The Kushiro Marsh covers 183 km² north of the port city of Kushiro in eastern Hokkaido Island. Japan's largest wetland, it stretches 35 km from north to south and 25 km from east to west. The site is home to approximately 600 plant species and 1,350 animal species, including the red-crowned crane, the park's emblem and symbol of conservation efforts undertaken for nearly a century.

Why visit Kushiro Marsh

Kushiro Marsh combines three rare advantages in Japan: an exceptionally vast wetland area, protected wildlife easily observed from viewing platforms, and relatively straightforward access by train from Kushiro. It is one of the few places in the country where you can see red-crowned cranes in their natural habitat, particularly in winter when they gather at feeding sites.

The park is suitable for both a half-day visit (one or two observation towers from the station) and a multi-day stay combining hiking on wooden trails, canoeing down the Kushiro River, and a scenic ride on an observation train.

History and conservation

The marsh was designated a Ramsar site in 1980, then classified as a national park in 1987 to preserve the wetland environment of Japanese cranes. At the end of the 19th century, the species was considered extinct in Japan, a victim of hunting and habitat degradation. In 1926, explorers rediscovered a group of around twenty birds in the region, marking the start of a protection program that has since allowed the population to exceed one thousand individuals.

The red-crowned crane holds a special place in local culture: the Ainu people considered it a deity of the marshes. The park today hosts the only wild population of this species in Japan.

What to see and do

Observation platforms

The Hosooka platform overlooks the Kushiro River winding through the marshes, with mountains in the background. It is one of the park's most renowned viewpoints. To the north, the Sarurun, Sarubo and Kottaro observation towers overlook stretches of peatland and small lakes, accessible from Touro Station.

Onnenai wooden trails

The Onnenai wooden trails wind through the marshes without damaging the soil. The flat and marked route allows you to observe birds, dragonflies and wildflowers. Plan for 1 to 2 hours of walking depending on the loop chosen.

Kushiro River by canoe

Paddling down the Kushiro River is another way to explore the marsh, primarily possible from spring to autumn. Several operators offer guided outings from half a day to a full day, accessible to beginners.

The Kushiro Shitsugen Norokko train

From April to October, the Kushiro Shitsugen Norokko train connects Kawayu Onsen to Toro Station while passing through the park. This observation train, moving at reduced speed with large windows, is designed to enjoy the scenery along the river.

Emblematic wildlife

• Red-crowned crane: visible year-round, more easily observed in winter at feeding sites
• White-tailed sea eagle
• Sika deer and Ezo red fox

When to visit

Kushiro Marsh can be visited year-round, but each season offers a different experience.

• Winter (December to February): ideal period for observing red-crowned cranes at the feeding sites of Tsurumidai Sanctuary in Tsurui and the Red-crowned Crane Natural Park in Kushiro. Snow-covered landscapes, marked sub-zero temperatures.
• Spring and summer (May to August): blooms, migratory birds, canoe outings, Onnenai trails accessible.
• Autumn (September-October): marsh colors, moderate crowds, Norokko train still operating until October.

The region is subject to a humid continental climate with no dry season, averaging 1,105 mm of annual precipitation and a mean temperature of 6°C.

Practical information

• Visit duration: from half a day (one platform + one trail) to 2 days to combine train, canoe and observation towers
• Difficulty level: easy trails, accessible to all
• Equipment: appropriate footwear, warm clothing in winter, insect repellent in summer
• Information centers: Onnenai visitor center in the heart of the park

How to get there

Kushiro Airport is connected to Haneda Airport in Tokyo by daily flights. From Kushiro city, several options allow you to reach the park:

• Train: the JR Senmou line serves from Kushiro Station the Kushiro-Shitsugen station (approximately 20 minutes), close to the Hosooka platform, then Touro Station (approximately 35 minutes), close to the Sarurun, Sarubo and Kottaro observation towers.
• Bus: Kushiro Bus and Akan Bus serve the park's outskirts and more distant destinations such as Tsurui, Akan and Mashu. Frequencies remain limited.
• Rental car: the most flexible solution for connecting different observation towers, often distant from each other.

On site, you travel on foot on wooden trails, by bike on nearby roads, or by canoe on the Kushiro River.

Nearby

If you extend your trip to Hokkaido or elsewhere in Japan, several natural and spiritual sites are worth visiting:

• Mount Hiei, a major center of Buddhism near Kyoto
• Mount Kōya, center of Shingon Buddhism
• Mount Tsukuba, sacred mountain north of Tokyo
• The Kinosaki museums, to combine with a thermal spa stay

Frequently asked questions

Plan your trip

Kushiro Marsh naturally fits into a Hokkaido circuit focused on nature and wildlife. To build a custom itinerary incorporating this stop, check our Japan travel ideas.