Kushiro City Red-Crowned Crane Natural Park (Kushiro Japanese Crane Reserve)

Doors flew open in 1958 at this esteemed park founded to protect and increase the population of red-crowned cranes, a designated Special Natural Monument of Japan. Once on the brink of extinction, the reserve successfully implemented artificial hatching and advanced breeding techniques that saved the species.

The cranes are introduced in open, natural-style enclosures, allowing visitors to observe pairs of cranes living in close-to-natural conditions. You can watch the daily lives of about a dozen cranes up close. From May to June, during the hatching season, you may even spot fluffy, brown-feathered chicks. Seeing cranes raising their young is a rare and special treat.

Make your way through the park to find indoor exhibits with photo panels that detail the fascinating world of red-crowned cranes, plus a gift shop offering crane-themed souvenirs. There’s even a cozy area with windows overlooking the cranes, making it a relaxing spot to enjoy the view.

Interestingly, cranes born at the reserve and now living in the wild occasionally return to visit. These cranes are accustomed to people and won’t flee, but they may peck if approached too closely. If you encounter one, it’s best to observe respectfully from a distance.