Lake Shikotsu | Review by 黃國棟

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Lake Shikotsu

A stunning northern lake hugged by nature, majestic air and crystal-clear waters.

8 Sep 2026 See More

When visiting Hokkaido, Lake Shikotsu is definitely worth adding to your itinerary! Located west of Chitose, about a one-hour drive from New Chitose Airport, the lake has crystal-clear water and is surrounded by forests, mountains, and volcanic scenery. The whole environment is very relaxing and perfect for slowing down and taking in nature.

Lake Shikotsu is also Japan's northernmost ice-free lake, so you can still enjoy the lake and mountain views in winter. There are also hot springs nearby, so it's no wonder it has become a popular resort destination around Sapporo and Chitose.

The much-anticipated winter Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival is usually held from late January to mid-February. The dreamlike ice sculptures made with natural water from Lake Shikotsu are truly beautiful! Unfortunately, the timing of this visit didn't work out, so I couldn't see the Ice Festival in person. I could only stroll around the lakeshore, take photos, and enjoy the peaceful winter scenery, which was a different kind of travel experience.

Other Reviews by 黃國棟

Ogonzaki Cape

Located in the Bikuni area of Shakotan, Hokkaido, Ogonzaki Cape is a scenic spot known for breathtaking views of the beautiful sea called Shakotan Blue and dramatic cliffs. The well-maintained walking trail has three entrances, from the Route 229 side, the Bikuni Port side (Chatsu Tunnel side), and the Chatsu district side, making it easy to enjoy a stroll in nature.
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8 Sep 2026 See More

The magnificent scenery created by the interweaving of Shakotan Blue and sheer cliffs is truly unforgettable at first sight! On this visit to Ogonzaki Cape, the snow-covered mountains and deep blue sea complemented each other, making the whole scene look like a painting.

Near the entrance to the observation deck, there is a place in front of the municipal office that resembles a visitor information center, where you can get some information first. There was quite a bit of snow on the path in winter, but previous visitors had made a narrow trail, so I was able to walk up slowly even in sneakers.

When I finally reached the viewpoint, the scenery before me was truly breathtaking! The snow-covered mountains, blue sea, and white snow blended together so beautifully that I didn't want to leave. This trip was really worth it. Thank you, nature, for this beautiful winter scenery!
Sapporo Snow Festival

Ranked as one of the world's top three snow festivals, the Sapporo Snow Festival is a coveted winter extravaganza held every February in Sapporo, Hokkaido. The even kicked off in 1950 when local middle and high school students created snow sculptures in Odori Park. The event has since grown into a massive festival that draws some two million visitors from around the world each year.
- Sapporo Station, Odori, Susukino
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8 Sep 2026 See More

This time, I specifically planned my itinerary around seeing the annual Sapporo Snow Festival, and it definitely didn't disappoint! As one of the “world's three major snow festivals,” the entire event is filled with huge sculptures made of snow and ice, creating a very magical and lively atmosphere.

Besides the spectacular snow sculptures, there are also plenty of attractions to enjoy. Adults and children alike can have a great time, playing until they're completely worn out.

There's no need to worry when you get tired, either. The venue is very well organized, with plenty of tables and chairs for resting, as well as many food stalls nearby where you can eat and recharge.

Overall, the event is really well planned. If it's your first winter trip to Hokkaido, I highly recommend adding the Sapporo Snow Festival to your itinerary!
Lake Kussharo

Lake Kussharo is Japan's largest caldera lake, stretching approximately 20 kilometers north to south, and the largest freshwater lake that freezes over on its entire surface. Mt. Mokoto, which created Lake Kussharo, is known for its volcanic eruptions that covered the entire Hokkaido region with its ash in ancient times.
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8 Sep 2026 See More

What impressed me most when I arrived at Lake Kussharo in Hokkaido was the vast winter scenery before me. Lake Kussharo is Japan's largest caldera lake, surrounded by mountains, and its rich natural landscape feels especially magnificent.

I visited in winter this time, when the lake was covered in a layer of ice and snow and the distant mountaintops were also blanketed in white. Combined with the deep blue sky, clouds, and mist, the whole scene had a quiet, magical beauty. Looking out over the lake from a high vantage point, the view was incredibly expansive, and I couldn't stop taking photos. Lake Kussharo in winter is less lively but more pristine. It's definitely worth seeing for yourself!