Kushiro Marshland

4.3 (200)・National Park・Tourist Attraction・Hiking Area・Park・Point Of Interest・Establishment

Kushiro Marshland, nestled in the northeastern part of Hokkaido, stands as the country's largest wetland and is a sanctuary of biodiversity. This expansive marsh, covering over 18,000 hectares, is a critical habitat for various species and is especially renowned for its resident Japanese red-crowned cranes. Once on the brink of extinction, these cranes have become a symbol of conservation success, attracting nature enthusiasts from around the globe.

The marshland's landscape is a captivating mosaic of rivers, peat bogs, and reed beds, offering a unique and serene beauty that changes with the seasons. In winter, the area transforms into a snowy wonderland, while summer brings a lush, green vibrancy, making it a year-round destination for visitors.

Exploration of the Kushiro Marshland is facilitated by well-maintained boardwalks and observation towers, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty without disrupting the ecosystem. The marsh is not only a haven for wildlife but also a place of profound tranquility and natural splendor, offering a stark contrast to Japan's urban landscapes.

Hours:

Akan International Crane Center: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Kushiro City Marsh Observatory: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Tancho Observation Center: 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM

Onnenai Visitor Center: 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM

Closed:

Akan International Crane Center: No closing days

Kushiro City Marsh Observatory: Closed New Year holidays

Onnenai Visitor Center: Closed Wednesdays

Available:

Year-round

Fees:

Akan International Crane Center: 480 yen

Kushiro City Marsh Observatory: 480 yen

Onnenai Visitor Center: Free

Hours

Monday: Open 24 hours

Tuesday: Open 24 hours

Wednesday: Open 24 hours

Thursday: Open 24 hours

Friday: Open 24 hours

Saturday: Open 24 hours

Sunday: Open 24 hours

Phone

+81 154-56-2345

Website

www.env.go.jp

The area

Address

２-2101 Hokuto, Kushiro, Kawakami District, Hokkaido 084-0922, Japan

Top ways to experience Kushiro Marshland

approx. 7-21 days

Ultimate JR Pass – Travel All of Japan Freely

From $199 /person

What other travelers are saying about Kushiro Marshland

Beautiful natural park. Loved the drive through the forest and enjoyed the footpaths. The visitor center is a cozy log building with a small display of photos of the area, and some nice souvenirs.

Sarah M

Jun 25, 2024

Need to walk for 40-50 minutes for a round trip. The lookout at the park is so beautiful. Very enjoyable.

KK Poon

Oct 10, 2024

It is definitely worth to visit. The view over wetland is magnificent 👍🏻 it is also good to spend around 2 hours to walk around the park as well. Don’t pay to go to the observatory tower, it is just a small area on top of the tower, not worth it.

Ginny Wai

Jun 19, 2018

Summer is hot! Unless you like it. Too hot as very hard to find shade from trees. Nothing much to see except you are natural lovers!

Pyee Chan

Sep 4, 2023

We visited in early May. The first visitor centre we went to was closed, with no signage for self-guided walking. The second centre was not very appealing and the observatory was closed. All a bit of a let-down.