Private Taxi Tour (4+):Shikotsu Ice Festival & Hill of the Buddha
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Private Taxi Tour (4+):Shikotsu Ice Festival & Hill of the Buddha

Active
6h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This 6-hour afternoon departure jumbo taxi plan allows you to visit two of Hokkaido’s most popular winter attractions: the Hill of the Buddha and the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival.

After visiting the iconic Hill of the Buddha, a renowned work by architect Tadao Ando, you will head to Lake Shikotsu to enjoy the Ice Festival, which offers new discoveries every year.
Spend a full two hours exploring the festival, from the time when the blue-tinted ice formations are visible in daylight through to sunset and the magical evening illuminations.

Highlights:
・Relaxed afternoon departure from your hotel in Sapporo at 13:00
・Visit the famous Hill of the Buddha designed by Tadao Ando
・Enjoy a generous 2-hour stay at the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival, from daytime views to illuminated night scenery

Available options

Private Taxi Tour (4+):Shikotsu Ice Festival & Hill of the Buddha

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation
All Fees and Taxes
Insurance

Detailed itinerary

1

*Admission fee: ¥500 per person (payable individually).*

Designed by world-renowned architect Tadao Ando, the Hill of the Buddha creates a striking winter scene in which only the head of the Great Buddha quietly emerges from a snow-covered hill.
As you pass through the approach tunnel surrounded by snow, the harmony of serene concrete architecture and the crisp winter air creates a solemn and calming atmosphere.
Among the four seasons, winter offers a particularly profound sense of tranquility, making this an iconic place to experience the architectural beauty and serene landscapes that define Sapporo in winter.

2

*Admission fee: ¥1,000 per person (payable individually).

At the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival, stunning ice sculptures made from the crystal-clear waters of Lake Shikotsu line the venue, offering different impressions during the day and at night.
In daylight, you can admire the transparency and natural beauty of the ice illuminated by the sun, while in the evening, the sculptures are transformed into a magical world through colorful illumination.
Visitors can also enjoy the crisp winter air and the serene lakeside scenery surrounding the venue. This seasonal event beautifully combines nature and art, created by the harsh winter conditions unique to Hokkaido.

What's not included

Dinner
Facility admission fee

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Sapporo

Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido, is known for its stunning winter landscapes, vibrant cultural scene, and delicious seafood. The city hosts the famous Sapporo Snow Festival and offers a unique blend of modern urban life and traditional Japanese charm.

Top Attractions

Sapporo Beer Museum

Learn about the history of beer in Japan and the Sapporo Beer brand. The museum offers beer tasting and a chance to see the brewing process.

Historical 1-2 hours Free entry, beer tasting costs vary

Odori Park

A large park in the heart of Sapporo, known for its beautiful gardens, fountains, and the famous Sapporo Snow Festival held here in February.

Nature 1-3 hours depending on the season Free

Sapporo TV Tower

A landmark of Sapporo, offering panoramic views of the city from its observation deck. The tower is illuminated at night, creating a beautiful sight.

Architecture 1 hour ¥790 for adults

Must-Try Local Dishes

Sapporo Ramen

A rich, miso-based ramen with corn, butter, and pork. A must-try local specialty.

Lunch/Dinner Contains pork, can be made vegetarian with modifications.

Soup Curry

A spicy, flavorful curry soup with vegetables and meat, a Hokkaido specialty.

Lunch/Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan.

Genghis Khan

Grilled lamb or mutton, a popular dish in Hokkaido, often cooked on a dome-shaped grill.

Dinner Contains lamb, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Popular Activities

Skiing in Niseko Snowboarding in Rusutsu Hiking in Daisetsuzan National Park Onsen (hot spring) bathing Strolling through Odori Park Shopping in Tanukikoji Visiting the Sapporo Beer Museum Exploring Otaru's historic district

Best Time to Visit

December to February (Winter) and July to August (Summer)

Winter is ideal for snow festivals and skiing, while summer offers pleasant weather for outdoor activities and festivals.

Winter: -5°C to 0°C, Summer: 18°C to 25°C Winter: 23°F to 32°F, Summer: 64°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: Japanese
  • Widely spoken: English, Chinese, Korean
  • English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

GMT+9

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Sapporo is a very safe city with low crime rates. However, petty theft and scams can occur, especially in tourist areas.

Important Precautions:
  • • Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas.
  • • Use licensed taxis and agreed-upon fares.
  • • Be wary of strangers offering help or services, especially in tourist areas.

Getting there

By air
  • New Chitose Airport • 40 km from city center
By train

Sapporo Station

By bus

Sapporo Station Bus Terminal, Susukino Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The subway system is clean, efficient, and easy to navigate. It consists of three lines: Namboku, Tozai, and Tohoku-Johetsu.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Susukino Odori Tanukikoji

Day trips

Niseko
110 km from Sapporo • Full day or overnight

A popular ski resort known for its powder snow, Niseko offers excellent skiing and snowboarding in winter, and outdoor activities in summer.

Otaru
30 km from Sapporo • Half day or full day

A charming port city known for its historic buildings, canals, and fresh seafood. Otaru offers a mix of history, culture, and scenic views.

Furano
140 km from Sapporo • Full day or overnight

Known for its lavender fields in summer and skiing in winter, Furano offers a mix of natural beauty and outdoor activities.

Festivals

Sapporo Snow Festival • Early February Sapporo Beer Festival • Late July to early August Yosakoi Soran Festival • Early June

Pro tips

  • Visit the Sapporo Beer Museum for a unique beer tasting experience.
  • Try Sapporo's famous ramen at Ramen Republic or other local ramen shops.
  • Explore the historic Tanukikoji Shopping Arcade for souvenirs and street food.
  • Experience the Sapporo Snow Festival if visiting in February.
  • Take a day trip to Otaru for its charming canals and fresh seafood.
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 6-60
1
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 8
Secure booking
Free cancellation available

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