Into the Heart of Hokkaido’s Winter | Sapporo Snow Festival × Drift Ice Cruise

Winter in Hokkaido is about more than the cold — and more than a world covered in white.
This is a journey into the heart of winter itself.

Cruise through a sea of drifting ice.
Step onto the frozen Sea of Okhotsk in Shiretoko and feel the ice gently rise and fall with the ocean beneath your feet.
Walk through silent, snow-covered forests with an Ainu guide. Try ice fishing on a frozen lake. Stand among towering sculptures at the Sapporo Snow Festival, and watch the clear waters of Lake Shikotsu transform into a spectacular world of ice.
And when the day comes to an end, leave the freezing cold behind and sink into the warmth of an onsen.

But beyond Hokkaido’s snow and ice, there is another story.

It is found in the people who have learned to live with these long, harsh winters — in their traditions, their food, their relationship with nature, and the warmth of everyday life that continues even in the coldest season.
With New Adventure, we don’t just want to show you Hokkaido in winter.
We want you to step into it.

To walk across its ice.
To wander through its forests.
To taste its winter.
To meet the people who call this place home.

And perhaps, by the end of the journey, you’ll understand not only what winter in Hokkaido looks like — but what it feels like to live with it.

How they welcome winter.
How they face it.
And how they find joy in it.

2027
NEW ADVENTURE • Hokkaido Winter Experience
Feb 9–14, 2027 | 6 Days / 5 Nights

Experience the heart of Hokkaido’s winter—from the Sapporo Snow Festival to the drift ice of the Sea of Okhotsk.

Sapporo × Lake Akan × Shiretoko × Abashiri × Tokachi
Drift Ice Walk × Drift Ice Cruise × Snowshoeing × Onsen
Small Group | Max. 14 Travelers
English-speaking Guide
Minimum Group Size: 10 Travelers

Solo Travelers Are Always Welcome!
Many of our travelers join us on their own.

Questions about the tour?
Feel free to message us anytime.

Early Bird Price | Book by October 25
JPY 400,000 per person
2+ travelers | Based on 2 guests sharing a room
JPY 455,000 per person
Solo traveler | Private room included

Book This Adventure

【JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS・Winter in Hokkaido, Our Way】

❄ Walk on the Drift Ice：Step onto the Sea of Okhotsk in Shiretoko and experience the drift ice up close.
❄ Cruise Through the Ice：Set out from Abashiri and sail across the frozen world of the Sea of Okhotsk.
❄ Hokkaido’s Winter Festivals：Experience the Sapporo Snow Festival and Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival in one journey.
❄ Stay at Hokkaido’s Hot Springs：Relax in handpicked onsen hotels, surrounded by snow-covered landscapes.

What Our Travelers Say
Real experiences from travelers who have joined New Adventure tours.

Step Onto the Drift Ice of Hokkaido

Shiretoko Drift Ice Walk
Step onto one of the world’s most extraordinary frozen seascapes.
With professional guides and specialized equipment, experience this rare winter adventure safely and up close.

Have you ever stood on the sea?
Every winter, drift ice makes its long journey south across the Sea of Okhotsk toward the northeastern coast of Hokkaido.
As the ice reaches Shiretoko and Abashiri, the deep blue sea gradually transforms into a vast white landscape of floating ice.
It’s an extraordinary natural phenomenon that can only be experienced for a short time each winter in Hokkaido.

Accompanied by an experienced guide, step carefully out onto the real drift ice.
Walk across the frozen surface, lie back among the floating ice, and find yourself surrounded by nothing but open sky and an endless world of white.

Feel the incredible expanse of ice beneath your feet and experience an adventure that can only happen here, in the heart of a Hokkaido winter.

Abashiri Drift Ice Cruise
See Hokkaido’s spectacular drift ice up close from the sea.
Keep an eye out for wildlife such as seals and Steller’s sea eagles along the way.

Drift ice isn’t something you simply admire from afar.
Board a drift ice sightseeing cruise and head out into the frozen Sea of Okhotsk.
Feel the power of the ship as it makes its way through the ice, surrounded by a seemingly endless landscape of white stretching across the sea.

