Abashiri Drift Ice Cruises
Icebreaker Adventures Through the Sea of Okhotsk
The drift ice (ryuhyo) that reaches Abashiri every winter is one of the southernmost occurrences of sea ice in the Northern Hemisphere. This natural phenomenon occurs when ice forms in Russia's Amur River estuary and drifts south through the Sea of Okhotsk, reaching Hokkaido's northeast coast between mid-January and early April. The ice has been documented in historical records for centuries, long feared by fishermen as a dangerous maritime hazard.
Tourist icebreaker cruises began in 1958 when the first sightseeing vessel, 'Aurora,' was launched to showcase this spectacular natural event. The service revolutionized Abashiri's economy, transforming it from a remote fishing port into a winter tourism destination. Modern icebreaker ships like Aurora II and Garinko II were specifically designed with reinforced hulls and powerful screws to crush through meter-thick ice fields.
Today, the drift ice season attracts over 100,000 visitors annually to this remote corner of Hokkaido. The phenomenon also holds scientific importance - researchers study the ice to understand climate patterns and marine ecosystems. The unique plankton and organisms living within the ice create a rich food chain that supports the region's fishing industry. The drift ice experience has become emblematic of Hokkaido's harsh yet beautiful winter nature.
Key Highlights
- Southernmost drift ice in Northern Hemisphere (latitude 44°N)
- Two icebreaker ships: Aurora II and Garinko II with different experiences
- Ice season typically mid-January through early April
- Massive ice fields extending to the horizon create otherworldly landscapes
- Opportunity to spot sea eagles, seals, and other Arctic wildlife
- Climate-dependent natural phenomenon - peak viewing February-March
Access Information
Location
23-1 Minami 3-jo Higashi 4-chome, Abashiri, Hokkaido 093-0003, Japan
Nearest Stations
- • Abashiri Station (JR Sekihoku Main Line) - 10 min walk to Aurora terminal
- • Abashiri Port - icebreaker boarding location
Opening Hours
Drift ice season only (mid-January to early April, weather permitting). Aurora II: 9:00 AM - 3:30 PM (6 daily departures). Garinko II: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM (5 daily departures). Cruises last 60 minutes. Advance reservation strongly recommended.
Admission Fee
Aurora II: Adults ¥4,000, Children ¥2,000; Garinko II: Adults ¥3,500, Children ¥1,750. Booking fees may apply for online reservations. No refund if drift ice absent due to weather.
How to Get There
From Sapporo
Take JR Limited Express Okhotsk to Abashiri (5 hours 30 minutes, ¥10,150). Or fly from New Chitose Airport to Memanbetsu Airport (50 min), then bus to Abashiri (30 min). Aurora terminal is 10-min walk from Abashiri Station.
5-6 hours
From Memanbetsu Airport
Take Abashiri Kanko Bus Airport Limousine to Abashiri Station (35 minutes, ¥1,000). Walk 10 minutes to Aurora terminal along the waterfront. Taxis available (15 min, ¥2,500).
40 minutes
From Shiretoko
Take Shari-Abashiri Line bus from Utoro Onsen or Shari to Abashiri (1 hour 50 minutes, ¥2,500). Service limited in winter - check schedules. Car rental recommended for combined Shiretoko-Abashiri itinerary.
2 hours
Tips & Visiting Guide
Make the most of your visit with these helpful tips and guidelines.
Best Viewing Period
Late January through early March offers the highest probability of substantial drift ice. Peak ice conditions typically occur mid-February to early March. Ice presence varies yearly based on weather and sea temperatures. Check real-time ice condition reports on the official website before booking. If ice is absent, cruises still operate but the experience is significantly diminished.
Choosing Your Ship
Aurora II is a larger, more stable vessel with indoor heated cabins and observation decks - better for families and those sensitive to cold. Garinko II is smaller with giant auger drills that dramatically crush ice - more thrilling but colder. Both provide unique experiences. Garinko II allows you to watch the ice-breaking mechanism up close from the bow observation area.
Dress for Extreme Cold
Sea temperatures hover near freezing. Outdoor observation decks experience wind chills of -15°C to -20°C. Essential gear: down jacket, thermal layers, waterproof boots, warm hat covering ears, insulated gloves, scarf, and hand/toe warmers. Dress as if for Arctic conditions. Indoor heated areas provide warming breaks. Bring extra batteries - cameras drain quickly in extreme cold.
