Car-Free Travel in Hokkaido: Exploring the Okhotsk Region by Bus

Abashiri and Kitami

Abashiri is one of the most iconic cities in the region, drawing countless visitors each winter to witness the mystical drift ice (Ryuhyo) floating across the Sea of Okhotsk. In contrast, Kitami is famous for its vibrant food scene, particularly its obsession with Yakiniku (Japanese BBQ). Kitami is home to one of Japan’s most “crazy” winter events: the Kitami Extreme Cold Yakiniku Festival. Every February, BBQ lovers from across the country gather to grill meat outdoors in -20 degree temperatures. This region is highly recommended for those who want to experience both the frozen beauty of Abashiri and the energetic atmosphere of Kitami.

How to Get to Abashiri or Kitami from Sapporo by Bus

For travelers looking to reach Abashiri as quickly as possible from mainland Japan, flying directly into Memanbetsu Airport is a convenient option. However, travelling by bus from Sapporo to Abashiri and Kitami is the most affordable and relaxing way to go.
Through our website, you can book tickets for direct buses departing from both Sapporo Station and New Chitose Airport. The journey from Sapporo Station takes approximately 4 hours and 40 minutes to Kitami, and about 6 hours to Abashiri.

Bus booking

Abashiri or Kitami to Sapporo Station

Sapporo Station to Abashiri or Kitami

Abashiri or Kitami to New Chitose Airport

New Chitose Airport to Abashiri or Kitami

Things to Do in Abashiri and Kitami

Abashiri Prison

Abashiri Prison is renowned as Japan’s most formidable jail, historically famous for its extreme cold and its reputation as a place from which escape was nearly impossible. Today, the facility serves as a historical landmark, and the actual prison buildings have been preserved as an open-air museum. Given its extensive grounds, we recommend allowing 2 to 3 hours to see everything. Beyond its historical significance, the architecture itself remains remarkably beautiful and well-preserved. For a truly unique experience, you can try the Prison Meal to experience the actual food currently served at the modern, working Abashiri Prison.

Abashiri Drift Ice Cruises

Drift Ice Cruises is a popular sightseeing activity in Abashiri. The cruise ship departs from Abashiri Port, located right next to the “Michi-no-eki Ryuhyo-kaido Abashiri, operating for a limited season each year, typically from late January to late March. As the massive vessel crushes through the thick drift ice with its sheer weight, you can feel the powerful vibrations and impact through the hull. During the cruise, keep your eyes peeled for Hokkaido’s unique wildlife, such as Steller’s sea eagles resting on the ice or Ezo red foxes prowling the frozen landscape. While you can board without reservation if seats are available, advance booking is highly recommended to ensure you don’t miss out on this amazing winter adventure.

Kitakitsune Farm

While Kitakitsune Farm (Ezo Red Fox Farm) is a small facility, it is highly recommended for animal lovers. In this facility, red foxes and raccoon dogs (tanuki) are kept in a semi-free-roaming environment. If you visit in winter, you might rarely see the raccoon dogs as they tend to hide from the cold weather, but the foxes remain incredibly active. While wild foxes in Hokkaido carry a high risk of Echinococcus infection and should never be touched, the foxes at this facility are well-managed, allowing you to observe them safely. The farm is about a one-hour bus ride from Kitami Station. Although it is a bit of a journey, it is located right next to the Kitanodaichi Aquarium, which specializes in freshwater fish native to Hokkaido. For those looking to be healed by the unique creatures of the north, visiting both spots together is highly recommended.

Monbetsu and Engaru

Monbetsu is another charming coastal town in the Okhotsk region, famous for its majestic drift ice and incredible seafood. Much like Abashiri, you can experience a powerful icebreaker cruise and visit adorable seals. Monbetsu is also renowned for its premium crab and scallops; while available year-round, the seafood harvested between March and May has an even richer flavor and is absolutely exquisite.

In contrast, Engaru is located further inland. This town is home to Taiyo-no-Oka Engaru Park, which boasts one of Japan’s largest cosmos gardens. Here, you can experience a cozy, local atmosphere that differs from bustling coastal tourist spots. Monbetsu is the perfect choice for those who want to fully enjoy the drift ice and seafood, while Engaru is highly recommended for travelers looking to get off the typical tourist path and explore a charming, local Hokkaido town.

How to Get to Monbetsu and Engaru from Sapporo by Bus

Similar to Abashiri, travelers looking to reach Monbetsu as quickly as possible from mainland Japan can fly directly into Okhotsk Monbetsu Airport. However, with only one flight per day from Haneda Airport, this may not always be the most convenient or cost-effective option. Our website provides direct buses from Sapporo Station to Monbetsu, with several buses available throughout the day. For those travelling to Engaru, we also offer direct bus services from Sapporo Station. The journey takes approximately 4 hours to Engaru and about 4 hours and 20 minutes to Monbetsu.

Reserve your seats for the direct bus from Sapporo to Engaru or Monbetsu through the link below.

