Paddle the secret headwaters of the Kushiro River on a guided 2-day canoe trip through Akan–Mashu National Park. Expect close-up bird encounters, a starlit session at Lake Mashu, and quiet mornings on Lake Kussharo.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
A single paddle stroke breaks the mirror of the headwaters and the Kushiro River unfurls like a slow-moving ribbon, daring you to follow. In the late afternoon light you glide between sedge and alder, the canoe a quiet platform for birds that regard you with curious indifference. Night brings a clear, cold vault of stars over Lake Mashu; mornings return with the soft clack of beaks and the mist lifting off Lake Kussharo.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
1–2 days
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers with basic stamina; expect several hours seated paddling plus short guided walks at dawn and dusk
Wildlife
History
Akan–Mashu National Park preserves volcanic calderas and wetlands; the Ainu people have historical connections to the lakes and seasonal hunting and fishing grounds.
Conservation
Tours operate under park regulations to limit disturbance in sensitive wetlands; follow guide instructions and avoid off-trail movement to protect nesting and peatland habitats.
Reserve your spot on the 2-Days 1-Night Birdwatching Canoe in Akan–Mashu National Park today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring binoculars with a low-light objective
Birdwatching at dawn and dusk benefits from high-quality optics to identify species in shaded wetlands.
Dress in warm layers and waterproofs
Even summer evenings can turn cold near the lakes; a shell and insulating mid-layer keep you comfortable during night stargazing.
Protect your gear from spray
Use dry bags for cameras and electronics—short paddles can still produce unexpected splashes.
Move quietly in the canoe
Minimize sudden movements and conversation to increase sightings of skittish waterfowl and passerines.
Waterproof shell jacket
Protects from lake spray and sudden rain during paddling and evening sessions.
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Binoculars (8x–10x)
Essential for identifying birds across reeds and open water.
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Insulating mid-layer
Even in summer, late-evening and early-morning temps can be chilly—a warm layer helps for stargazing.
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Dry bag (10–20L)
Keeps camera, phone, and extra clothing dry during canoe stretches.
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