Saori Kokubun's Page

Photo Writer

Saori Kokubun

A photo writer who travels Japan’s rural towns.

Articles

Winter in Abashiri Complete Guide - Drift Ice, Activities, and Exquisite Gourmet Cuisine Only Possible in Abashiri’s Hokkaido Winter

When it comes to winter in Hokkaido, Sapporo and Hakodate are the usual mainstays, but the place that truly captivates travelers is “Abashiri” in eastern Hokkaido. In winter, drift ice covers the Sea of Okhotsk, creating a vast snowy landscape. The sight of the bright blue sea transformed into a pure white expanse of ice is almost miraculous. This article thoroughly explains the highlights and ways to enjoy winter in Abashiri. It also introduces a model course to help you experience Abashiri at 120%. Be sure to use it as a reference for your next trip.
The Ultimate Early Summer Trip to Abashiri! Nature Cruises and Local Deep-dives on a Stirring 2-Day Expedition.

Abashiri is a dazzlingly scenic destination on the northeast end of Hokkaido. Below is our curated 2-day, 1-night model course for a trip around Abashiri by rental car, filled to the brim with picture-perfect nature and the tantalizing tastes of local delights. Treat yourself to Abashiri’s unspoiled scenery and an undeniable connection to culture, food, and truly moving way of life.

Profile

Born July 7, 1995, Saori Kokubun is a photo writer based in Kamakura who travels across Japan.
She began traveling solo at 23 after hitting a rough patch and realizing how tough the world can be, and she soon found herself spending every break exploring different corners of the country.
At 28, she left her office job and set out on a deeper kind of journey-riding a 50cc scooter through everything from famous sightseeing spots to quiet residential neighborhoods.
On note she shares her scooter trips and everyday life in small countryside towns under the name “Osatsu.”
For a truly deep dive into Japan, she’s the one to ask.

Hobbies: Tough trips with a tent strapped to her scooter
Specialty: Finding breathtaking hidden viewpoints that most people haven’t discovered yet
Favorite Food: Yakitori bento from Hokkaido (Hakodate or Nemuro)
Favorite Island: Chiburi Island (Shimane)-home to 600 people, 500 cows, and 3,000 raccoon dogs
Favorite Dialect: Okayama-ben-both scary and cute at the same time
Motto: “Go to the bathroom while you still can.”

Saori Kokubun's Page

Saori Kokubun

Articles

Winter in Abashiri Complete Guide - Drift Ice, Activities, and Exquisite Gourmet Cuisine Only Possible in Abashiri’s Hokkaido Winter

The Ultimate Early Summer Trip to Abashiri! Nature Cruises and Local Deep-dives on a Stirring 2-Day Expedition.

Profile