Bus booking

Sapporo Station to Monbetsu

Monbetsu to Sapporo Station

Sapporo Station to Engaru

Engaru to Sapporo Station

Things to Do in Monbetsu and Engaru

Monbetsu Drift Ice Cruise Garinko

This is the most famous sightseeing activity in Monbetsu. The cruise ship, known as Garinko, powers through the frozen sea by crushing the drift ice with its massive, iconic drills. The Garinko operates for a limited season from mid-January to March. You can board the ship at the Kaiyo Koryukan, also known as Garinko Station. While you can board without a reservation if there are seats available on the day, advance booking is highly recommended to secure your spot. At the Kaiyo Koryukan, where the cruise begins and ends, you’ll find a food court and souvenir shops offering a wide variety of original Garinko merchandise and delicious seafood menus.

Okhotsk Tower

Okhotsk Tower is a stunning scenic spot located near the Kaiyo Koryukan and is renowned as Japan’s northernmost and largest undersea observation tower. The observation deck at the top of the tower offers a great 360 degree panoramic view of the Okhotsk Sea, which you can enjoy while relaxing at the coffee shop. On the undersea floor, you will find a mini-aquarium showcasing the diverse marine life of the Okhotsk region. There are also several underwater observation windows that allow you to watch the marine world in real-time.

Taiyo-no-Oka Engaru Park

Engaru is widely known as the “Town of Cosmos,” home to one of Japan’s largest cosmos gardens at Taiyo-no-Oka Engaru Park. Every year, approximately 10 million cosmos flowers burst into bloom, reaching their peak around September. The park’s main attraction is the breathtaking sight of more than 12 different varieties of cosmos in different colors, spreading across the landscape like a colorful carpet. The park is also a hidden gem for its stunning Shibazakura in May.

Shiretoko and Shari

The main attractions of Shiretoko are its untouched wilderness and wildlife. As a designated UNESCO World Heritage site, it offers a wealth of nature-based experiences such as the Shiretoko Five Lakes, the Kamuiwakka Falls, and drift ice trekking. While the best season to visit is from June to October, the winter months bring a different kind of beauty as drift ice fills the sea, offering breathtaking views. Shari, a town facing the Sea of Okhotsk, is widely known as the gateway to Shiretoko and welcomes many tourists every year. The area is home to iconic landscapes such as Road to Heaven. It is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the true scale and majesty of Japan’s northern nature.

How to Get to Shari and Shiretoko from Sapporo by Bus

Shari and Shiretoko are located at the edge of Hokkaido, making them quite challenging to visit without a car. The nearest airport, Memanbetsu, is about 100 kilometers away, which can make access difficult for many travelers. The journey from Sapporo takes approximately 6.5 hours to Shari and about 7.5 hours to Shiretoko. While this is a long distance, Overnight highway buses allow you to reach your destination comfortably while you sleep. The bus stops in Shiretoko include major local hotels, where you can arrive directly at your accommodation and start your adventure right away. Please note that the overnight bus service is only available from Sapporo to Shari and Shiretoko. The bus from Shiretoko and Shari to Sapporo runs during the day.

You can book your bus tickets via the link below:

Bus booking

Sapporo to Shiretoko and Shari

Shiretoko and Shari to Sapporo

Things to Do in Shari and Shiretoko

Shiretoko Five Lakes

There are five lakes located within Shiretoko National Park, a designated UNESCO World Heritage site. There are two main walking courses available, allowing you to choose the experience that suits you best: the Elevated Boardwalk and the Ground Pathway. If you are looking for a safe and easy hike, the Elevated Boardwalk is highly recommended; however, please note that you cannot see all five lakes from this route. For those who want to see every single one of the five lakes, the Ground Pathway is the best choice. Please note that joining a guided tour is mandatory to access the Ground Pathway during the peak brown bear activity season (May to the end of July).

Kamuiwakka Hot Spring Falls

Kamuiwakka Hot Spring Falls is not just an ordinary waterfall; it is a unique natural hot spring waterfall. The hidden gem of Shiretoko is formed by hot spring water bubbling up from Mount Io and flowing directly into the river. Due to the sulfur content, the area is characterized by a distinct aroma and stunning yellow-tinted rock surfaces. The water temperature rises as you move upstream, reaching about 35-38 degrees. Please note that this scenic spot is only accessible during the summer and is closed for the rest of the year. Depending on the season, advance reservations may be required, and joining a tour is mandatory if you want to experience climbing up the falls. Please be sure to check the official website for further information.

Road to Heaven

The Road to Heaven is a must-visit photo spot in Shari. While it is a functional public road, this straight stretch extends for about 18 to 28 kilometers. Because of its steep incline and long, straight path, the road appears to climb straight into the sky, which is how it earned its name. The best view spot is located near the “Namonaki Tenbodai”. It is particularly famous during the spring and autumn for its breathtaking sunset views, which draw many photography enthusiasts. If you are traveling to Shari, this is an iconic landscape you definitely shouldn’t miss.

Summary: Plan Your Okhotsk Trip in Hokkaido

Traveling along the Okhotsk coast of Hokkaido may feel like a difficult decision due to its remote location and accessibility. However, witnessing the winter drift ice and experiencing the untouched wilderness of Hokkaido is something not to miss. Our website offers bus routes connecting from Sapporo directly to the towns introduced in this article. Beyond the winter season, there are countless spots to enjoy in the summer and throughout the year. If you are interested in exploring the towns along the Okhotsk coast, please check out our services. Grab a bag and plan your trip to Okhotsk in Hokkaido!