If you’re heading to Hokkaido in winter and craving an authentic, action-packed day, this Icebreaker GARINKO GO III tour offers a unique blend of natural marvels and cultural sights. For $159 per person, you’ll spend roughly 12 hours exploring the drifting sea ice, marveling at illuminated ice sculptures, and sampling fresh local seafood.

What we love most is how close you’ll get to the stunning drift ice, feeling the power of the ship’s propellers as they carve through thick, floating ice—an experience that’s both exciting and visually unforgettable. We also appreciate the opportunity to see the brightly lit ice sculptures at the Sounkyo Ice Festival, which add a magical glow to the winter landscape.

A possible consideration is that drift ice viewing can be unpredictable. The visibility depends heavily on weather conditions, which can vary from year to year. Also, the tour is primarily in Japanese, with translation services available, so some language barrier may exist.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy natural wonders, are curious about Japanese winter festivals, and appreciate authentic local cuisine. It’s perfect for those seeking a full-day, immersive experience that combines adventure with cultural discovery.

Key Points

Unique experience: An exhilarating cruise through drift ice on one of the newest icebreaker ships.
Spectacular sights: Glowing ice sculptures at Sounkyo Ice Festival and potential wildlife encounters.
Local flavor: Delicious seafood bowls made from fresh ingredients, with optional purchases.
Flexible options: Choose to include or skip the seafood lunch; the Ocean Exchange Center offers a self-guided exploration.
Practical info: The tour lasts 12 hours, departs from Sapporo, and involves some early mornings.
Limited language support: Service is mainly in Japanese, with translation, so some preparation is advised.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive Into the Hokkaido Icebreaker GARINKO GOSounkyo Ice Festival Day Tour

When you’re in Hokkaido during winter, catching a glimpse of the drifting sea ice is a must. This tour offers a front-row seat to this natural spectacle, riding aboard the new GARINKO GO III—a sturdy vessel designed to break through the ice with its giant propellers, creating sounds and sights that are part thrill, part nature show.

The Itinerary and What Makes It Special

The day begins in Sapporo’s ANA Crowne Plaza Hotel, where you meet your guide and fellow travelers. After a roughly 70-minute bus transfer, you start the journey through scenic routes, with a couple of quick stops at scenic rest areas to stretch and take photos. The first highlight is the Ocean Exchange Center—a fascinating spot where you can explore the underwater world, learn about drift ice shrimp and northern fish, and get a taste of what’s beneath the frosty surface.

From here, the true adventure begins as you head towards the embarkation point for the GARINKO GO III. Once aboard, the thrill of drifting ice viewing kicks in. The ship’s powerful propellers cut through the ice, producing a thunderous sound that travelers find exhilarating. In her reviews, one traveler described it as, “It felt like being part of a giant, icy symphony.” Keep your camera ready—you might spot white-tailed eagles, Steller’s sea eagles, or even curious seals on the ice floes.

The wildlife sightings are a major perk, though they depend on luck and seasonality. Many guests appreciate the chance to see eagles hovering overhead or seals bobbing near the ice edges, adding a touch of wilderness to the experience.

The lunch options are flexible. Opt for the seafood bowl at Marukaiichi Suisan, loaded with crab, scallops, and fish roe, which many reviews praise for its freshness and generous portions. If you prefer, you can skip the lunch and explore the Ocean Exchange Center at your own pace, which offers a food court, ramen shop, and convenience store.

After the cruise, the tour proceeds to the Sounkyo Ice Festival, held in a vast, 10,000-square-meter area on the Ishikari River floodplain. Here, you’ll witness massive ice waterfalls, glittering sculptures, and illuminated displays that turn the landscape into a winter fairy-tale scene. The festival is a favorite for many, who commend its stunning illuminated sculptures and the sheer scale of the event.

You’ll also stop at Sounkyo Onsen for photos and short visits—note that hot springs are not included in the itinerary, so plan accordingly if you want to enjoy them. The tour wraps up with a long bus transfer back to Sapporo, where traffic congestion on weekends may slightly extend the schedule.

Why This Tour Stands Out

The drift ice cruise is undoubtedly the centerpiece. Many reviewers mention the thrill of feeling the ice crack and hearing the ship’s propellers at work, creating a sensory experience hard to match elsewhere. The glowing ice sculptures add a magical touch to the winter landscape, making this an ideal choice for photographers and those who love spectacular scenery.

Plus, the local seafood experience, with fresh ingredients and generous portions, helps travelers enjoy Hokkaido’s culinary reputation. Whether you’re a seafood lover or simply want to indulge in authentic flavors, this part of the tour delivers.

Considerations and Practical Tips

While the tour offers a lot, it’s important to note that drift ice visibility is weather-dependent. If conditions are poor, the icebreaker may not be able to venture far into the drift ice zone, or the trip might be shortened. Checking the weather forecast ahead of time can help set expectations.

Language can be another factor—services are mainly in Japanese, though translation is available, so brushing up on some basic phrases or using a translation app will enhance your experience.

Finally, the tour involves long bus rides—about 2.5 hours back from Sounkyo—so if you’re prone to motion sickness or dislike lengthy travel, prepare accordingly.

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Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for adventure seekers, wildlife enthusiasts, and photography fans. If you’re eager to see sea ice up close, enjoy spectacular winter scenery, and don’t mind some early starts and long hours on the road, this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s also a good fit for those interested in Japanese winter festivals and seafood cuisine.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a rare glimpse into the icy wilderness of Hokkaido, combining the thrill of a drift ice cruise with the visual delights of the Sounkyo Ice Festival. It’s a full day of spectacular sights, culture, and adventure. While weather can influence the experience, most travelers find it memorable and worth the effort.

For those looking to see a truly unique side of Japan’s northernmost island, this tour provides great value—blending natural beauty with local culture. It’s perfect for adventurers, photographers, and seafood lovers eager to experience Hokkaido’s winter wonders firsthand.

FAQ

Is it necessary to have a passport for this tour?
Yes, you need to provide your passport number when boarding the icebreaker Garinko. Make sure to bring your passport with you.

When is the best time to see drift ice in Hokkaido?
Drift ice viewing is most common from late January to early March, depending on weather and shoreline conditions.

Are hot springs included in this tour?
No, hot springs are not part of the itinerary and cannot be experienced during this trip.

What language is used during the tour?
The main service is in Japanese, but translation services are available to help non-Japanese speakers.

Can I skip the seafood lunch?
Yes, if you prefer, you can explore the Ocean Exchange Center independently during your free time, and lunch will be at your own expense.

How long is the bus transfer?
The transfer from Sapporo to the starting points takes approximately 70 minutes, with additional time during the return journey.

Will I see wildlife on the drift ice cruise?
There’s a good chance to spot eagles, gulls, and seals, but sightings depend on weather and luck.

Is this tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport, cash, warm clothing, and perhaps a camera to capture the stunning scenes.

What if the weather is bad?
If severe weather threatens safety or visibility, the trip might be canceled or rescheduled, with updates communicated by 18:00 the day before.

This Hokkaido tour offers a genuinely memorable winter experience—combining natural spectacle, cultural sights, and local flavor, all within a manageable day trip. Whether you’re an adventure lover or someone looking to witness Japan’s icy wilderness, it’s a journey worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: