Walk the rare Hyōheisen on Hokkaido’s Notsuke Peninsula: a two‑hour guided crossing of the frozen bay where sea and sky merge. Learn local ecology, see the Todowara, and photograph vast minimalist panoramas.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
A cold wind pushes across the plain and the horizon disappears: white ice meets pale sky in a line so clean it seems engineered. On the Notsuke Peninsula, winter freezes Notsuke Bay into Hyōheisen — an almost featureless sea of ice that makes walking feel like crossing the edge of the world. Guided groups step out in single file, the sound of boots on hard snow punctuating the hush.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–3 hours
Fitness Level
Light fitness required — able to walk 3 km on flat ice and snow with occasional soft patches.
Wildlife
History
The peninsula is a long sand spit formed by sediment transport; local fishing communities and Ainu place names reflect centuries of coastal living.
Conservation
Winter routes cross sensitive coastal habitat — stay with guides, avoid disturbing wildlife, and carry out all trash to protect birding and marine life.
Reserve your spot on the Ice Horizon Walk: Frozen Sea Adventure of Notsuke Peninsula today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Dress in layers and waterproof outerwear
Temperatures are often well below freezing and wind chill can be severe; bring a down jacket, waterproof pants, and an insulated outer shell.
Bring eye protection and sunscreen
Bright snow glare can cause eye strain and sunburn even in winter — use sunglasses or goggles and apply SPF to exposed skin.
Use the guided route only
Ice thickness varies across the bay; do not attempt the walk alone — join an expert‑led tour for safety and local knowledge.
Plan transport and timing
Winter buses are limited; reserve Higashi Hokkaido Express Bus in advance or arrange car transfers to the Nature Center.
Insulated, waterproof boots
Keeps feet warm and dry on icy, slushy surfaces.
winter
Down jacket and thermal base layers
Critical for maintaining body heat during extended exposure to subzero temperatures.
winter
Sunglasses or snow goggles
Reduces glare and protects eyes from reflected UV on the ice.
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Traction aids or microspikes
Helpful on mixed ice patches for added stability — guides can advise or supply alternatives.
winter