Every winter, the wetlands around Kushiro become the stage for one of Japan's most iconic wildlife spectacles as hundreds of endangered tancho (red-crowned cranes) congregate at traditional feeding stations such as Tsurui-Ito Tancho Sanctuary and Akan International Crane Centre. Against a backdrop of snow-covered marshland, these elegant birds perform elaborate courtship dances and fill the crisp air with haunting calls. The tancho is a national symbol of Japan and long-lived pairs are celebrated in Japanese art and culture. Guided birdwatching tours and photography workshops are available for visitors.
- Type
- Experience
- Category
- Nature
- Season
- Winter
- Month
- December–February
- Region
- Hokkaido
- Prefecture
- Hokkaido
- City
- Kushiro
Highlights
- ◆Up to 700 tancho cranes visible at peak season feeding grounds
- ◆Spectacular courtship dancing displays
- ◆Tsurui-Ito Tancho Sanctuary observation facilities
- ◆Photography workshops led by specialist guides
- ◆UNESCO-listed Kushiro Shitsugen wetland backdrop