Eastern Hokkaido : Wetlands & Wildlife Adventure (3 Days)
3-DAY
DIFFICULTY
SNOW SEASON
3 Days 2 Nights
Min.2 , Max.8
Wildlife Observation
- HIGHTLIGHTS
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- Travel to the easternmost part of Japan and discover a paradise of waterfowl in the Notsuke Peninsula
- Search for rare birds in Shunkunitai, a treasure trove of diverse nature
- Connect with locals who protect the marshes and live in harmony with nature
OVERVIEW
Eastern Hokkaido is a region of untouched nature and a treasure trove filled with all kinds of birds. Wetlands, seas, lakes, and rivers… The diverse range of environments provide resting places to an amazing variety of birds from birds of prey to waterfowl and seabirds.
This three-day trip will allow you to fully observe this bird paradise. Notsuke Peninsula is a wetland registered under the Ramsar Convention where you can be treated to the graceful sight of seabirds and waterfowl. At Shunkunitai, encounters with a variety of birds await thanks to a diverse environment with grasslands, lakes, and forests. On the last day, you’ll go to the beautiful and precious Kiritappu Wetland, where you can watch the diverse wildlife of the marshes while strolling along the boardwalk. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a red-crowned crane, which is said to be a god of the wetlands.
During this trip, you can also enjoy rest and relaxation at a local hot spring inn with delicious meals made from locally sourced ingredients. Interacting with locals who are passionate about preserving the wetlands will make this journey an even more meaningful and unforgettable experience. So, why don’t you come to the easternmost part of Japan and have a breathtaking encounter with its wild birds?
ITINERARY
DAY 1
A journey to the East and a rising anticipation for birdwatching
After meeting up at Nakashibetsu Airport, you’ll visit Kaiyodai first, where you’ll get an overview of the area’s nature and topography to build excitement for your trip. Then, enjoy a leisurely meal of local delicacies for dinner at Yuyado Daiichi, an inn that boasts gorgeous hot springs. If you’re lucky, you might even spot the mysterious Blakiston’s fish owl at night.
DAY 2
Incredible encounters and a search for wild birds in various environments
In the morning, you’ll take a walk around Notsuke Peninsula, a marsh recognized by the Ramsar Convention, to observe a rich ecosystem of seabirds and waterfowl. Then, you’ll head to Shunkunitai in the afternoon for its diverse environment of grasslands, lakes, forests, and more. Have fun encountering a wide range of bird species while here. After dinner, you’ll have the valuable opportunity to hear directly from local people about their passion for the preservation of the Kiritappu Wetland.
DAY 3
Feeling at one with the birds and getting close to the mysteries of the marshes
On the last day, you’ll head out to the stunning Kiritappu Wetland. Strolling along the boardwalk, you’ll be able to observe the diverse wildlife that inhabit the marshes. Even more different species of birds can be encountered at the brackish lakes of Hichirippu and Mochirippu. After a delicious local lunch, you’ll be dropped off at Kushiro Airport, where your spectacular birdwatching tour will come to a close.
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- Eastern Hokkaido : Wetlands & Wildlife Adventure (3 Days)