Sapporo: Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival & Hot Spring Day Trip

Travelers heading to Hokkaido often seek out its iconic winter sights, and this day trip from Sapporo to Lake Shikotsu offers a well-balanced mix of striking ice art and soothing hot springs. We’ve reviewed this experience based on multiple traveler insights and detailed the highlights that make it a worthwhile addition to your winter itinerary. From the comfort of a guided tour to the chance to see incredible ice sculptures and unwind at a traditional onsen, this trip packs quite a punch for a 7-hour adventure.

What truly stands out are the breathtaking ice sculptures, the serenity of the lakeside onsen, and the convenience of having everything organized, including lunch. That said, a potential consideration is that the tour’s focus on cold-weather activities means you’ll need to dress warmly—especially if you plan to linger at the festival or soak in the onsen.

This tour is perfect for travelers wanting a full sensory experience of Hokkaido’s winter charm without the hassle of planning every detail. If you love picturesque scenery, culture through hot springs, and festive ice art, this trip is a smart choice.

Good To Know

• Stunning Ice Sculptures: The Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival features elaborate and glowing sculptures, perfect for photos.
• Relaxing Onsen Experience: Soaking in the Marukoma Onsen offers a tranquil way to warm up and enjoy lakeside views.
• Comfortable Transportation: A spacious bus ensures a smooth, temperature-controlled ride from Sapporo.
• Authentic Local Lunch: Included dishes at Marukoma Onsen Ryokan provide a taste of Hokkaido’s flavors.
• Flexible Timing: Ample free time at each site allows you to explore at your own pace.
• Cultural & Scenic Balance: Combines lively winter festivities with peaceful natural scenery.

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A Genuine Dive Into the Experience

The Meeting Point and Departure

Starting your day at the ANA Crowne Plaza Hotel Sapporo makes sense—it’s central and easily accessible. Arriving by 8:50 AM ensures you’re ready for the 9:00 AM departure. The tour guide will send you a WhatsApp the night before with all the details, including the exact meeting spot and your guide’s contact info. The comfort of the bus is a real plus, especially when shuttling through Hokkaido’s chilly winter landscape.

Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival: A Visual Feast

The highlight of the trip is undoubtedly the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival. Once at the festival grounds, you’ll be greeted by an array of ice sculptures, some towering and intricate, others small and delicate. As one traveler noted, “The sculptures glow beautifully in the winter light, creating almost a magical atmosphere.” The festival showcases a variety of ice art, and the included admission makes wandering through the grounds hassle-free.

Walking among these frozen masterpieces, you’ll appreciate how the clear, crisp air enhances the visual impact. Many visitors also use this time to take photos—be sure to bring your camera or smartphone fully charged. The festival’s layout allows for easy exploration, and with about 90 minutes allocated, it’s enough to see the highlights without feeling rushed.

The Scenic Drive and Lake Shikotsu

The journey from Sapporo is scenic, with the bus winding through snow-covered forests and mountain views. You’ll get a firsthand look at how winter transforms Hokkaido’s landscape. Some reviews mention that the bus ride itself is comfortable and offers good opportunities for sightseeing and chatting with fellow travelers.

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The Marukoma Onsen Experience

After the chilly festival, it’s time to warm up at Marukoma Onsen Ryokan, situated right on the shores of Lake Shikotsu. This secluded onsen is praised for its tranquility and stunning lakeside views. The hot spring waters are naturally soothing, offering a true taste of Japanese onsen culture. Many reviews highlight the relaxing atmosphere and the pure, mineral-rich waters.

The onsen experience is traditionally enjoyed naked, so be prepared for that. If you have tattoos, be aware that many public onsens in Japan do not permit tattoos unless they are covered or you rent a private bath—this can cost around ¥2,750 to ¥7,700. It’s worth checking in advance if this applies to you.

Delicious Local Lunch

Included in the tour is a tasty lunch at the ryokan, which provides a good opportunity to savor local ingredients. Though specific menu details aren’t listed, reviews praise the quality and flavor of the food, describing it as satisfying and authentic. Vegetarians or those with dietary restrictions should communicate their needs beforehand, as the tour provider will try to accommodate but cannot guarantee special options.

