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Exploring the Breathtaking Sights of Sounkyo Ice Waterfall Festival in Hokkaido

The Sounkyo Ice Waterfall Festival, held in the picturesque setting of Sounkyo, a part of Daisetsuzan National Park in Hokkaido, is a unique and enchanting event that captures the beauty of winter in Japan. This festival, which typically runs from late January to mid-March, is one of Hokkaido's signature winter events and offers an immersive experience in a magical icy wonderland.


Each year, the festival features a main multi-story structure made entirely of ice, with designs varying from English-style castles to traditional Japanese buildings. This main attraction is surrounded by a series of snow pathways, towers, and domes. Visitors can explore tunnels and ice caves, turning the entrance to the festival into an adventure in itself.


In addition to the stunning ice sculptures, which are illuminated with colorful lights at night, the festival offers a range of activities and entertainment. These include sledding, ice slides, and traditional Ainu and taiko drum performances. One unique aspect of the festival is that it hosts weddings in extravagant ice waterfall settings. Visitors can also enjoy ice climbing and have a drink at the popular ice bar.

The festival area is surrounded by scenic views of tall cliffs, waterfalls, and mountainous landscapes. Visitors can engage in various outdoor activities such as fishing, cycling, white-water rafting, and skiing. The local area is rich in Japanese history and culture, offering opportunities to relax in onsens, enjoy the local cuisine, and learn about the area's history.


For those planning to visit, it's important to dress warmly due to the freezing temperatures, which can feel like -20°C with wind chill. The festival is accessible via a 30-minute drive from Kamikawa Sounkyo IC on Asahikawa Monbetsu Road, with free parking available on-site. Alternatively, public transport options include a bus to JR Kamikawa Station.


The Sounkyo Ice Waterfall Festival is not just a display of stunning ice sculptures but a celebration of winter in Hokkaido, offering a plethora of activities and cultural experiences for all ages​


49th Sounkyo Onsen Icefall Festival

date and time. Place

Saturday, January 27, 2024 fromSunday, March 17, 2024

17:00-21:30 (last entry 21:15)

Location: Kamikawa Town Sounkyo Icefall Festival Special Venue (Sounkyo Onsen, Kamikawa Town, Kamikawa District, Hokkaido)


Fees/Expenses

 Please donate 500 yen per person.

Sponsored by

Sounkyo Onsen Icefall Festival Executive Committee 

 


Sounkyo Onsen Icefall Festival Venue

TEL (17:00-21:30 during period) 01658-5-3000

LINK

Sounkyo Tourism Association

ADDRESS 605 Chuo-cho, Kamikawa-cho Mori no Terrace Nupuri

TEL (Weekdays 8:30-17:30) 01658-2-1811

FAX 01658-2-1903

LINK

Kamikawa Town Industry and Economy Division Commerce and Tourism Group

TEL 01658-2-4058

FAX 01658-2-1220




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