Published on
November 5, 2025
Hoshino Resorts Tomamu in Hokkaido will again open the much-anticipated Ice Village and Ice Chapel this winter, allowing visitors to indulge in a whimsical venture in Japan’s northernmost region. This area, adjacent to Mt. Tomamu, a winter tourist hot spot for a range of snow activities slopes and scenic views, will be adorned with – brought to life by sheer artistic brilliance – intricately crafted ice sculptures, winter-inspired architecture, and an Ice “Chapel” for weddings, a first-of-its-kind frosty wedding venue set for nuptials to be held within a frozen landscape.
Despite this year’s promising allure and enhancements, the Ice Village opening to the public with 11 ice buildings on December 10, 2025, will remain, as in years past, an unbelievable spectacle. Spanning a generous 3.2 hectares of land, the Ice Village features new additions and design enhancements that will surely delight. Evoking a deep sense of winter wonder, the Ice Village’s main attractions include the Ice Chapel, a whimsical ice hotel, ice bars, and an array of magnificent sculptures that exquisitely capture the essence of Japan’s winter.
A Winter Wonderland at Hoshino Resorts Tomamu
If you are looking for the best winter vacations and for destinations in Hokkaido, Hoshino Resorts Tomamu is one of the top places you can visit. There is much for everyone at the place, from skiing on the snowcapped hills and slopes, winter sports, to mesmerising landscapes, and unparalleled relaxation in an ice-covered, winter wonderland.
One of the best features of Hoshino Resorts Tomamu in winter months is the beautifully decorated Ice village. As an ice wonderland, sculptors from all over the world come to display illuminated ice sculptures of ice castles, ice tunnels, and much more. Strolling through the icy avenues offers the chance to see the elaborate constructions with the best detailing done by the sculptors and artisans each winter.
Among the most notable features of the Ice Village is the Ice Chapel, a remarkable matrimonial shrine of pure ice. Since its inauguration in 2005, the Ice Chapel has conducted over 660 weddings, making it one of the most unusual wedding chapels in the world. This is the most unusual wedding chapel in the world, with enduring crystal walls that couples step into with the illusion of landing in a dream. This year, the chapel features a new seating arrangement in which guests will be arranged in a circle. This new arrangement fosters a more personal and enchanting rest of the wedding experience.
The Ice Chapel will not be available solely for weddings, as it will be accessible for public viewers during the periods in between its wedding ceremonies. During the period of 20th January and 14th February 2026, those who do not wish to take part in the wedding ceremonies will be able to visit the Ice Chapel and witness its majestic ice artistry during the after-dark hours, which is when tourism. This is meant for those who wish to visit the lovely chapel for purposes unrelated to marriage.
Winter Weddings and Unique Experiences
The Ice Chapel Hoshino Resorts Tomamu is indisputably extraordinary for those who want a unique winter wedding. The awesome ice architecture overlooks the beautiful winter Hokkaido scenery which makes it stunning and attractive for those who want something different.
The Ice Hotel is an attraction on its own as a seasonal accommodation that lets guests sleep in a frozen room sculptured with ice. Rather, guests to the ice hotel tend to embrace the ice hotel as a unique, once in a life time, winteresque adventure for its warm and cozy offerings.
There are also a variety of activities that guests of all ages can enjoy. Winter activities include skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing on Mt. Tomamu, and there is plenty to do on the ice village where guests can warm up and unwind after a long day on the slopes. Afterwards, guests can take a hot spring, which is one of Hokkaido’s most beloved winter activities.
Hokkaido’s Winter Appeal.
With the advent of Winter Season, snow-capped mountain ranges, and the presence of several ski resorts, Hokkaido has managed to captivate and attract tourists from all around the globe. From the Hoshino Resorts’ Ice Chapel to their Ice Village, Hokkaido is flourishing with winter activities. Niseko is also known to be one of the best ski resorts in Japan and every February, tourists from all over the world come to witness the mesmerising sculptures at the Sapporo Snow Festival.
The beautiful blend of winter activities, steamy hot springs, and the unique Ice Village, Hokkaido, has managed to position itself as one of the best winter getaway destinations. The visitors to Hokkaido can savor the relaxing atmosphere while appreciating the region’s mesmerising nature and rich culture.
Accommodation and Accessibility.
The visitors to Hoshino Resorts Tomamu can take their pick from exclusive hotel rooms or intimate lodges, as a range of accommodations is available. The moderately priced resorts also have a multitude of restaurants and wellness centers, indicating that their guests are their priority. The Ice Village visitors are offered a unique opportunity of hassle-free access to the main attractions of the resort, as they take part in organised tours and activities offered at the resort.
Conclusion
By road or shuttle, the resort is conveniently located 1 hour 30 minutes from New Chitose Airport. There are frequent flights from Tokyo to New Chitose Airport, as well as from other major cities in Japan, making it convenient to travel to other locations in Hokkaido.
In conclusion, the Hoshino Ice Village and Hoshino Ice Chapel are set to return for the 2025-2026 winter season and are a must-visit for Hokkaido travellers. The resort combines unique luxurious ice architecture, winter ice wonderlands, and lovely ice sculptures to provide a stunning resort for winter tourists. The Ice Village in Tomamu is an excellent choice for a winter escape, holiday, or an unforgettable wedding in one of Japan’s most beautiful locations.
