Kushiro City is the gateway to eastern Hokkaido, home to Japan's largest wetland, the Kushiro Shitsugen. Take the Kushiro Shitsugen Norokko train across the marshes to spot red-crowned cranes, deer, and foxes. The sunset at Nusamai Bridge and the drift ice in winter are spectacular. Washo Market is one of Hokkaido's three major markets, where you can make your own kattedon (seafood rice bowl).
This is the birthplace of robatayaki, where fresh seafood and vegetables are grilled over charcoal, filling the air with irresistible aromas. In addition, the mysterious blue lake of Lake Mashū is not to be missed.