Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival 2025 in Japan

The Chitose and Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival takes place at Lake Shikotsu hot springs, situated in Shikotsu-Toya National Park, approximately a 40-minute drive from Sapporo city. It is a hallmark of Hokkaido's winter celebrations, featuring an array of stunning ice sculptures crafted by spraying water from Lake Shikotsu and allowing it to freeze naturally. This annual ice festival attracts thousands of tourists, so you surely want to be a part of it.

Festival Highlights

In a nutshell, the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival offers attractions for any taste. There are rows of ice sculptures created by freezing the water sprayed from Lake Shikotsu (some of Japan's cleanest water). During the day, the sculptures glisten in a mesmerizing natural blue hue, while at night, they transform into a magical display illuminated by vibrant, colorful lights. Children can enjoy the horse rides around the arena, the ice slides, and the gorgeous skating rink.

Activities

During the celebration season, traditionally, there are drum performances and the firing of over 300 fireworks (every Saturday and Sunday at 18:30). After warming up your chilly body in the baths provided by the nearby hot springs for day visitors, you have an opportunity to enjoy a delicious dinner and shop for trinkets in the hot spring town.

Schedule

From February 1 to February 24, 2025, visitors can enjoy the event daily, with opening hours from 10 am to 8 pm, while the enchanting illuminations begin at 4:30 pm and continue until closing time.

Admission

Admission is set at 1,000 yen (approx. 7$) for junior high school students and older, while elementary school students and younger can enter free of charge.

More About Lake Shikotsu

Lake Shikotsu, a breathtaking caldera lake created by volcanic activity some 32,000 years ago, is Japan's second-deepest lake, surpassed only by Lake Tazawa in Akita Prefecture. Renowned for its rejuvenating "skin-beautifying" hot springs, the lake offers waters that leave skin feeling remarkably smooth. On the opposite shore lies Marukoma Onsen, a picturesque retreat featuring an open-air bath where visitors can soak while taking in stunning views of the serene lake right before them.