Hokkaido's Stunning Chitose Ice Festival
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Escape the Sapporo crowds and discover the Chitose-Shikotsu Lake Ice Festival! This month-long event features breathtaking ice sculptures and illuminated displays, offering a magical winter experience.
Hokkaido's Chitose-Shikotsu Lake Ice Festival offers a stunning alternative to the more famous Sapporo Snow Festival. Running from January 1 to February 23, the festival transforms Shikotsu Toya National Park into a fantasy realm of massive, sculpted ice formations.
Visitors can explore the crystalline blue ice during the day and enjoy the festive, colorful illuminations after sundown. This year features the inaugural "Hyou-Cos" (ice cosplay) event on January 30, adding a unique twist to the traditional winter celebration.
The festival is easily accessible by bus from Chitose Station or New Chitose Airport. Admission is 1,000 yen for middle school-age visitors and older. Consider the Kyukamura Shikotsu hotel package for exclusive after-hours access and a more secluded experience.
Original source:SoraNews24 ↗
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