Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival

It was a trek to get to this location. First I took a JR Airport train to CTS where I would catch a Blue Liner bus to Lake Shikotsu.

The lake was very scenic, and I'll return later this year in late spring. The short walk to the venue showed off the views and offered a preview of the event. It was very crowded which I already knew from the packed parking lot and the numerous tour buses.

I had about 2 hours to walk around the venue, a lot of which was standing in long lines for the elevated view and for various tunnel walks inside the ice structures. The site was created by pouring water which freezed to create the huge perimeter wall and the structures. Very impressive and beautiful.

I was done in about an hour as the illumination started. Oddly, I found the natural blue ice color preferable to the garish lighting. I took a rest break in a small cafe waiting for my return bus to CTS.

When I finally got back to Susukino, I was exhausted and starving. I went to a curry restaurant near my hotel. I was surprised this meal only cost $7 even though I had rice, Miso soup, tonkatsu, potato salad and a can beer. The food was more than decent. I may return for the curry.Read more