Enjoy Unique Birdwatching Experience at Abashiri Quasi-National Park

The Steller's Sea Eagle, which breeds in Russia during the summer, can be seen only until around April.

Lakes get filled with various species of waterfowl. Migratory birds such as ducks and geese can be seen during the spring and fall.

Observing forest birds is recommended during the period from April to May!

This season is ideal for observing birds that prefer open spaces like grasslands. You can see birds breeding in the Wild flower gardens, abundant in the eastern part of Hokkaido.

Spring in this area is characterized by a slightly delayed start. For observing birds that prefer forests and woodlands, the best season is from April to May.
Fresh greenery usually begins to sprout around May. During this time, the sparse foliage in the forests makes it easier to spot birds, which is delightful. You can enjoy the beautiful songs of birds actively chirping for breeding purposes. The sight of lovely flowers adds to the experience, providing a soothing and refreshing effect!

As June begins, the forests become densely leafy, making it difficult to spot birds as easily. From June onwards, we recommend birdwatching in the wild flower gardens that will be introduced next.

A wild flower garden is a grassland area spreading across the sand dunes near the coast. From late May to early July, it's a spot where you can observe many grassland birds. With no tall trees around, birds often chirp from low bushes, making it an easily accessible spot for birdwatching even for beginners.
In June, the area bursts into bloom with Ezo Thunberg Lily and Ezo Day-lily flowers, creating a natural flower field. The Koshimizu Wild Flower Garden allows for a leisurely stroll, taking about an hour. With well-maintained walking paths and boardwalks, it offers a chance to enjoy both flowers and birdwatching simultaneously—a must-visit wild flower garden.

Adjacent to the Abashiri Quasi-National Park is Hokkaido's oldest national park, the Akan-Mashu National Park. It features Japan's largest caldera lake, Lake Kussharo, and Lake Mashu, known for its world-class transparency, and forests made up of natural woods. If you're interested in encountering birds breeding in higher elevations during the summer, we recommend exploring the mountains in this park.

In the Akan-Mashu National Park, you can find coveted mountains like Mount Mokoto, Mount Meakan, and further toward the Shiretoko National Park, mountains including the two of Japan’s 100 Famous Mountains, Mount Shari and Mount Rausu—which are cherished by mountain enthusiasts.
However, mountain climbing requires proper equipment and experience. Birdwatching, on the other hand, can be enjoyed at the entrance of climbing routes or pathways in campgrounds without ascending the mountains. In the Akan-Mashu National Park, you can reach the trailhead of Mount Mokoto at an altitude of 700 meters by car. Additionally, there are campgrounds and maintained pathways, making it accessible even for those without climbing experience!

Arrive at the Abashiri Quasi-National Park! On the first day, get an early night's rest to prepare for the birdwatching on the second day.

In the morning (8 am to 11 am), explore 2 to 3 locations for birdwatching, such as forest trails and wild flower gardens. Take a break for lunch and enjoy cycling in the afternoon (1 pm to 3 pm). You might unexpectedly encounter some birds during your cycling adventure!

In the morning (6 am to 8 am), engage in birdwatching on mountain trails. Head to a slightly higher elevation accessible by car. After a break and lunch, enjoy kayaking in the afternoon (1 pm to 3 pm). Birdwatching from the lake adds an exceptional touch to the experience!