Ryuhyo Monogatari Train
Each winter, JR Hokkaido runs one of Japan’s most unique seasonal sightseeing trains: the Ryuhyo Monogatari (Drift Ice Story) Train. Operating from late January to early March, it travels the Senmo Line between Abashiri and Shiretoko-Shari. On clear days, drift ice from the Sea of Okhotsk lines the coast, and the snow-covered Shiretoko Mountains rise in the distance. With only two round-trip services daily, the journey has become a popular winter attraction and one of Hokkaido’s most memorable rail journeys.
Ryuhyo Monogatari
Photo by: WikiCommons/ MaedaAkihikoThe Ryuhyo Monogatari Train consists of two cars, each inspired by a different side of Hokkaido’s winter landscape.
- Car 1: “Hokkaido North: Blessings of Drift Ice” reflects the stark beauty of the frozen Sea of Okhotsk through cool blue tones and ice-like patterns.
- Car 2: “Doto Forest Blessings” draws inspiration from eastern Hokkaido’s forests, using warmer colours inspired by local wildlife and woodland scenery.
Inside, wide windows, table seating and warm interiors make it easy to watch the scenery change. Many passengers move around the carriage to take photos. Seats on the Sea of Okhotsk side are mostly reserved, so booking ahead helps if drift-ice views are your priority.
At times, local volunteers from the MOT Rail Club ride along to share stories, point out landmarks and sell limited-edition souvenirs. A small onboard sales area also offers local goods, postcards and drift-ice-themed items.
Scenery Along the Route
Photo by: PIXTA/ STUDIO ESTAfter leaving Abashiri, the train soon runs alongside the Sea of Okhotsk. At its peak, ice floes drift right up to the shore and sometimes stretch to the horizon. One highlight is a short stop at Kitahama Station (北浜駅), the closest station to the ocean. Trains No. 1 and No. 3 stop here for around 10 minutes, allowing passengers to step onto the observation deck and take in the frozen seascape.
The small wooden station building features a cozy waiting room with large windows overlooking the water. Photographs of drift ice from different seasons line the walls. For a closer view, the platform sits just meters from the sea, but be prepared. It gets extremely cold outside.
After Kitahama, the train continues to Hama-Koshimizu, where Trains No. 2 and No. 4 stop for about 20 minutes. The michi-no-eki (roadside station) connected to the platform sells regional products and souvenirs.
