Hokkaido Official Tourism Site HOKKAIDO LOVE!

Feel the roar of the ice and the thrill of winter on the Sea of Okhotsk!

Experience the raw power of nature up close aboard the Garinko, Monbetsu's iconic icebreaker. From the heavy vibration beneath your feet to the thunderous sound of crushing ice, this is a winter adventure that resonates through your entire body.

At the bow of the ship, two massive "Archimedes screws" rotate to grind through the thick, white drift ice with incredible force. As you stand on the deck in the crisp, cold air, the deep rumble and powerful tremors of the breaking ice create an unforgettable sensory experience. Keep a close watch on the fragments of ice churning up from below; you might see them glowing with a mysterious emerald light—a beautiful phenomenon caused by phytoplankton that only passengers on this journey can witness.

First registered as a Hokkaido Heritage site in 2004, the legacy continues today with the state-of-the-art "Garinko III IMERU." This 366-ton vessel features climate-controlled cabins with large windows, allowing you to enjoy the magnificent scenery in total comfort.

If luck is on your side, you may spot majestic Steller’s sea eagles or white-tailed eagles—both designated as national monuments—resting on the ice, or perhaps even adorable seals peeking out from the frozen seascape. Immerse yourself in the grand scale of the Sea of Okhotsk as you follow the powerful wake of the ship through the silver-white waters.

During the drift ice season, don’t miss the chance to step aboard the Garinko and experience one of Hokkaido’s most powerful winter adventures.