If you’re lucky, you may spot seals resting peacefully on the drifting ice or Steller’s sea eagles soaring overhead.
Out here, surrounded by ice and open sea, you’ll experience the raw beauty and remarkable wildlife of Hokkaido’s far north.

Experience Hokkaido’s Spectacular Winter Festivals

Sapporo Snow Festival × Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival

Sapporo Snow Festival
One of the world’s most famous snow festivals
Spectacular snow sculptures and creative works made by local residents

Every February, as Hokkaido enters the coldest part of winter, Sapporo comes alive for one of its most exciting times of the year.

Massive snow and ice sculptures transform Odori Park, including breathtaking creations that rise several stories high.
Alongside these enormous works are creative snow sculptures handmade by local residents, inspired by everyday ideas, humor, and life in Japan.
These smaller creations offer a more personal glimpse into the people and culture behind the festival.

As you walk through the festival, artists, local residents, and visitors from around the world all come together, creating one of the most iconic scenes of winter in Sapporo.

Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival
One of Hokkaido’s most magical winter festivals
A spectacular world of ice created from the waters of Lake Shikotsu

Even in the depths of winter, the waters of Lake Shikotsu remain remarkably clear and blue.
As the lake water is sprayed and frozen, towering ice pillars, walls, and caves gradually take shape along the lakeshore.

During the day, natural light reveals the distinctive blue hues of Lake Shikotsu within the ice.
After nightfall, colorful lights shine through the layers of ice, transforming the frozen landscape into an entirely different world.
The ice takes on brilliant colors, creating a magical winter scene that feels completely different from the daytime.

Discover the Cultural Roots of Hokkaido
A Journey into Ainu Culture

Ainu-Guided Snowshoe Forest Walk
★Lake Akan Ainu Kotan is one of Japan’s largest Ainu communities
★Discover the Ainu philosophy of living in harmony with nature

Did you know? The history of Hokkaido is deeply connected to the Ainu people.
For generations, the Ainu have lived in close relationship with the natural world, guided by a belief that spiritual beings, known as kamuy, are present throughout nature.

Led by a local Ainu guide, put on your snowshoes and venture into the quiet, snow-covered forests of Hokkaido.
Discover the natural world through an Ainu perspective and learn about the knowledge, traditions, and stories that have been passed down through generations.
Experience a culture shaped by a deep and enduring relationship between the Ainu people and the land they call home.

Feel the Warmth of Hokkaido in Winter

Hokkaido Wine × Exceptional Onsen Stays

Ikeda Wine Castle
Visit Tokachi’s iconic winery and discover locally produced Hokkaido wines
Enjoy Hokkaido beef, freshly grilled and perfectly paired with local wine

Visit one of Tokachi’s most iconic wine destinations and discover the story and culture of winemaking in Hokkaido.
Pair locally produced wine with Hokkaido beef and experience how the flavors of the region come together on your plate.

In the heart of a Tokachi winter, surrounded by snow, savor local wine and Hokkaido beef while experiencing the distinctive flavors shaped by this northern land.

A Relaxing Journey Through Hokkaido’s Onsen
Three nights at exceptional onsen stays, surrounded by snowy landscapes and soothing hot springs
Limited room upgrades with a private in-room onsen are available for an additional charge

From the shores of Lake Akan to Shiretoko and Abashiri, we’ve carefully selected three distinctive onsen stays across Eastern Hokkaido.
Spend your days exploring Hokkaido’s spectacular winter landscapes, then return each evening to the warmth and comfort of an onsen.
Slow down between snowy landscapes and soothing hot springs, and enjoy the peaceful rhythm of winter travel in Hokkaido.

★Make Your Winter Journey Even More Relaxing★　
A limited number of rooms with private in-room onsen are available as a paid upgrade.
Enjoy the comfort and privacy of your own onsen without having to visit the public bath.
(This upgrade is available only on Day 3 at Kitakobushi Shiretoko Hotel & Resort. Availability is limited and may sell out.)

Discover the Wisdom Behind Hokkaido’s Table

Discover Hokkaido’s Way of Life Through Food

When the land of Hokkaido is buried beneath deep snow and the long, cold season begins, having food on the table through winter has never been something to take for granted.

A winter table in Hokkaido is about more than seasonal ingredients.
It reflects generations of knowledge shaped by living with the land and preparing for the long winter ahead.

