Ice Horizon Walk: Frozen Sea Adventure of Notsuke Peninsula

Hokkaido , Japan

Ice Horizon Walk: Frozen Sea Adventure of Notsuke Peninsula

Active

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Experience the breathtaking Hyōheisen (氷平線), a rare natural phenomenon found only on the Notsuke Peninsula in eastern Hokkaido. This vast frozen expanse blurs the boundary between sea and sky, creating a seamless panorama of white and blue.

- Rare Winter Wonder: A unique ice plain formed as **Notsuke Bay** freezes (Jan–Mar).
- Endless Horizons: The open landscape enhances the sense of vastness.
- Expert-Led Tours: Stay safe while learning about the area’s ecosystem.
- Unforgettable Photos: Capture breathtaking panoramas and creative shots.

Join-in Option
- Mini Ice Horizon Walk: Enjoy a 1-hour walk across the frozen sea, accompanied by an English-speaking guide.
- Todowara Ice Horizon Course: Embark on a 3-hour tour to the mystical Todowara—an eerie forest of dead Sakhalin fir trees only accessible in winter—guided by a Japanese-speaking guide.

Available options

Mini Ice Horizon Walk(1 hours)

English-Speaking guide<br/>Duration: 1 hour<br/>Mini Walk: Walk across the frozen sea and experience the Hyōheisen up close.

Todowara Ice horizon Walk

Japanese-Speaking Guide<br/>Duration: 2 hours<br/>Todowara Ice Walk: Visit the Todowara, a forest of dead Sakhalin fir trees, accessible only in winter.

What's included

Snowshoe rental

Insurance

Detailed itinerary

Discover the Hyōheisen (氷平線), a stunning winter phenomenon unique to Hokkaido’s Notsuke Peninsula. From January to mid-March, the freezing of Notsuke Bay creates a vast, flat ice plain where sea and sky blur into a seamless horizon. The narrow, open landscape offers breathtaking views and a sense of endless space—perfect for unforgettable winter photos.

Explore safely with expert-guided tours from the Notsuke Peninsula Nature Center. Guides will lead you across the frozen sea, share insights about the local ecosystem, and help capture fun trick photos along the way. Whether you're drawn by the dramatic scenery or the rare natural beauty, the Hyōheisen is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

What's not included

Transportation

Expense not mentioned

Available languages

Guide guide

JA EN

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Children aged 6–11 must be accompanied by two adults

Children aged 0–5 can join free of charge, but please be aware that the walk covers a 3 km distance, which may be difficult for young children. Kindly take this into consideration when bringing them along.

Guided Tours Required: Do not attempt to walk on the Ice Horizon alone. The ice varies in thickness, especially in January (early formation) and March (warming temperatures), creating hazardous areas. Join a guided tour to explore safely.

Dining facilities may have closures. The Notsuke Peninsula Nature Center restaurant (winter operations since 2018) is open 11:00 AM–3:00 PM, closed on Tuesdays.

Drinks and snacks are available at the shop and vending machines.

The Notsuke Peninsula Nature Center bus runs only in summer. Use the Higashi Hokkaido Express Bus (reservation required).

Dress for extreme cold—bring a down jacket, thermal layers, waterproof pants, winter boots, hat, gloves, and scarf.

Meeting point

About Hokkaido

Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost island, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, hot springs, and world-class ski resorts. With its vast wilderness areas, fresh seafood, and unique Ainu culture, Hokkaido offers a distinct experience from the rest of Japan.

Top Attractions

Sapporo Beer Museum

A museum dedicated to the history of beer in Japan, located in the birthplace of Sapporo Beer.

Cultural 1-2 hours Free

Otaru Canal

A picturesque canal lined with historic warehouses, now home to shops and restaurants.

Historical 2-3 hours Free to walk around

Niseko United

A world-famous ski resort known for its powder snow and excellent skiing conditions.

Adventure Full day Expensive

Shiretoko National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its pristine wilderness and diverse wildlife.

Nature Full day or overnight Moderate

Must-Try Local Dishes

Sapporo Ramen

A rich, miso-based ramen with a hearty pork broth, topped with corn, butter, and local ingredients.

Dinner Contains meat and dairy

Genghis Khan (Jingisukan)

Grilled lamb or mutton, cooked on a dome-shaped grill, often served with vegetables and dipping sauces.

Dinner Contains meat

Ikura Don

A bowl of rice topped with salmon roe, often served with soy sauce and other accompaniments.

Lunch/Dinner Contains fish

Soups Curry

A thick, hearty curry stew with vegetables and meat, served in a large pot and eaten with bread or rice.

Lunch/Dinner Contains meat and dairy

Popular Activities

Skiing and snowboarding Hiking Wildlife viewing Onsen (hot spring) bathing Shopping Dining Visiting museums and historical sites Experiencing local festivals

Best Time to Visit

Summer (June to August) and Winter (December to February)

Summer offers pleasant weather for hiking and outdoor activities, while winter is perfect for skiing and snowboarding. Both seasons attract the highest number of tourists.

20-25°C (Summer), -5 to 5°C (Winter) 68-77°F (Summer), 23-41°F (Winter)

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

JST (GMT+9)

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Hokkaido is generally safe, with low crime rates. However, travelers should exercise caution in crowded areas and be aware of potential natural hazards, such as earthquakes and heavy snowfall.

Important Precautions:

• Use licensed taxis and insist on the meter being used.
• Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas.
• Be cautious when using ATMs, and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.

Getting there

By air

New Chitose Airport • 40 km from Sapporo
Okadama Airport • 10 km from Sapporo

By train

Sapporo Station

By bus

Sapporo Station Bus Terminal, Susukino Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Efficient and punctual, with options for day passes and rail passes.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Sapporo Station Area Susukino Odori Park

Day trips

Hakodate

240 km from Sapporo • Full day

A historic port city known for its well-preserved Meiji-era buildings, seafood, and stunning views of the Tsugaru Strait.

Furano

140 km from Sapporo • Full day

A charming town known for its lavender fields, cheese factories, and scenic landscapes.

Noboribetsu

120 km from Sapporo • Full day

A popular hot spring resort town known for its geothermal activity and healing waters.

Festivals

Sapporo Snow Festival • Early February Lavender Festival • July Nebuta Matsuri • Early August

Pro tips

Visit during the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) to avoid crowds and enjoy pleasant weather.
Try local specialties, such as Sapporo ramen, Genghis Khan (Jingisukan), and fresh seafood.
Experience a traditional ryokan (inn) with onsen (hot spring) baths for a unique cultural experience.
Explore Hokkaido's national parks and wilderness areas for stunning natural beauty and outdoor activities.
Learn a few basic Japanese phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals.