Kushiro Marsh, the largest marshland in Japan, is located in Kushiro City. It was designated as a national park in 1987. The vastness of the area is unimaginable, as it is 25 km wide from east to west and 36 km wide from north to south. Where is the best place to view this pristine wilderness?

Let us introduce five of the many observation decks that we recommend.

1. Hosooka Observatory

(Photo by Kushiro Town)

Hosooka Observatory is located on the east side of Kushiro Marsh. The Kushiro River meanders through Kushiro Marshland, offering a sense of dynamism that is typical of Hokkaido's natural beauty. The parking lot is located right next to the observatory, which is another point we recommend.

For more information, please visit Domingo's spot page.
Hosooka Observatory & Visitors' Lounge

2. Yumekaoka Observatory

(Photo by Kushiro Town)

The Yumegaoka Observatory is located at the end of a mountain path from the parking lot of the Tatkobu auto campground. The 2.3-km mountain path is strenuous, but along the way, there are many sights to see, such as plant colonies and spring water, and it is sure to be a prelude to the wonderful scenery that awaits you at the end of the walk.

For more information, please visit Domingo's spot page.
Yumekaoka Observatory

3. Salvo Lookout and Sarlung Lookout

(Photo courtesy of Lake Tangji Eco Museum Center)

It takes about 20 minutes up the mountain road to reach the Salvo Lookout. This is the only place where you can see the collaboration of large and small lakes such as Lake Tangoro and the marshland.

For more information, please visit Domingo's spot page.
Salvo Lookout

(Photo courtesy of Shibecha Town)

A further 15-minute walk from there is the Sarurun Lookout. It has a better field of view than the Salvo Lookout, and four swamps can be seen.

For more information, please visit Domingo's spot page.
Sarlung Lookout

4. Kottaro Marshland Lookout

(Photo by Shibecha Town)

Kottaro Marsh is one of the most pristine areas of Kushiro Marsh and has been designated as a special protection area. From the parking lot, take the stairs up to the high ground. If you use binoculars, you can see wild birds such as blue herons, and if you are lucky, you may even spot a red-crowned crane.

For more information, please visit Domingo's spot page.
Kottaro Marshland Observation Deck

5. Kushiro Marshland Observation Deck

Kushiro Marshland Observation Deck has an appearance based on the motif of Yachibozu trees that grow in the marshland. From the rooftop, visitors can look out over the marshlands and the Kushiro city area. A 2.5-km promenade is provided around the observatory, making it possible for even small children to reach the satellite observatory without any difficulty. There is also a paid exhibition in the observatory facility, which is recommended for those who want to learn more about Kushiro Marsh.

Supported by
Kushiro Marshlands National Park Liaison Council Secretariat
Location: 7-5 Kurogane-cho, Kushiro City, Hokkaido (in Kushiro City Hall)
Tel: 0154-31-4594
Official website: https://www.kushiro-shitsugen-np.jp/