The annual Sounkyo Ice Fall Festival has been running for over 40 years now, and it celebrates the beauty of the harsh, cold winters that this part of Hokkaido is known for. There are numerous illuminated ice sculptures to appreciate, an ice climbing experience, an icefall shrine, and even projection mapping on the ice. In typical years there are also stage performances and ice sliding events, but those have been canceled for this year in efforts to prevent against the spread of the coronavirus.
Due to the chilly temperatures here, visitors are reminded to dress warmly to protect from the cold.
Admission to the event is priced at 500 yen.
Getting there
For those who are driving to the area, it's around 30 minutes from the Kamikawa Sounkyo IC on Asahikawa Monbetsu Road. Free parking is available on-site.
For those using public transport, head to JR Kamikawa Station, served by the Sekihoku Main Line. From there, take the Kamikawa Mori no Terrace bus until you reach the stop for Sounkyo Onsen. The event venue is around a five minute walk from the bus stop.
Kim Bergström @kim.b
Almost 12 years living in Asia. Passionate about Japan's off-the-beaten-path spots, family-friendly travel, flower events (all of them!) and the amazing tea culture here. 🍵🌼🌸
