The winter scenery in Hokkaido is a vast expanse of white snow and frozen landscapes.
While many views can become monotonous over time, the Chitose and Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival (official website) adds a refreshing change to the scenery
This time, I stayed at Lake Shikotsu Onsen, which is very close to the venue, just a 5-minute walk away.
The signboards at Lake Shikotsu were all covered in snow.
What seemed to be the boat dock was also frozen.
The pointed mountain in the distance should be Mount Eniwa.
The Ice Festival venue is right next to the Lake Shikotsu dock.
Tickets are only ￥300
There is a thermometer nearby, and the current temperature is minus 10 degrees Celsius.
First, you pass through a blue tunnel made of snow, where you can see some art installations inside
In the middle, there is a counter where you can buy tickets. This is the 2019 ticket, which can be used as a postcard.
After passing through the igloo, you arrive at the main venue.
Blue Tower.
There are several “igloos” inside the venue that you can explore.
The shapes of the ice are unique, and with the added lighting, they give off different vibes.
This color looks so matcha-like… a bit like matcha ice cream.
Inside one of the igloos, there is an “aquarium” display.
The fish are frozen in ice, but their shapes make them look like they are swimming.
This big one seems to be a salmon.
The surroundings are all blocked by ice and snow.
Ice Shrine!!
There are quite a few coins inside the igloo!
They seem to be 1 yen, 5 yen, and 10 yen coins.
The walls around the igloo are also covered with coins.
Other igloos.
There is an ice skating rink here, specifically for children to play on.
Sky Corridor.
It’s a bit difficult to walk on, so it’s best to wear spiked shoes, or walk slowly.
At the top of the corridor is the observation deck, where you can take photos looking down.
View of the corridor from the side.
Other igloos.
Rest area.
As it gets colder after nightfall, you can stay here to warm up.
There is a small slide here, also for children only.
Restaurant and temporary post office.
Exit.
That’s the experience of visiting the Chitose – Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival in 2019.
If you plan to visit Hokkaido next winter, don’t forget to include Lake Shikotsu in your itinerary.
Here are the event dates for 2023 (Ice Festival official website)
Dates: 2023.01.28~02.23 10:00-20:00
Tickets: ￥500 (free for junior high school students and younger)
Transportation:
1. From Sapporo, take the Airport Express (about 30 minutes) to Chitose Station, then transfer to a bus for about 45 minutes to Lake Shikotsu. (No buses at night)
2. From New Chitose Airport, take a bus from stop 28, about 55-60 minutes, fare ￥1050
3. Detailed timetable: Click here to check (the last bus to Chitose Station is at 17:45)
Map：
『Original Source：https://nicklee.tw/2614/lake-shikotsu-ice-festival/』
