For approximately 10 weeks in winter, a stunning ice cave forms along the Noboribetsu River, adorned with ice stalactites and stalagmites reaching up to three meters in length. This rare natural wonder is created by a unique combination of geology and climate, making it a truly unforgettable sight.
The journey to the ice cave is an 8-kilometer round-trip snowshoe hike through a serene fir and native forest, with some gentle elevation gain. This tour is a perfect introduction to snowshoeing, combining adventure with breathtaking winter scenery.
Private tours for families and small groups are available upon request. Please contact us directly for availability and pricing.
“The ice cave was magical—walking through a frozen wonderland I’ll never forget.”
Highlights
Witness a Rare Ice Cave Phenomenon
Discover towering ice formations that only appear for a limited time each winter.
Scenic Snowshoe Hike
Walk through a peaceful winter landscape with stunning views along the way.
Small Group Experience
Enjoy a more personal and immersive adventure in nature.
Itinerary
Meet at adex base 15 minutes beforehand to check gear and to complete formalities. If you find that you are missing any gear, you can purchase it at our shop (adex base) before the tour begins.
Sun Lavia Ski Resort
Drive to Sunlavia Ski resort where we will start our walk. (approx. 30 minutes)
Forest path
Snowshoe through the snow-blanketed forest until reaching the ice cave. (approx. 150 minutes)
Karurusu Ice Cave
Here we will enter the cave so you can enjoy the magical formations up close. We will also have a break here before returning. (approx. 30 minutes)
Sun Lavia Ski Resort
Return along the forest path to the trailhead. (approx. 90 minutes)
adex base
Return to adex base and disperse. (approx. 30 minutes)
What's included?
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Guide
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Snowshoes and poles
Exclusions
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Warm clothes
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Gloves
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Head gear
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Footwear
What do I need to bring?
This is an active winter experience, so you should dress in thermal layers that are easily removed. A hat and gloves, wind and waterproof jacket and pants are essential. Sunglasses and sunscreen for sunny days. Be prepared for temperatures as low as -15C.
Please note
Participants
Minimum Number of Participants２people
Ages 12 and up
This is a moderately demanding activity as snowshoeing requires more fitness than normal hiking. If you are comfortable walking 8 kilometers in 4 hours, then you will be fine. Please be aware that due to adverse weather conditions on the day, cancellation may be unavoidable. If possible an alternative activity will be offered.
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).
If you have any concerns or questions, please feel free to contact us at the email address below.
info@adex-noboribetsu.co.jp
Meeting Point
Your journey begins here:
adex base
〒059-0551 JP Noboribetsu-shi 76-3 Noboribetsu-Onsencho
Cancellation Policy
If the tour is canceled due to bad weather on the day (heavy rain, strong winds, typhoons, heavy snow, etc.), we will refund 50% of the published price of the activity tour.
We will charge a cancellation fee of 100% if booking is cancelled 1 day or less before the event. 70% if booking is cancelled 2 days, 50% if booking is cancelled 7 days and10% if booking is cancelled 14 days or less before the event.
The activity tour planning products provided by ADEX Co., Ltd. (adex base) are trips planned and organized by Dai-ichi Takimotokan Noboribetsu Tourist Center Co., Ltd.