Explore Kushiro: Your Ultimate 48-Hour Itinerary in East Hokkaido

Discover how to make the most of a 48-hour adventure in Kushiro, the fog-shrouded gem of East Hokkaido. Nestled on Japan's eastern coast, Kushiro captivates with its misty allure, stunning landscapes, and rich culinary delights. From shimmering lakes to lively markets and from ancient traditions to modern tastes, this itinerary will guide you through what Kushiro offers.

Day 1

8 a.m. Akan International Crane Center
Start your day at the Akan International Crane Center, where the mystical red-crowned cranes—known as tancho—gather for breakfast. Once near extinction, these majestic birds are thriving thanks to conservation efforts. Admire their graceful courtship dances and enjoy bird-watching amidst the serene winter landscape.

10 a.m. Lake Akan Onsen Town
Drive about an hour to Lake Akan, nestled in Akan-Mashu National Park. This picturesque onsen town is famed for its Ainu village, artisanal crafts, and the Marimo Festival celebrating rare moss balls. Enjoy scenic boat rides, relax in hot spring baths with lake views, and explore the local campground and foot baths. Don’t miss the Ainu theater performances in summer for a touch of local folklore.

1 p.m. The Forests of Lake Akan
Explore the nearby Bokke Forest with its easy loop trail, where you might spot woodpeckers and Yezo sika deer. In winter, try snowshoeing or cross-country skiing on the same trail. The Lake Akan Ice Festival in February offers ice fishing and snowmobile rides, while the Meakan Onsen provides panoramic mountain views for the adventurous hiker.

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4 p.m. MOO and Sunset Cruise
Head to MOO, a vibrant market and activity hub by the Kushiro River. After shopping, embark on a sunset cruise on the Sea Crane for breathtaking views of the Kushiro sunset. Foggy weather may occasionally cancel the cruise, but it's worth checking out for a chance to see one of the world's most beautiful sunsets.

7 p.m. Dinner at Ganpeki Robata
Enjoy a unique dining experience at Ganpeki Robata, an outdoor seafood eatery by the river. Purchase food tickets from the initial vendor and sample fresh seafood from various stalls. Note that tickets are non-refundable, so buy only as many as you need.

9 p.m. Drinks in Suehiro
End your evening in Suehiro, Kushiro’s entertainment district. Visit Akachochin Yokocho or Daniel 2 for craft beers and lively atmospheres. For a more laid-back experience, check out Unity Bar or Hot Sauce for a late-night drink and conversation.

Day 2

10 a.m. Ramen Time
Kickstart your day with a bowl of Kushiro-style ramen at Maruhira Ramen. This local favorite serves thin noodles in a rich bonito-based broth. Afterward, visit the nearby lighthouse in Yonemachi Park for panoramic views and stop by Mon Coeur bakery for coffee and fresh bread.

11 a.m. Shitsugen Train (Winter-Summer)
Board the Norokko Train or Fuyu-no-Shitsugen Train from Kushiro Station to explore the wetlands. The Norokko Train offers open-air views of wildlife and landscapes, while the Fuyu-no-Shitsugen Train, with its steam locomotive, provides a cozy, enclosed ride with seafood snacks and hot sake.

Noon Kushiro Shitsugen
Admire the seasonal beauty of the Kushiro Wetlands, from lush greens in summer to snowy whites in winter. Visit Otowa Bridge for crane sightings, and explore the Hokuto and Kushiro Marsh Observatories for panoramic views and memorable sunsets.

4 p.m. Kushiro Washo Ichiba Fish Market
Indulge in fresh seafood at Washo Ichiba, Kushiro’s largest market. Create your own katte don by choosing from a variety of seafood vendors. Popular choices include botan shrimp and scallops, starting from ¥100.

8 p.m. Soul Food
Conclude your Kushiro adventure with some zangi, Hokkaido-style fried chicken. Visit Torimatsu or Toriyoshi for this local specialty, known for its flavorful seasoned batter. It’s the perfect comfort food to end your Hokkaido experience.

Kushiro, with its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and delicious food, offers a refreshing escape from city life. Enjoy its natural beauty and unique experiences as you explore this hidden gem of East Hokkaido.

Explore Kushiro: Your Ultimate 48-Hour Itinerary in East Hokkaido

Prepare to immerse yourself in the enchanting allure of Kushiro, East Hokkaido's captivating destination. This guide will help you make the most of your 48-hour visit to this mist-shrouded city, where stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural experiences await. From breathtaking natural wonders to delightful culinary discoveries, Kushiro offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.

Discover everything you need to know to craft an unforgettable 48-hour adventure in Kushiro. Dive into our detailed itinerary and plan your visit to explore this remarkable East Hokkaido destination's hidden gems and unique experiences.

Enjoy your exploration with the best insights from our travel experts. Contact us now or book with our team!

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