Photography Tips
Morning cruises (9-11 AM) offer best light for ice photography. Bring lens cloth to wipe sea spray and condensation. Protect cameras from extreme cold in insulated bags between shots. The ship's bow provides most dramatic ice-breaking action shots. Wide-angle lenses capture ice fields extending to horizon. Look for wildlife opportunities - sea eagles and seals often appear near ice edges.
Booking Strategy
Reserve tickets 1-2 months in advance during peak season (February-March weekends/holidays). First and last departures often have better availability. Multi-day visitors can wait for optimal ice conditions before booking. Some hotels offer package deals with cruise tickets. Cancellation policies vary - read terms carefully as weather can prevent ice formation.
Complementary Attractions
Visit Okhotsk Drift Ice Museum (year-round ice experience with -15°C exhibit room). Abashiri Prison Museum offers fascinating historical exhibits. Lake Notoro and Lake Abashiri provide land-based drift ice viewing points when ice reaches shore. Rent a car to explore the scenic coastal road between Abashiri and Utoro for additional ice viewing spots.
Wildlife Watching
Steller's sea eagles and white-tailed eagles hunt along ice edges - bring binoculars. Spotted seals occasionally rest on ice floes. Sea ice hosts unique ice algae and plankton visible in ice fragments. The ship's crew often points out wildlife. Respectful observation is essential - do not disturb resting animals. Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed.
Practical Considerations
Motion sensitivity: boats rock significantly when breaking thick ice. Indoor seating available for those prone to seasickness. Limited English announcements - download translation apps. Facilities: restrooms and heated cabins on both ships. Food/drink: vending machines only, limited onboard sales. Arrive 30 minutes before departure. Parking available at terminal (¥500/day).
FAQ
What is the best time to see drift ice at Abashiri?
The best viewing period is late January through early March, with peak ice conditions typically occurring mid-February to early March. Ice presence varies yearly based on weather and sea temperatures, so check real-time ice condition reports on the official website before booking your cruise.
How long does the icebreaker cruise last?
Both Aurora II and Garinko II cruises last approximately 60 minutes. There are 6 daily departures for Aurora II (9:00 AM - 3:30 PM) and 5 daily departures for Garinko II (9:00 AM - 3:00 PM) during the drift ice season.
What's the difference between Aurora II and Garinko II?
Aurora II is a larger, more stable vessel with indoor heated cabins and observation decks, better for families and those sensitive to cold. Garinko II is smaller with giant auger drills that dramatically crush ice, offering a more thrilling experience with close-up views of the ice-breaking mechanism from the bow observation area.
How much do the icebreaker cruises cost?
Aurora II costs 4,000 yen for adults and 2,000 yen for children. Garinko II costs 3,500 yen for adults and 1,750 yen for children. Booking fees may apply for online reservations, and there are no refunds if drift ice is absent due to weather conditions.
Do I need to book the cruise in advance?
Yes, advance reservation is strongly recommended, especially 1-2 months ahead during peak season (February-March weekends and holidays). First and last departures often have better availability. Some hotels offer package deals with cruise tickets included.
What should I wear on the icebreaker cruise?
Dress for extreme cold with down jacket, thermal layers, waterproof boots, warm hat covering ears, insulated gloves, scarf, and hand and toe warmers. Outdoor observation decks experience wind chills of -15°C to -20°C. Indoor heated areas provide warming breaks between outdoor viewing.
Can I see wildlife during the cruise?
Yes, Steller's sea eagles and white-tailed eagles often hunt along ice edges, and spotted seals occasionally rest on ice floes. Bring binoculars for better viewing. The ship's crew often points out wildlife, but sightings are never guaranteed and depend on natural conditions.
Will the cruise operate if there's no ice?
Yes, cruises still operate even if ice is absent, but the experience is significantly diminished. There are no refunds if drift ice is absent due to weather. It's highly recommended to check real-time ice condition reports before booking to maximize your chances of seeing substantial ice.
Is the cruise suitable for people who get seasick?
The boats rock significantly when breaking through thick ice, which may trigger motion sensitivity. However, both ships have indoor heated seating areas where you can rest if needed. Consider taking motion sickness medication before boarding if you're prone to seasickness.
What time of day is best for the cruise?
Morning cruises between 9:00 and 11:00 AM offer the best light for ice photography. The early departures often have better availability and provide clearer views with fresh morning light illuminating the ice fields.
