Get ready for a truly magical winter experience at the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival 2026.
Held on the shores of one of Japan's clearest lakes, this festival transforms the landscape into a breathtaking museum of ice and light.
From towering ice sculptures glowing in the dark to fun activities for all ages, this guide covers the five essential highlights you won't want to miss at this iconic Hokkaido winter event.
Contents
- Quick Facts
- A World of Ice Forged by Nature
- Best Time to Visit
- How to Get to the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival
- 5 Must-See Sights and Activities
- Practical Tips for Your Visit
- Where to Stay Nearby
- Where to Eat Nearby
- Suggested Itinerary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Sources
- Final Thoughts
Quick Facts
| Feature | Details |
| Dates | January 31, 2026 (Sat) – February 23, 2026 (Mon, Holiday) |
| Hours | 10:00 – 20:00 |
| Light-Up | 16:30 – 20:00 |
| Location | Lake Shikotsu Onsen, Chitose, Hokkaido |
| Admission | ¥1,000 for Junior High School students and older (Elementary and younger are free) |
| Payment | Cash, Credit Card, PayPay |
| Crowd Level | High, especially on weekends and evenings |
| Accessibility | Partially accessible, but paths can be slippery and uneven. |
A World of Ice Forged by Nature
The Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival, or Hyoutou Matsuri, is a stunning spectacle created from the exceptionally clear water of Lake Shikotsu. Sprinklers spray the lake water onto frames, which then freezes into massive, intricate ice sculptures. During the day, these sculptures shimmer in a natural, vivid blue known as “Shikotsu Blue.” As night falls, they are illuminated by a rainbow of colorful lights, creating a truly enchanting and otherworldly atmosphere that feels like stepping into a fairy tale.
Best Time to Visit
For a more relaxed experience with smaller crowds, visiting on a weekday afternoon is highly recommended. You can enjoy the “Shikotsu Blue” ice sculptures in the daylight before witnessing the magical light-up at 16:30. Weekends are significantly busier. The festival is a fantastic photo opportunity, so arriving before sunset allows you to capture both the day and night views.
How to Get to the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival
The festival is held at Lake Shikotsu Onsen, accessible from Sapporo and New Chitose Airport.
From New Chitose Airport (CTS):
•By Bus (Recommended): During the festival, the special “Hyoutou BLUE LINER” bus runs between the airport and the festival site (via JR Chitose Station). This requires an advance reservation. The journey takes about 55 minutes.
•By Taxi: A taxi ride takes about 40 minutes and costs approximately ¥7,000.
From Sapporo:
1.Take the JR Rapid Airport train from Sapporo Station to JR Chitose Station (approx. 30 minutes).
2.From JR Chitose Station, take a local bus to the Lake Shikotsu bus stop (approx. 45-60 minutes).
5 Must-See Sights and Activities
1.Marvel at the “Shikotsu Blue” Ice Sculptures: The main attraction. Wander through tunnels, domes, and towering structures made of pure ice. The natural blue hue of the ice during the daytime is a unique and beautiful sight.
2.Experience the Magical Night Illumination: Don’t miss the light-up from 16:30. The ice sculptures are bathed in colorful lights, transforming the venue into a fantasy world. It’s a completely different and mesmerizing experience from the daytime.
3.Warm Up at a Local Onsen: After exploring the chilly festival grounds, there’s nothing better than soaking in a natural hot spring. The Lake Shikotsu Onsen area has several hotels and ryokans offering day-use onsen (higaeri-onsen) to warm your body and soul.
4.Try Local Delicacies: Sample the local specialty, “Shikotsu Chip” (Kokanee salmon), which is served grilled or as sashimi at restaurants near the lake. You’ll also find food stalls at the festival offering warm drinks and snacks.
5.Enjoy Winter Activities: The festival often features fun activities like an ice slide for kids and adults, and sometimes even ice skating. Check the official website for special events like the opening ceremony fireworks or taiko drum performances.
Klook.comPractical Tips for Your Visit
•Dress Warmly: This is a serious winter event in Hokkaido. Wear multiple layers, a warm waterproof jacket, gloves, a hat, a scarf, and thermal underwear. Temperatures are often below freezing.
•Wear Proper Footwear: The ground is covered in snow and can be very slippery. Wear waterproof winter boots with good grip. Ice cleats (spikes) are highly recommended.
•Bring Cash: While some vendors accept cards, smaller stalls may be cash-only.
•Check the Schedule: Special events like fireworks usually happen on weekends. Check the official website for the latest schedule before you go.
Where to Stay Nearby
Staying overnight at Lake Shikotsu Onsen is the best way to fully enjoy the festival and the area’s natural beauty. You can enjoy the illuminations without rushing for the last bus. There are several lakeside ryokans and hotels with beautiful onsen.
Find Hotels near Lake Shikotsu
Check availability and book your stay on Agoda
Where to Eat Nearby
Besides the food stalls at the festival, the hotels and small restaurants in the Lake Shikotsu Onsen area offer meals. Many specialize in dishes using the local Himemasu salmon. For a wider variety of options, you can find many restaurants in the city of Chitose.
Suggested Itinerary
•15:00: Arrive at Lake Shikotsu. Explore the ice sculptures in the daylight.
•16:30: Witness the magical moment the lights turn on.
•17:00: Take more photos and enjoy the illuminated ice world.
•18:30: Enjoy a warm dinner at a local restaurant.
•19:30: Head to a local onsen for a relaxing soak before heading back.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How cold does it get at the festival?
A: Very cold. Expect temperatures to be around -5°C to -15°C (23°F to 5°F), especially after sunset. Dress in your warmest winter gear.
Q: Is the festival suitable for children?
A: Yes, it’s a great event for families. Kids will love the ice slides and exploring the ice caves. Just make sure they are dressed very warmly.
Q: Can I get there without a car?
A: Yes, public transportation is available. Taking the JR train to Chitose Station and then a bus is a common route. The limited-time “BLUE LINER” bus is also a convenient option.
Q: How much time should I spend at the festival?
A: Plan for at least 2-3 hours to see everything, especially if you want to experience both the daytime and nighttime views.
Q: Are there fireworks?
A: Fireworks are typically held on Saturdays and Sundays during the festival period, but you should always check the official schedule for confirmation.
Sources
•[1] Chitose-Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival Official Website
•[2] HOKKAIDO LOVE! – Visit Hokkaido Official Tourism Website
•[3] Kawatabi Hokkaido
Final Thoughts
The Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival is a quintessential Hokkaido winter experience. The combination of pristine nature, artistic ice creations, and magical illuminations makes it an unforgettable event. Brave the cold, and you’ll be rewarded with a dazzling display that celebrates the beauty and power of winter.
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