February is a special month in Hokkaido as it hosts the spectacular Sapporo Snow Festival, which is renowned worldwide. However, not many people know about the natural wonder of Ryuhyo, also known as drift ice, in the northeast region of Hokkaido. This leads to missing out on an incredible experience that should not be overlooked.
The Abashiri Okhotsk Drift Ice Festival is a one-of-a-kind event that takes place annually in Hokkaido’s small port town of Abashiri in February. Visitors can witness the stunning natural phenomenon of drift ice formed in the Sea of Okhotsk.
The Formation Formula
Photo by: Abhijit Sen The seaside venue prepares to host an extravaganza of sculptures of all sizes and shapes.
Located on the northernmost coast of the Sea of Okhotsk, cold air blows and cools down the seawater to -1.8 degrees Celsius, creating ice crystals that grow into a lotus leaf-like shape. The lotus ice is then carried southward by winds and currents, eventually arriving at the coast of Okhotsk in Hokkaido from late January to early February. As the ice crystals stick together, they grow in size, leaving only the hard-to-freeze salt behind.
As the drift ice season begins, the seaside venue prepares to host an extravaganza of sculptures of all sizes and shapes. From the tiniest figures to the towering creations, each sculpture is a work of art, crafted with great detail and skill. Moreover, as the sun sets, the sculptures come alive with spectacular illumination, transforming the atmosphere into a magical world of light and color.
Event Highlights
Photo by: Abhijit Sen Check out all the cool ice sculptures at the festival.
The event is free to attend, so anyone can come and enjoy the magnificent sculptures. However, if you’re a music enthusiast, you’ll be thrilled to know that there will also be a music festival on the same premises. Of course, the music festival requires an entry fee, but it promises to be worth every penny for the unforgettable experience it provides.
History and Heritage
Photo by: Abhijit Sen Learn more about the town’s history by trying out cultural activities first hand.
While you’re in this area, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy. Try your hand at smelt fishing in Lake Abashiri or take a cruise through the drift ice in the Sea of Okhotsk.
If you’re interested in learning about the local culture, the Hokkaido Museum of Northern Indigenous Peoples is a great place to start. Here, you’ll gain an understanding of the Ainu people’s lifestyle and society. You won’t want to miss the Abashiri Prison Museum either – it provides a glimpse into the atmosphere and conditions of the Meiji-era prison.
