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Kushiro-Shitsugen Overview

Kushiro-Shitsugen National Park, or Kushiro Shitsugen Kokuritsu Kōen in Japanese, is a pristine wetland sanctuary located in Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island. Encompassing an area of 68 square miles (177 square kilometers), it is Japan’s largest wetland and designated as a Ramsar Site, underscoring its global ecological importance. The park is situated near the city of Kushiro, offering a unique landscape characterized by vast marshes, meandering rivers, and diverse ecosystems that sustain a rich array of flora and fauna.

The terrain of Kushiro-Shitsugen National Park is defined by its expansive marshlands, which are fed by rivers like the Kushiro River, the park’s lifeblood. This wetland is framed by rolling hills and dotted with groves of alder and willow trees, as well as patches of sedges and reeds that sway in the wind. The seasonal variations in the landscape are striking, from the vibrant green of summer to the snow-blanketed serenity of winter, making the park an ever-changing canvas of natural beauty. The mist that often cloaks the wetlands adds a mystical quality to the landscape, particularly at sunrise and sunset.

The park is a haven for wildlife, with its most iconic resident being the red-crowned crane (Grus japonensis), a symbol of longevity and good fortune in Japanese culture. These cranes, once nearly extinct, are now a conservation success story and can often be seen dancing gracefully in the wetlands, especially during winter. Other notable species include the Hokkaido sika deer, red foxes, and a variety of waterfowl and migratory birds. The park’s rivers and streams are home to fish like salmon and trout, which contribute to the ecological balance of this delicate environment.

Popular highlights of Kushiro-Shitsugen National Park include the numerous observation points and boardwalks that allow visitors to experience the wetlands without disturbing their fragile ecosystems. The Hosooka Observatory and the Kushiro Marsh Observatory provide panoramic views of the marshes, offering perfect opportunities for photography and birdwatching. Canoeing along the Kushiro River is a favored activity, allowing visitors to explore the wetlands quietly and up close. Winter visitors are treated to breathtaking views of the cranes in snow-covered settings, especially around feeding sites like Tsurui-Ito Tancho Sanctuary.

The park encourages exploration through various means, such as well-maintained walking trails and eco-tours guided by local experts who share insights into the area’s unique ecology and cultural significance. Canoe trips and cycling routes offer active ways to engage with the park’s tranquil beauty, while educational centers provide resources on its flora, fauna, and conservation efforts.

Kushiro-Shitsugen faces conservation challenges such as invasive species, water pollution, and the impacts of development around its periphery. However, dedicated efforts by local communities, government agencies, and environmental organizations have achieved significant successes, including habitat restoration and the reintroduction of red-crowned cranes. Strict regulations ensure that tourism remains sustainable, balancing human enjoyment with the protection of this irreplaceable ecosystem.

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Park Map
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Kushiro-Shitsugen National Park Highlights

Popular

Kushiro-Shitsugen National Park, located in Hokkaido, Japan, is renowned for its sprawling wetlands, diverse ecosystems, and unique wildlife. The park protects the largest wetland in Japan, which provides a vital habitat for many species. Below are some of the popular species found in Kushiro-Shitsugen National Park.

Japanese Red Fox (Vulpes vulpes japonica)
The Japanese red fox is a common sight in the park. This subspecies of red fox is known for its thick fur, reddish coat, and adaptability to the diverse habitats of the wetlands.

Sika Deer (Cervus nippon)
Sika deer are abundant in the park, easily recognizable by their reddish-brown coat dotted with white spots. They are highly adaptable and play an essential role in maintaining the balance of the ecosystem.

Japanese Weasel (Mustela itatsi)
This small, agile predator is known for its slender body and golden-brown fur. It thrives in the wetlands, hunting small mammals and amphibians.

Hokkaido Brown Bear (Ursus arctos yesoensis)
A subspecies of the brown bear, this powerful creature is occasionally spotted near the edges of the park. They play a vital role in the ecosystem by helping disperse seeds through their diet.

Ezo Red Squirrel (Sciurus vulgaris orientis)
This subspecies of red squirrel is native to Hokkaido and is often seen in the park’s forested areas. Its bushy tail and agility make it a delight to observe.

Japanese Pond Turtle (Mauremys japonica)
Found in the park’s rivers and wetlands, this native turtle species is known for its distinctive shell patterns and semi-aquatic lifestyle.

Japanese Tree Frog (Dryophytes japonicus)
A small amphibian, this frog is often heard croaking in the wetland areas. Its green body provides excellent camouflage among the reeds.

Ezo Salamander (Hynobius retardatus)
Native to Hokkaido, this salamander is a fascinating resident of the park. It thrives in the moist environments of the wetlands and contributes to the aquatic food chain.

Blakiston’s Fish Owl (Ketupa blakistoni)
Although more commonly associated with birdwatching, this owl is included here because it also depends on the wetland habitat. It is one of the rarest owl species globally and is a symbol of the park’s biodiversity.

Japanese Giant Water Bug (Lethocerus deyrollei)
This insect is a unique feature of the wetlands, known for its large size and predatory behavior. It is an indicator species for the health of the ecosystem.

Birds

The park is also a haven for bird enthusiasts, hosting a variety of popular bird species. Below are some of the prominent birds found in Kushiro-Shitsugen National Park.

Red-crowned Crane (Grus japonensis)
The park is most famous for its red-crowned cranes, a symbol of Japan and a sign of good fortune. These elegant birds with white plumage and red crowns are often seen performing their iconic courtship dances.

Eastern Marsh Harrier (Circus spilonotus)
This bird of prey is frequently spotted soaring above the wetlands, hunting for small mammals and birds. Its broad wings and distinctive flight make it a standout species.

Whooper Swan (Cygnus cygnus)
These large, graceful swans are migratory visitors to the park. Known for their loud, trumpeting calls, they are a favorite among birdwatchers.

Japanese Bush Warbler (Horornis diphone)
This small, brown bird is known for its melodious song, which fills the park during the spring and summer months.

Common Cuckoo (Cuculus canorus)
Famous for its unique call, this bird is a migratory species that nests in the park during the warmer months.

Grey Heron (Ardea cinerea)
A tall, elegant bird often seen wading through the wetlands, the grey heron is a skilled fisher and a common sight in the park.

Eurasian Bittern (Botaurus stellaris)
Known for its booming call, this elusive heron is well-camouflaged among the reeds and grasses of the wetlands.

White-tailed Eagle (Haliaeetus albicilla)
This majestic bird of prey is often seen perched in trees or soaring high above the park. It feeds on fish and is a symbol of the park’s vibrant ecosystem.

Mandarin Duck (Aix galericulata)
One of the most colorful and striking birds in the park, the Mandarin duck can be found in the wetland areas, adding a splash of color to the landscape.

Sandhill Crane (Antigone canadensis)
While less common than the red-crowned crane, the Sandhill crane is a migratory visitor that enriches the diversity of birdlife in the park.

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