Hokkaido-2 Day Tour to Icebreaker Mombetsu and Asahiyama Zoo

Planning a winter trip to Hokkaido? This 2-day tour from Sapporo offers a fantastic mix of wildlife encounters, sea adventures, and cozy relaxation, all wrapped up in a well-organized package. Whether you’re a wildlife lover, thrill-seeker, or someone craving a warm bath after a day in the snow, this trip ticks many boxes.

What we really like about this experience is how it balances unique activities—like breaking drift ice aboard the Garinko III—with cultural highlights such as visiting the Otokoyama Sakezukuri Museum. Plus, the tour’s pace feels manageable, giving you time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed. The price of $350 per person also offers fair value considering the variety of experiences included.

However, a point to keep in mind is that the icebreaker cruise can be quite chilly, so dressing appropriately is essential. Also, it’s not designed for people with mobility issues or those prone to seasickness, which might limit some travelers.

This tour suits travelers who love a mix of adventure, wildlife, and cultural insights—especially those visiting Hokkaido for the first time and eager for authentic experiences beyond typical sightseeing.

Key Points

• Unique Icebreaker Experience: Only available in winter, perfect for thrill-seekers and photography enthusiasts.
• Wildlife Highlights: Meet penguins during their famous walk and see seals at Asahiyama Zoo.
• Cultural and Culinary Touches: Learn about sake brewing and enjoy regional dishes like Robatayaki.
• Relaxing Hot Springs: Unwind overnight at Sounkyo’s hot spring hotel amidst dramatic winter scenery.
• Scenic Waterfalls and Ice Festivals: Marvel at Meteor & Ginga Waterfalls and glowing ice sculptures.
• Family-Friendly Activities: Snow tubing, snowball fights, and snowman building make it great for families.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Day 1: From Sapporo to Asahikawa and Sounkyo

The journey kicks off in Sapporo, where you meet your guide at the iconic red statue outside JR Sapporo Station. From there, the first stop is Bibai, which offers a quick stretch and the chance to experience a 75-minute snowmobile ride—an adrenaline shot to start your day. This activity is especially fun if you’re traveling with kids or simply eager to feel the snow beneath you.

Next, a lunch break provides a taste of Hokkaido’s regional dishes, setting the tone for authentic local flavors. Following this, you visit Asahiyama Zoo, renowned for its immersive enclosures and the much-anticipated Penguin Walk. During winter, the penguins waddle through the snow in their adorable, tuxedoed way—an activity heavily weather-dependent but well worth waiting for if conditions are right. As one reviewer pointed out, it’s a “perfect photo moment” and a highlight for wildlife fans.

The zoo houses over 120 species, giving a broad glimpse into animal life in colder climates. Visitors often comment on the engaging layouts, which allow animals to be seen in naturalistic habitats. The zoo’s staff and guides are known for their enthusiasm, making the experience both informative and enjoyable.

After the zoo, a quick stop at Ryusei Waterfall and Ginga Waterfall offers scenic photo opportunities. These waterfalls, especially in winter, form stunning icy sculptures—less about rushing water and more about frozen artwork. It’s a brief but rewarding stop, providing great photo moments and a bit of nature’s artistry.

The day culminates at Sounkyo Onsen, a hot spring village nestled amid towering cliffs. The hot springs here are the perfect way to relax after a day in the snow. You’ll also explore the Sounkyo Icefall Festival, where around 30 giant ice sculptures glow vividly in the dark, transforming the landscape into an otherworldly scene. As one reviewer noted, the illuminated sculptures feel like stepping into a fairytale.

Day 2: Drift Ice and Monbetsu’s Marine Wonders

The highlight of the second day is the icebreaker cruise aboard Garinko III. The ship is a powerful vessel capable of slicing through the Okhotsk Sea’s thick drift ice. Expect to see massive sheets of ice crack and shift as the boat moves through the frozen landscape, with a good chance of spotting seals and wildlife among the floes. The onboard facilities are designed for comfort and safety, making it suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers with a camera.

One reviewer mentioned that “the whole experience was unforgettable” and appreciated the chance to see the sea ice from such a close perspective, something only possible in winter. Dress warmly—layers and waterproof gear are recommended—as the wind can be brisk on deck.

