Kushiro Marshland Trekking

OVERVIEW

Stroll along the wooden promenade that winds through the Kushiro marshland and observe the incredibly biodiverse flora and fauna. The marsh is the largest in Japan and the country’s first wetland to earn a Ramsar site designation for its conservation efforts. Most of the water originates in Lake Kussharo and empties into the marsh via the Kushiro River, attracting an abundance of birds, including red-crowned cranes. Although they thrive in the protected wetlands, the cranes are highly endangered due to loss of habitat. Ironically, they are a symbol of immortality. Zebra finches, great blue herons and huge numbers of migratory birds – that vary with the seasons – are also commonly seen from the promenade, which begins at the Onnenai Visitor Center. The naturalist guide will point out and identify the wildlife as well as the plant life. The flora includes Japanese alders, bog beans, cuckoo flowers and rare endemic plants that survived the last Ice Age.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Walk through the Kushiro marshland on a wooden boardwalk just above the water level.
• Observe a multitude of birds, including rare red-crowned cranes.
• Admire the biodiversity of the plants, which include more than 600 species.
• Learn about the flora and fauna from the naturalist guide.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.