7 Best Tours & Experiences In Abashiri (With Prices)

Abashiri is a fascinating destination for travelers eager to experience authentic Hokkaido culture and stunning winter landscapes. Unlike many spots that focus only on scenery, Abashiri offers a variety of hands-on activities and local culinary experiences that truly bring its unique character to life. Whether you’re interested in learning traditional crafts, savoring regional cuisine, or daring the cold with a drift ice kayak, this city has a lot to offer. Personally, I love the Dried Fish Making Workshop, which offers an authentic taste of local fishing traditions, and the Drift Ice Kayaking Adventure, which combines adventure with surreal scenery. Both experiences highlight Abashiri’s connection to the Sea of Okhotsk and its icy wilderness.

If you’re planning a trip, you’ll find that these tours cater to different interests and comfort levels. From family-friendly activities like sleigh rides to more intense adventures like kayaking through floating ice, there’s an option for nearly every traveler. Keep reading to discover which experiences match your travel style.

Quick Overview of Tours in Abashiri

This list covers a range of hands-on culinary experiences, adventures on the water, and cultural activities that showcase Abashiri’s local flavor. Highlights include the Dried Fish Making Workshop with Lunch, perfect for those interested in traditional food crafts, and the Drift Ice Kayaking Adventure, which appeals to thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike. Other options like the Horse-Drawn Sleigh Ride and Cooking Class and the Sauna Experience add local flair with unforgettable winter activities. Whether you want to learn sushi-making or master knife skills, this guide helps you pick the best fit.

Now, let’s get into the details of each tour to help you decide which one suits your interests and schedule.

1. Abashiri: Dried Fish Making Workshop with Lunch

If you want an authentic taste of local fishing traditions, the Dried Fish Making Workshop is a memorable choice. This 1.5-hour experience takes place at a traditional himono shop, where you’ll learn how to fillet hokke (a local fish), soak it in saltwater, and then dry it in a machine. The process is straightforward but gives a real appreciation for how dried fish—himono—becomes a staple in northern Japanese kitchens.

What makes this tour stand out is the opportunity to enjoy a homemade fermented sushi lunch, known as meshi-zushi, which pairs beautifully with your new skills. The guide shares insights into the different types of fishing in the Sea of Okhotsk and how local fishermen harvest their catch. Plus, you’ll receive practical tips on how to select high-quality dried fish for yourself.

This experience is ideal for travelers interested in food culture and traditional crafts. It’s a short, affordable activity that offers a genuine taste of Abashiri’s fishing heritage. The only potential downside is that it’s quite hands-on, so those uncomfortable with filleting or handling fish may want to observe rather than participate.

Bottom Line: A perfect choice for foodies and curious travelers who want to learn through hands-on experience and enjoy a local meal.

2. Abashiri: Drift Ice Kayaking Adventure

For a truly unique winter adventure, the Drift Ice Kayaking Adventure ranks high. Over three hours, you paddle through the surreal landscape of floating ice in Abashiri Quasi-National Park. The tour takes you along the rugged Notsuiwa Coast or near the peaceful Mokoto River, depending on conditions.

What makes this tour exceptional is the chance to be up close with the shifting drift ice—a phenomenon that only occurs in select parts of the world during winter months. Paddling quietly among the floating icebergs, you’ll experience the raw power and tranquility of nature in one breath. The crisp, cold air and vast winter scenery create a memorable atmosphere.

This activity is best suited for those with some kayaking experience or a decent level of physical fitness, but guided instruction and safety gear are provided. Many reviewers rave about the otherworldly scenery and the feeling of being immersed in nature’s winter spectacle. The cost reflects the adventure and the specialized environment, making it a worthwhile splurge for adventure lovers.

Bottom Line: An unforgettable, photo-worthy experience for active travelers seeking a rare chance to kayak through drifting sea ice.

3. Abashiri: Horse-Drawn Sleigh Ride & Making Local Cuisine

Combining winter scenery with culture, this 3-hour tour offers a magical sleigh ride through Abashiri National Park, followed by a hands-on cooking class. The sleigh ride is especially charming, gliding over snow-covered paths with locally bred horses drawing your carriage.

Afterward, you’ll learn to prepare traditional dishes like dumplings and arajiru, a hearty fish soup made with fresh ingredients like potatoes and pumpkins. The cooking class emphasizes using locally grown produce, making the meal a true reflection of Hokkaido’s flavors.

This tour is perfect for families or travelers looking for a cozy cultural experience. The combination of outdoor activity and cuisine makes it well-rounded. It’s also a great way to stay warm while enjoying the winter landscape. Some reviews note that the sleigh ride creates a “storybook winter scene,” making it a memorable outing.

Potential drawback: The activity is seasonal, so it’s best during snowy months. Participants should be comfortable in cold weather.

