Features
A winter scenery unique to Abashiri. A world of drift ice that you want to see at least once
April 5, 2023
NEW
What is Drift Ice?
Drift ice that creates a silver world on the sea is a spectacular view that can be seen in the Sea of Okhotsk from January to March every year. Therefore, we recommend you to see drift ice in Abashiri at this time.
In the first place, drift ice is frozen running water from the northern coast of the Sea of Okhotsk that has been blown to Hokkaido by seasonal winds from the north. In particular, drift ice in Abashiri is colder than Abashiri, and a large amount of fresh water, including the Amur River, the largest river in the Far East, which flows on the border between China and Russia, is poured into the Sea of Okhotsk, and the fresh water is exposed to the cold air from the Far East. Then it freezes and grows as it goes south.
Drift ice is affected by currents and winds, travels across the Sea of Okhotsk, crosses Karafuto, and reaches Abashiri around February every year. The drift ice, which looks like a pure white continent, is pure white and shines dazzlingly when it reflects the sun's rays, creating a spectacular view that you have never seen before.
It looks like a completely different world compared to the first picture.
Let's ride the Abashiri Drift Ice Sightseeing Icebreaker Aurora! !
If you want to see the drift ice up close, we recommend viewing from the sea!
If you've come all the way to see the drift ice for sightseeing, you'll want to feel the power of the drift ice up close! The Abashiri Drift Ice Sightseeing Icebreaker Aurora is the answer to your needs.
Aurora is a special ship that can move while breaking drift ice.
Depart from Roadside Station Drift Ice Highway Abashiri and aim for drift ice.
This time, I boarded the Aurora and watched the drift ice from the sea. I will report back with photos.
We wave our hands and say, "I'm coming!"
2 meters to the drift ice, right there!
Aurora advances while breaking the drift ice.
You may be surprised by the power of the sound.
Only at Aurora can you feel the drift ice with all five senses.
It's a great opportunity, so let's take some fun photos.
Beauty that can only be found in Abashiri. A superb view that will impress you unconditionally. That is drift ice of Abashiri
The drift ice of Abashiri is a scenery that you should see at least once if you like superb views.
However, the best season for drift ice sightseeing is around early February to early March. The wind may move it further away, so please check the latest information on the Aurora website before heading out.
This is by far the most popular drift ice experience menu, so if you want to ride the Aurora, we recommend making a reservation in advance.
I participated in an event to enjoy winter in Abashiri.
There is an event held in Abashiri to coincide with the arrival of drift ice. "Abashiri Okhotsk Drift Ice Festival" and "Okhotsk Abashiri Yatai Village".
2023 will be held on the same day. Both are within walking distance, so I will report while eating while walking.
Large and small ice and snow sculptures are lined up at the venue, and they are beautifully lit up at night.
A winter outdoor event where you can grill and eat meat and seafood ingredients on a charcoal grill.
You can also enjoy cocktails at the ice bar, which has a fantastic atmosphere.
I want you to try the exquisite scallop croquette!
Commemorative photo with 4 members of "Ryuhyo Patara" who widely publicize the charm of Abashiri City.
“Abashiri Okhotsk Drift Ice Festival” and “Okhotsk Abashiri Yatai Village” are events that have been loved by the locals for a long time with lots of fun events. For the latest information, check the website of the official Abashiri tourism website, “Oishiimachi Abashiri.”
It's cold, so don't forget to take measures against the cold. Please enjoy Abashiri, which you can only see and experience in winter, to your heart's content.
■ Shooting cooperation
Abashiri Drift Ice Sightseeing Icebreaker Aurora