A vast, silent field of drift ice stretches across the Okhotsk Sea —this breathtaking scene awaits you in the Abashiri area of Hokkaido. In winter, the sea freezes, offering a rare opportunity in Japan to enjoy unique experiences like drift ice cruises and ice field walks. This region is gaining attention as one of the few destinations where you can embark on an extreme-cold adventure.
This article introduces practical Q&A and tips to help you explore Abashiri with ease—even if it’s your first visit. It’s especially helpful for solo travelers and English-speaking tourists looking for a smooth and memorable experience.
From the surreal winter landscapes to immersive cultural sites, this travel guide aims to enrich your journey to northern Japan.
Contents
How to Get to Okhotsk (Abashiri)
Check the latest weather forecast before your visit: [weathernews ]
By Train
From Tokyo Station
Take the Tohoku-Hokkaido Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station (approx. 4 hours)
Transfer to the Limited Express Hokuto and ride to Sapporo Station (approx. 3 hr 30 min)
From Sapporo Station, take the Limited Express Okhotsk to Abashiri Station (approx. 5 hr 30 min)
Total travel time: approx. 13 hours
From New Chitose Airport
Take the JR Rapid Airport Express from New Chitose Airport Station to Sapporo Station (approx. 40 min)
From Sapporo Station, take the Limited Express Okhotsk to Abashiri Station (approx. 5 hr 30 min)
Total travel time: approx. 6 hr 10 min
From Asahikawa Station
Take the Limited Express Taisetsu directly to Abashiri Station (approx. 4 hours)
Total travel time: approx. 4 hours
One Point Advice
Top Things to Do in Abashiri
Drift Icebreaker Aurora｜Drift Ice Sea Cruise
The Aurora cruise ship plows through the drift ice of the Okhotsk Sea —one of Abashiri’s signature winter experiences. The vibration and sound of crushing thick ice create a multisensory moment that can’t be captured in photos or video. During the cruise, you might spot wild seals or white-tailed eagles, offering unforgettable drift ice wildlife encounters. The ship is fully heated, ensuring a comfortable journey across the frozen sea.
Abashiri Prison Museum｜Step Into Hokkaido’s Past
This open-air museum showcases original buildings relocated from the historic Abashiri Prison , which played a crucial role in Hokkaido’s development . You can explore Meiji-era prison architecture up close and follow guard patrol routes to understand the lives of inmates. It goes beyond sightseeing, offering deep historical insight and cultural reflection for visitors to Hokkaido. Don’t worry if you don’t speak Japanese; multilingual audio guides are available to help visitors grasp the historical context and human stories behind the exhibits.
Time Required: 60–90 minutes
Admission: Adults ¥1,500 / Jr. & Sr. High ¥1,000 / Children ¥750
Hours: 9:00–17:00 (last entry 16:00)
Closed: Year-end holidays (Dec 31–Jan 1)
Official website: https://www.kangoku.jp/multilingual_english/
Okhotsk Ryuhyo Museum｜-15°C Ice Room Experience
At this indoor facility, you can see real drift ice and learn about its ecosystem regardless of weather conditions. Inside the ice room kept at -15°C, wet towels freeze instantly—a unique way to experience extreme cold safely. The exhibits are available in English, and visitors can observe rare Okhotsk marine life like the sea angel (clione) up close. The top floor observatory offers sweeping views of Lake Abashiri and the Shiretoko Mountains.
Time Required: 30–45 minutes
Admission: Adults ¥770 / High school ¥660 / Children ¥550
Hours: 8:00–18:00 (last entry 17:30) ※Winter hours: 9:00–16:30
Closed: Open year-round
Official website: https://www.ryuhyokan.com/
Okhotsk Area Side Trips & Nearby Spots
Museum of Northern Peoples｜Arctic Culture Exhibits
Located about a 10-minute walk from the Ryuhyo Museum , this specialized facility introduces the cultures and philosophies of northern peoples—including Russia, Alaska, and Northern Europe—with a focus on the Okhotsk region . Through exhibits that emphasize harmony with nature, visitors often find quiet inspiration. The museum is designed to be easy to understand even without a guide, making it a peaceful and educational stop between activities.
Memanbetsu Hill｜Panoramic Countryside Views
From Abashiri Station , it takes about 40 minutes by train to Memanbetsu Station, followed by a short bus ride to this panoramic viewpoint. With gentle slopes and open skies, this hidden gem offers a relaxing countryside atmosphere far from the crowds. It’s a favorite spot for Hokkaido landscape photographers, and on clear days, the panoramic views resemble a painting.
Shiretoko (Utoro)｜UNESCO Nature & Wildlife Area
Accessible by a 2.5-hour bus ride from Abashiri, the Shiretoko Peninsula is a world heritage site where untouched forests, rugged coasts, and wildlife coexist. In winter, you can try drift ice walks or animal-watching tours; in summer, hiking and sightseeing cruises are popular. After learning about drift ice in Abashiri, continue your journey with the awe-inspiring scale of Shiretoko’s natural world.
Okhotsk Travel Q&A｜Plan with Confidence
When is the best time to see drift ice?
Late January to mid-February is the peak season. As it’s a natural phenomenon, timing may vary slightly year to year.
Can solo travelers join the drift ice cruise?
Yes, the cruise offers non-reserved seating, so solo travelers are very welcome. Advance booking is recommended.
What should I wear to stay warm in Abashiri?
A warm down jacket, insulated gloves, and winter boots with anti-slip soles are highly recommended for visiting Abashiri. Temperatures often fall below freezing.
Is sightseeing possible during snow or blizzards?
Yes. Indoor facilities like the Ryuhyo Museum and Prison Museum are open year-round and weatherproof.
Are there lockers or restrooms near the station?
Yes. JR Abashiri Station and the tourist information center have coin lockers and clean restrooms—convenient for those carrying luggage.
Okhotsk Travel Summary｜Drift Ice Memories
Okhotsk and Abashiri offer a rare chance to witness and experience the drift ice up close—something unique in Japan. With attractions like the Prison Museum and Ryuhyo Museum blending nature and culture, the area promises meaningful encounters even in the harshest cold.
Drift ice cruises and snowy walking tours are well-suited for solo travelers, allowing peaceful, personal moments in this scenic northern destination.
Next, why not extend your journey to Shiretoko—where wild animals and world heritage await?
