Imagine a winter wonderland where the frozen expanse of Lake Abashiri in Hokkaido, Japan, becomes a hub for an exhilarating ice fishing experience. Guided by local experts, adventurers can venture out onto the icy surface, equipped with the necessary gear to catch the elusive wakasagi fish. But the true delight lies in savoring the fresh catch, transformed into delectable tempura – a mouthwatering taste of the region’s culinary heritage. With moderate physical fitness required, this immersive activity promises an unforgettable blend of excitement, comfort, and authentic cultural exploration.

Key Points

Ice Fishing Experience Eat Fresh Fish Tempura at Lake Abashiri - Key Points

  • Enjoy an ice fishing experience on Lake Abashiri in Hokkaido, Japan, where you can catch and eat freshly fried wakasagi tempura.
  • Fishing is conducted in heated tents, providing comfort during the activity.
  • Guides assist participants with wakasagi fishing equipment and techniques.
  • The experience requires a moderate level of physical fitness to navigate the frozen lake and carry gear.
  • Inclusions cover fishing gear, guidance, snacks, and transportation to the fishing site, while personal expenses and dietary requirements are the responsibility of participants.

Activity Overview

Ice Fishing Experience Eat Fresh Fish Tempura at Lake Abashiri - Activity Overview

Participants are invited to partake in an engaging ice fishing experience on the expansive Lake Abashiri, located in the northern region of Hokkaido, Japan.

Fishing takes place within heated tents, providing shelter from the cold. Guides assist guests in utilizing the provided wakasagi fishing equipment, including rods and lures.

The highlight of the activity is preparing and savoring fresh tempura made from the wakasagi fish caught during the session. Throughout the experience, snacks and beverages are available to fuel the adventure.

With a moderate physical fitness level required, this privately-guided tour offers an immersive winter activity in a picturesque frozen landscape.

Inclusions

The ice fishing experience at Lake Abashiri includes an array of essential equipment and amenities to ensure a seamless and enjoyable outing.

Participants will receive wakasagi fishing gear, including tents and rods, as well as the guidance of an experienced local assistant.

Snacks, beverages, and the highlight – freshly caught wakasagi tempura – are all part of the package.

Taxes and transportation to the fishing site are also covered, making this a comprehensive and convenient experience.

Whether a seasoned angler or a first-time ice fisher, this tour provides everything needed for a memorable day on the frozen lake.

Exclusions

Ice Fishing Experience Eat Fresh Fish Tempura at Lake Abashiri - Exclusions

While the ice fishing experience at Lake Abashiri includes a comprehensive set of inclusions, there are a few items not covered in the package.

The exclusions list indicates that any items not explicitly mentioned in the inclusions section aren’t provided. This means visitors are responsible for their own personal expenses, such as additional snacks, souvenirs, or any special dietary requirements beyond the tempura of the caught wakasagi.

Plus, transportation to and from the pickup points isn’t included, so guests will need to arrange their own means of getting to the designated meeting locations.

Pickup Information

Pickup and drop-off locations for the ice fishing experience are conveniently situated across Abashiri. Guests can be picked up from:

  • Roadside Station Oorora Terminal
  • JR Abashiri Station
  • Hotels near JR Abashiri Station and central Abashiri

However, certain areas aren’t serviced, including Abashiri Ubarauchi, Kitahama, Masuura, and Memanbetsu Airport. This ensures a seamless start and end to the adventure.

Confirmed bookings are subject to availability and must be received within 48 hours. Participants should have a moderate level of physical fitness, as the tour is private and caters only to the group.

Accessibility and Age Restrictions

Although the ice fishing experience isn’t wheelchair accessible, infants are welcome to join the tour, sitting on the laps of their guardians.

A moderate level of physical fitness is required, as the activity involves walking on frozen lake surfaces and drilling holes in the ice.

The tour is a private experience, with only your group participating, ensuring an intimate and personalized adventure.

Despite the physical demands, the opportunity to savor fresh tempura made from the wakasagi fish you catch makes the ice fishing excursion a truly memorable and rewarding experience.

Physical Fitness Level

The ice fishing experience at Lake Abashiri requires a moderate level of physical fitness. Participants will be standing and walking on frozen lake ice for an extended period.

This activity may not be suitable for those with mobility issues or a low fitness level. To fully enjoy the experience, you should be able to:

  • Easily move around on the uneven, slippery ice
  • Drill holes through thick ice using a hand-operated ice auger
  • Sit comfortably on small stools for prolonged periods
  • Withstand the cold temperatures for the duration of the activity
  • Carry your own fishing gear and supplies

Tour Details

For the ice fishing experience, you will be transported from designated pickup points to the fishing site on the frozen Lake Abashiri.

Upon arrival, they’ll be provided with wakasagi fishing equipment, including tents and gear.

Throughout the activity, a guide assistant will be on hand to offer support.

Snacks, beverages, and the highlight – freshly caught wakasagi prepared as tempura – are all included.

The private tour is operated by JTB Hokkaido, with pricing starting at $48.63 per person.

While the experience isn’t wheelchair accessible, infants can join, seated on laps.

Moderate physical fitness is required.

Price and Cancellation Policy

The price for the ice fishing experience at Lake Abashiri starts from $48.63 per person. This non-refundable tour includes wakasagi fishing equipment, a guide assistant, snacks, beverages, and the delicious tempura made from the caught fish.

However, there are no refunds for cancellations.

Why choose this ice fishing experience?

  • It’s a private tour, so your group has the entire activity to themselves.
  • You’ll get to enjoy freshly caught wakasagi tempura.
  • The tour is operated by the trusted JTB Hokkaido company.
  • A moderate fitness level is required for this hands-on outdoor activity.
  • Convenient pickup locations are available around Abashiri.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Type of Fish Can Be Caught During the Experience?

The type of fish that can be caught during the experience is wakasagi. Guests can reel in these small freshwater fish, which are then prepared into delicious tempura right on the ice.

How Long Does the Ice Fishing Activity Typically Last?

The ice fishing activity typically lasts around 2-3 hours, allowing participants ample time to try their hand at catching the local wakasagi fish. The experience provides all the necessary equipment and ends with tempura made from the freshly caught fish.

Are There Any Opportunities to Learn About the Local Culture?

While the activity itself does not explicitly include cultural learning, the guide can provide insights into the local Ainu culture and traditions of ice fishing in Hokkaido. Participants may also have the chance to interact with local fishermen.

Can Participants Keep Any Fish They Catch?

Participants can keep the fish they catch during the ice fishing experience. The fresh wakasagi fish are then prepared as tempura for the group to enjoy, providing a delicious souvenir from their fishing adventure.

Are There Any Age or Height Restrictions for the Activity?

There are no specific age or height restrictions mentioned for the ice fishing experience. The tour operator indicates that infants must sit on laps, suggesting it’s suitable for families with young children.

The Sum Up

Embark on an unforgettable ice fishing adventure at Lake Abashiri in Hokkaido, Japan. Guided by local experts, you’ll have the chance to catch wakasagi fish and savor freshly made tempura from your catch, immersed in the stunning winter landscape. With moderate physical fitness required, this experience promises excitement, comfort, and a delicious taste of local cuisine.