Venture into the serene winter landscape of Lake Abashiri, where an exhilarating ice fishing experience awaits. Step onto the frozen lake and try your hand at catching local wakasagi fish. But the excitement doesn’t end there – savor the freshly fried tempura made from your catch, a true culinary delight. With expert guidance and all necessary equipment provided, this exclusive tour promises an unforgettable day of outdoor adventure and gourmet indulgence in Hokkaido’s captivating wilderness.
Good To Know
- Opportunity to catch and eat freshly fried tempura of local wakasagi fish at the frozen Lake Abashiri in Hokkaido, Japan.
- Includes fishing equipment, guide assistance, snacks, beverages, and transportation to and from pickup points.
- Personalized instruction and a private tour experience with no additional costs beyond the package.
- Moderate physical fitness required to walk on uneven, snowy/icy terrain and drill holes in the ice.
- Pickup available from Roadside Station Oorora Terminal, JR Abashiri Station, and hotels near JR Abashiri Station and central Abashiri.
Overview of the Ice Fishing Experience
The ice fishing experience at Lake Abashiri is a unique opportunity for visitors to try their hand at catching the local wakasagi fish.
Held in Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost prefecture, the activity allows participants to enjoy the thrill of fishing through the frozen lake’s ice.
Equipped with tents, fishing gear, and guided assistance, guests can reel in their catch and have it freshly fried into tempura right on site.
This immersive experience not only provides a taste of the local cuisine but also immerses visitors in the serene winter landscape of the scenic Lake Abashiri.
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What’s Included in the Experience
According to the provided information, the ice fishing experience at Lake Abashiri includes several key elements.
Participants receive wakasagi fishing equipment like tents and gear, as well as the services of a guide assistant. Snacks, freshly caught wakasagi prepared as tempura, and beverages are also included.
Taxes and transportation to the pickup points are covered as well. The experience is a private tour, with only the group participating.
Exclusive Offerings
Though the ice fishing experience at Lake Abashiri includes a comprehensive set of offerings, there are a few exclusive elements that set this adventure apart. Guests can enjoy the fresh catch of the day, with the wakasagi they reel in expertly prepared into tempura right on-site. On top of that, the guided assistance throughout the activity ensures a seamless and enriching experience, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the local traditions. To further highlight the exclusivity, consider the following table outlining key features not found in typical ice fishing tours:
Feature | Exclusivity |
---|---|
Tempura of Caught Wakasagi | Freshly prepared on-site |
Guided Assistance | Personalized instruction throughout |
Private Tour | Only your group participates |
Taxes Included | No additional costs |
Pickup and Drop-off Locations
Pickup and drop-off locations for the ice fishing experience at Lake Abashiri are conveniently situated across central Abashiri.
Guests can be picked up from:
- Roadside Station Oorora Terminal
- JR Abashiri Station
- Hotels near JR Abashiri Station and central Abashiri
However, the Abashiri Ubarauchi area, Kitahama area, Masuura area, and Memanbetsu Airport are excluded from pickup and drop-off service.
Confirmation is received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability.
The experience is a private tour, operated by JTB Hokkaido, and is non-refundable with no cancellations accepted.
Confirmation and Accessibility
Travelers receive confirmation of their ice fishing experience booking within 48 hours, subject to availability.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, so participants must have moderate physical fitness. Infants can attend but must sit on laps.
This private tour allows only your group to participate, operated by the trusted JTB Hokkaido company.
The ice fishing experience at Lake Abashiri is non-refundable, with no cancellation options.
At $47.91 per person, the package includes wakasagi fishing gear, guide assistance, snacks, freshly caught tempura, and transportation to and from select pickup points around Abashiri.
Recommended Fitness Level
The ice fishing experience at Lake Abashiri requires a moderate level of physical fitness from participants.
Guests should be able to:
- Walk on uneven, snowy/icy terrain for up to an hour
- Sit or kneel on the frozen lake for extended periods
- Drill holes in the ice using a manual ice auger
- Haul their catch and equipment back to the shore
While the experience is guided, a reasonable baseline of physical conditioning is necessary to fully enjoy the activity.
Those with mobility concerns may find the environment challenging. Participants should assess their abilities before booking this ice fishing adventure.
Tour Details and Operator
Although operated by JTB Hokkaido, the ice fishing experience at Lake Abashiri provides a comprehensive package that covers the essentials for a memorable winter activity.
The inclusions cover fishing equipment, guide assistance, snacks, the tempura of caught wakasagi, and transportation. Pickup is available from select locations, though some areas are excluded.
Confirmation is received within 48 hours, and the tour is a private experience for your group only. At $47.91 per person, the non-refundable tour requires a moderate fitness level, and infants must sit on laps as it’s not wheelchair accessible.
Booking and Cancellation Policy
To book the ice fishing experience at Lake Abashiri, customers can do so through the JTB Hokkaido website or by contacting the tour operator directly.
The booking and cancellation policy includes:
- Confirmation received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability
- Non-refundable; no refunds for cancellations
- Private tour/activity: only your group participates
- Moderate physical fitness level required
Operated by JTB Hokkaido, the ice fishing experience is priced from $47.91 per person and isn’t wheelchair accessible, with infants required to sit on laps.
Common Questions
What Is the Typical Weather During the Ice Fishing Experience?
The typical weather during the ice fishing experience is cold, with temperatures often below freezing. Participants should dress warmly in layers to stay comfortable while enjoying the outdoor activity on the frozen lake.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participants?
There are no age restrictions for participants in this ice fishing experience. Children are welcome to join, though infants must sit on laps during transportation.
Can the Fishing Equipment Be Customized for Individual Needs?
The fishing equipment can’t be customized for individual needs. It’s a standard set provided for the group activity. However, the guide can offer assistance to participants if they have any special requirements.
Is There an Option to Extend the Duration of the Experience?
The experience can be extended for an additional fee, though the duration is not specified. Travelers should inquire with the tour operator about extending the tour to meet their needs.
What Should Participants Bring to Enhance Their Experience?
To enhance their experience, participants should bring warm clothing, gloves, and appropriate footwear for the cold temperatures. They may also want to bring a camera to capture the unique ice fishing setting.
The Sum Up
This exclusive ice fishing tour at Lake Abashiri offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in Hokkaido’s serene winter landscape. Catch local wakasagi fish, then savor the fresh, fried tempura made from your catch on-site, providing a truly unforgettable culinary experience. With all necessary equipment and guided assistance, this tour promises an exhilarating and delectable day in the heart of Hokkaido’s stunning wilderness.
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