A trip to Kushiro Marshland on the SL Winter Marshland Train: A thorough explanation of the spectacular winter scenery, how to make reservations, and recommended tours.

*This article was created for travelers planning to visit Japan, but readers in Japan may also find it useful.

Kushiro Marsh is one of the treasure troves of flora and fauna in Japan. Among them, the animal that symbolizes the Kushiro Marsh is the "crane". It lives in the Kushiro Marsh all year round, but in winter it also appears in public and can be seen dancing in the snowfield. It is a rare wild bird that can only be seen in almost Hokkaido eastern parts of Japan, and is protected as a special natural monument of Japan.
You can often observe the flying large bird of prey "white-tailed eagle" with a wingspan of more than 2 meters, and a group of "Ezo deer" staring at you right next to the train, and you can enjoy encountering many animals.
Pay attention to the characteristic scenery created by rare plants. The "Yachibozu" community, which looks like a row of "wigs", is a humorous landscape formed by plants of the sedge family over decades, spread throughout the Kushiro Marsh. It is a unique scenery of the Kushiro Marsh, which can only be seen in limited climatic conditions.

In summer, wild animals hide in the abundant trees, but in winter, the Kushiro Marsh is considered the perfect season to spot animals because of the falling leaves and the silver world spreading out.

If you visit the Kushiro Marsh in winter, you should definitely take the sightseeing train "SL Winter Marsh".
It is a steam locomotive that runs between Kushiro Station ~ Shibecha Station on the JR Kushiami Main Line only in winter, and the contrast of the black body against the silver marsh shines.

A regular train takes about 50 minutes to travel, and the "SL Winter Marsh" takes about an hour and a half to run leisurely. Being able to enjoy a leisurely view of the Kushiro Marsh, which is rich in nature, is unique to sightseeing trains.
The interior of the car consists of 5 cars, and the interior is decorated with different designs depending on the passenger car, all of which have a retro and cute design using Hokkaido wood. Once you sit down in your seat, you will be greeted by the smell of burning coal and the warmth of steam, creating a space where you can feel nostalgic as if you have traveled back in time.

The "C11 type steam locomotive" running in the lead was manufactured in 1940. After being active in various places, it was scrapped once in 1975. After that, it underwent maintenance by volunteers, and in 2000 it was revived in Kushiro as the "SL Winter Marsh". As a symbol of winter Eastern Hokkaido tourism, many fans ride it every year.
As the company ages, JR Hokkaido staff continues to operate by performing daily maintenance, but in Jan. 2026, there was a failure of the piston part in the steam chamber, temporarily preventing SL from operating. It is one of the trains that you want to ride now, which is attracting attention to future trends.

The "SL Winter Marsh" can be boarded from JR Kushiro Station (JR Shibecha Station on the return trip).
From the nearest Tancho Kushiro Airport, it takes 45 minutes one way by shuttle bus to Kushiro Station. Check the SL timetable and arrive at Kushiro Station with plenty of time to spare.
It takes a lot of time to drive or train from the Sapporo area, and there is a risk of traffic jams due to snowstorms and icy roads in winter. If you want to access from the Sapporo area, you can take a flight from New Chitose Airport to Tancho Kushiro Airport.

For those traveling by rental car, there are many animal contact accidents on the mountain roads of Hokkaido. Contact with large animals such as deer can cause serious damage to the car, injure the driver and passengers, and may not be covered by rental car coverage. Check your insurance in advance.

In winter, Hokkaido often has a minimum temperature that reaches below freezing. Warm clothing is essential during the day, as the temperature is low and cold winds blow. When walking outside, take good measures to protect yourself from the cold. In addition, snow can accumulate in the city, so it is safe to have waterproof and water-repellent non-slip shoes.

● Thick coats and down jackets
● Scarf, gloves, knit hat
● Disposable hand warmers
● Thick socks
● Waterproof and water-repellent non-slip shoes

The "SL Winter Marsh" is a sightseeing train that runs only once a day between Kushiro and Shibecha, mainly on weekends and holidays from mid Jan. ~ mid-Mar. every year. All seats are reserved, so you need to purchase tickets in advance.

