Kushiro is a charming city known for its beautiful natural landscapes, vibrant wildlife and rich cultural heritage. From scenic outdoor adventures to immersing yourself in local traditions, Kushiro offers a variety of activities that showcase the beauty of Japan’s northernmost island.
One of the most popular attractions in Kushiro is the Kushiro Shitsugen National Park, Japan’s largest wetland area, known for its stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife. The park is a haven for nature lovers and birdwatchers, offering a peaceful escape into the wilderness. The expansive wetland, stretching over 200 square kilometres, is home to a wide variety of plants and animals, including rare species such as the Japanese crane. Visitors can explore the park by walking along the well-maintained trails, which provide easy access to scenic viewpoints and bird-watching spots. There are also several observation towers in the park where you can take in panoramic views of the wetlands and watch the cranes in their natural habitat. If you’re looking for a more immersive experience, consider taking a guided boat tour of the wetlands. These boat rides offer a unique perspective on the landscape, allowing you to navigate through the swamps and experience the serenity of the area.
Another unforgettable experience in Kushiro is a visit to the Kushiro Fishermen’s Wharf “MOO,” a lively market located along the waterfront. This bustling market is a great place to experience the local seafood culture and enjoy fresh, authentic dishes from the region. Kushiro is well-known for its high-quality seafood, and at the Fishermen’s Wharf, you can sample the best of what the area has to offer. The market features a variety of fresh seafood stalls selling fish, crabs, shellfish and dried seafood, much of it caught locally. One of the most popular dishes to try here is Kushiro’s famous kaizen-don, a seafood rice bowl topped with an assortment of freshly prepared fish and shellfish. The Fishermen’s Wharf also houses a number of restaurants where you can sit down and enjoy a full meal, such as grilled fish or sashimi, all made with the freshest ingredients. Beyond the seafood, the market is also a great place to explore local crafts and souvenirs, including handcrafted goods and Hokkaido’s famous dairy products.
Finally, Nusamai Bridge is a beautiful and historical landmark in Kushiro that offers visitors a chance to experience the charm of the city’s waterfront. Spanning the Kushiro River, Nusamai Bridge is one of the oldest bridges in the region, originally built in the 1950s. The bridge is famous for its unique design, featuring decorative stone pillars and a graceful arch. It’s particularly beautiful in the evenings when the bridge is illuminated, offering a serene view of the river and the city lights reflecting off the water. The area around the bridge is a pleasant spot for a stroll, with parks, walking paths and benches where you can sit and enjoy the view. During the cherry blossom season, the bridge and the nearby riverside park become a popular location for hanami (flower viewing) picnics, as the cherry trees bloom and provide a lovely contrast to the bridge’s stone structure.
Which cruise lines sail to Kushiro?
