Ice Beach: the incredible beach where sea, sand, and snow meet
Every year during the northern hemisphere winter, a phenomenon known as "jewelry ice " occurs on the island of Hokkaido , Japan .
What's it? It's a natural spectacle that transforms ice into crystalline blocks that sparkle like diamonds on the sand.
This phenomenon reaches its peak at Otsu Beach in the city of Toyokoro, where snow, sand, and sea merge in a breathtaking scene that leaves tourists speechless. It is also known as "Toyokoro Ice Beach."
How does this natural phenomenon occur? It all begins when the ice floes of the Tokachi River break at the mouth and reach the beach. The sand then polishes each block to a gem-like shine.
They're so crystalline precisely because they're formed from freshwater. From the warm gold of the morning to the clear blue of midday and the pink hues of sunset, the ice reveals its changing facets throughout the day.
Toyokoro is located in Hokkaido, which is the northernmost of the main Japanese islands.
The snow-covered sandy beach in winter, with mountains in Hokkaido. Photo by Shutterstock
Known for its volcanoes, hot springs, and ski resorts, Hokkaido rose to fame for its beachfront location, which includes both ocean and snow.
In winter, temperatures can drop to -30°C, so visitors who come to see this spectacle need to dress warmly.
The beach usually welcomes tourists to enjoy the ice from mid-January to the end of February.
Jewel Ice (Iceberg Jewels) on Otsu Beach in Toyokoro City, Japan. Photo by Shutterstock
They say this place was once peaceful until social media made images of Toyokoro Ice Beach go viral, attracting photographers and onlookers from around the world.
As the waters of the Tokachi River freeze, turning them into blocks of ice, these "frozen stones" fracture and are carried out to sea.
There they are polished until, finally, they reach the sand and end up melting.
Snow, sand, and sea on this unusual Japanese beach. Photo by Shutterstock
The narrow stretch of sand between the snow and the sea is uniquely striking and adds even more beauty to the landscape.
Skiers often come here in the winter because Hokkaido is characterized by a cool climate in the summer and abundant snowfall in the winter.
Hokkaido Prefecture is a region accessible by high-speed Shinkansen.
Travel landscape, Ice Beach Jewelry on Otsu Beach in Toyokoro City, Japan. Photo by Shutterstock
Sapporo is the capital, very green due to its numerous parks and known for the Snow Festival held every February.
Clarin