Bottom Line: A charming, family-friendly way to enjoy Abashiri’s winter scenery and learn about local dishes.

4. Abashiri: Master Knife Skills of Northern Japanese Cuisine

For those interested in culinary arts, the 5-hour Master Knife Skills class is a deep dive into Japanese cooking techniques. Led by a regional expert, you’ll observe a chef demonstrate precise cutting methods, then try your hand at preparing marinated salmon roe or oysters, depending on the season.

The class emphasizes using local seafood and seasonal ingredients, tying the experience to Abashiri’s fishing tradition. Participants also taste seasonal dishes and learn how to judge the freshness and quality of fish—valuable skills for any aspiring home chef.

This experience is well-suited for travelers who want a comprehensive culinary lesson and an understanding of regional ingredients. While the price reflects the extensive instruction, many find it worth the investment for the skill and knowledge gained.

Potential drawback: The long duration may be challenging for those with tight schedules.

Bottom Line: An excellent choice for foodies eager to master Japanese knife skills and regional seafood flavors.

5. Abashiri: Sauna Experience with Lunch and Beer

If you’re after relaxation with a twist, the Sauna Experience combines hot steam sessions with stunning winter views. Located in Abashiri Quasi-National Park, this tour lets you sweat out the cold while gazing at frozen lakes and snow-covered forests.

After the sauna, you’ll enjoy smoked seafood snacks and sip on local beer, including a special blue beer or drift ice draft. The experience provides a rare opportunity to combine wellness with local flavors and scenery. Reviewers describe it as “a rejuvenating, scenic escape from the cold.”

It’s ideal for travelers seeking self-care or a unique way to unwind after outdoor activities. Because of the included food and drinks, it also offers good value for a 3-hour experience.

Potential downside: Not suitable for those with health concerns or who prefer active pursuits.

Bottom Line: A relaxing, scenic way to warm up and enjoy local specialties in a tranquil setting.

6. Abashiri: Seafood Cooking Class with Lunch

For seafood lovers, this Cooking Class offers hands-on skill-building at Oh! Den, where you’ll learn to fillet fish and shuck shellfish with a local chef. The class lasts about two hours and ends with a delicious seafood meal prepared by the owner, showcasing the flavors of the Sea of Okhotsk.

Participants hear stories from the chef about Abashiri’s fishing industry and local food culture, enriching the experience. The focus on fresh, seasonal seafood makes every dish taste vibrant and authentic. Many mention that the chef’s tips on selecting and preparing fish are invaluable.

This tour is perfect for those who want to improve their seafood prep skills and enjoy an authentic meal afterward. It offers good value, especially considering the skill level you gain and the quality of the food.

Potential drawback: Since it’s a focused culinary class, it’s less suitable for travelers with limited interest in seafood.

Bottom Line: Ideal for seafood enthusiasts looking to sharpen their skills and enjoy regional flavors.

7. Abashiri: Sushi-Making Class with Dinner

Rounding out the list, the Sushi-Making Class offers a comprehensive 4-hour experience with a professional sushi chef. You’ll learn how to craft nigiri using seasonal ingredients from Okhotsk and Hokkaido, then sit down to a dinner featuring your creations plus signature dishes.

This class emphasizes traditional sushi techniques, including how to judge freshness and prepare perfect rice. Participants leave with practical skills and a sense of accomplishment, plus a delicious meal. Reviewers appreciate the chef’s patience and the opportunity to try making sushi at a professional level.

This experience is perfect for foodies eager to master sushi or those curious about Japanese culinary traditions. The longer duration and hands-on approach make it a more immersive option than shorter workshops.

Bottom Line: A top pick for sushi fans and those wanting a full, educational meal experience.

How to Choose the Right Tour in Abashiri

When selecting your tour, consider your interests and physical readiness. If you’re keen on culinary skills, the Sushi-Making or Seafood Cooking classes are excellent choices. For adventure lovers, the Drift Ice Kayaking offers a rare thrill, while the Sauna provides relaxation with scenic views.

Budget-wise, shorter activities like the Dried Fish Workshop and Seafood Class are affordable options. If you prefer outdoor winter fun, the sleigh ride combined with a cooking class could be perfect.

Booking early is recommended, especially for popular activities like kayaking in winter or sushi classes during busy seasons. Check the weather forecast and consider the best time to visit—most tours operate from winter through early spring when ice and snow are at their peak.

To sum it up, Abashiri offers a surprisingly diverse array of tours that go beyond typical sightseeing. Whether you’re interested in learning local recipes, paddling among drifting ice, or relaxing in a scenic sauna, you’ll find something that fits your travel style. For a well-rounded trip, try to mix a culinary experience with some outdoor adventure. And remember, booking ahead is wise, especially if you want to secure a spot for the most popular activities. Enjoy your trip and make sure to dive into the authentic flavors and landscapes of Abashiri.