One of the winter attractions in Hokkaido that took me by surprise is the Sounkyo Ice Fall Festival. From towering snow structures illuminated in lights to interactive picture-perfect snow sculptures, this winter festival in Hokkaido is a dreamy spectacle that does not fail to delight.
What is the Sounkyo Ice Fall Festival?
Known as “Sounkyo Hyoubaku Matsuri” in Japanese, the Sounkyo Ice Fall Festival is an annual winter event that celebrates the beauty of ice and snow in the picturesque Sounkyo Gorge in Hokkaido, Japan. The festival began in 1976 as a small, local event aimed at showcasing the region’s natural beauty and fostering a sense of community during the harsh winter months. Over the years, it has evolved into a major attraction, drawing visitors from around the world to marvel at the elaborate ice sculptures and experience a unique aspect of Hokkaido.
What Makes the Sounkyo Ice Fall Festival Special?
While the Sapporo Snow Festival is known for its massive snow sculptures and the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival for its elaborate ice structures, the Sounkyo Ice Fall Festival offers visitors a more immersive experience in a breathtaking, icy wonderland.
The site where it is held is a massive playground with towering snow structures that people can enter and discover themed displays. The intricate ice sculptures are interactive, providing plenty of photo ops. Dazzling illuminations and light shows accentuate the beauty of ice formations at night. There’s also a variety of activities and entertainment options, such as ice slides, an ice bar, live performances, and fireworks displays.
Sounkyo Ice Fall Festival 2024
The exact dates for the Sounkyo Ice Fall Festival in 2024 have yet to be announced. In 2023, It was held from January 28 to March 12.
Tips for Visitors
- Plan your visit. The Sounkyo Ice Fall Festival typically takes place from late January to late March, with exact dates varying each year. Plan your trip accordingly to make the most of your experience.
- Dress appropriately. Be prepared for cold weather by wearing layers, warm footwear, and a waterproof outer layer. You’ll need to climb down a set of stairs to get to the venue so make sure your footwear is both anti-slip and waterproof.
- There are bus tours departing from Sapporo that visit the festival. These are usually combined with the Garinko drift ice cruise and/or the Asahikawa Zoo. Bus tours allot a limited time—usually under an hour—so if you want to enjoy the festival without time constraints, it’s best to find lodging at Sounkyo Onsen.
- Always practice responsible tourism. Respect the environment and the local community by following guidelines for waste disposal and observing any posted rules or regulations.
Video of Sounkyo Ice Fall Festival in 2023
You can see footage of my visit to the Sounyo Ice Fall Festival in the video below, at around 5:10.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, the festival offers a variety of activities and entertainment options suitable for visitors of all ages.
Temperatures during the festival can vary, but it is common for temperatures to drop well below freezing, sometimes reaching as low as -20°C (-4°F) or even colder. It’s essential to dress appropriately for the cold weather, with layers, warm footwear, and a waterproof outer layer to ensure a comfortable experience.
Yes, the festival requires a ¥500 admission fee.
How to Get There
From JR Kamikawa Station, take the bus bound for Sounkyo (#81 or #83) and get off at Sounkyo bus stop. The festival site is a 3-minute walk from the bus stop.
For convenient access from Sapporo, consider taking one-day bus tours.
