New Winter Adventures: Ride the "Northeast Hokkaido Sightseeing Bus" to Witness Breathtaking Scenery

Text by Qidou Travel Network; Photos by Xihong Holidays and shutterstock.com

Winter has arrived, and while the cold temperatures may make you shiver, some stunning sights and activities in Hokkaido’s Tokachi region are only available during this season. We recommend a new way to experience Hokkaido: hop on the "Northeast Hokkaido Sightseeing Bus," which allows you to comfortably, safely, and efficiently take in incredible sights such as the Tokachigawa Kirara, the River Ecology Park Winter Festival, and the New York Times-recommended marvel "Jewel Ice" — all with ease.

Three Seasonal Highlights and Attractions in Tokachi

▲ Jewel Ice at the mouth of the Tokachigawa River. (Photo provided by shutterstock)

The breathtaking "Jewel Ice" of Tokachi only appears from mid-January to mid-February, during the coldest period of winter. When the mouth of the Tokachigawa River freezes, the ice breaks into pieces and drifts out to sea, but waves wash it back ashore, creating the jewel-like ice formations seen along the beach. These ice gems, resembling ordinary stones, are polished into unique shapes through their ocean journeys. As light shifts, they emit dazzling brilliance, transforming the entire shoreline into a glistening wonderland.

In 2018, the Tokachigawa Kirara was open roughly from late January to late February. In past years, visitors were welcomed with complimentary "hand warmers" at the entrance to keep hands toasty — a thoughtful touch. Inside the venue, numerous towering cone-shaped light pillars shift colors along with music, bringing a lively atmosphere to the snowy night. Nearby, a luminous tunnel glowing in silver radiance offers a romantic setting perfect for couples’ photos. Before leaving, don’t forget to try some authentic Tokachi hot fresh milk to warm up even more.

▲ A series of winter entertainment activities. (Photo provided by shutterstock)

From November to March, the Tokachi Ecology Park hosts a "Winter Festival," where visitors can enjoy a variety of winter activities, such as cross-country skiing within the park and sledding on snow tubes. Guests can also use the park’s vast snow cover to build their own snowmen — a joyful experience for both adults and children in this snowy wonderland.

Tokachi’s Unique Hot Springs and Snowscapes

▲ Hot springs in Tokachigawa. (Photo provided by shutterstock)

The hot springs of Tokachigawa are also well-known and famed as "beauty springs." These rare plant-based MOOR hot springs are gentle on the skin, rich in natural moisturizing elements that nourish and beautify. After soaking, many find their skin becomes softer and smoother. Once you experience it, the benefits will be undeniable. When visiting Tokachi, stay at least one night at a local hot spring hotel and soak in an outdoor bath while admiring the surrounding scenery.

▲ Fine, soft powder snow is beloved by skiers worldwide. (Photo provided by shutterstock)

Beyond hot springs, the snow quality in the Tokachi area is unique — it's the rare "powder snow." This type of snow is fine and soft, highly favored by skiers around the world. Ski enthusiasts should head to Sahoro Ski Resort to immerse themselves in this powdery paradise. With an elevation of 1,030 meters, the resort features 21 slopes and a maximum incline of 39 degrees. While skiing, you can also take in Tokachi’s pristine white landscapes. The resort also includes a kids' area, making it a great spot for families to enjoy snow activities together.

Travelers interested in these attractions might consider the "Onsen Tour: Northeast Hokkaido Tokachigawa Onsen 5/6-Day Free-Style Trip" offered by Xihong Travel Agency. This tour lets you ride the "Northeast Hokkaido Sightseeing Bus" and explore Tokachi at your own pace, soaking in the beauty of seasonal wonders.

Tour Information:
● Onsen Tour: Northeast Hokkaido Tokachigawa Onsen 5-Day Free-Style Trip
https://goo.gl/a85t6T
● Onsen Tour: Northeast Hokkaido Tokachigawa Onsen 6-Day Free-Style Trip
https://goo.gl/3V21zc
★ Sign-up Bonus: Sapporo Smile Shopping Guide (includes discount coupons)
★ "Encounter the Flowing Beauty of the Four Seasons in Northeast Hokkaido" Attraction Guide
★ 10% Discount Coupon for Sapporo Drugstore
★ Free Wi-Fi Coupon (one per room, valid for duration of trip)
★ Round-trip 20KG Checked Luggage Allowance
For details, contact: Xihong Holidays
Phone: 412-8618 (add 02 for mobile)
Website:www.besttour.com.tw