Spot rare animals off the frozen Shiretoko coast

Hop aboard for a leisurely drift ice cruise ship while watching seasonal animals and birds in Shiretoko. Every winter, the sea ice along the coast of Siberia eventually makes its way into Hokkaido’s northeastern coast in the Sea of Okhotsk, creating a magnificent sight.

Departing from Rausu Port, the state-of-the-art Evergreen easily drills through the thick ice with cracking sounds as it makes its way through the ice floes. From the boat, you can spot rare white-tailed and Steller's sea eagles – there are approximately 700 in the area! You may even see ribbon seals and sea lions. Whenever the animals are spotted, they’ll be announced via the on-board speakers. After the experience, take a break at the cafe, or purchase some handmade souvenirs.

The only place on the Shiretoko Peninsula for a drift ice cruise is in Rausu. Drift ice season is from late January to early April, although it’s best around the second half of February. This cruise is a great opportunity to get a close-up look at drift ice and the wildlife in Shiretoko.