The Sounkyo Onsen Ice Waterfall Festival (Sounkyo Hyoubaku Matsuri) is one of Hokkaido’s most enchanting winter spectacles, held annually from late January to mid-March. This festival transforms the Ishikari River valley into a shimmering ice kingdom, spanning over 10,000 square meters with towering ice sculptures, illuminated ice tunnels, and massive frozen waterfalls, all bathed in rainbow-colored lights. The centerpiece is a 13-meter-high ice shrine, perfect for photos, while visitors can also try ice climbing, snowshoe hiking, and snow tubing.

Admission to the festival requires a ¥500 cooperation fee, which helps support the event's operations and maintenance. This fee grants access to the festival grounds, where visitors can explore the stunning ice formations and enjoy various activities