Kitakobushi Shiretoko Hotel & Resort

I made a Reservation to celebrate my 60th birthday and to see the drift ice, but since it was mid-March, I thought we’d be lucky if we could see it.The drift ice view from the Room was amazing—I could have watched it forever.The Room, the food, and the staff were all wonderful.I definitely want to come again.Thank you very much for your hospitality.

I stayed for two nights over a three-day holiday during the drift ice season.From my sea-view Room, I could see the drift ice spreading out beyond the harbor. The buffet with a fun daily-changing menu was delicious, and the Onsen—with an amazing view and a wonderfully moisturizing feel that clings to your skin—warmed me through to the core. There was also all-inclusive service, including complimentary ice cream for guests at the annex café. It was truly a fulfilling Hotel stay. There were so many food options that I couldn’t try everything, but everything I had was great—and personally, I loved the meringue cookies (coconut and almond) in the dessert corner so much that I wanted to take them home.The roadside station & World Heritage Center, Utoro Fishing Port, and the bus terminal are all just a short walk away, which was very convenient. Since I was traveling solo and using public transportation, it helped a lot.As for the drift ice itself, it seems my timing was just barely in time—so I’m glad I made it! Unfortunately it drifted offshore by the evening of day two, but on the morning of day three I was lucky enough to see a beautiful semicircular rainbow over the sea after the drift ice had disappeared.I’d love to visit again during drift ice season, and also hope to return in spring or early summer as well.