Hokkaido Drift Ice Tour with Touch Experience and Aurora Cruise in Sapporo, Japan
Sapporo, Japan

Hokkaido Drift Ice Tour with Touch Experience and Aurora Cruise

Outty Ranking 4848 hoursFrom $430
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Outty Ranking

48/100

Worth a Look. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

Not yet rated

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Quick answer

Is Hokkaido Drift Ice Tour with Touch Experience and Aurora Cruise worth booking?

Hokkaido Drift Ice Tour with Touch Experience and Aurora Cruise is a 48-hour experience in Sapporo, Japan, from $430 per person. It scores 48 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”. This booking is non-refundable, so pick your date carefully. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
48 / 100
Rating
Not yet rated
Duration
48 hours
From
$430 per person

Explore the captivating winter landscapes of Japan on this two-day trip from Sapporo to the Okhotsk coast. Marvel at the drifting sea ice, experience it firsthand, and enjoy a stay at the Shiretoko Daiichi Hotel, complete with a buffet dinner and hot spring access. From scenic viewpoints overlooking a frozen white horizon to a rare opportunity to touch the ice itself, this tour offers a truly immersive winter adventure. This tour includes a thrilling ride on the Aurora icebreaker cruise, cutting through the icy waters for a unique perspective on the drift ice phenomenon. Experience drift ice from land, sea and up close touch experience Stay overnight at Shiretoko Daiichi Hotel with dinner buffet and drinks Enjoy a memorable cruise on the Aurora icebreaker through frozen waters Enjoy local cuisine including Ishikari hot pot lunch

What you get

    About this experience

    Explore the captivating winter landscapes of Japan on this two-day trip from Sapporo to the Okhotsk coast. Marvel at the drifting sea ice, experience it firsthand, and enjoy a stay at the Shiretoko Daiichi Hotel, complete with a buffet dinner and hot spring access. From scenic viewpoints overlooking a frozen white horizon to a rare opportunity to touch the ice itself, this tour offers a truly immersive winter adventure. This tour includes a thrilling ride on the Aurora icebreaker cruise, cutting through the icy waters for a unique perspective on the drift ice phenomenon. Experience drift ice from land, sea and up close touch experience Stay overnight at Shiretoko Daiichi Hotel with dinner buffet and drinks Enjoy a memorable cruise on the Aurora icebreaker through frozen waters Enjoy local cuisine including Ishikari hot pot lunch

    What's included

    Included

    • Lunch
    • Dinner
    • Breakfast
    • Aurora cruise ride
    • Japanese-speaking tour conductor using a translation app for assistance
    • Overnight accommodation
    • Round-trip bus transportation

    Not included

    • Hotel pickup and drop-off
    • National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter
    • Food and drinks, unless specified
    • Personal expenses (e.g., souvenirs, shopping)

    Where it starts and ends

    Meeting point

    Sapporo

    Meet at the North Exit Group Bus Stop at Sapporo Station, near the eastern side of the North Exit. NOT from the western side of North Exit! Please arrive at least 10 minutes before the scheduled meeting time. The tour conductor will be holding a flag and a placard with the local tour operator's logo

    Hotel pickup

    No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.

    Ends at

    Meet at the North Exit Group Bus Stop at Sapporo Station, near the eastern side of the North Exit. NOT from the western side of North Exit! Please arrive at least 10 minutes before the scheduled meeting time. The tour conductor will be holding a flag and a placard with the local tour operator's logo

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.<br>If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.<br>If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.
    Languages
    ja, en
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Every day
    Group size
    Up to 15 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Club Tourism International Inc.

    Know before you go

    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
    • This tour is operated for both Japanese and foreign customers. A Japanese tour conductor will accompany the group and provide key information using a translation app. Please note that the tour conductor is not a tour guide and will focus on sharing essential information during the tour.
    • Delays due to transportation issues or non-participation will be subject to cancellation fees. The tour will depart at the time indicated.
    • Infant (0-2 years old) are free of charge with no arrangement. Child (3-5 years old) rates apply, only bus seat is included
    • According to traffic conditions etc, the order of the itinerary may be changed
    • Please note that we are unable to accommodate special dietary requests, including food allergies. If you have specific dietary needs, we recommend making your own meal arrangements. No refunds will be provided for meals.
    • Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be contacted 14 days prior to your travel date and offered an alternative date/tour or a full refund.
    • Delays, shortenings of the tour or omissions made to the itinerary due to traffic, weather or other circumstances that are beyond the control of the tour operator are not subject to a refund.
    • Drift ice is a natural phenomenon, and it may not reach the shore. The tour will operate regardless of conditions, and cancellation fees will apply. No prior updates on drift ice conditions will be provided.
    • Please check Aurora cruise operation status before departure: https://www.ms-aurora.com The Aurora cruise will operate even if there is no drift ice, in which case it will become a regular sightseeing cruise (the fare difference will be refunded). If the cruise is canceled due to bad weather, you will be taken to an alternative sightseeing location or the price difference will be refunded. If the drift ice touch experience is canceled, an alternative sightseeing location will also be arranged.
    • About cases where drift ice cannot be seen. As drift ice is a natural phenomenon, its conditions change daily throughout the season. Even if drift ice cannot be seen, or if parts of the itinerary are changed due to weather conditions, the tour will still operate as scheduled. Please understand and accept this before booking.
    • Examples of alternative arrangements: If the Aurora icebreaker operates in an area without drift ice → A sightseeing cruise to Cape Notoro (price difference refunded later). If the Aurora cruise is canceled due to bad weather or high waves → Visit alternative sightseeing locations such as the Okhotsk Drift Ice Museum (price difference refunded later). If the drift ice touch experience is canceled due to strong winds → Alternative sightseeing will be provided.
    • Cancellation fees will apply regardless of whether drift ice is present or not. We will not contact you in advance regarding drift ice conditions. Please refer to official forecasts such as the Japan Meteorological Agency’s sea ice charts. Details of alternative arrangements will be decided by the tour conductor based on conditions on the day.
    • Lunch on Day 1 is not included and will be at your own expense. Please have your meal at Roadside Station “Engaru Mori no Okhotsk” or Roadside Station “Marchen-no-oka Memanbetsu.” Meal costs are not included in the tour price. The estimated cost is approximately 1,000–1,500 yen.
    • Temperatures typically range from -5°C to -15°C (23°F to 5°F). A down jacket, non-slip winter shoes, gloves, a hat, and ear warmers are essential. Rental shops are available in Sapporo.
    • The bus does not have a restroom. Rest stops will be taken every 1.5–2 hours. We recommend bringing motion sickness medication if needed. If traveling in an odd-numbered group, you may be seated next to another passenger.
    • The return time (scheduled for 7:20 PM on Day 2) may be delayed due to weather or traffic conditions. If you have a flight on the same day we strongly recommend allowing plenty of time in your schedule. We cannot be held responsible for any secondary losses, such as missed flights due to delays.

