Hickory Wind
A lodge-and-guide operation in Tsurui that offers guided canoe experiences as part of its nature-guiding menu, positioned as calm-water paddling suitable for a wide range of travelers.
Canoeing & Kayaking
Paddle through the tranquil waters of Lake Akan, surrounded by ancient forests and the towering peaks of Mt. Oakan and Mt. Meakan. Guided canoe tours operate from May to October, allowing guests to relax and enjoy the scenery while experienced guides handle the paddling.
As you glide across the lake, you might spot white-tailed eagles circling overhead or find bear claw marks etched into tree trunks near the shoreline. Seasonal flowers like skunk cabbage and rhododendrons brighten the lakeside forest with bursts of color.
Available: May to October
Duration: approx. 2 hrs Distance: approx. 2 km
Akan Nature Center: http://www.akan.co.jp/canoe.html
A canoeing trip down the headwaters of the Kushiro River—flowing out of Lake Kussharo—is a serene way to immerse yourself in Hokkaido’s pristine nature. The calm current and crystal-clear waters make this a relaxing experience, suitable for all skill levels. Paddling through primeval forests and wetlands, you’ll witness seasonal changes: fresh snowmelt and young greenery in spring, vibrant foliage in fall, and even snow-covered trees in winter if operated year-round.
Wildlife sightings are also possible, including Ezo deer, red foxes, and the black woodpecker.
Canoeing along the Kushiro River is one of the most immersive ways to experience the untouched nature of the Kushiro Wetland. Much of the area is protected and off-limits to casual visitors, making canoeing a rare opportunity to enter the heart of this pristine ecosystem.
You’ll quietly drift along calm waters, guided by the gentle current, with views of wetlands stretching in every direction. Tours are available year-round, and each season offers a different landscape—from early morning mist in summer to frost-covered forests in winter. Wildlife sightings are common: red-crowned cranes, Ezo deer, and even white-tailed eagles may appear along the way.
Operators:
Grace Field: https://gracefield946.com/
Touro Nature Center: https://www.dotoinfo.com/naturecenter/
One of the best ways to experience Kiritappu Wetland is by canoeing along the Biwase River, which gently winds through this protected ecosystem. Most tours cover about 3–4 km and take 1.5 to 2 hours, offering a quiet, immersive journey into the heart of the wetland.
As you paddle past tall reeds and open marshes, you may spot Japanese cranes, white-tailed eagles, or sika deer along the riverbanks. Early morning tours, with mist rising from the water, offer a serene and dreamlike atmosphere, while sunset paddles showcase the wetlands bathed in golden light.
Operators:
LandEdge – https://www.land-edge.com/
Kiritappu Wetland Center – https://www.kiritappu.or.jp/center/en/
Explore the calm waters of Lake Abashiri on a guided kayak tour with Connectrip. As you paddle, your guide will help you spot seasonal birds and wildlife—white-tailed eagles are sometimes seen. The experience isn’t limited to water: you’ll also make short landings in protected areas and take walks along forested boardwalks.
Operator: Connectrip
Website: https://connectrip-okhotsk.com/
Destinations
Things to Do
Plan Your Trip