On this journey, food becomes a window into the lives of the people who call this land home — and how they have learned to live through Hokkaido’s long winters.
Discover how food has traditionally been preserved and how, even with limited resources, people have found ways to bring flavor, warmth, and enjoyment to the winter table.

Sometimes, simply sitting down and sharing a meal is enough to hear the story of a place.

ITINERARY

※ This is a land-only tour that starts and ends in Japan, so travelers from anywhere in the world are welcome to join us! 🌍
Travelers have joined us from the U.S., Singapore, Hong Kong, and beyond!
※ Transportation to the meeting point is not included and should be arranged individually. ❤️
※ You’re also very welcome to plan your own travels in Japan before or after the tour.

Day 1｜New Chitose Airport → Sapporo
Welcome to Hokkaido! Your Winter Adventure Begins Here.

After your journey across the sea, you’ll finally arrive in a world of snow and ice. From New Chitose Airport, we’ll make our way into Sapporo to experience the spectacular Sapporo Snow Festival.
Marvel at the enormous snow sculptures, and as night falls, watch the illuminated ice sculptures transform the festival into a magical winter landscape.
Stroll through the lively festival grounds, taste seasonal Hokkaido specialties, and soak up the festive atmosphere as travelers from around the world gather to celebrate winter in Sapporo.Tonight, let the snowy streets of Sapporo create the first unforgettable memory of your Hokkaido winter adventure.
Meeting Point ①: New Chitose Airport
Meeting Time: 2:00 PM

Meeting Point ②: Odori Station
Meeting Time: 5:00 PM

Hotel Stay

Sapporo | Tmark City Hotel Sapporo Odori
Located in the heart of Sapporo, the hotel is within walking distance of Odori Park, Tanukikoji Shopping Street, and Nijo Market.After enjoying the Snow Festival, take a stroll through Sapporo’s snow-covered streets, discover local Hokkaido flavors, and soak up the lively winter atmosphere of the city at night. It’s the perfect way to begin your journey, surrounded by the sights, flavors, and winter charm of Hokkaido.

Day 2｜Sapporo → Lake Akan
From a Snow-Covered City to a Frozen Lake.

Leaving Sapporo behind, we’ll journey east across the vast landscapes of Hokkaido, passing snow-covered fields and forests before arriving at Lake Akan, surrounded by a beautiful world of winter white.
In the afternoon, put on your snowshoes and follow a local Ainu guide into the mysterious winter forest. For the Ainu, the forests, rivers, and natural world hold deep spiritual meaning. Through the perspective of your Ainu guide, discover a different way of seeing and understanding the nature that surrounds you.
In the evening, check in to our onsen accommodation by Lake Akan and warm up with a relaxing soak in the hot springs. After dinner, take a peaceful stroll along the shores of Lake Akan or through the Ainu Kotan, and experience the quiet beauty of a Hokkaido winter night surrounded by snow.

Hotel Stay

Lake Akan | THE FOREST AKAN TSURUGA RESORT
Stay at THE FOREST AKAN TSURUGA RESORT, part of the renowned Tsuruga Resort group in Hokkaido. Inspired by the surrounding forest and blended with modern design, the resort offers a warm and relaxing space to unwind. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the shores of Lake Akan or through the nearby Ainu Kotan. Surrounded by snow and the warmth of the onsen, slow down and experience the peaceful beauty of a winter night in Hokkaido.

Day 3｜Lake Akan → Shiretoko
From a Frozen Lake to a Frozen Sea — Step Deeper into Hokkaido’s Winter.

In the morning, experience one of Hokkaido’s classic winter activities — smelt ice fishing. Head out onto the frozen lake and discover the unique fun of winter in Japan’s far north.
In the afternoon, we’ll head to the coast of Shiretoko for a drift ice walk, a rare experience available for only a short period each winter. Led by a professional guide and equipped with specialized protective gear, step onto the drift ice floating on the Sea of Okhotsk. Surrounded by ice and open sea, experience the extraordinary scale and stillness of this remarkable winter landscape up close.
In the evening, settle into our onsen accommodation in Shiretoko. Relax in the warmth of the hot springs surrounded by snow and enjoy one of the most peaceful moments of your winter journey through Eastern Hokkaido.

