A nature experience like no other in Monbetsu

Of the various natural destinations I’ve explored in Japan, there’s one that still stands out to me as the most unique. It’s a place where a natural phenomenon called drift ice occurs each winter, and you can see it for yourself in Monbetsu, Hokkaido.

Before visiting this part of Japan, I'd have thought you could only see scenery like this in the Arctic circle or Antarctica – so this trip was a real treat. The best way to see the drift ice up close is by hopping aboard the Garinko II icebreaker ship, and it's an incredible experience. Dress warmly for the trip if you plan to go – it was around ‐14 Celsius on the day I went (about 6 fahrenheit), so multiple layers, gloves, scarves, and woolen hats are all necessary! There is a little indoor area on the ship if you do find yourself needing a little respite from the weather, though.

Be sure to dress for the conditions if you plan to go on an icebreaker cruise in the future. It gets very chilly out there!

While you're in the area, I also recommend getting an appreciation for another side of the area’s nature – the wildlife. You can do this at the Okhotsk Tokkari Center, which is a conservation facility for earless seals. It’s only ¥ 200 for adult admission to the center and ¥ 100 for kids aged 6-12 years (children below that receive free admission), and the proceeds go towards rehabilitating the animals at the facility. We were allowed to interact with the seals, which included getting to feed them and taking part in tricks with them, such as the seals catching hoops. Honestly, they’re just incredible creatures and this place is a must if you’re nearby.

At the Okhotsk Tokkari Center, visitors can get an appreciation for a different aspect of the area’s nature: the incredible wildlife.

Monbetsu might not be the first place you think of visiting in Japan, but for me it has been one of the most incredible life experiences – and it’s a place I rave about to others. If you want to see a different side of the country and have a truly unique nature experience, I suggest popping it on your bucket list for this coming winter.

Direct flights are available from Tokyo’s Haneda Airport (HND) to Monbetsu Airport (MBE) daily via ANA – the flight time is approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes.