2026/9/14
The Kushiro Marshlands is the largest marshland in Japan, located in the vast land of Hokkaido. It is home to the natural monument, the red-crowned crane. There lies the Norokko Express, a diesel fueled scenic train.
The train departs from Kushiro Station, stops at several scenic stations, then arrives at Toro Station / Kawayu Onsen Station.
Kushiro Shitsugen (Marshland) station
The train consists of regular windowed cars and panoramic cars. The photograph below is the interior of the panoramic car where you can enjoy the views the most. You can order snacks and souvenirs like stickers in one of the cars. The items sold can vary due to availablity.
Interior of Norokko Express
There are a lot of observatories, hilltops, museums, outdoor activities in the region. At Kushiro Shitsugen Station, you can climb a short trail to go to the Hosooka Observatory and a nearby lodge, Hosooka Visitors Lounge, where you can rest in front of a fireplace. In the summer, you can order the famous grape soft-served ice cream.
Toro Station
Near Toro Station, you can walk and hike to the Toro Sarurun Observatory and view both the rail track and the marshland. Nitay To Shibecha Museum, a rich museum on local history and culture is nearby. Just be careful that there aren’t many places to eat around Toro. Make sure to bring your own lunch with you.
View from Toro Sarurun Observatory
Inside the forest to the observatory
There are various animals here including the red crane, deer and birds. You would be very lucky if you witness cranes!
Gray heron
Unfortunately the current Norokko Express faces its last run in October 2026 after 37 years of operation, mainly due to maintenance difficulty. However, its is still very worth it to travel along this train line using the local train. Just make sure you bring a jacket with you.
-Links-
[EN] Kushiro tourism – SUPER FANTASTIC Kushiro Lake Akan: https://en.kushiro-lakeakan.com/things_to_do/todo_category/spot-en/
[JP] Hosooka Visitor’s Lounge – Kushiro Marshland Office: https://www.kushiro-shitsugen-np.jp/kansatu/hosooka/
[JP] Nitay To Shibecha Museum – Shibecha Museum: https://www.sip.or.jp/~shibecha-museum/