Experience the thrill of floating through drifting ice on the Garinko GO III, a brand-new icebreaker ship that slices through the Sea of Okhotsk in Japan’s northernmost region. For around $149, you get a full-day adventure that combines breathtaking winter landscapes, wildlife spotting, and delicious local seafood. Guided in Japanese, but with translation support, it’s a fantastic way to connect with Hokkaido’s wintry wilderness.

What we love about this trip is the up-close encounter with the drifting ice—there’s nothing quite like feeling the vibrations as the ship shatters the ice beside you, giving you a true sense of the power of nature. Also, the chance to see soaring eagles and resting seals adds a wild touch to the scenery that makes the cold worthwhile. The option to indulge in a luxurious seafood bowl featuring fresh catch from the Sea of Okhotsk is another highlight for food lovers.

A potential consideration is the unpredictability of drift ice visibility, which depends heavily on weather conditions and shoreline factors. If ice viewing is your main goal, flexibility in your plans or a backup activity is wise. This tour best suits travelers who enjoy authentic natural adventures, wildlife, and regional cuisine—especially those comfortable with some basic Japanese or translation apps. It’s perfect for those seeking a deep winter experience rather than a casual sightseeing cruise.

Key Points

Unique Experience: A rare chance to cruise through drifting ice in Japan’s Sea of Okhotsk.
Wildlife Encounters: Opportunities to see eagles, seals, and other Arctic-like wildlife.
Stunning Views: Continuous vistas of snow-covered seas and icy landscapes.
Culinary Delight: Optional seafood bowls made with locally sourced ingredients.
Cultural Insight: An authentic Japanese guided experience, with some language barriers.
Weather-Dependent: Drift ice visibility varies; check conditions before booking.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Essentials of the Icebreaker GARINKO GO III Cruise

We’ll start with the basics: this 12-hour tour takes you from Sapporo to the coastal waters of Hokkaido, where you will board the newly built GARINKO GO III. The ship is specially designed for cruising through drifting ice, offering an exhilarating experience that you won’t find just anywhere. The cost is $149 per person, which includes not only the voyage but also stops at local attractions and optional seafood tastings.

The tour provides a balanced mix of natural wonders, cultural stops, and culinary treats. The guide, though only Japanese-speaking, offers assistance and explanation, and translation tools can help bridge any language gaps. The journey begins with a bus ride from the ANA Crowne Plaza Hotel in Sapporo, taking roughly 80 minutes to reach the embarkation point.

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What Makes This Tour Stand Out

One of the most compelling aspects of this tour is the experience of watching the ship’s propellers roar through thick ice, breaking it into large chunks that rise beside the hull. As one reviewer enthusiastically put it, “Getting so close to the ice and hearing the sound of it being shattered is an unforgettable thrill.” This truly captures the raw energy of winter in Hokkaido.

Another highlight is the wildlife sightings. Travelers frequently mention seeing white-tailed eagles and Steller’s sea eagles perched high, scanning the icy waters below. Seals are often spotted resting on the ice floes, adding a playful, lively element. These encounters make the cold feel more alive, and many say it’s a rare privilege to witness these animals in their winter habitat.

The Itinerary in Detail

The day begins early, with attendees meeting at the ANA Crowne Plaza lobby at 6:50 am. After boarding the bus, the long ride is broken up with scenic stops, such as the Sunagawa Service Area and Kaori no Sato Takinoue Rest Area, each about 15 minutes long. These breaks allow travelers to stretch, grab a coffee, and start soaking in the wintry landscape.

The mid-morning includes a visit to the Ocean Exchange Center, where you can enjoy 50 minutes of free sightseeing and take in the views of the sea and snow. The center offers insights into the region’s ecology and history, plus some scenic photo opportunities. Immediately after, the tour takes you to Marukaichi Suisan, a longstanding seafood shop where you can browse and buy regional delicacies, including crab, scallops, and fish roe—perfect souvenirs.

The highlight is the embarkation at the Drift Ice Breaker Ship, where you’ll spend approximately an hour. Here, you’ll get the chance to board the GARINKO GO and experience the thrill of cutting through ice. Travelers often mention that the sound and vibrations of the ship shattering the ice create a special atmosphere.

Post-cruise, there’s time at Detsuka Suisan for more seafood shopping and, if you’ve opted for the seafood bowl lunch, you’ll enjoy a hearty, fresh dish featuring crab, scallops, and crab soup, served at Marukaiichi Suisan. Alternatively, if you choose the “No Lunch” option, you can explore the Okhotsk Sea Ice Museum—a fascinating spot to learn about the region’s unique marine environment and view underwater exhibits.

