Snowshoe to Spectacular Winter Ice Caves in Hokkaido

Overview

Available languages

English

6 hours

Mobile ticket

For approximately 10 weeks in winter, ice stalactites and stalagmites up to three meters long and high form in an ice cave on the Noboribetsu River. These rare formations are the product of a unique combination of geology and climate, creating a natural wonderland. The hike in on snowshoes and is 8 kilometers in all, and includes some gentle climbing through fir and native forest. This tour is a great way to experience snowshoeing to a truly memorable destination.

Additional Info

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

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

What‘s Included

All Fees and Taxes

Snowshoes and poles

Clothing and footwear

What To Expect

We will snowshoe through snow-blanketed forests until we reach the ice caves at the end of the valley. At the caves we will have a rest with a light meal and a hot drink whilst marveling at this natural phenomenon that only happens for a short period every winter. We have 6 pairs of Men's snowshoes (Japan shoe size 25.5 cm - 30.5 cm) and 4 pairs of Women's snowshoes (Japan shoe size 22 cm - 27 cm). Minimum Number of Participants：２people

Options

Snowshoe to Spectacular Winter Ice Caves in Hokkaido

Reviews

5.00

1 review

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

"Spectacular Ice Cave" is Right!
mbY5156EB,
Jan 14, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Wow!!!! An amazing experience! My partner and I took the trek together, just us and Yamamoto-san. We are casual hikers and have hiked a couple of 14-ers, and I would say the hike itself was a good workout. No trouble getting up there (Yamamoto-san made sure to take breaks and chat along the way too), and I was much too warm in my winter gear on the way up. We did the trek in about two hours one way (which was good because we ran late due to road conditions; snow is a season in Hokkaido, not an event!). The cave is absolutely spectacular. I was so amazed! Plus Yamamoto-san made sure to take care of taking photos of us as we wandered about in wonder. Lunch was a tomato-chicken sandwich on a baguette roll and coffee, which was enough to satisfy for the way back, but if you have a high-calorie diet, might be worth it to bring some snacks. We brought protein bars but didn't end up needing them. We did get dinner afterwards in Tomakomai (most of the shops in Noboribetsu were closed until true dinner time, and I really wanted to get soup curry anyway). Yamamoto-san was so friendly and though we definitely played the "partial understanding on both sides" game when neither party is fluent in the other's language, his English is pretty good, and he's willing to make the effort to understand and be understood which was greatly appreciated. He's a funny and interesting and friendly guy and made a great guide and great company for the long trek. 10/10!! Thank you so much Yamamoto-san!