Freeze-in experience! The Abashiri Okhotsk Drift Ice Festival kicks off on February 11

Hokkaido’s winter is blanketed in a world of silver and white, especially Abashiri near the Sea of Okhotsk, famous for its snow-covered Abashiri Prison and drift ice. The annual "Abashiri Okhotsk Drift Ice Festival" brings a joyful festive atmosphere to this eastern Hokkaido town. This year’s festival will kick off on February 11, and in addition to the must-do drift ice boat experience, around 40 snow sculptures will be displayed, adding even more beauty and grandeur to the event.

Now in its 45th year, the Abashiri Okhotsk Drift Ice Festival features lively activities including the traditional “Drift Ice Mikoshi” parade, cartoon character shows loved by children, group performances, song and music programs, as well as comedy acts. On February 13, there will also be a special fireworks event. With a variety of activities plus a wide selection of fresh seafood from the Sea of Okhotsk and local mountain produce stalls, visitors can enjoy Abashiri’s food, fun, and entertainment all in one go.

The theme of this year’s snow sculptures comes from the "Ponmoi Monogatari," a beautiful legend of the Ainu people. Forty large and small snow and ice statues, meticulously crafted by the artists, shine brilliantly. At night, under the glow of colorful lights, it feels like stepping into a fantasy world. After enjoying the festival events, don’t miss the winter-exclusive drift ice sightseeing—cruise through the 1-meter-thick ice fields of the Sea of Okhotsk on an icebreaker and marvel at the frozen expanse stretching across the horizon, a breathtaking wonder of nature.

From late January to late March, it’s the best season to witness the spectacular drift ice. Icebreakers depart from Abashiri Port, with each voyage lasting about an hour, venturing deep into the drift ice-covered sea and heading straight into a frozen silver world. In February and March, there’s also a “Sunset Course,” where you can enjoy the magical sight of the sun setting over the drift ice. If you’re lucky, you might even spot wildlife from the Sea of Okhotsk.

The 45th Abashiri Okhotsk Drift Ice Festival
Event period: February 11–14, 2010
Venue: Abashiri Commercial Port Pier Site
Transportation: Take the “City Sightseeing Facility Tour” bus from Abashiri Station and get off at “Dōtsū Drift Ice Icebreaker Boarding Area,” then walk about 10 minutes.
Inquiry phone: 0152-44-6111 (Abashiri City Tourism Division)

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