the app to stay in touch.

How It Compares to Similar Tours

This experience is a good choice for those who want a fuller winter day without wandering too far from Sapporo. Compared to other options that might focus solely on either ice festivals or onsen, this tour combines both, plus a scenic coach ride, offering good value.

While some reviews suggest that the timing feels a bit rushed, others appreciate the balance of sights and relaxation. The price point—considering the admission, lunch, and transportation—appears reasonable for those seeking a comprehensive winter day trip.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is best suited for travelers who enjoy winter scenery, cultural experiences, and relaxing baths. It’s particularly good for those with limited time but wanting an authentic taste of Hokkaido’s winter highlights. If you’re traveling with family or friends who enjoy scenic photography, casual exploration, and hot springs, this could be a memorable highlight of your trip.

However, if you have specific mobility issues, or if you’re highly sensitive to cold, consider whether the outdoor parts and walking around the festival are suitable for your comfort. Also, those with tattoos should plan ahead if they want to enjoy the onsen fully.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded experience of Hokkaido’s winter charm, blending spectacular ice art with the peaceful hot spring culture. The value comes from the beautiful sights, the delicious regional lunch, and the opportunity to relax in scenic surroundings.

While it may not be the absolute most extensive or luxurious option, it delivers authentic moments that will resonate with travelers eager to see winter Hokkaido without committing to multiple days. It’s a balanced, enjoyable day that captures the essence of the region’s cold season.

For those who want a taste of winter’s beauty, cultural warmth, and the relaxing embrace of hot springs, this trip is a worthwhile choice.

FAQ

Is lunch suitable for vegetarians or those with dietary restrictions?
Please inform the tour provider at booking. They will try to accommodate dietary needs, but options may be limited.

What should I wear?
Dress very warmly in layers, including a winter coat, hat, gloves, scarf, and waterproof boots. Outdoor exposure is unavoidable, so preparedness is key.

Are tattoos allowed in the onsen?
Public onsens in Japan generally restrict those with tattoos. Small tattoos might be covered with bandages, but larger tattoos often require renting a private bath for additional fees.

What happens if the weather is severe?
The tour operates in light snow and cold, but if conditions become unsafe, the tour may be canceled with notification provided.

How long is the bus ride?
The coach ride from Sapporo to Lake Shikotsu and back is comfortable and scenic, taking roughly 3-4 hours total, including stops.

Is there enough time at each site?
Most travelers find the schedule manageable, with about 1.5 hours at the festival and 2 hours at the onsen, but it could feel rushed if you prefer a leisurely pace.

Can children join?
Yes, children under 3 join for free without occupying a seat, making it suitable for families.

How do I get my guide’s contact info?
The guide will reach out via WhatsApp the night before the trip. Installing the app ensures smooth communication.

Whether you’re after winter photos, a cozy onsen experience, or just a taste of Hokkaido’s snowy landscapes, this tour combines all three into a manageable, enjoyable day — perfect for those wanting authentic seasonal experiences in Japan’s northernmost island.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby