The Kushiro Wetlands, Japan's largest wetland, is located in Kushiro City. It was designated a national park in 1987. Speaking of its vastness, it is 25km wide at its widest point from east to west and 36km wide at its widest point from north to south, which is an unimaginable scale. Where is the best place to view this untouched natural beauty? Of the many observation decks, we will introduce five that we recommend.

1. Hosooka Observatory

(Photo courtesy of Kushiro Town)

Hosooka Observatory is located on the east side of the Kushiro Marsh. The Kushiro River meanders through the marsh, and you can feel the dynamism of Hokkaido's natural beauty. Another recommended point is that there is a parking lot right next to it. ▼For more information, please see the Domingo spot page. Hosooka Observatory & Visitor's Lounge

2. Yumegaoka Observatory

(Photo courtesy of Kushiro Town)

Yumegaoka Observatory is located at the end of a mountain path from the parking lot of Takkobu Auto Campground. The 2.3km mountain path requires physical strength, but there are many things to see along the way, such as plant colonies and springs, which should be a prelude to the magnificent scenery that awaits you at the end. ▼For more information, please see the Domingo spot page. Yumegaoka Observatory

3. Sarubo Observatory and Sarurun Observatory

(Photo courtesy of Lake Toro Eco Museum Center)

It takes about 20 minutes to climb the mountain path to reach Sarubo Observatory. This is the only place where you can see the collaboration of large and small lakes, including Lake Toroko, and marshes. ▼For more information, please see the Domingo spot page. Salvo Observatory

(Photo courtesy of Shibecha Town)

From there, it's about a 15-minute walk to Sarurun Observatory, where you can get a better view than Sarubo Observatory and see the four marshes. ▼For more information, please see the Domingo spot page. Sarurun Observatory

4. Kottaro Marsh Observation Deck

(Photo courtesy of Shibecha Town)

Kottaro Marsh is the only part of the Kushiro Marsh that has retained its original appearance and is designated as a special protected area. From the parking lot, you can climb up the stairs to the higher ground. If you use binoculars, you can see wild birds such as grey herons, and if you're lucky, you might even spot a red-crowned crane. ▼For more information, please see the Domingo spot page. Kottaro Marsh Observation Deck

5. Kushiro Marsh Observatory

The Kushiro Marsh Observatory has an exterior based on the motif of the Yachibouzu plant that grows in clusters in the marshes. If you climb to the rooftop, you can see not only the marshes but also the Kushiro city area. There is a promenade around the observation deck that is about 2.5 km long, so even small children can easily get to the satellite observation deck. There are also exhibitions within the observation deck that require a fee, which is recommended for those who want to learn more about the Kushiro Marsh. Reporting cooperation Kushiro Marsh National Park Liaison Council Secretariat Location: 7-5 Kurogane-cho, Kushiro City, Hokkaido (inside Kushiro City Hall) Phone: 0154-31-4594 Official website: https://www.kushiro-shitsugen-np.jp/