Kushiro Travel Guide

Explore Kushiro, Japan like a pro with our comprehensive travel guide to natural and cultural attractions, outdoor activities, food, accommodations, and transportation options.


Introduction to Kushiro

Kushiro is a city located in Japan’s Eastern Circuit, in the Hokkaido region. This bustling city is known for its vast swamps, untouched wildlife, and diverse culture. With its unique blend of natural and cultural attractions, there’s never a dull moment in Kushiro. Join us as we explore the best places to visit, outdoor activities to try, food to indulge in, accommodations to stay in, and nearby destinations to explore.

List of Places to Visit in Kushiro

Kushiro is home to diverse attractions that cater to every age group and interest. Here are the top places to visit in Kushiro:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Kushiro City Museum: This museum exhibits Kushiro’s rich history and culture, from the indigenous Ainu people to the development of the city.
  • Kushiro Art Museum: This museum showcases local and international art exhibitions, including contemporary and historical works.
  • Kushiro Harbor Market: This market is a great place to shop for local produce, seafood, and handmade crafts while experiencing the culture of the city.

Natural Attractions of Kushiro: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Kushiro Shitsugen National Park: This vast wetland is a protected area and home to many wildlife species such as the Japanese crane, white-tailed eagles, and red foxes.
  • Lake Akan: This caldera lake is surrounded by volcanic mountains and is famous for its clear blue waters and hot springs.
  • Nusamai Bridge: This historic bridge offers a scenic view of Kushiro City at sunset.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kushiro

Kushiro is a popular destination for hiking and cycling enthusiasts. Here are the top routes to explore:

  • Kushiro Shitsugen Ropeway Trail: This trail starts at Lake Harutori and offers stunning views of the Kushiro Shitsugen National Park.
  • Kushiro River Cycling Road: This 13-km stretch of road runs along the Kushiro River and offers a relaxing cycling experience with scenic views.
  • Mashu-Maemori Hill Trail: This trail takes you through a forest of birch trees and offers panoramic views of Lake Mashu.

Best Things to Do in Kushiro: Activities and Tours

  • Canoeing/Kayaking: Experience the beauty of Kushiro’s wetlands up close with a canoe or kayak tour.
  • Winter Activities: Explore the snowy landscape of Kushiro through activities such as snowshoeing, ice fishing, and skiing.
  • Cultural Experiences: Participate in traditional tea ceremonies, learn about the Ainu culture, and attend local festivals and events.

Week-Long Itinerary for Kushiro

Day 1: Arrive and visit Kushiro City Museum, Kushiro Art Museum, and Kushiro Harbor Market.

Day 2: Explore the Kushiro Shitsugen National Park and visit the Otowa Bridge and Numaura Viewpoint.

Day 3: Cycle along the Kushiro River Cycling Road and visit the Nusamai Bridge at sunset.

Day 4: Visit Lake Akan and experience the hot springs and Ainu culture.

Day 5: Hike the Mashu-Maemori Hill Trail and enjoy panoramic views of Lake Mashu.

Day 6: Participate in winter activities such as snowshoeing, ice fishing or skiing.

Day 7: Attend a local festival or event or take a cultural tour to learn about the Ainu culture.

Food and Drink Scene of Kushiro

Must-Try Dishes

  • Katte Don: A bowl of rice topped with various seafood, from crab to squid.
  • Ramencolons: This unique dish mixes ramen noodles and scallops.
  • Hamo Dish: Grilled and salted Japanese pike conger, a local delicacy.

Local Beverages

  • Sake: Known for their sake breweries, Kushiro produces local sake from rice grown in the Hokkaido region.
  • Coffee: Kushiro is famous for its rich and flavorful coffee, with many cafes around the city.

Where to Stay in Kushiro: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Kushiro offers a variety of accommodations options for every traveler’s needs and budgets. From luxury hotels to cozy guest houses, every option is located conveniently in the city.

  • La Vista Kushirogawa: A luxurious hotel with a view of the Kushiro River.
  • Kushiro Century Castle Hotel: A four-star hotel located in the heart of Kushiro.
  • Kushiro Guest House: A budget-friendly guest house with both dormitory-style and private rooms.

What to Buy in Kushiro: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Kushiro-fu Traditional Crafts: From pottery to calligraphy, Kushiro-fu is the local crafts association that sells traditional Japanese handicrafts.
  • Japanese Sake: Made with rice grown in Hokkaido, local sake is a great souvenir to bring home.
  • Seafood: Kushiro produces some of the best seafood in Japan, with crab, squid, and fish being popular choices.

Local Culture and Customs of Kushiro

Kushiro is unique for its Ainu indigenous culture and Japanese traditions. Visitors are expected to respect the cultural differences and observe local customs, such as removing shoes when entering homes and temples.

Best Time to Visit Kushiro

Kushiro is beautiful year-round, with each season offering unique experiences. Winters are snowy and cold, while summers are warm and humid. Spring and autumn offer milder weather, with cherry blossoms blooming in spring and colorful foliage in fall.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kushiro

Do:

  • Respect cultural differences and observe local customs.
  • Try local foods and drinks.
  • Experience traditional tea ceremonies and festivals.
  • Explore the natural beauty of the Kushiro Shitsugen National Park and Lake Akan.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect the Ainu culture or Japanese traditions.
  • Litter or damage natural or cultural attractions.
  • Ignore safety regulations when participating in outdoor activities.

Safety and Health

Safety in Kushiro

Kushiro is a safe city with a low crime rate. However, visitors should still take standard safety precautions, such as not leaving valuables unattended and being wary of pickpockets in crowded areas.

Health in Kushiro

Kushiro has good medical facilities and quality healthcare. Visitors are advised to take caution against mosquito bites in the summer season and to prepare for the cold weather during winter months.

Getting to Kushiro: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Kushiro

  • Kushiro Airport: Located just outside the city, Kushiro Airport offers domestic flights to and from Tokyo and Sapporo.

Bus Stations Near Kushiro

  • Kushiro Bus Terminal: Located centrally in the city, it offers bus services to various destinations around the Hokkaido region.

Other Options

  • Train Services: Kushiro is connected to major destinations in Hokkaido through train services, with JR Kushiro Station as the main hub.
  • Car Rentals: Visitors can rent a car to explore Kushiro and the surrounding areas on their own.

How to Get Around in Kushiro

Kushiro offers various transportation options, including buses, taxis, and rental bicycles, to explore the city and nearby areas.

Where to Go Next from Kushiro: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Obihiro: Known for its dairy and agricultural products, Obihiro is a must-visit destination for foodies and nature lovers.
  • Asahikawa: Famous for its zoo, Asahikawa also offers winter sports and outdoor adventures such as hiking and fishing.
  • Sapporo: The largest city in Hokkaido, Sapporo is famous for its beer, food, and cultural attractions.

Conclusion

Kushiro is a unique destination that offers the best of natural and cultural attractions, outdoor activities, food, and accommodations. With its rich history and traditions, visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture and experience something new. Plan your trip to Kushiro now and let us know your favorite spots in the comments below!

The Ekimai bus terminal The Ekimai bus terminal Tiger at the Kushiro Zoo Tiger at the Kushiro Zoo