For a long time, people in Hokkaido thought the drift ice was a nuisance because it blocked off the sea and no fishing could be done. But now we know that it plays a vital role in supporting this area's food chain. The drift ice is a source of life for a type of phytoplankton called ice algae, which breed at the beginning of spring. These attract zooplankton such as small fish and shrimp, as well as deep sea crabs and sea urchin, which in turn attract larger fish, seals and birds. The nutrients from the drift ice have a knock-on effect on the entire food chain. The effects even spread inland, as salmon nourished in the Sea of Okhotsk return to Hokkaido's rivers in autumn, providing a food source for the bears. By the time the drift ice recedes and it's possible to fish again, the marine life has been well-nourished by the plankton-rich drift ice, resulting in extra-delicious seafood!

You can see the drift ice up close! Several cities on the Okhotsk coast have activities available. In Abashiri, you can cruise through the incredible icy scenery on the Aurora sightseeing icebreaker ship. In Mombetsu, you can take a cruise on the Garinko-go II, which has two giant drills on the bow of the ship. You can feel the ship vibrating as it powers through the gigantic floes of drift ice.

If you want an even closer look, you can go for a walk on the drift ice! Wearing a special drysuit, you can walk on the ice, rest on it and look at the glimpses of sea between the ice floes.