2hours Drift Ice Walk Guided Tour in Shiretoko National Park

Shiretoko National Park in Hokkaido, Japan offers a unique opportunity to experience the captivating world of drift ice. This guided 2-hour walk takes visitors on an unforgettable journey across the solid ice formations, amidst breathtaking mountain vistas. Suitable for a wide range of ages, the tour provides a personalized experience with a maximum of 8 participants, allowing for intimate exploration of the local ecosystem. As you marvel at the natural beauty, keep an eye out for the chance to spot marine life – a truly remarkable adventure awaits.

Good To Know

• A 2-hour guided drift ice walk tour in Shiretoko National Park, Hokkaido, Japan, offering a chance to explore the breathtaking drift ice landscape.
• Tour price is $51.33 per person, with a maximum group size of 8 travelers aged 6 to 75.
• Participants must meet the requirements of height between 130cm and 190cm, weight limit of 110kg, and moderate physical fitness.
• Reservation requires providing participants’ height, weight, and shoe size, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
• The tour includes pickup from various accommodations in the Utoro area and a knowledgeable guide who shares insights about the local ecosystem and geology.

Tour Overview

The 2-hour guided drift ice walk tour in Shiretoko National Park, located in Hokkaido, Japan, offers participants a chance to explore the park’s unique winter landscape.

Priced at $51.33 per person, the tour accommodates a maximum group size of 8 travelers between the ages of 6 and 75. Participants must meet height and weight requirements and have a moderate level of physical fitness.

The tour isn’t recommended for those with back problems, pregnant individuals, or those with serious medical conditions. The activity involves walking on drift ice, requiring appropriate attire and self-safety control.

Tour Details

To participate in the guided drift ice walk tour, travelers must provide their height, weight, and shoe size when making a reservation.

After booking, a confirmation is received within 48 hours, subject to availability.

The tour welcomes groups of up to 8 travelers, aged 6 to 75, with a height range of 130cm to 190cm and a weight limit of 110kg.

Moderate physical fitness is required, as the tour involves walking on drift ice.

Pregnant individuals, those with back problems or serious medical conditions, and wheelchair users are advised against joining the tour.

Reservation and Preparation

When making a reservation for the guided drift ice walk tour, travelers must provide the height, weight, and shoe size for all participants. Confirmation is received within 48 hours, subject to availability. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the experience starts. A reserve now and pay later option is available.

Reservation & Preparation
Information Required	Confirmation	Cancellation
Height, Weight, Shoe Size	Within 48 Hours	Up to 24 Hours
Subject to Availability	Reserve & Pay Later

Meeting and Pickup Information

The meeting point for the guided drift ice walk tour is the Roadside Rest Area Utoro-Shirietoku, located at 186-8 Utoronishi, Shari, Hokkaido.

Pickup is available from various accommodations in the Utoro area:

• 20 minutes before for Yuhino Ataru Ie ONSEN HOSTEL, KIKI Shiretoko Natural Resort, Shiretoko Dai-ichi Hotel, Hotel Shiretoko.
• 15 minutes before for Shiretoko Village, Shiretoko Hostel Hanare, and similar hotels.
• 10 minutes before for Kitakobushi Shiretoko Hotel & Resort, Hotel Kifuu club Shiretoko.

If using the Roadside Rest Area, wait in front of the restroom on the left side of the building.

Participant Requirements

Participants must be able to follow instructions and practice self-safety control throughout the drift ice walk tour.

The tour involves walking on drift ice, which requires appropriate attire and physical readiness. The height requirement is between 130cm and 190cm, and the weight limit is up to 110kg. A moderate fitness level is necessary, and the tour isn’t recommended for individuals with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions.

The activity isn’t wheelchair accessible. Participants must be between 6 and 75 years old to join the guided tour.

What to Expect During the Tour

During the guided tour, participants can expect to walk on the drift ice while following the instructions provided by the experienced guide.

The tour involves:

• Practicing self-safety control and adhering to the guide’s directions to navigate the icy terrain safely.
• Wearing appropriate attire, such as warm clothing and sturdy footwear, to ensure comfort and traction on the ice.
• Returning to the meeting point at the end of the activity, where the tour concludes.

Participants must be physically ready for the moderate level of activity and be able to follow instructions to have a safe and enjoyable experience.

Tour Highlights

Traversing the breathtaking drift ice landscape, visitors can expect to catch glimpses of Shiretoko Peninsula’s awe-inspiring natural beauty.

The guided tour offers a unique opportunity to experience the area’s pristine environment firsthand. Participants will walk on the solid, yet dynamic drift ice, surrounded by stunning mountain vistas and the possibility of spotting marine life.

The knowledgeable guide will share insights about the local ecosystem and geology, enhancing the overall experience.

With a maximum group size of 8, the tour ensures an intimate and personalized adventure amidst Hokkaido’s winter wonderland.

Reviews and Ratings

The tour has an impressive overall rating of 5.0 based on 1 review from Viator and Tripadvisor.

The single review is outstanding, with no ratings below 5 stars. Notably:

• The reviews are checked for authenticity, ensuring credibility.
• The tour’s excellent reputation is further bolstered by the lack of any negative feedback.
• Travelers can feel confident in the quality of the experience based on the exceptionally positive review.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Wear Regular Street Shoes on the Tour?

No, regular street shoes are not suitable for the drift ice walk tour. The tour requires appropriate winter boots or shoes with good traction to safely navigate the icy terrain in Shiretoko National Park.

Are There Any Age/Height/Weight Exceptions for the Tour?

The tour has age, height, and weight requirements. Participants must be between 6 and 75 years old, 130-190cm tall, and weigh up to 110kg. There are no exceptions to these guidelines. Those outside the requirements cannot join the tour.

What Happens if I Need to Cancel or Reschedule the Tour?

Travelers can cancel the tour for free up to 24 hours before the experience starts. There’s also a "reserve now, pay later" option available. Rescheduling is subject to availability and timeframe.

How Do I Get to the Meeting Point if I’m Not Staying at a Listed Hotel?

If you’re not staying at a listed hotel, you can still get to the meeting point at the Roadside Rest Area Utoro-Shirietoku. Just make sure to arrive 10 minutes before the tour’s start time and wait in front of the restroom on the left side of the building.

Will There Be Any Opportunities to Take Photos During the Tour?

Yes, there’ll be plenty of opportunities to take photos during the tour. The guides will provide guidance on the best spots and ensure participants have time to capture the stunning drift ice scenery.

The Sum Up

This guided drift ice walk in Shiretoko National Park offers a unique opportunity to explore the stunning natural landscapes of Hokkaido. Suitable for a wide range of ages, the tour provides personalized attention from a knowledgeable guide and the chance to spot local marine life. With specific safety requirements, participants can expect a thrilling and memorable 2-hour adventure amidst the breathtaking mountain vistas and solid drift ice.