Kushiro Marshlands

The first marshland internationally sanctioned for habitat protection in Japan is the Kushiro Marshlands (釧路湿原, Kushiro Shitsugen) in 1987, when it was made into a national park. This marsh covers an area of 183 square kilometers making it the largest in Japan. One of the main features of these wetlands is birdwatching where the rare red-crowned crane is among the most favorites to see. This endangered species is unique to Japan and was once thought to have been extinct because of the destruction of the land and due to excess hunting of their kind. Now, the cranes can be seen in every season of the year in the marshlands where they reside. The view of the marshlands can be seen via hot air balloons, experienced through the bodies of water aboard canoes, or even travel on the paths that also go around the observatory in the vicinity. There are also observation centers in several locations for visitors to view the natural habitats, one of which is the Akan International Crane Center where photographers try to capture the birds in their natural states. Then at night the Japanese red crowned cranes roost by the Otowa Bridge, which is relatively safe, and uses the warmth supplied by the river.