Hokkaido Free Travel | Icebreaker, Drift Ice Walk, Sounkyo Icefall Festival | Recommended Hokkaido Winter Itinerary

Hokkaido, a vast island at the northern tip of Japan, boasts vast expanses and diverse scenery. From bustling Sapporo and romantic Otaru to the lavender-filled Furano, the Blue Pond in Biei, Noboribetsu Onsen, the autumn leaves of Asahidake, and the drift ice of Abashiri and Shiretoko, Hokkaido brims with vitality.   

 

Hokkaido boasts distinct seasons, each offering its own unique charm. Enjoy cherry blossoms in spring, escape the heat in summer, admire the autumn maple leaves in autumn, and play in the snow in winter. Enjoy the expansive natural scenery and seasonal beauty on a Hokkaido independent trip. The drift ice, which has become increasingly unpredictable due to climate change, is especially valuable. Whether you're admiring the drift ice from an icebreaker or simply walking on it, it's sure to add a memorable touch to your Hokkaido trip!

Hokkaido Winter Fun | Icebreaker

During your winter trip to Hokkaido, you can't miss the Okhotsk Sea ice floes, which are only available in winter. The white ice reflects a dazzling light under the sun. Choose an icebreaker to experience the thrill of breaking through the ice and admire Hokkaido's only sight: the world's only ice floes outside the Arctic Circle!

■ Hokkaido Itinerary ① Abashiri Icebreaker AURORA - A popular choice, with a stable hull, perfect for those who want to enjoy the drifting ice or for a family trip. ⮕《Click here to book》

■ Hokkaido Itinerary ② Monbetsu Icebreaker GARINKO III - Drill-type icebreaking, with a noticeable vibration experience, perfect for those who enjoy an immersive experience. ⮕《Click here to book》

Hokkaido Winter Fun | Drift Ice Walking

Continue on to Shiretoko, where you'll be led by a professional guide for a "see and touch" drift ice experience. Enjoy the stunning scenery of the vast frozen sea, along with seals, soaring seagulls, and drift ice angels. We recommend joining the two-day tour departing from Sapporo Station, which combines both icebreaker boating and drift ice walking, without the hassles of winter travel in Hokkaido!

■ Hokkaido Itinerary: [Depart from Sapporo] Abashiri Drift Ice and Icebreaker Cruise, Stay at a Hot Spring Hotel ⮕Book Here

Winter Fun in Hokkaido | Sounkyo Icefall Festival

The Sounkyo Onsen Icefall Festival is known as one of Hokkaido's three major snow festivals, along with the Sapporo Snow Festival and the Asahikawa Festival. The icefalls and creative ice sculptures, formed by the frigid temperatures, reflect sunlight during the day, emitting a dazzling blue glow. At night, they are illuminated with a rainbow of colors, creating a captivating winter scene.

To celebrate the 50th Sounkyo Onsen Icefall Festival in 2025 (January 25 to March 9, 2025), a five-minute fireworks display will be held daily at 8:30 PM. The event will also feature taiko drumming, interactive games, and other elements, brightening up the cold winter nights of Sounkyo Onsen.

■ Hokkaido Itinerary: [Departing from Sapporo] Hokkaido Monbetsu Drift Icebreaker and Sounkyo Icefall Festival Day Tour ⮕《Click here》

Hokkaido is vast. Whether you're driving or taking the JR train, you'll need to plan your itinerary based on the proximity to tourist attractions. Especially in winter, travel is often impacted by heavy snow. We recommend planning your Hokkaido itinerary and accommodations in a radial pattern or as a day trip. This will minimize the hassle of constantly changing accommodations and carrying luggage!

■ Recommended accommodations in Central Hokkaido: Sapporo, Otaru

■ Recommended accommodations in Northern Hokkaido: Asahikawa

■ Recommended accommodations in Southern Hokkaido: Hakodate