How do I get to Abashiri from Sapporo?
Take the JR Limited Express Okhotsk to Abashiri (5 hours 30 minutes, 10,150 yen). Alternatively, fly from New Chitose Airport to Memanbetsu Airport (50 minutes), then take a bus to Abashiri (30 minutes). The Aurora terminal is a 10-minute walk from Abashiri Station.
Can I take photos during the cruise?
Yes, photography is encouraged. Bring lens cloth to wipe sea spray and condensation, and protect cameras from extreme cold in insulated bags between shots. Wide-angle lenses capture ice fields extending to the horizon, while the ship's bow provides dramatic ice-breaking action shots. Extra batteries are essential as they drain quickly in extreme cold.
Are there facilities on board the ships?
Both ships have restrooms and heated cabins. However, food and drink options are limited to vending machines and minimal onboard sales. It's recommended to eat before boarding. Arrive 30 minutes before departure to check in and get situated.
What other attractions are near Abashiri?
Visit the Okhotsk Drift Ice Museum for a year-round ice experience with a -15°C exhibit room, or explore Abashiri Prison Museum for fascinating historical exhibits. Lake Notoro and Lake Abashiri provide land-based drift ice viewing points when ice reaches the shore.
Is parking available at the terminal?
Yes, parking is available at the terminal for 500 yen per day. This is convenient if you're renting a car to explore the scenic coastal road between Abashiri and Utoro for additional ice viewing spots.
Can I combine this with a visit to Shiretoko?
Yes, you can take the Shari-Abashiri Line bus from Utoro Onsen or Shari to Abashiri (1 hour 50 minutes, 2,500 yen), though service is limited in winter. A rental car is recommended for a combined Shiretoko-Abashiri itinerary with more flexibility.
Are English announcements available on the cruise?
English announcements are limited. It's helpful to download translation apps before your cruise. However, the visual experience of the ice-breaking and drift ice is spectacular regardless of language, and crew members are generally helpful.
How crowded does it get during peak season?
Peak season (February-March, especially weekends and holidays) attracts many visitors. Booking 1-2 months in advance is recommended. Weekday departures and the first or last cruises of the day typically have fewer crowds and better availability.
What makes Abashiri's drift ice unique?
Abashiri is the southernmost location in the Northern Hemisphere where drift ice occurs (latitude 44°N). The ice forms in Russia's Amur River estuary and drifts south through the Sea of Okhotsk, creating massive ice fields extending to the horizon—a truly rare natural phenomenon.
When does the drift ice season run?
The drift ice season typically runs from mid-January through early April, weather permitting. However, the season dates vary each year depending on sea temperatures and weather patterns. Late January to early March offers the highest probability of seeing substantial ice.
Nearby Attractions
Explore more wonderful destinations in the same prefecture.
Asahiyama Zoo
Japan's northernmost zoo, renowned for revolutionary behavioral exhibits that let visitors observe animals in dynamic, naturalistic environments from unique perspectives.
Biei Blue Pond
An ethereal blue pond created as an accident of erosion control, featuring surreal turquoise waters, ghostly dead larch trees, and otherworldly beauty that became an Apple wallpaper.
Cape Soya
Japan's northernmost point offering dramatic coastal scenery, historical monuments, and clear-weather views of Russian Sakhalin Island across the La Perouse Strait, symbolizing Japan's geographic extremity
Daisetsuzan National Park
Japan's largest national park, featuring dramatic alpine peaks, pristine wilderness, volcanic landscapes, and some of the country's earliest autumn colors.
Furano & Biei Hills
A patchwork landscape of colorful flower fields, rolling hills, and farmland that has inspired artists and photographers. Summer lavender fields and year-round agricultural beauty make this region one of Hokkaido's most photogenic destinations.
Hakodate Morning Market
A bustling seafood market near Hakodate Station featuring ultra-fresh local catch, seafood rice bowls, crab specialties, and the unique squid-fishing pool experience since 1945.
Hakodate Motomachi District
A historic hillside neighborhood featuring Western-style buildings, former consulates, churches, and panoramic harbor views, reflecting Hakodate's role as one of Japan's first ports opened to foreign trade in 1859.
Kushiro Shitsugen National Park
Japan's largest wetland preserve spanning 28,000 hectares of pristine marshland, home to the endangered red-crowned crane and diverse ecosystems accessible via scenic hiking trails and observation platforms