Private Tour with Kushiro Marsh, Tancho, and Local Market

Kushiro , Japan

Private Tour with Kushiro Marsh, Tancho, and Local Market

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About this experience

This tour offers the perfect balance of Kushiro’s highlights in just one day. Unlike standard city tours, you will explore the vast Kushiro Marsh from two different observatories, experiencing its diverse landscapes and wildlife. The 90-minute walk to the Satellite Observatory allows for an immersive encounter with nature, with the possibility of spotting the graceful Japanese red-crowned cranes in their natural habitat. Adding to this, Washo Market introduces you to local food culture, while Fisherman’s Wharf MOO provides a chance to taste regional dishes and shop for souvenirs. The tour ends with a short stop at Nusamai Bridge, a beloved landmark especially known for its sunsets. By blending nature, cuisine, and local life, this experience gives you a deeper connection to Kushiro than a typical time.

Available options

Private Tour with Kushiro Marsh, Tancho, and Local Market

Pickup included

What's included

Private Vehicle

Port or Hotel Pickup

Entry fee for Kushiro Marsh Observatory

National Licensed English Speaking Guide

Detailed itinerary

Explore Kushiro’s lively seafood market, famous for its fresh catches and local specialties. Walk among colorful stalls where locals shop daily, and experience the atmosphere of one of Japan’s few markets where visitors can build their own “Katte-don” rice bowl. Even if you are full from breakfast, it’s a fun place to see local life and taste small bites.

Enjoy a sweeping view of the vast Kushiro Marsh, Japan’s largest wetland and a Ramsar-listed site. The view from Hosooka Observatory stretches endlessly across the marshlands, rivers, and skies. Stop at the Visitor’s Lounge to learn about the marsh’s unique ecosystem, its seasonal changes, and wildlife before heading deeper into the wetland area.

Visit the main observatory with interactive exhibits about the wetland’s flora and fauna, then follow the wooden trail through the forest to the Satellite Observatory. The 90-minute visit allows time for a gentle hike and quiet observation of the marsh. With some luck, you may spot the elegant Japanese red-crowned cranes (Tancho) in their natural habitat, a rare and unforgettable experience in Hokkaido.

Have lunch with local dishes such as fresh seafood bowls or Kushiro-style grilled fish, then enjoy browsing the shops for regional souvenirs and specialties. The building faces the waterfront and offers a lively atmosphere where you can relax, taste Hokkaido ice cream, or pick up unique gifts before returning to the port.

Take photos at this iconic bridge, a beloved symbol of Kushiro. Known for its elegant four bronze statues and famous sunsets, the bridge offers a scenic backdrop of the river and city skyline. Even a short stop here gives travelers a lasting memory of Kushiro’s charm.

What's not included

apx. 15-25 USD per person

Personal Expenses

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Specialized infant seats are available

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

The itinerary might be changed due to weather condition or other reasons.

We can accommodate dietary restrictions such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, etc. If you have dietary requirements. Please indicate it to the special requirements at the time of booking.

During the marsh visit, there will be about 1 hour of walking on trails. Please wear comfortable clothes and shoes suitable for walking.

A moderate level of fitness is required to enjoy the 1-hour walk. If you or someone in your group has limited mobility, we can adjust the itinerary accordingly.

Important notes

Please show the ticket to the guide when you meet.

About Kushiro

Kushiro is a charming city in eastern Hokkaido, renowned for its vast wetlands and vibrant sunflower fields. It's a gateway to the stunning Kushiro Shitsugen National Park, offering unique natural beauty and outdoor adventures.

Top Attractions

Kushiro Shitsugen National Park

This vast wetland is one of Japan's largest and most important ecosystems. It's home to a diverse range of wildlife, including the iconic red-crowned crane.

Nature Half day to full day Moderate (Boat tours: ¥3,000 - ¥5,000)

Kushiro Marsh Observatory

This observatory offers stunning views of the Kushiro wetlands and is a great spot for birdwatching and photography.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Sunflower Fields

Kushiro is famous for its vast sunflower fields, which bloom in late July and August. The fields create a stunning golden landscape.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Kushiro City Museum of Art

This museum showcases a variety of artworks, including pieces by local and international artists. It's a great place to learn about the cultural heritage of Kushiro.

Museum 1-2 hours Moderate (¥500 - ¥1,000)

Kushiro Fishery Port

This bustling port is a hub for the local fishing industry. Visitors can watch the daily fish auctions and sample fresh seafood at the port's restaurants.

Cultural 1-2 hours Free (Food and souvenirs extra)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Kani (Crab)

Kushiro is famous for its crab, particularly the snow crab and king crab. It's often served steamed or in hot pot dishes.

Dinner Contains shellfish

Hotate (Scallops)

Fresh scallops are a local delicacy, often served grilled or in sushi.

Dinner Contains shellfish

Ika (Squid)

Squid is a common ingredient in Kushiro cuisine, often grilled or used in sushi.

Dinner Contains seafood

Kaisendon

A bowl of rice topped with fresh seafood, including crab, scallops, and squid.

Lunch/Dinner Contains seafood

Popular Activities

Hiking in Kushiro Shitsugen National Park Boat tours through the wetlands Wildlife spotting Onsen bathing at Takaragawa Onsen Strolling through sunflower fields Dining at local restaurants Visiting Kushiro City Museum of Art Exploring Kushiro Fishery Port

Best Time to Visit

July to September

This period offers pleasant weather, perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the city's natural attractions. The sunflowers are in full bloom during July and August.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

JST (UTC+9)

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Kushiro is a very safe city with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it's important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Getting there

By air

Kushiro Airport • 15 km from city center

By train

Kushiro Station

By bus

Kushiro Station Bus Terminal, Kushiro Ekimae Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the primary mode of public transportation in Kushiro. They are reliable and cover most parts of the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps:

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Kita-Kushiro Minami-Kushiro Nishi-Kushiro Higashi-Kushiro

Day trips

Akan-Mashu National Park

100 km from Kushiro • Full day

This national park is home to two stunning lakes, Lake Mashu and Lake Kussharo, as well as the active volcano Mount Meakan.

Shiretoko National Park

200 km from Kushiro • Overnight

One of Japan's most remote and pristine national parks, Shiretoko is known for its dramatic landscapes and diverse wildlife.

Takaragawa Onsen

30 km from Kushiro • Half day

A popular hot spring resort located near Kushiro, offering a relaxing escape with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Festivals

Sunflower Festival • Late July to early August Kushiro Ice Festival • February Kushiro Crab Festival • January

Pro tips

Visit the Kushiro Shitsugen National Park early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best wildlife spotting opportunities.
Try local specialties like crab, scallops, and squid at the Kushiro Fishery Port or local restaurants.
Explore the city's sunflower fields during the blooming season (late July to early August) for a stunning golden landscape.
Take a boat tour through the wetlands to get a unique perspective of the Kushiro Shitsugen National Park.
Visit the Kushiro City Museum of Art to learn about the city's cultural heritage and see works by local and international artists.