Witness the Majesty of the Arctic Sea at Drift Ice Road Abashiri
Perched along the banks of the Abashiri River, Drift Ice Road Abashiri offers panoramic views of the vast Okhotsk Sea and the distant peaks of the Shiretoko Peninsula. This roadside station is more than a rest stop—it's a gateway to the wild beauty of Hokkaido’s northern frontier. In winter, it serves as the departure point for the famed Oorora icebreaker, offering unforgettable close encounters with the drifting ice floes that define the region’s seasonal rhythm.
The station thrives year-round with vibrant local offerings, from the iconic Abashiri Burger made with regional ingredients to the beloved Oorora Soft. Visitors can explore the unique "Iceberg Experience Terrace" at the nearby Okhotsk Ice Museum, where real ice is displayed and interactive exhibits bring the Arctic environment to life. With its blend of authentic regional cuisine, cultural insights, and breathtaking scenery, Drift Ice Road Abashiri is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking the soul of northern Japan.
Why Visit
At Drift Ice Road Abashiri, experience the only place in Hokkaido where you can touch real ice from the Okhotsk Sea. The "Ice Experience Terrace" features a 100-ton ice block and a "frozen towel" experiment, offering a tangible connection to the region's famed winter phenomenon. Nearby, the "Abashiri Glacier Pavilion" showcases live underwater footage of ice floes and the rare "Glacier Angel" jellyfish, creating an immersive Arctic experience impossible elsewhere.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor authentic Hokkaido flavors at Drift Ice Road Abashiri, where local ingredients meet regional traditions in a cozy, nostalgic setting.
Abashiri Specialties Dining Corner
あばしり専門店
Specialty
Local cuisine featuring Abashiri's famous dishes
A dining area dedicated to regional specialties, offering a variety of authentic dishes made with local ingredients, creating a unique and memorable culinary experience.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique souvenirs and regional specialties at Drift Ice Road Abashiri, from fresh local produce to handmade crafts and iconic branded goods.
Local Specialty Products Corner
地元特産品販売コーナー
A retail area dedicated to selling regional products and souvenirs from Abashiri and the Okhotsk region.
Products
Must-Try Item
Abashiri Pudding
Takeout Corner
テイクアウトコーナー
A takeout area offering ready-to-go meals and snacks made with fresh local ingredients.
Products
Must-Try Item
Abashiri Burger
Featured Products
Experience signature products like Abashiri's famous prunes, wasabi, and the beloved 'Oorara' soft serve, crafted from the region’s pristine ingredients.
Abashiri Pudding
網走プリン
A creamy and smooth pudding made with locally sourced ingredients, known for its rich flavor and delicate texture.
Oorara Merchandise
おーろらグッズ
Official merchandise inspired by the Oorara icebreaker ship, including souvenirs and collectibles.
Abashiri Yams
網走長芋
Fresh, locally grown yams known for their crisp texture and sweet taste, ideal for cooking and snacking.
Gold-Print Wasabi
金印わさび
Premium wasabi with a bold, spicy flavor, known for its high quality and distinctive taste.
Abashiri Soft Serve Ice Cream
網走ソフト
A locally made soft serve ice cream with a unique flavor profile inspired by the region's natural beauty.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities at Drift Ice Road Abashiri, including restrooms, Wi-Fi, parking, and accessible facilities for all visitors.
Parking Lot
Large vehicles: 16 spaces, Ordinary vehicles: 106 spaces. Long-term parking for overnight stays is prohibited.
Adjacent to the roadside station
Restroom
Includes accessible toilets, wheelchair-accessible facilities, and baby changing tables. Warm water flushing toilets are available.
Inside the roadside station
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is available for visitors.
Throughout the roadside station
Information Center
The main information hub for tourism in Abashiri, offering travel information, event details, local cuisine recommendations, and accommodation bookings.
Inside the roadside station
Flower Garden "Hanatento"
A flower garden located at the foot of Tento Mountain, overlooking Lake Abashiri. Maintained through a community adoption program. Best visited from late August to late September.
Near Tento Mountain summit
Ohoetsuku Iceberg Pavilion
A themed facility featuring a 100-ton ice block display, a "Iceberg Experience Terrace" at -15°C, and a "Live Iceberg Theater" showing immersive underwater footage of icebergs and marine life. Also features a live display of the "Iceberg Angel" (Ctenophore).
At the summit of Tento Mountain
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging facilities are available at the roadside station.
Near the parking area
ATM
An automated teller machine is available for visitor use.
Near the entrance of the roadside station
Nursing Room
A private room equipped for breastfeeding and baby care, located within the facility.
Inside the roadside station
Insider Tips
Plan your visit around the icebreaker cruise season and check for seasonal events—local knowledge helps you make the most of your journey.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 10:00 AM and 11:00 AM to secure the last fresh batch of the "Abashiri Burger" from the takeout counter, which sells out by 1:00 PM daily.
- Hidden Gems: At the local specialty products counter, look for the "Abashiri Pudding" and "O-ora Goods" — both are exclusive to this roadside station and not available elsewhere in the region.
- Weekend Special: On weekends, the "O-ora Soft" is only available at the takeout counter between 10:30 AM and 12:30 PM — arrive early to avoid missing out.
- Off-Peak Dining: Skip the 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM lunch rush at the second-floor dining area; instead, eat between 2:00 PM and 3:00 PM to enjoy quieter seating and avoid the peak crowd for the "Abashiri Zangi Don" and "Abashiri Chanko" dishes.
- Free Activity: Visit the "Iceberg Experience Terrace" at the Ohotsuku Iceberg Pavilion between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM to touch a real 100-ton ice block and participate in the "shibare experiment" where you can freeze a damp towel — it’s free with admission to the pavilion.
- Nearby Access Tip: If visiting the Abashiri Icebreaker "O-ora," park at the roadside station’s east parking lot and walk to the departure point on the Abashiri River, which is just a 5-minute walk from the station’s entrance.
- Stamp Collection: To collect the official roadside station stamp, visit the information desk during opening hours (9:00 AM – 6:00 PM) — the stamp is only available during these times and not accessible after 6:00 PM.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Visit during the thaw period for access to the flow ice viewing ship "Oorara" and the first fresh catches of the season at the roadside station.
Summer (June–August): Enjoy the peak of the flower garden at Tennozan, open from mid-August to late September.
Autumn (September–November): See the red coral草 fields at Noktori Lake at their best, with the annual Coral Grass Festival held the second weekend of September.
Winter (December–February): Experience the flow ice spectacle and ride the "Oorara" icebreaker ship, operating from early January to late March.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers multiple play areas, stroller-friendly paths, and a variety of kid-friendly food options. Includes educational exhibits on ice and marine life, and a nearby children's garden with interactive elements.
Food Lover Review
Features diverse local cuisine including signature dishes like Abashiri Zangi Don and Abashiri Champoy. Offers fresh regional products and unique items like the Abashiri Burger and Oorora Soft.
Car Camping Review
Provides restrooms, vending machines, and ample parking. However, long-term overnight parking is prohibited. The site is relatively quiet during off-peak hours, but lacks dedicated camping facilities.
Scenic Beauty Review
Offers panoramic views of the Okhotsk Sea, Lake Abashiri, and the Shiretoko Peninsula. Features a top-tier observation deck and seasonal beauty, especially during ice viewing in winter and wildflowers in summer.