Kushiro blends laid-back city life with easy access to nature. The highlight is the Kushiro Wetland, which is an appealing rest stop for flocks of migratory birds, and home to the charismatic red-crowned crane.
Set on Hokkaido's eastern coast, Kushiro is a working port city renowned for its freshly caught seafood. Though bustling and busy, life here moves at a slower pace compared to hectic Tokyo and Osaka. The city is thought by many to be home to one of the ‘top three sunsets in the world’ – whilst this is subjective, Kushiro is certainly notorious for its beautiful crimson sunsets, best watched from the Nusamai Bridge.
Just outside the city lies the Kushiro Wetland, Japan’s largest wetland. This ecosystem is internationally recognised for its biodiversity, being home to more than 2,000 species. Its most iconic is the red-crowned crane; once thought to be extinct in Japan, these elegant birds were rediscovered right here and can be seen performing their famous courtship dances. Kushiro also offers nearby access to the Tsurui-Ito Tancho Sanctuary, a renowned place to view the red-crowned crane during winter months.
Beyond the wetland, Akan Mashu National Park is within easy reach, offering a striking mix of volcanic peaks, tranquil lakes, primeval forests and hot spring baths, whilst nearby Mount Oakan also rises dramatically above the surrounding forests.
This highlight-packed 11-day itinerary reveals Japan’s most unique and renowned wildlife spectacles - large flocks of Steller’s sea eagles, dancing Japanese cranes, Blakiston’s fish owl, and the bizarre sight of Japanese macaques bathing in steaming hot springs – creating a photographic extravaganza. Find out more about Japan’s Winter Wildlife
From steaming volcanoes and caldera lakes to towering snow-capped mountains, swathes of primaeval forests and rugged coastlines, Hokkaido is Japan’s wildest island. During the summer wildlife abounds, with brown bear, orca, minke whale, sea otter and Blakiston’s fish owl all to be encountered. Find out more about Hokkaido’s Summer Wildlife
Join us as we photograph the finest wildlife that Japan has to offer including Steller’s sea eagle, Japanese cranes and Japanese macaques. By travelling in winter, there are no end of wonderful photographic opportunities provided by a fascinating array of subjects in evocative settings. Find out more about Japan’s Winter Wildlife Photography Special
British Travel Awards
Awarded Silver in Favourite Tour Operator for Nature & Wildlife 2024 & 2025
Wanderlust Reader Travel Awards
Awarded Bronze in Best Travel Company for Wildlife & Nature Holidays 2024
