5 hours
Daily Tour
Unlimited
English/Other language upon request
Tour Route: Kushiro Port → Cranes Nature Park → Kushiro Marshland Observation Deck → Washo Fish Market → Kushiro Port
Experience the pristine beauty of Hokkaido’s eastern coast on a peaceful 5-hour shore excursion from Kushiro Port. This Kushiro shore tour takes you into the heart of Kushiro’s famed wetlands, starting with a visit to Cranes Nature Park where you’ll see the iconic red-crowned cranes dancing gracefully in the wild.
Then, enjoy sweeping views from the Kushiro Marshland Observation Deck and end your journey savoring some of Hokkaido’s freshest seafood at the lively Washo Fish Market. A slow-paced, rejuvenating tour designed to touch the soul.
This tour is crafted for:
Nature lovers and birdwatchers
Senior travelers seeking a calm, scenic outing
Cultural explorers interested in regional wildlife and local cuisine
Cruise passengers with limited shore time
Special Instructions:
Dress in layers, as the Kushiro area can be breezy even in summer.
Binoculars recommended for birdwatching.
Vegetarian options may be limited at the fish market. Please notify us in advance for dietary preferences.
Your tour begins with a peaceful drive from Kushiro Port to Cranes Nature Park, a sanctuary dedicated to the preservation of the red-crowned crane, one of Japan’s most symbolic and elegant birds. This quiet, expansive park allows you to watch cranes dance, forage, and interact freely in a natural marshland environment. Photography enthusiasts will find endless inspiration here.
Next, travel a short distance to the Observation Deck in Kushiro Marshland National Park. This is Japan's largest wetland, teeming with rare flora and fauna. The observatory offers sweeping panoramic views over the vast marshes. Learn about the region’s ecosystem through exhibitions on the second floor before heading to the top level for breathtaking photo opportunities.
Wrap up the excursion with a sensory feast at Washo Fish Market, a vibrant local hub known for its ultra-fresh seafood. Stroll through colorful stalls offering crab, uni, scallops, and the famous "Katte Don" – a DIY seafood rice bowl. You can sample sashimi on the spot or buy souvenirs of Hokkaido's ocean bounty. After some leisure time, we return you comfortably to Kushiro Port.
Yes, this tour was thoughtfully designed for mature travelers and those who prefer a slower pace. Walking distances are kept minimal and on flat surfaces where possible. At each stop, there are opportunities to sit, rest, and enjoy the surroundings at your own rhythm. The private vehicle used is spacious and comfortable, and our guide is attentive to your needs, offering support and assistance when necessary. If you use a cane or walking aid, it is no problem at all.
The Japanese red-crowned crane, known locally as tancho, can be seen year-round in Kushiro, especially at Cranes Nature Park. However, the winter months (December to February) offer an unforgettable spectacle as cranes perform elegant courtship dances in the snow. That said, spring and autumn also provide lovely viewing conditions with milder weather and fewer crowds. Even in summer, the lush green wetlands offer a serene setting to observe these graceful birds.
Absolutely, and it’s one of the tour highlights! Washo Fish Market is famous for its "Katte Don", a build-your-own seafood bowl. You’ll receive a bowl of rice and then browse the stalls to hand-pick your favorite toppings, from salmon and tuna to sea urchin, scallops, crab, and more.
Vendors are friendly and accustomed to helping foreign guests. Dining spaces are available inside the market for you to enjoy your meal comfortably. If raw fish isn’t your preference, there are also cooked dishes and warm soups available.
Yes, this tour is flexible and customizable. If you have specific interests—whether it's photography, birdwatching, or spending more time at a particular location—we can adapt the pacing and focus. For travelers with dietary restrictions or mobility concerns, alternative arrangements can also be made. Simply let us know your preferences in the enquiry form when booking, and we’ll tailor the experience to suit your needs.
Yes, an experienced, English-speaking local guide will accompany you throughout the tour. Our guides are not only knowledgeable about the area’s history, nature, and culture, but also warm, attentive, and respectful of each guest’s pace. Whether it’s pointing out hidden details, translating at the market, or helping you pose for a perfect photo, your guide is there to make your journey smooth and enriching.
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