Free Time and Optional Activities

Post-lunch, you’ll have about two hours for optional activities—whether that’s relaxing further in the onsen, taking a walk around Lake Shikotsu, or snapping more photos of the winter scenery. The flexibility here allows you to tailor your experience.

Return to Sapporo

Around 4:00 PM, the bus departs for Sapporo, with a drop-off at the JR Sapporo Station North Exit. This central location makes it easy to continue exploring the city or head back to your accommodation. The timing is convenient, giving you a full day off the beaten path without feeling rushed.

Practical Details and Tips

Pricing and Value: The tour is priced to include transportation, festival admission, lunch, and the onsen. Many travelers feel this offers good value, especially considering the hassle-free organization and authentic experiences. The included lunch and onsen are highlights that would otherwise require extra planning.

Dress Accordingly: Expect to be outside in winter conditions for most of the trip. Dress in layers, with waterproof boots, gloves, and warm outerwear. The onsen is traditionally nudist, so plan accordingly if you’re shy or prefer private baths.

Tattoos & Onsen Culture: Given the cultural norm, tattoos are generally not permitted in public baths. Small tattoos can sometimes be covered, but larger tattoos might necessitate a private bath rental, which incurs an extra fee.

Weather Considerations: The tour operates in light snow and cold weather. If there’s severe weather—like a blizzard or icy roads—it could be canceled for safety reasons. The provider will notify you if that happens.

Group Size & Guide: With live multilingual guides, you’ll get friendly commentary and insights during the day. Group sizes tend to be moderate, making it easy to ask questions or enjoy a relaxed pace.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip suits travelers who want a balanced experience—combining visual spectacle with relaxation. It’s ideal for those who enjoy winter scenery, culture through hot springs, and easy logistics. Families, couples, or solo travelers wanting a straightforward day out will find it offers a good value for the price.

If you’re after a picture-perfect winter festival and a serene lakeside onsen experience, this tour ticks those boxes. Just remember to bundle up, bring your camera, and prepare for a day of chilly but memorable sights.

The Sum Up

This Sapporo-based day trip provides a well-rounded glimpse into Hokkaido’s winter charm. The stunning ice sculptures at Lake Shikotsu offer a visual feast, while the Marukoma Onsen delivers a calming, authentic Japanese bathing experience. The included lunch adds a taste of regional flavors, and the comfortable transportation means you spend less time organizing and more time enjoying.

It’s particularly suited for travelers who want a hassle-free, immersive way to experience Hokkaido’s winter festivities. Whether you’re snapping photos, soaking in hot springs, or simply marveling at the snowy landscape, this trip delivers a memorable day out.

While the cold can be a challenge, it’s also part of what makes this experience special. Pack those layers, prepare for some icy beauty, and you’ll come away with a genuine taste of Hokkaido’s winter wonderland.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians or those with dietary restrictions?
Yes, the included lunch at the ryokan is generally enjoyed, but if you have specific dietary needs, inform the provider at booking. They will try to accommodate, though alternatives cannot be guaranteed.

What should I wear for this tour?
Dress very warmly in layers, including a winter coat, hat, gloves, scarf, and waterproof boots. The outdoor parts, especially at the festival and lakeside, can be very cold.

Can I bring large luggage?
It’s recommended to avoid bringing large bags, as space is limited on the bus. Pack only essentials for the day.

Are children allowed, and is there a price difference?
Children under 3 can join for free without occupying a seat. For older children, check with the provider about pricing, but the tour is family-friendly.

Is the onsen experience open to everyone?
Most travelers enjoy the onsen’s relaxing waters, but note that tattoos are traditionally not permitted in public baths. Private baths are an option for those with tattoos.

What happens if there’s bad weather?
The tour operates in light snow and cold conditions, but if extreme weather makes travel dangerous, it could be canceled. The provider will notify you promptly.

How long is the free time at Lake Shikotsu?
You’ll have about 90 minutes for the festival and sightseeing, and 2 hours for lunch and optional activities at the ryokan.

What’s included in the price?
Transportation, admission to the Ice Festival, a traditional lunch, and access to the hot springs at Marukoma Onsen are all covered, making it a convenient package.

This detailed review aims to help you decide whether this trip fits your winter travel plans. The blend of stunning visuals and authentic relaxation makes it a thoughtful choice for those eager to experience Hokkaido’s icy beauty with minimal fuss.

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