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Summer Fun on the Kushiro Shitsugen Train: Head to Eastern Hokkaido’s Natural Paradise

Published: 2026-09-25 👁 100 views
Last updated 2026-09-25 — Kushiro is a major city in Eastern Hokkaido and a haven for wildlife, including the red-crowned crane—a specially designated natural monument—and several other rare species—making it an ideal outdoor classroom for observing nature. Summer is the best time to explore Kushiro...

Kushiro is a major city in Eastern Hokkaido and a haven for wildlife, including the red-crowned crane—a specially designated natural monument—and several other rare species—making it an ideal outdoor classroom for observing nature. The best time to visit Kushiro in summer is from June to September, and taking the Kushiro Shitsugen Train is the easiest and most enjoyable way to explore the wetlands.


The Kushiro Shitsugen Mini Train

To soak in the lush green, picturesque scenery, many travelers choose to visit Japan’s largest wetland—the Kushiro Shitsugen. From June to September this year, JR Hokkaido operates the special “Kushiro Shitsugen Norokko Slow Train,” running from Kushiro to Toyokoro at an average speed of 30 km/h. Along the way, conductors provide commentary on the surrounding ecosystem, allowing passengers to enjoy the finest views of the wetland.

The “Kushiro Shitsugen Norokko Slow Train” prioritizes panoramic views, featuring large open windows. Whenever you want to breathe in the fresh wetland air, just open the window. The summer service runs daily from now until September 13 and from September 17 to September 30. Children pay half fare, and an extra 300 yen gets you a reserved seat.


Kushiro: A Wildlife Paradise

Additionally, JR Hokkaido offers a special sightseeing bus route called the “Twinkle Bus Eastern Hokkaido,” connecting train stations with various natural attractions in the region for flexible travel planning. This summer, there are four routes: two heading north from Lake Akan to Shiretoko Utatsu Onsen, and two going south from Shiretoko Utatsu Onsen to Lake Akan. Bus tickets can be purchased at JR Hokkaido station ticket offices (midori-no-madoguchi) or tourist centers (Twinkle Plaza). Reservations must be made at least three days before the travel date, and you must present your JR ticket.


Exploring Kushiro in Hokkaido


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Read more: Kushiro City Red-Crowned Crane Natural Park (Provided by Tripass Attractions)

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