HOME > Japan’s Local Treasures > Jewelry Ice in Toyokoro
You’ll forget how cold it is after just one look at this stunning natural phenomenon in the sunset
Hokkaido Tourism Organization
From mid-January to late February, beautiful ice sculptures formed by nature known as “Jewelry Ice” can be seen piled up upon the Otsu Coast of Toyokoro-cho, a coastal town in Hokkaido that faces the Pacific Ocean.
The so-called “Jewelry Ice” emerges when the ice that has formed on the surface of the Tokachi River is washed into the Pacific Ocean. The ice is molded into unique shapes by the powerful waves before washing up in great quantities upon the shore, where it glistens like a treasure trove in the sunlight.
This oceanic treasure appears to change color depending on the time you visit. In a single day, you may see the ice light up in bright oranges, blues, and grays. Be sure to bring a camera to capture this work of art, forged by nature itself. The temperature can drop to below -20 degrees Celsius, so be sure to bring warm clothing and prepare thoroughly for cold weather.
How to get there
From Haneda Airport, take a flight to Tokachi Obihiro Airport (about 1 hour 35 minutes). The “jewelry ice” can be seen about a 1-hour drive from Tokachi Obihiro Airport.
Otsu Coast, Otsumotoma-chi, Toyokoro-Cho, Nakagawa-Gun, Hokkaido
