Kamikawa town, Hokkaido / 層雲峡（北海道上川町）
Welcome to Sounkyo Onsen and the Ice Waterfall Festival! Sounkyo Onsen is a beautiful hot spring resort in Hokkaido, where you can enjoy the healing power of hot springs amidst a rich natural environment.
Located in the majestic Sounkyo Gorge, the hot spring resort offers breathtaking views throughout the seasons. The surrounding area has stunning mountains and picturesque streams, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and hikers.
Every winter, Sounkyo hosts the “Ice Fall Festival,” a spectacular event where frozen waterfalls transform into mesmerizing ice sculptures. The sculptures are beautifully illuminated at night, creating a magical atmosphere. The ice sculptures come in various shapes and colours, and their beauty is truly a sight.
The Ice Waterfall Festival attracts visitors from Japan and abroad, offering a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the winter wonderland of Hokkaido. The festival features a range of events and food stalls, allowing you to experience local cuisine and culture.
When visiting Sounkyo Onsen and the Ice Waterfall Festival, take your time to relax in the hot springs and fully appreciate the natural beauty and enchantment of the ice festival. Unforgettable experiences await you!
Why did I visit there?
I was on my way to a hotel in Sounkyo Hot Springs that day for a one-off cleaning part-time job. It was also a fun drive. Driving in the snowy mountains involves a lot of danger, but I was impressed by the actual snow-covered mountains and wild animals such as deer and foxes, which you don’t normally see.
When I finished work in the afternoon and was about to go home, I saw a poster for the Icefall Festival. I had heard of Hyobaku (the icefall) but had never seen it, so I decided to enter the park if I had come all this way. But I happened to go there and it was just being held, how lucky I am…
The venue had monuments of various sizes and icefalls everywhere. Shrines, bars, bells that anyone can ring, playable pianos, very unique. It was colourfully lit up everywhere. You can even enjoy snow activities. Fireworks were set off at the end of the festival, creating a fantastic world.
The event is held from late January to early March. Don’t miss out.
Official Website: 北海道層雲峡観光協会 2024, https://sounkyo.net/hyoubaku/
How do I get to Sounkyo Onsen?
- 60-minute drive from Asahikawa City
- 3hr drive from New Chitose Airport (CTS)
- 30-minute by bus from JR Kaamikawa Station
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