The return trip is roughly 1.5 hours by bus, with a couple of stopping points along the way. The tour wraps up back at the hotel in the late afternoon or early evening.

The Experience of the Icebreaker Cruise

Once aboard the GARINKO GO, the experience is as exhilarating as it sounds. The ship’s large propellers carve through thick ice, with chunks rising beside the hull, creating a spectacle that’s both awe-inspiring and humbling. Many reviews mention feeling the power of nature firsthand, with one traveler describing it as “a surreal moment, watching the ice crack and shift right beside us.”

The views of snow-covered seas and frozen landscapes are spectacular, especially if the weather is clear. But keep in mind, drift ice is inherently unpredictable; sometimes visibility is limited, or ice may be sparse. For many, that’s part of the adventure—embracing the surprise of nature’s mood.

Wildlife sightings are often described as “a bonus”—many travelers spot eagles soaring overhead or seals resting on ice floes. The serenity of these moments, coupled with the dramatic landscape, creates a sense of connection with the remote wilderness.

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Food and Shopping Highlights

The seafood offerings are a standout feature. The seafood bowl is packed with crab meat, scallops, and fish roe, making it a feast for seafood lovers. Many reviewers appreciate the freshness and quality, noting that it’s a perfect way to warm up after the icy cruise.

Shopping at Detsuka Suisan offers the chance to bring home authentic local seafood products. The tour also includes a complimentary scallop tempura, a tasty surprise that many find delightful. If you prefer to explore independently, the Sea Ice Museum provides various eateries, including ramen shops and a food court, where you can grab a quick, casual meal.

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Practical Considerations

While the tour offers incredible scenery and wildlife encounters, it’s important to plan for weather variability. Since drift ice viewing depends on natural conditions, your expectations should be flexible. Weather updates are recommended before booking or travel.

The tour is conducted entirely in Japanese, though translation support is provided, making it accessible for non-Japanese speakers willing to use translation tools. Also, late arrivals are not accommodated, so punctuality is key.

Price-wise, at $149, the tour is reasonably priced considering the length, transportation, multiple stops, and the unique experience of the icebreaker cruise. It’s a fair value if you want a comprehensive, well-organized winter adventure.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventure seekers, wildlife enthusiasts, and food lovers eager to witness the stark beauty of Hokkaido’s winter. It suits travelers who appreciate authentic natural landscapes and are comfortable with some basic Japanese or translation apps. It’s also a good choice for those wanting to combine scenic beauty with regional cuisine and a touch of local culture.

However, if your priority is guaranteed ice viewing or a leisurely shopping day, you might want to check the weather forecast or consider other activities. For families with older children or teenagers interested in wildlife and scenery, it offers both excitement and educational value.

Summary: Is It Worth It?

This tour delivers a rare opportunity to see drifting ice up close and personal, along with spectacular winter landscapes and wildlife sightings. The ship’s power and proximity to the ice make it a memorable highlight, especially on a clear, cold day. The accompanying stops—like seafood shopping and museum visits—add cultural depth and regional flavor, making the day well-rounded.

For travelers craving a mix of adventure, natural beauty, and regional flavor, this trip offers good value and an unforgettable experience. It’s particularly suited for those who love outdoor activities and are eager to experience winter in one of Japan’s most scenic regions.

FAQs

What is the main focus of this tour?
The main focus is cruising through drifting ice in the Sea of Okhotsk aboard the new GARINKO GO III, combined with wildlife viewing and regional seafood.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 12 hours, including transportation, sightseeing stops, and the cruise itself.

Is the tour suitable for non-Japanese speakers?
Yes, the tour is conducted in Japanese, but translation support is available. Using translation apps can help you follow along with explanations.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport, cash for shopping or optional meals, and dress warmly—layering is advisable to stay comfortable in the cold.

Can I see drift ice every year?
Drift ice viewing depends on weather and shoreline conditions, usually from late January to early March. Check local updates before booking.

Are meals included?
Meals are not included by default if you choose the “No Lunch” option. If you take the seafood bowl, it’s served at Marukaiichi Suisan during the tour.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is indicated as wheelchair accessible, but it’s best to confirm specific needs when booking.

What if the weather cancels the ice viewing?
The tour may be canceled due to bad weather, with decisions made the day before. If canceled, a full refund is typically provided.

To sum it up, the Icebreaker GARINKO GO III Cruise offers an authentic, exhilarating look at Hokkaido’s icy frontier. With its combination of scenic beauty, wildlife, and local cuisine, it’s a thoughtfully organized adventure that’s worth considering for those eager to experience Japan’s winter wilderness firsthand. Just be sure to check the weather and arrive on time—this is one tour that truly depends on nature’s unpredictable charm.