Okhotsk Ryuhyo Museum

The Okhotsk Ryuhyo Museum (オホーツク流氷館) is a museum located in Abashiri, Hokkaido, Japan, dedicated to showcasing and researching the Okhotsk Sea drift ice, known as Okhotsk Ryūhyō in Japanese.

The museum features a variety of exhibits on the natural phenomenon of the Okhotsk drift ice, including its formation, ecology, and impact on the surrounding environment. Visitors can learn about the science behind drift ice through interactive displays and view a life-size replica of an icebreaker ship. The museum also showcases a recreation of a traditional Ainu hut, providing insights into the indigenous culture of the region.

One of the highlights of the museum is the “Drift Ice Experience Terrace,” a -15°C room where visitors can touch and feel actual drift ice. There are also tanks where you can observe creatures living under the drift ice, such as clione (sea angels) and lumpfish. Cutting-edge technologies like projection mapping are used to create immersive exhibits about drift ice.

The museum also offers various educational programs and events, such as guided tours and workshops on ice carving and traditional Ainu crafts. Located atop Mount Tento, the museum also provides a stunning view of the Sea of Okhotsk and the Abashiri cityscape from its observatory. Don’t forget to try the popular “drift ice” soft serve ice cream and browse for souvenirs featuring the “clione,” the sea angel of the drift ice.

Getting there

By Bus

• Take a sightseeing facility tour bus from JR Abashiri Station
• Journey time: About 15 minutes
• Get off at the “Tentozan Ryuhyo-kan” bus stop

By Taxi

• About 15 minutes from JR Abashiri Station

By Car

• About 20 minutes drive from Memanbetsu Airport
• Free parking available for 150 cars and 50 buses

The museum is located at the summit of Mount Tento in Abashiri, at an elevation of 207 meters. It offers panoramic views of the Sea of Okhotsk and surrounding areas from its observation terrace.

Details

Hours	May to October / 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM November to April / 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Admission	Adults: 990 yen High school students: 880 yen Elementary school and junior high school students: 770 yen
Phone	+81 152-43-5951
Address	244-3 Tentozan, Abashiri, Hokkaido 093-0044
Official Website	https://www.ryuhyokan.com/guide/en/