Things To Do
in Kushiro
Kushiro is a coastal city in eastern Hokkaido known for its expansive wetlands and rich seafood. It serves as a gateway to the Kushiro Shitsugen National Park, famous for red-crowned cranes and vast marshlands. The city center offers a relaxed atmosphere with a working harbor, lively markets, and scenic waterfront walks.
Visitors can savor fresh crab and salmon, explore nature trails, and use Kushiro as a base for nearby coastal and marshland adventures.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing hike through the scenic Kushiro Wetlands, where you can immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of Japan's largest wetland area. As the morning sun rises, keep an eye out for the rich variety of wildlife, including the iconic Japanese crane. Enjoy the lush landscapes and the peaceful sounds of nature as you traverse the wooden walkways.
After your hike, visit the Kushiro Wetland Observatory to learn more about the ecosystem and the importance of conservation efforts in the region. Take advantage of the stunning panoramic views of the wetlands from the observatory deck, capturing the beauty of the area in photographs. For lunch, enjoy a meal at a nearby café that specializes in local Hokkaido cuisine, such as fresh seafood and seasonal vegetables.
As the sun sets, head to the Kushiro Fisherman’s Wharf MOO, where you can explore local shops and enjoy dinner at one of the seafood restaurants. Savor the flavors of freshly caught fish, such as crab and salmon, while gazing out at the harbor views. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront to soak in the evening atmosphere of this charming port town.
Begin your morning with a visit to the Kushiro City Museum, where you can discover the history and culture of the region through engaging exhibits and artifacts. Learn about the indigenous Ainu people and their traditional ways of life, as well as the rich biodiversity of Hokkaido. The museum’s interactive displays make it easy to immerse yourself in the local culture.
After the museum, take a guided tour of the nearby Ainu Cultural Center, where you can participate in traditional crafts and even try your hand at Ainu dance. Enjoy a delicious lunch at the center, featuring traditional Ainu dishes that showcase the flavors of the region. The afternoon is filled with engaging activities that provide insight into the customs and traditions of this unique culture.
For dinner, experience a delightful kaiseki meal at a local restaurant, where you can savor beautifully presented dishes made from seasonal ingredients. As you dine, enjoy the serene atmosphere and the artistry of Japanese cuisine. Cap off your evening with a visit to a local onsen, where you can relax and unwind in the soothing hot springs.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-15 |
| ☕Coffee at a cafe | $3-6 |
| 🚇One-way public transit fare | $2-5 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $70-150 |
| 🍣Sushi dinner for two | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Exceptional seafood and fresh market atmosphere
- Stunning wetlands and crane-watching opportunities
- Relaxed city vibe with easy access to nature
- Good base for day trips to coastal and marsh landscapes
- Smaller nightlife and fewer big-city amenities
- Winter travel can be challenging due to snow and cold
- Some English signage and English-speaking staff may be limited outside tourist areas
- Public transportation can be less frequent than in larger cities
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Onegaishimasu" - Please / I would like
- "Arigatou gozaimasu" - Thank you
- "Kore wa ikura desu ka?" - How much is this?
- "Eigo o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
- "Toire wa doko desu ka?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Kono miyuri wa doko desu ka?" - Where is this spot located?
- "Nihongo ga sukoshi dake hanasemasu" - I can only speak a little Japanese
Places to Visit in Kushiro
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden light over fishing boats and the calm harbor creates soft, cinematic silhouettes.
Long, windswept coastline with reflective waters and driftwood—ideal for wide-angle and landscape shots.
Raised wooden paths weaving through expansive wetlands, offering cranes and waterfowl in season.
Winter cranes congregate in marshy clears; guided vantage points provide dramatic avian portraits.
Food in Kushiro
Kushiro Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A vibrant seafood donburi featuring a variety of fresh catches from the day, topped with roe and shells for color and flavor.
Must-Try!
A warming crab hotpot with seasonal crab, vegetables, and a light dashi broth, perfect for cooler days.
Crispy, peppery fried chicken bites popular at local izakayas; great for sharing.
Seasonal salmon prepared as nigiri or sashimi, showcasing the area’s ocean abundance.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Harbor-facing market stalls offering fresh seafood, produce, and quick bites; great for tasting a range of local flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Wait in orderly lines; keep voices down in public spaces and on trains. Speaking softly is appreciated in public areas.
Remove shoes when entering homes, ryokan, or certain traditional spaces. Use clean slippers where provided.
Wash thoroughly before entering the communal bath; do not splash or soak towels in the water; modest swimwear is generally not used in traditional baths.
Safety
Tipping in Kushiro
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Japan; it’s usually not expected and can be refused politely. Gratitude is best shown with a smile and a simple thank-you. For guided tours or exceptional service, you can show appreciation verbally or with a small gift if appropriate.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild to warm days with higher humidity; expect occasional rain and gray skies. Great for coastal walks and wildlife viewing, though mosquitoes can be present.
Autumn colors appear from September to October; crisp air and fewer crowds. Ideal for photography along the coast and marsh edges.
Cold with snow accumulation; perfect for crane watching and tranquil snowscapes, but travel can be affected by snow and ice. Dress warmly and plan extra travel time.
Cool to mild with early blooming plants; migratory birds return, offering dynamic wildlife opportunities and quieter streets.
Kushiro at Night
Hiking in Kushiro
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal hikes with dramatic scenery, wildlife, and tidal landscapes; best at low tide.
Access routes through the marsh; wildlife viewing and photo opportunities year-round.
Airports
How to reach Kushiro by plane.
Regional airport serving Kushiro with domestic flights; typically convenient for arrivals and departures to Tokyo, Sapporo, and other Hokkaido destinations.
Eastern Hokkaido airport serving nearby regions; useful for longer trips or connections to smaller towns.
Sapporo-area international gateway; larger flight options and international connections; usually reached by train or domestic flight from Kushiro.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A key economic and cultural group tied to Kushiro’s seafood-driven economy.
A prominent demographic in regional Japan, shaping services and community activities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular across schools and local leagues; public fields and stadiums host games seasonally.
Winter sports common in Hokkaido; expect nearby slopes and seasonal resorts in the broader region.
Fishing, coastal sightseeing, and small-scale boating are common in Kushiro’s waterfront culture.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kushiro.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can navigate Kushiro by choosing vegetable tempura, tofu dishes, salads, and rice bowls; communicating dietary needs in Japanese helps. Look for izakayas or restaurants offering vegetable-focused sets and miso soup without fish-based dashi.