    Photos

    Hokkaido Drift Ice Tour with Touch Experience and Aurora Cruise in Sapporo, photo 2Hokkaido Drift Ice Tour with Touch Experience and Aurora Cruise in Sapporo, photo 3Hokkaido Drift Ice Tour with Touch Experience and Aurora Cruise in Sapporo, photo 4Hokkaido Drift Ice Tour with Touch Experience and Aurora Cruise in Sapporo, photo 5Hokkaido Drift Ice Tour with Touch Experience and Aurora Cruise in Sapporo, photo 6Hokkaido Drift Ice Tour with Touch Experience and Aurora Cruise in Sapporo, photo 7

    Good to know

    Duration
    48 hours
    Free cancellation
    Non-refundable
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Price range
    $430 to $75,900
    Hotel pickup
    No pickup, meet at start point
    Booked in 30 days
    0
    Verdict
    Worth a Look

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by Club Tourism International Inc., who run 40 experiences we rank across 6 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 54.8.

    See everything Club Tourism International Inc. runs

    Why this scores 48

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)77
    Review evidence (18% weight)0
    Booking momentum (14% weight)0
    Value for money (12% weight)100
    Listing quality (10% weight)85
    Local standing (8% weight)50
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)0

    Hokkaido Drift Ice Tour with Touch Experience and Aurora Cruise: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Sapporo.

    How much does Hokkaido Drift Ice Tour with Touch Experience and Aurora Cruise cost?

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    Prices start at $430 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Sapporo usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does Hokkaido Drift Ice Tour with Touch Experience and Aurora Cruise take?

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    Plan for about 48 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Sapporo is not rushed.

    Is Hokkaido Drift Ice Tour with Touch Experience and Aurora Cruise worth it?

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    It holds an Outty Ranking of 48 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (0/5 across 0 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable food & drink in Sapporo, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Hokkaido Drift Ice Tour with Touch Experience and Aurora Cruise?

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    No. This experience is sold on a non-refundable basis, so only book a date you are confident about. Similar experiences in the city do offer free cancellation if flexibility matters more than price.

    Is Hokkaido Drift Ice Tour with Touch Experience and Aurora Cruise suitable for kids and families?

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    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 48-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Hokkaido Drift Ice Tour with Touch Experience and Aurora Cruise?

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    Around 0 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Sapporo can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

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    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Sapporo and add a light layer if any part of the 48-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Hokkaido Drift Ice Tour with Touch Experience and Aurora Cruise start and how do I get there?

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    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Sapporo within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Sapporo?

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    On Outty we rank every Sapporo experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Sapporo Bar Hopping Food Tour, Wagashi traditional japanese sweets class, Mondo's most popular No.1!Private experienceThe king of buckwheat noodles making and Japanese food in Sapporo!A plan to enjoy tempura!. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Sapporo?

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    Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Sapporo?

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    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

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    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

    What is included in Hokkaido Drift Ice Tour with Touch Experience and Aurora Cruise?

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    Included: Lunch; Dinner; Breakfast; Aurora cruise ride; and Japanese-speaking tour conductor using a translation app for assistance. Not included: Hotel pickup and drop-off; National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter; Food and drinks, unless specified; and Personal expenses (e.g., souvenirs, shopping). Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Where is the meeting point for Hokkaido Drift Ice Tour with Touch Experience and Aurora Cruise?

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    Meet at the North Exit Group Bus Stop at Sapporo Station, near the eastern side of the North Exit. NOT from the western side of North Exit! Please arrive at least 10 minutes before the scheduled meeting time. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.

    What languages is Hokkaido Drift Ice Tour with Touch Experience and Aurora Cruise offered in?

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    It is offered in Japanese and English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.

    Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Hokkaido Drift Ice Tour with Touch Experience and Aurora Cruise?

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    Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.

    Is Hokkaido Drift Ice Tour with Touch Experience and Aurora Cruise wheelchair or stroller accessible?

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    The operator notes: Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap; and Infant (0-2 years old) are free of charge with no arrangement. Child (3-5 years old) rates. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to Hokkaido Drift Ice Tour with Touch Experience and Aurora Cruise if the weather is bad?

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    It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Sapporo. Standard cancellation terms apply.

    Ready to lock in your spot?

    Pick a date, choose your group, and see the exact price for Hokkaido Drift Ice Tour with Touch Experience and Aurora Cruise.

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