Important Information for the Shiretoko Drift Ice Walk
Your safety is our highest priority.
To ensure the safety of all participants, the activity operator has established requirements regarding age, height, weight, physical condition, and mobility. Please review the following participation requirements carefully:
1. Height: 130–185 cm
2. Weight: 100 kg or less
3. Age: 70 years old or younger
4. Participants must be in good physical condition and able to safely take part in outdoor activities. Participants must have normal use and strength in all four limbs and be able to maintain their balance and walk independently, without the use of a cane or other mobility aid, on uneven and moving ice.

The drift ice walk is a winter outdoor activity conducted in a unique and constantly changing natural environment. To help ensure that every guest can participate safely, New Adventure will conduct an initial eligibility check through the booking form. On the day of the activity, the guide will make a final assessment based on the weather, sea and ice conditions, and each participant’s physical condition at that time.

We want every guest to enjoy this rare experience safely and with confidence. If, after the on-site assessment, the guide determines that participation would not be appropriate, the guide’s final decision will be made with the participant’s safety as the highest priority. We kindly ask for your understanding and cooperation.

※ Drift ice is a natural phenomenon and its presence cannot be guaranteed. Weather, sea conditions, and the movement of the ice may affect the activity. If the drift ice does not reach the coast or the activity is canceled, an alternative activity or itinerary will be arranged.

Hotel Stay

Shiretoko | Kitakobushi Shiretoko Hotel & Resort
Overlooking the Sea of Okhotsk, Kitakobushi Shiretoko Hotel & Resort is one of Shiretoko’s most iconic onsen hotels. During winter, you may even have the chance to see drift ice from the hotel or its public onsen baths, while enjoying a relaxing hot spring experience in the heart of this World Natural Heritage area.
★ Optional Room Upgrade ★ A limited number of rooms with private in-room onsen are available for an additional charge. Relax in your own private hot spring and enjoy an even more peaceful and comfortable stay.

Day 4｜Shiretoko → Abashiri
From Shiretoko’s Wild Nature to the History of Hokkaido’s Frontier.

In the morning, visit the Shiretoko Nature Center, located at the gateway to the Shiretoko World Natural Heritage Site and an ideal starting point for discovering this remarkable wilderness. From ancient forests and mountains to the drift ice coastline, discover Shiretoko’s unique ecosystem and remarkable wildlife, and gain a deeper understanding of the relationship between people and nature in this extraordinary landscape. From here, step into the wild and untouched beauty of Shiretoko. In the afternoon, visit the Abashiri Prison Museum to explore a fascinating chapter of Hokkaido’s history. Through its preserved historic buildings and exhibitions, discover the stories of the people and events that shaped the region and gain a deeper understanding of Abashiri’s unique past.

Hotel Stay

Lake Abashiri | Abashirikoso
Set on the peaceful shores of Lake Abashiri and surrounded by expansive snowy landscapes, Abashirikoso is a classic lakeside onsen stay in Eastern Hokkaido. Warm up with a relaxing soak in the onsen and take in the peaceful winter scenery outside your window. Slow down and enjoy a quiet evening by the lake before tomorrow’s long-awaited drift ice cruise.

Day 5｜Abashiri → Obihiro
Farewell to the Drift Ice — and Into the Rich Lands of Tokachi.

In the morning, board a drift ice cruise and take in the spectacular frozen seascape of the Sea of Okhotsk — a memorable finale to our journey through Hokkaido’s world of drift ice. In the afternoon, visit Ikeda Wine Castle to discover the history and winemaking culture of Tokachi. Explore its European castle-inspired setting and experience another side of Hokkaido through the flavors and traditions of its local wine. Tonight, stay in central Obihiro and enjoy a leisurely stroll through the city. Slow down to the relaxed rhythm of Tokachi and discover a different side of Hokkaido, with an atmosphere distinct from the wild winter coastline of Eastern Hokkaido.

Hotel Stay

Central Obihiro | Richmond Hotel Obihiro Ekimae
Conveniently located in front of Obihiro Station, the hotel offers a comfortable and welcoming place to relax, with bright rooms and everything you need for a pleasant stay. Breakfast features a wide selection of Japanese and Western dishes prepared with carefully selected ingredients from Hokkaido and the Tokachi region. Start your morning with local favorites such as Obihiro’s famous Butadon (pork rice bowl), as well as Kaisendon (seafood rice bowl) featuring the fresh flavors Hokkaido is known for. Enjoy the flavors of Hokkaido from the very start of your day and fuel up for another day of winter adventure.

Day 6｜Obihiro → Lake Shikotsu → Sapporo
End the Journey in a Magical World of Ice and Snow.

Today, we’ll make our way to the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival, one of Hokkaido’s most magical winter events. Created using the pristine waters of Lake Shikotsu, towering ice formations transform the lakeside into a shimmering world of ice and snow. Wander through enchanting corridors of ice and admire the spectacular creations found only during the winter season. It’s a beautiful way to bring our Hokkaido winter adventure to a close — surrounded by ice, snow, and one last unforgettable winter landscape.

Hotel / Tour End Point: Tmark City Hotel Sapporo Odori
Tour End Time: 6:00 PM

Hotel Stay

Sapporo | Tmark City Hotel Sapporo Odori
Return to the same hotel as Day 1, conveniently located in the heart of Sapporo. Whether you’d like to do some last-minute shopping or discover local restaurants and hidden neighborhood favorites, you’ll find plenty of options within easy reach. The airport bus stop for New Chitose Airport is also just a 5-minute walk from the hotel, with the journey to the airport taking approximately 80 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

👉 Click Here to See the Other Days 👈

Tour Price

Early Bird Offer – Limited Availability!
This special offer is available for a limited number of spots and may end early once all Early Bird spots are filled. Don’t miss out!

Tour Price: JPY 400,000 per person
※ This price applies when booking for 2 or more travelers, based on two people sharing one room.
Early Bird Price｜Book by October 25
From October 26, the regular price will be JPY 410,000 per person.

Returning New Adventure Travelers Get ¥10,000 OFF!
And the discount applies to your travel companions, too!

Book This Adventure

【Solo Traveler Price】
Tour Price: JPY 455,000 per person
※ Solo travelers will always have a private room to themselves. At New Adventure, we want every solo traveler to have a comfortable space to relax and recharge.
Early Bird Price｜Book by October 25
From October 26, the regular price will be JPY 465,000 per person.

Returning New Adventure Travelers Get ¥10,000 OFF!
And the discount applies to your travel companions, too!

Book This Adventure

WHAT’S INCLUDED
✓ 5 Nights’ Accommodation
✓ Private Transportation During the Tour
✓ English-speaking Guide
✓ Drift Ice Walk & Drift Ice Cruise
✓ Winter Activities & Admission Fees
✓ Selected Meals
✓ Basic Travel Insurance

Additional Information
※ Some meals are not included and will be at your own expense.
※ The final amount charged in your local currency will depend on the exchange rate applied by your card issuer at the time of payment.
※ International airfare is not included. Travelers joining from outside Japan are responsible for arranging and purchasing their own transportation to the meeting point.
※ Basic travel insurance is included. If you would like additional coverage, we recommend purchasing your own supplementary travel insurance.
※ Photos on this website are for reference only. Actual conditions and experiences may vary.

What Our Travelers Say

Contact New Adventure 🌍

Have questions about the tour? Feel free to message us anytime.

Prefer LINE?
You can also reach us through our official LINE account.

You can also contact us through our inquiry form. We’ll get back to you by email!

Tour Overview

Destinations	Japan (Hokkaido)
Minimum Group Size	10 Travelers
Maximum Group Size	14 Travelers
Tour Staff｜New Adventure Guide (English-speaking)	Our friendly and unique New Adventure guide will travel with you throughout the journey and make the experience even more fun!
Tour Price	Personal expenses and some meals are not included.
Accommodation	Hotels listed in the itinerary (or hotels of a similar standard)

Important Information

In the event of severe weather or natural disasters (such as typhoons, heavy rain, heavy snow, or earthquakes), parts of the itinerary may need to be changed or canceled.
Unexpected circumstances may also arise at hotels, restaurants, attractions, or other facilities included in the tour, which may require changes to the original itinerary.
In such cases, New Adventure will carefully assess the situation and make the most appropriate arrangements based on the circumstances at the time.