Hokkaido Official Tourism Site HOKKAIDO LOVE!

Surrounded by dramatic cliffs stretching for 24 kilometers, this hot spring resort invites visitors to unwind amid stunning canyon scenery and soothing thermal waters.

Located at an altitude of over 600 meters, this majestic mountain retreat features a distinctive Western-style design inspired by Canadian mountain resorts. As you stroll through the beautiful stone-paved streets, the overwhelming scale of the 200-meter-high columnar basalt cliffs suddenly comes into view. The gentle murmur of the nearby Ishikari River and the crisp, clear mountain air provide a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

From spring through autumn, the canyon is filled with vibrant greenery and fiery autumn leaves, while winter brings the breathtaking "Sounkyo Onsen Ice Fall Festival," showcasing giant, illuminated ice sculptures. The town, which spreads across about 600 stone steps, offers various water types—including simple and sulfur springs—depending on the facility. The faint scent of sulfur in the air enhances the travel atmosphere. Soaking in a hot spring amidst the silence of nature is truly a blissful experience.

Marvel at the breathtaking frozen sculptures created by the intense winter chill of the Daisetsuzan Mountains at this spectacular riverside event.

Located in a deep gorge at the foot of the Daisetsuzan Mountains, Sounkyo Onsen hosts one of Hokkaido’s premier winter events. The 12,000-square-meter venue along the Ishikari River features about 30 ice sculptures crafted over three months. The sheer scale of the 13-meter-high ice rooms and observation decks is truly awe-inspiring.

As night falls, the atmosphere transforms into a vibrant wonderland as the sculptures are illuminated in seven colors. Recognized as a "Japan Night View Heritage," the ice walls sparkle like crystals against the silent, snow-covered gorge. When fireworks soar into the crisp night sky, their reflection off the ice creates a harmony of light and sound that makes you forget the biting cold. This event is a must-visit for anyone seeking an extraordinary winter night view.

The festival runs from late January to mid-March. Centered around the frozen beauty of the Ryusei and Ginga Waterfalls, the Ice Fall Festival offers a variety of colorful displays to explore. Frequent firework displays throughout the period continue to delight visitors who stay to enjoy the evening festivities.