Guida
The Kushiro Wetland Observatory is a premier facility offering spectacular views of the Kushiro Wetland, the largest wetland in Japan. The building is designed to provide a multi-dimensional experience of the area's ecosystem. The 1st floor features a shop and restaurant, while the 2nd floor houses an exhibition zone recreating the local flora and fauna. The 3rd floor and the rooftop offer breathtaking panoramic observation decks, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the vastness of the landscape. It serves as an essential hub for learning about the unique natural environment of the region.
The Kushiro Wetland is a precious natural environment recognized as one of Japan's largest wetlands. This observatory was established to help visitors visually grasp and understand the scale of this immense nature. The exhibits reflect the specific ecosystem of the area, playing a vital role in highlighting the importance of environmental conservation through displays of local species, most notably the legendary giant fish known as the Sakhalin taimen (Ito).
The facility is organized by floors, each offering a unique experience. The 1st floor provides free entry to the shop and restaurant areas. On the 2nd floor, the exhibition area recreates the wetland environment with detailed displays of local wildlife, including the Sakhalin taimen. The 3rd-floor observation room and the rooftop provide an unobstructed view of the sprawling wetlands, the city of Kushiro, and the majestic Akan mountain range. Additionally, a satellite observation deck is located along the approximately 2.5km walking trail, offering a different perspective of the natural scenery.
The landscape of the wetland undergoes dramatic changes throughout the seasons. Visitors can witness the abundant waters in spring, lush green vegetation in summer, vibrant autumn colors, and a serene white world of snow in winter. For the best experience, visiting during bright daylight hours is recommended, as the panoramic views from the 3rd floor are exceptionally clear, making it easy to grasp the true scale of the wetland. We recommend planning your visit according to the specific seasonal beauty you wish to observe.
Inside the facility, you can learn about the local ecosystem through detailed exhibits. The 2nd-floor exhibition area allows you to see recreations of precious species like the Sakhalin taimen. Beyond the building, you can connect with nature by walking along the surrounding trails. The route leading to the satellite observation deck (approximately 1km clockwise loop) is designed to be barrier-free, ensuring accessibility for all visitors.
The observatory is surrounded by the breathtaking scenery of the Kushiro-shitsugen National Park. Nearby areas offer spots for birdwatching (such as the Red-crowned Crane) and various nature trails. The location also serves as a great base for exploring the wider region, including easy access to Kushiro city and the Lake Akan area.
Payments at the facility can be made via cash or credit card. We recommend confirming specific details upon arrival.
Please check on-site for the availability of English signage or guided information.
No advance reservations are required to enter the facility. When using the walking trails or the rooftop, please wear comfortable walking shoes and bring clothing suitable for changing weather and temperatures. Note: Due to rooftop painting work, access to the rooftop will be restricted from May 11, 2026, to June 26, 2026. During this period, only the 3rd-floor observation room will be accessible.