[Tour Guaranteed with Minimum of 1 Traveler] Hokkaido Winter Wonderland: Garinko No. III IMERU Cruise and Sounkyo Ice Fall Festival (Meal Options Available; Departing from Sapporo)

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— What You Can Expect —

Get two exciting winter experiences in one package! Visit the Sounkyo Ice Fall Festival, glowing with enchanting illuminations! Marvel at the icebreaker's might, breaking through drift ice—an awe-inspiring sight! 

Glide onboard the freshly crafted "Garinko No. III IMERU" for an unforgettable cruise. The ship boasts two large screws at the bow, creating a distinctive "graunching" as it plows through ice. Sense the breaking ice through onboard vibrations. Delight in the thrill as drift ice emerges alongside—immersing in Hokkaido's beloved winter spectacle! Encounter the magic and exhilaration of drift ice firsthand!

— Tour Highlights —

Savor the mesmerizing sight of drift ice in the northernmost Okhotsk Sea of Japan. Let go of the chill and the clock, relishing the thrill of the unknown! Catch a glimpse of majestic birds—Steller's sea eagles, White-tailed sea eagles, and Slaty-backed gulls—perched on the ice. Spot adorable seals peeking through the drifting ice if luck is on your side.

Recognized as a "Umi-no-Eki" (Station of the Sea), the Ocean Exchange Center serves as a key sightseeing hub, hosting the boarding terminal for Garinko. Hop on a complimentary shuttle to the Okhotsk Tower/Ice Sea Observation Tower. Explore the center's shop, brimming with Mombetsu souvenirs—think unique Garinko merchandise and local snacks! 

Explore the Okhotsk Tower/Ice Sea Observation Tower (JP¥500 for the undersea floor) since its October 2016 reopening! In drift ice season, delve into the Undersea Nature Observation Room, showcasing northern sea life and enchanting clione. Experience the all-new "4D-KING" for just JP¥300 per show, offering a 360-degree stereoscopic thrill! 

For JP¥200, discover Tokkari Center Gomachan Land—home to seals, known as "Tokkari" in Ainu. It's Japan's sole seal sanctuary, promising a lively seal encounter!

Transforming a 10,000-square-meter venue along Ishikari River's banks, Sounkyo Onsen unveils an enchanting ice kingdom during winter. Nestled at Daisetsuzan's base, the festival showcases colossal icefalls cascading from columnar joint cliffs. Illuminated by vibrant lights, the magical sculptures radiate beauty and mystery. Dive into the heart of frigid Hokkaido, directly experiencing nature's icy marvels. Don't miss the breathtaking ice sculptures! The entrance fee is JP¥500 per person, a contribution from visitors. 

— Lunch Options —

Savor lunch at the Ocean Exchange Center which offers a cafeteria, ramen restaurant, and convenience store. Arrive at the Center around 1:00 pm.

Indulge in the fresh seafood of the Sea of Okhotsk with the exquisite a Bowl of Drift Ice (Ryuhyo-don) at Marukaichi Suisan!

This luxurious seafood bowl features the finest flavors of the Okhotsk Sea, including snow crab, salmon roe, and scallops. Enjoy this delectable dish, packed with plenty of crab, accompanied by a warm crab miso soup. After eating, enjoy a delightful shopping spree!

Relish the "Drift Ice Rice Bowl" at Marukaichi Suisan! Satisfy your palate with the freshest seafood from the Sea of Okhotsk bundled in a luxurious seafood rice bowl filled with snow crab, salmon roe, and scallops. Topped generously with crab, the bowl comes with a flavorful crab soup. After eating, enjoy a delightful shopping spree!

*Photos are for reference only.

— Important Information —

Pick-up Locations:

Drop-off Locations: 

The icebreaker ship Garinko No.III IMERU is a sightseeing ship with a gross tonnage of 370 tons and a capacity of 235 passengers, designed for the purpose of drift ice sightseeing, which is also known as one of Hokkaido Heritage. With air-conditioned cabins, vending machines and vendor stalls, the icebreaker ship offers a comfortable drift ice cruising experience.