Hokkaido Winter Grand Prize: Soak in Lake Shikotsu and Watch Ice Waves

Lake Shikotsu, not too far from Sapporo, is a beautiful unfrozen lake hidden in the forest. Even in the harsh winter with temperatures dropping below minus ten degrees Celsius, it remains difficult to freeze. The azure lake scenery and the hot springs by the lakeside make this place the homeland of the Ainu, the indigenous people of Hokkaido. In winter, when the snow blankets the surroundings, it becomes a popular destination for tourists. The lake, along with the mountains, forests, rivers, and seasonal dishes, creates a unique travel experience. It has also become a beloved hot spring resort just a short train ride away.

With an average depth of 259 meters, Lake Shikotsu is the northernmost unfrozen lake in Japan. Near the lake lies the active volcano Mount Tarumae, and the unique natural beauty has made this area a national park. Travelers flock here for lake cruises, mountain climbing, hiking, and especially for hot spring bathing. Among them, Shikotsu Onsen on the eastern side of Lake Shikotsu is the most favored. The hot spring water here is pure sodium bicarbonate, said to have therapeutic effects on diabetes and gastrointestinal diseases. Its exfoliating properties that leave the skin smooth and tender have earned it the reputation of being a "beauty skin hot spring," making it especially popular among female travelers.

For accommodation around Lake Shikotsu, the "Dai-ichi Hoteru Tessenryu Suishinzantei" is the top choice. This high-end hot spring inn, located near the Lake Shikotsu bus stop, has only 31 rooms in total. The interior design is graceful and elegant, with a basic tone of modern Japanese style, complemented by handcrafted furniture that harmonizes with the natural scenery outside the windows. Guests can enjoy spacious rooms, a variety of baths, and personalized service, ensuring a thoroughly relaxing and luxurious holiday.

The Ice Wave Festival in winter is the peak tourist season for Lake Shikotsu, typically held from mid-January to mid-February each year. The festival features an ice maze and a slide made of ice blocks, which is a favorite among children. The most spectacular part is in the evening, when lights in red, green, or purple are projected onto the ice sculptures, transforming the entire venue into a colorful crystal palace.

It is recommended to visit Lake Shikotsu for the Ice Wave Festival between mid-January and mid-February. Visitors who enjoy a lively atmosphere can choose to stay at a hotel on a weekend, join the festivities before dinner, admire the dazzling display of colorful lights, then return to the hotel for a hearty meal, and finally soak in a warm hot spring—guaranteed to lead to a sweet and sound sleep.

Lake Shikotsu Dai-ichi Hoteru Tessenryu Suishinzantei
Address: Shikotsu Onsen, Chitose City, Hokkaido
Transportation: 5-minute walk from Lake Shikotsu Bus Terminal
Phone: 0123-25-2323
Website: http://www.izura.net/index.htm

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