4-Days Journey from the Drift Ice City of Monbetsu to Shiretoko Utoro and the Stunning Notsuke Peninsula Stay in Monbetsu, Shiretoko Utoro, and Kushiro

Monbetsu Garinko Station

The newly built "Garinko-go III IMERU", launched in 2021, offers a more spacious and comfortable interior compared to its predecessor, Garinko-go II. With increased capacity, more seating, and faster cruising speeds, the new vessel can now take passengers even farther into the drift ice fields, enhancing the adventure and experience.

Monbetsu Central Hotel

Mombetsu, a port town on the Sea of Okhotsk, is one of Hokkaido’s premier Fishing ports. Be sure to savor the town’s famous Crab and other Fresh Seafood, which can be enjoyed at hotel restaurants or local Izakayas.

Abashiri Rest Stop – Ryuhyo Kaido Abashiri

Board the Aurora Icebreaker Cruise at the Ticket Counter Inside Roadside Station Abashiri, and embark on an unforgettable journey! This large ship, with a capacity of 450 passengers, allows you to witness drift ice up close from both the deck and inside. Experience the thrill as the ship powers through the ice, breaking it under its weight for a truly exhilarating cruise.

Road to Heaven (10minutes)

The Road that Leads to the Sky, so named for its straight path extending far into the distance as if reaching the heavens, has been selected as one of Hokkaido’s Top 100 Most Inspiring Moments. This 27.5 km straight road, beginning from the top of a hill, offers a breathtaking view that highlights the vastness of Hokkaido’s majestic landscape.

Kitakobushi Shiretoko Hotel & Resort

Oshinkoshin Falls (15minutes)

Selected as one of "Japan’s Top 100 Waterfalls", this majestic cascade plunges 50 meters down a 70-meter-high cliff in a striking and dramatic spectacle of natural beauty. In winter, the waterfall freezes, creating a breathtaking scene where frozen falls meet the vast sea of drift ice—a rare and extraordinary sight you won’t find anywhere else.

Notsuke Peninsula (120minutes)

Notsuke Peninsula, which extends into the Nemuro Strait, is a treasure trove of Alpine Plants in summer, and in winter, the inland sea between the peninsula and the mainland transforms into a vast frozen landscape. This breathtaking view, known as the "Ice Horizon," stretches endlessly across the ice. The Ice Horizon Walk, where you explore this frozen expanse with a guide, is a unique winter experience only found on the Notsuke Peninsula.

Lake Mashu First Observatory (30minutes)

Lake Mashu, a Caldera Lake with a maximum depth of 211.4 meters and World-Class Clarity, occasionally freezes over in winter, offering a rare and breathtaking sight. At the adjacent Mashu Lake Kamui Terrace, you can enjoy the stunning views of the lake from the comfort of indoors in the coldest months. The terrace also offers light meals, soft- ice cream, and coffee.

(Arrival: 17:55)

Kushiro Airport

ANA Crowne Plaza Hotel Kushiro

In the Port City of Kushiro, be sure to savor the freshest seafood. From the famous "Robata-yaki (Grill)", which originated in Kushiro, to the local specialty "Tsubu-yaki" (grilled whelk), and conveyor belt sushi with the generously-sized fresh sushi toppings, Kushiro offers a wide variety of delicious local cuisine to enjoy.

Kushiro Washo Market

Just a 3-minute walk from Kushiro Station, "Kushiro Washo Market" is famous for its signature dish, Katte Don. This must-try local specialty lets you create your own seafood bowl by choosing your favorite toppings and arranging them just the way you like. While you're there, don’t forget to explore the market for fresh seafood and other great souvenirs to take home!