3-Days Journey to Explore the Beauty of Drift Ice in Winter Abashiri and Kitami Stay in Kitami and Abashiri

Hotel Route-Inn Grand Kitami Ekimae

Enjoy a delicious Kitami Yakiniku dinner with the Kitami Yakiniku Meat Coupon!

Abashiri Prison Museum

Japan's only prison museum, featuring relocated cell blocks, a chapel, and an office from the original Abashiri Prison. Spread across a vast site, it houses 8 Important Cultural Properties and 6 Registered Tangible Cultural Properties. These historical structures offer visitors a unique glimpse into Hokkaido's pioneering past, making it a must-see museum.

JR Kitahama Station

Located just 20 meters from the coastline, this station is the closest to the Sea of Okhotsk. During the winter drift ice season, visitors flock to the area for the breathtaking views of the ice floes, visible right from the station or the train windows. Inside the station, the cozy café “Teishaba” offers lunch and coffee, adding a delightful touch to your visit.

Abashiri Rest Stop – Ryuhyo Kaido Abashiri (Lunch 60 minutes)

Located in the center of Abashiri, this rest stop offers stunning views of the Sea of Okhotsk. During winter, it buzzes with activity as the departure point for the popular icebreaker sightseeing ship “Aurora.” Inside, you’ll find souvenir shops, a restaurant, and a tourist information center (managed by the Abashiri Tourism Association), making it a great spot to gather information about local attractions.

Cape Notoro

Located on the eastern shore of Lake Notoro, this cape juts out into the Sea of Okhotsk, offering breathtaking views of the sea and the distant Shiretoko Mountain Range to the east. It is especially popular during the drift ice season, when the Sea of Okhotsk transforms into a stunning ice-covered landscape, making it a must-visit scenic spot.

Abashiri Rest Stop – Ryuhyo Kaido Abashiri (Board the Icebreaker Ship Aurora)

Check in at the counter inside the Abashiri rest stop, then board the icebreaker sightseeing ship Aurora! This large vessel, with a capacity of up to 450 passengers, offers incredible views of the drift ice from both the deck and inside the ship. Experience the thrill of the cruise as the ship’s weight cracks through the ice, creating a powerful and unforgettable journey.

16:15

Hotel Route-Inn Abashiri Ekimae

JR網走駅からわずか50mの距離にある、ホテルルートイン網走駅前。大浴場や夕食を楽しめる和食レストランも併設しており、観光での滞在もおすすめのホテルです。

Kandou no Michi (The Path of Wonder) from the Bus

Starting from National Route 39 in Abashiri, this scenic route takes you around Mount Tento and continues towards JR Yobito Station. Along the way, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Sea of Okhotsk, the Shiretoko Mountain Range, and Lake Tofutsu, as well as expansive rural landscapes unique to Eastern Hokkaido. It's a perfect drive for exploring some of the region's most stunning viewpoints.

Bihoro Pass

Located along the main road connecting Teshikaga Town and Bihoro Pass, Bihoro Pass sits at an elevation of 525 meters. From this vantage point, you can gaze down upon Lake Kussharo, Japan’s largest caldera lake, with the beautiful Nakajima Island floating in the center. This breathtaking spot is one of Hokkaido’s top scenic destinations, attracting numerous visitors.

Memanbetsu Airport (Arrival: 12:15 ｜ Lunch 60 minutes)

Memanbetsu Airport

KITA-NO-DAICHI-NO Aquarium

An aquarium in Kitami City, Hokkaido, home to both Japan's top-ranked and world-first exhibits. It features Japan's first waterfall pool tank with a mesmerizing beauty, and the world's first four-season tank that freezes in winter. The aquarium showcases river creatures native to Hokkaido in unique displays. Additionally, it boasts the largest number of Itou, Japan’s largest freshwater fish.

Kitakitsune (Fox) Farm

At the "Northern Fox Farm," around 70 Ezo red foxes are free range. This popular attraction allows visitors to observe these charming creatures up close, whether they're napping, playfully grooming themselves, or watching young foxes engage in sibling squabbles. It's a delightful spot to witness the natural behavior of these adorable foxes.

Kitami Bus Terminal (Arrival: 16:50) – Transfer to JR or Intercity buses to Asahikawa or Sapporo

Kitami Bus Terminal