Kushiro Shitsugen

Kushiro Shitsugen is famous as the primary breeding ground for Japanese red-crowned cranes (Grus japonensis), with about 1,000 individuals residing in the area. The wetland also supports diverse wildlife including the Siberian salamander, white-tailed eagle, Ezo deer, and various species of fish. The ecosystem provides critical habitat for both resident and migratory species.

The wetland hosts over 600 species of plants, dominated by common reed (Phragmites australis) and sedges. Notable species include the endangered Siberian iris (Iris setosa) and Japanese alder (Alnus japonica). The vegetation forms distinct zones, from aquatic plants in permanent water bodies to reed beds and alder forests on slightly elevated ground.

The wetland formed in a low-lying alluvial plain where the Kushiro River meets the Pacific Ocean. The area consists of peat bogs that developed over thousands of years, with soil depths reaching up to 3-4 meters in some areas. The landscape features meandering rivers, oxbow lakes, and extensive reed beds, all situated within a valley surrounded by gentle hills.

Kushiro Shitsugen experiences a cool temperate climate with significant fog, especially in summer months. Average temperatures range from -5°C in winter to 19°C in summer, making it notably cooler than other parts of Japan. The wetland receives consistent precipitation throughout the year, with slightly higher rainfall in September and October. Morning fog is particularly common, creating atmospheric conditions that contribute to the marsh's unique ecosystem.

The Kushiro Wetland formed over thousands of years following the end of the last ice age. Local Ainu people historically used the area for hunting and gathering, while large-scale development began in the Meiji period. In 1980, it became Japan's first Ramsar Convention site, and in 1987, it was designated as a national park. The area has since become a crucial model for wetland conservation in Japan.

Key attractions include the Kushiro Marsh Observatory, offering panoramic views of the wetland landscape, and the Hosooka Observation Point, popular for crane watching. The Kushiro River meandering through the wetland provides opportunities for canoe tours, while the surrounding boardwalks and nature trails allow visitors to explore the ecosystem up close. The wetland's winter landscape, featuring frost-covered reeds and red-crowned cranes, is particularly spectacular.