Going off the grid in Kushiro

The Kushiro Marshland, or Kushiro Shitsugen, is a Ramsar Convention-listed wetland where you can enjoy winter with a variety of activities. Spend an entire day in the marshland and take a pick among these four activities: winter marshland river cruise, snowshoe tour, Dutch oven lunch, and wakasagi (smelt) fishing.

The guided canoe tour down the marshland river, which is surrounded by gorgeous hoarfrost in winter, showcases a mysterious and silent atmosphere. Snowshoe tours let you feel the crunch of freshly-fallen snow underfoot. Fishing for smelt involves digging a hole into the ice, while a Dutch oven lunch experience allows you to cook dishes like stuffed chicken and bread as you relax in the wilderness. While you wait for the food to finish cooking, head to Toro Nature Center to explore its walking trails.

These winter tours run from December to March, with smelt fishing from December 20 to the end of February. These activities are a great way to experience the marshland and all its wonders – you may also catch a glimpse of wild animals like the red-crowned cranes and Ezo sika deer!