Chitose–Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival: “Ice Museum”
A World of Ice: From Natural Blue by Day to Seven-Color Magic by Night
Held from late Jan. to early Feb.
Created using the pure waters of Lake Shikotsu, the festival’s ice sculptures transform dramatically between day and night, offering a breathtaking winter spectacle.
This winter festival, held in Chitose, showcases ice sculptures crafted from the exceptionally clear waters of Lake Shikotsu—one of Japan’s most pristine lakes. Pure water from the lake is artfully sprayed onto structures, freezing layer by layer to form an array of magnificent sculptures, large and small. The sight resembles a natural art museum shaped by winter itself. During the day, the ice glows with a deep “natural blue,” and the crisp air combined with the cool textures of ice awaken all five senses.
When the sun sets, the venue becomes enveloped in seven-colored illumination, and the ice sculptures sparkle with a magical glow. The creaking sounds of ice echoing in the silence, the cold air tingling at your fingertips, and the shifting reflections of light create an experience that feels like stepping into another world. Nearby hot springs offer the perfect way to soothe yourself afterward, completing a luxurious winter moment unique to Hokkaido.
- * Please note that the text shown on this page includes machine translations.
- * The event information is based on the dates and content of the most recently held events. Please check the official website for details as the contents are subject to change.
- Nearest airports
General Information
- Event period
- 2026/1/31-2/23
- Event venue
- Lake Shikotsu
- Address
- 北海道千歳市支笏湖温泉
- Telephone Number
- 0123-23-8288（Chitose Tourist Association）
- Open
- 10:00-20:00
- Closed
- Open every day during the period
- Car Park
- 400 spaces, free during winter
- Directions
- ●By bus: About 60 minutes from JR Chitose Station
- Website
* Information on facilities is subject to change. Please check each official website for the latest information.
