Located in eastern Hokkaido, Kushiro is a sanctuary for wildlife and home to the Kushiro Shitsugen, Japan’s largest marshland. It is also famous for having one of the “World’s Top Three Sunsets.” This port city offers more than just nature; it is a place where you can see the endangered Red-crowned Crane and unique Marimo (moss balls).
Visiting Kushiro means experiencing a blend of vast landscapes, Indigenous Ainu culture, and a rich culinary history. It is a perfect destination for those seeking wellness and deep immersion into the wild.
Nusamai Bridge is a symbol of Kushiro and one of the three most famous bridges in Hokkaido. It features a sophisticated European-style design with four bronze statues representing the four seasons. These statues were funded by local donations and add a touch of elegance to the city.
The bridge is the premier spot to watch the sun go down. The sky turns deep orange and reflects off the Kushiro River, creating a stunning view. After dark, the bridge is illuminated, offering a romantic atmosphere that contrasts with the golden hour.
Spot Information Nusamai Bridge Address：Kita-odori, Kushiro, Hokkaido Access：Approx. 30 minutes by car from Kushiro Airport (KUH)
Kushiro Shitsugen National Park: Japan’s Largest Marshland
The Kushiro Shitsugen is a vast wetland spanning four municipalities. It is a haven for over 200 bird species, including the Red-crowned Crane and White-tailed Eagle, and 700 types of plants. It was the first site in Japan registered under the Ramsar Convention (an international treaty for the conservation of wetlands).
From the various observatories, you can see the Kushiro River winding through a horizon that seems to go on forever. In winter, the landscape turns into a silent, snow-covered world that showcases the raw power of Hokkaido’s nature.
Kushiro Shitsugen Norokko Train: A Seasonal Sightseeing Journey
Operating from spring to autumn, the Kushiro Shitsugen Norokko-go is a special sightseeing train that travels between Kushiro Station and Toro Station in 40 to 50 minutes. The train features large open windows and wooden benches, allowing you to feel the breeze and smell the fresh air of the wetlands.
The train moves slowly through areas inaccessible by car, giving you a chance to spot wild deer or foxes. The two-seater benches facing the window are highly recommended for the best views.
Train Information Kushiro Shitsugen Norokko Train Address：14-1-78 Kita-odori, Kushiro, Hokkaido (Kushiro Station) Access Approx. 4 hours 30 minutes by car from JR Asahikawa Station Hours Operates seasonally from April to October ・Fares (All seats reserved) Adults: full price / Children: half price Kushiro – Toro: ¥1,520 (¥680 base fare + ¥840 reserved seat fee) Kushiro – Kawayu Onsen: ¥2,940 (¥2,100 base fare + ¥840 reserved seat fee) Official Website https://www.jrhokkaido.co.jp/train/tr025_01.html
Lake Akan and Marimo: A Mysterious Volcanic Crater Lake
Lake Akan is a beautiful caldera lake (a lake formed by a volcanic eruption) created about 150,000 years ago. It is surrounded by the majestic peaks of Mt. Meakan and Mt. Oakan.
The lake is world-famous for Marimo, which are rare, spherical algae that can grow up to 30 cm (12 inches) in diameter. The area offers hot spring resorts, sightseeing cruises, and forest trekking. It is also a central location for experiencing Ainu culture, the Indigenous people of Hokkaido.
Washo Market: Create Your Own “Katte-don” Seafood Bowl
Established in 1954, Washo Market is Kushiro’s oldest market and is known as the “Kitchen of the Citizens.” The highlight here is the Katte-don, a personalized seafood bowl.
You buy a bowl of white rice and then walk around the market to different stalls, choosing fresh toppings like sea urchin, salmon roe, or local shrimp. It is a fun, interactive way to enjoy the freshest catch of the day at a reasonable price.
Kita-odori is the primary street connecting Kushiro Station to Nusamai Bridge. Along this road, you can find historic shops like Urata Kashipo, a confectionery founded in 1907. Their popular sweet, “Marukibune,” is inspired by traditional Ainu dugout canoes.
You can also find high-quality leather goods at Sato Kamiten, which stocks products from Somes Saddle, Japan’s premier equestrian leather manufacturer.
Kushiro Fisherman’s Wharf MOO: Local Food and Shopping
Located right by the river, MOO is a multi-story complex for shopping and dining. The EGG (Ever Green Garden) is a glass-enclosed botanical space that stays green even in the harsh Hokkaido winter.
On the second floor, the Minato no Yatai (Harbor Food Stalls) offers a variety of local Kushiro dishes in a nostalgic, casual atmosphere. It is a great place to try local seafood and mountain vegetables.
Spot Information Kushiro Fisherman’s Wharf MOO Address：2-4 Nishiki-cho, Kushiro, Hokkaido Access：Approx. 3 minutes by car from JR Kushiro Station Hours：1st Floor: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM (varies in winter) 2nd Floor (Food Stalls): 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM Official Website：https://www.moo946.com/lang-en/
Hosooka Observatory: The Best Panoramic View of the Marsh
For the best view of the Kushiro River’s dramatic curves, head to Hosooka Observatory. On a clear day, you can see the Daisetsuzan mountain range in the distance. This is also a famous spot for sunset photography, as the river reflects the changing colors of the sky.
Red-crowned Crane Nature Park: See the “God of the Marsh”
The Red-crowned Crane (Tancho) was once nearly extinct but has been successfully protected in Kushiro. At the Kushiro Japanese Crane Reserve, you can observe these graceful birds throughout the year. For a larger variety of animals, the Kushiro City Zoo is the largest in Hokkaido and features local species like the Ezo Brown Bear and Blakiston’s Fish Owl.
Akan-Mashu National Park: Volcanos and Crystal Clear Lakes
As one of the oldest National Parks in Hokkaido, Akan-Mashu is unique for its concentration of volcanic calderas and lakes. From the Sokodai Observatory, you can look down at two hidden lakes, Penketo and Panketo, which were once part of a much larger lake. The contrast between the blue water and the deep green forest is unforgettable.
The history of Akan Onsen (Hot Spring) dates back to 1858, when the Ainu people first used the natural springs. Today, it is a refined resort town where you can enjoy outdoor baths overlooking the lake.
Kushiro is often foggy, and even in summer, the temperature can drop significantly. We recommend bringing a light jacket or sweater. To explore the wetlands and observatories efficiently, renting a car is essential, as public transport to the best viewpoints is limited.
Quick Info:
Access: 45 minutes by bus from Kushiro Airport; 4 hours by Limited Express train from Sapporo.
Clothing: Heavy winter gear is mandatory from December to March. In summer, bring layers for the cool sea fog.
Highlights: Nusamai Bridge Sunsets, Katte-don at Washo Market, and Red-crowned Cranes.
