J-Trip Plan

Hokkaido: Ride the Expansive Marshes & Fly High in a Balloon

Sandwiched between expansive wetlands and the Pacific Ocean, Kushiro in eastern Hokkaido frequently slides into a dream-world of fog. Its northern border is Japan's largest wetland - the Kushiro Marsh. Our reporter scouts this protected wilderness, encountering diverse wildlife and natural scenery from observatories, raised walkways, horseback and a canoe. Then another Hokkaido local takes to the sky above Furano in a hot air balloon to share a glimpse of Hokkaido's majestic scenery from the air.