Next, a visit to Otokoyama Sakezukuri Museum offers insight into the local sake brewing traditions, adding a cultural dimension to the trip. Visitors can learn about the sake-making process and sample some native brews, making it both educational and delicious.

For lunch, fresh local seafood at Monbetsu’s market is a must. The area is famous for its crab, and many guests indulge in the seafood donburi or enjoy snapping photos of the giant Crab Claw Statue, a whimsical symbol of the region. This fun photo stop is a favorite among visitors and a perfect way to end the tour.

Finally, a visit to Okhotsk Tower provides panoramic views of the coast and, weather permitting, a glimpse of the Shiretoko Mountains. The tower’s 4D-KING theater offers underwater exhibits of local marine life, making it a fascinating mix of scenery and education.

Analyzing the Value and Practicalities

For $350, this tour packs a lot into two days. The price includes transportation, guide services, entry fees, and activities, making it a convenient all-in-one experience. While it might seem like a premium, the variety of activities—ranging from wildlife encounters to sea ice exploration—justifies the cost in terms of unique memories.

Transportation is well-organized, with the tour company managing timings to maximize your time at each location. Expect comfortable coach rides between stops, with your guide providing insightful commentary along the way. The group size tends to be manageable, fostering a friendly atmosphere without feeling crowded.

The tour’s schedule is tight but flexible enough to allow for some leisure time at each stop. The hot springs hotel in Sounkyo offers a cozy retreat and a chance to enjoy the beautiful winter landscape in comfort, which many find a highlight after a chilly day outside.

Weather considerations are important: the penguin walk is weather-dependent, and the cruise can be cold, so packing warm, layered clothing is essential. Also, some stops like the waterfalls are especially photogenic when frozen, so timing your visit with the winter conditions is key.

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Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who enjoy outdoor winter activities, wildlife, and cultural insights. It’s ideal for those seeking a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation without the hassle of planning each aspect independently. Couples, families, and solo travelers will find plenty to delight in, though those with mobility issues or seasickness should note the tour’s physical demands.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day Hokkaido tour offers a well-rounded winter adventure, blending outdoor thrills with cultural learning and relaxing hot springs. It’s a great way to see some of the best of northern Japan’s icy landscapes, native wildlife, and warm hospitality—all wrapped into one memorable trip.

The experience is especially valuable for those wanting to tick off a rare sea ice cruise, enjoy the adorable penguin walk, or simply unwind with a soak in a scenic hot spring. It’s a somewhat premium investment but one that delivers diverse, authentic moments that will stay with you long after the snow melts.

If your goal is to combine adventure, nature, and culture in a manageable itinerary, this tour delivers on those fronts. Just remember to dress warmly, bring your camera, and prepare for a fun-filled, frosty journey through Hokkaido’s winter wonderland.

FAQ

Is the icebreaker cruise suitable for all ages?
The cruise is designed for families and all age groups, but dressing warmly is essential. Keep in mind, the experience can be chilly, and some travelers with mobility issues or seasickness may find it less suitable.

How cold does it get on the cruise?
Expect it to be quite cold, especially with wind chill, so layering with warm, waterproof clothing is recommended. Some reviews mention the chill as part of the fun, but preparation is key.

Can I see the penguins walk if the weather is bad?
The Penguin Walk depends heavily on weather conditions and the zoo’s decision. If conditions aren’t suitable, it may be canceled, but there’s still plenty to enjoy at the zoo.

What’s included in the tour price?
Transportation, guide services in multiple languages, entry fees, and activities like the icebreaker cruise and visits to the waterfall and sake museum are included. Lunches and optional personal purchases are not.

Is the hot spring stay comfortable?
Yes, the Sounkyo hot spring hotel is noted for its relaxing atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a day in the snow, with scenic views and cozy baths.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking ahead is recommended. You can cancel up to 24 hours before for a full refund, and the booking process offers flexibility.

Is this tour suitable for photographers?
Absolutely. The landscapes—especially the ice sculptures, waterfalls, and snowy wildlife—make fantastic photo subjects. The cruise and mountain views are particularly photogenic.

Are meals included?
Lunch in Asahikawa and seafood in Monbetsu are part of the itinerary. Other meals or snacks are optional and at your own expense.

This tour offers a well-balanced and authentic taste of Hokkaido’s winter charms, perfect for those wanting an active, scenic, and cultural escape into Japan’s northernmost island.

You can check availability for your dates here: