Do you like beaches? Do you also love snow? What if we told you that you could find both at one place, and at the same time?
Welcome to the Jewellery Ice Beach on the Otsu Coast in Toyokoro, Hokkaido. It’s one of the most stunning, offbeat winter destinations in Japan, where the shore is scattered with thousands of crystal-clear ice blocks. This complete guide tells you exactly what you need to know to plan your visit to this unique spectacle.
When to Go: Don’t Miss the Timing
The Jewelry Ice is a rare, fleeting natural phenomenon. You must plan your trip for the coldest part of winter.
-
Prime Viewing Window: Mid-January to late February. This is when the Tokachi River freezes and the blocks of clear ice wash onto the shore.
-
Best Photo Time: Arrive 30 to 45 minutes before sunrise (around 6:00 AM) to catch the ice glowing in magical orange and pink hues.
Visa for Indian Citizens: Plan Ahead
-
You must apply for a Single-Entry Short-Term Stay Visa in advance. Japan does not offer a Visa-on-Arrival for Indian passports.
-
You can apply through the JAPAN eVISA system online. Ensure all documents, including your confirmed itinerary and financial proof, are ready before the application.
Getting There & Commuting Locally
The Jewelry Ice Beach is remote, which is part of its charm!
-
Primary Access Hub: Fly into Tokachi Obihiro Airport (OBO) or take a train to JR Obihiro Station.
-
Final Stretch: There is no public transportation directly to the beach. You must rely on:
- Rental Car: The most flexible option, but requires confidence in driving on snow and ice.
- Guided Tour: The easiest and safest way to ensure you reach the beach for sunrise. Tours often depart from Obihiro hotels.
- Taxi: Expensive, but an option for a group.
More to Do: Beyond the Sparkling Ice
Your Hokkaido winter adventure doesn’t end at the coast!
-
Find the Harunire Tree: Visit the town’s symbol, a beautiful, solitary Japanese elm tree nearby that is stunning against a snowy backdrop.
-
Warm Up: Take a break at the temporary Jewelry House near the coast for warm drinks and restrooms.
-
Soak: Head back toward Obihiro for a relaxing evening at one of the Tokachigawa Onsen (hot springs) to thaw out after the cold morning.
Special Must-Try Food & Fun Facts
-
Local Delights: The Tokachi region is famous for its dairy and agriculture. Try Butadon (pork bowl) in Obihiro, or local soft-serve ice cream (yes, even in winter!).
-
Fun Fact: The name “Jewelry Ice” was coined by a local amateur photographer who popularized the site on social media in 2015, turning a secret spot into a global treasure.
Your Essentials Packing List
- Thermals: High-quality wool or synthetic base layers.
- Outerwear: Waterproof and windproof down jacket, snow pants.
- Extremities: Insulated, waterproof boots (non-negotiable!), thick gloves or mittens, hat, and neck warmer.
- Gear: Hand warmers (stock up!), and extra batteries for your camera (cold drains power quickly).
Where to Stay
Obihiro City offers the best base with a choice of budget-friendly business hotels and mid-range options. For a luxurious, relaxing treat, book a night at a Tokachigawa Onsen hotel.
Estimated Trip Budget (Per Person for 5 Days from India)
| Item | Estimated Cost Range (INR) |
|---|---|
| Flights (India to Hokkaido area) | INR 50,000 - INR 80,000 |
| Accommodation (Mid-Range Hotel, 4 Nights) | INR 20,000 - INR 35,000 |
| Local Commute/Tour Costs | INR 12,000 - INR 25,000 |
| Food & Activities | INR 15,000 - INR 25,000 |
| Total Estimated Trip Cost | INR 97,000 - INR 1,65,000+ |
Note: This excludes Japan visa fees and international travel insurance.
Tips for the best photos
Capture the diamond-like ice at:
-
Sunrise: From a low angle, letting the sun backlight the clear ice.
-
The Surf: Use a longer exposure to blur the waves around the sharp ice blocks.
-
The Solitary Jewel: Focus a macro lens on a single, perfectly polished, clear ice block on the dark sand.
Conclusion
Hokkaido’s Jewelry Ice Beach offers a once-in-a-lifetime chance to see all the seasons at one place—beach, sand, and snow! Book your Hokkaido winter trip right away to experience this rare natural wonder.
Have you been here before? Then you must be an offbeat destination genius. Share your tips about the experience for fellow travelers!