If you are traveling alone, you can reserve a seat in the following ways:
(1) Make a reservation at the station counter ("Green Window" located in the JR station premises)
(2) Online reservation at JR East's train reservation service "Ekinet"
*Reservations for both will start at 10 a.m. one month before the boarding date

It is difficult to make reservations because it is a popular sightseeing train, especially for flights departing on Saturdays and Sundays, and seats on the Kushiro River side with a good view may be sold out immediately after reservations start. Due to the limited number of operating days, there are few slots, and the difficulty of individual reservations is very high.
On the other hand, if it is a group tour of a travel agency, there is no need for troublesome reservation procedures because the group reservation slot is held in advance, so there is no need for troublesome reservation procedures. In addition to riding the "SL Winter Marsh", the set also guides you to observation decks and spectacular spots away from the station, so it is recommended for those who want to enjoy sightseeing in Kushiro efficiently and without any hassle.

Group tours offer peace of mind because your seating is reserved in advance. However, you cannot choose your seat. If you have a preferred carriage or seat, we recommend traveling independently and making your own arrangements.

Club Tourism, in collaboration with JR Hokkaido and JAL, we are carrying out a special charter project for the "SL Winter Wetland". There are many benefits that make you feel special, such as a commemorative ride certificate and gifts of local sweets. There are also announcements of highlights in the car, and you can learn more about the Kushiro Marsh.

If you are on a Club Tourism tour, in addition to riding the "SL Winter Marsh", you will also be guided to spots where you can feel the magnificent nature of Kushiro. We will take you to tourist spots in mountainous areas that are difficult to reach on your own, such as the "Lake Mashu" with its highly transparent blue lake surface and the active volcano "Sulfur Mountain" with its sulfur aroma. Lunch is also included, so you can enjoy the exquisite local gourmet food without waiting in line.

The great thing about tours is that all transportation and reservations are taken care of. All entrance fees are included, eliminating the need for individual payments or complicated procedures. Even those unfamiliar with the area, or those worried about communicating in Japanese or managing their time while traveling, can participate with peace of mind.
A tour guide will accompany you on the day of the tour, providing detailed explanations of the itinerary and highlights. You'll also have access to a supportive environment where you can easily ask for assistance if you encounter any problems. Furthermore, you can leave any souvenirs you purchase on the bus, allowing you to travel light during your sightseeing trip.

●People who want to enjoy sightseeing train travel
You can ride the sightseeing train that is unique to Japan.
Even if it is difficult to book a ride, we have secured a slot for the tour.
●People who want to go sightseeing without the hassle of travel and reservations
Transportation, meals, and sightseeing are all included, so you can rest assured even if you are in the area for the first time.
●People who want to enjoy the spectacular scenery of Japan unique to winter
The silver Kushiro Marsh and the snow-covered Lake Mashu are packed with charm unique to this season.
●People who are interested in wildlife and bird watching
There are many wildlife unique to Hokkaido, such as cranes and white-tailed eagles.

Hokkaido boasts magnificent nature. The disadvantage is that the land is large and there are tourist spots scattered around, making it difficult for individuals to visit. However, if you are on a tour, you will be able to efficiently guide you to popular attractions. You can enjoy a variety of spectacular views throughout the day, including the highlight "SL Winter Marsh" Club Tourism chartered ride, "Lake Mashu", which boasts one of the clearest in Japan, and sightseeing of the desolate volcano "Mt. Iwo".
This time, we will report on how we actually participated in the tour and provide detailed information such as the inside of the "SL Winter Marsh" and the scenery from the train windows.

[Tour name]
"Special Project Kushiro "SL Winter Wetland" Charter Operation and Drift Ice Cruise Winter Hokkaido 7 Views 2 Days"

【Itinerary(Day 2)】
●From Kushiro Station Club Tourism Take the chartered "SL Winter Marsh" on all lines
●Viewing Lake Mashu from "Kamui Terrace"
●Enjoy the powerful scenery at Mt. Iwo
●Disbanded at Memanbetsu Airport

This time, it was a special charter project of JR Hokkaido, JAL, and Club Tourism, and various events were prepared.
During the tour, we specially secured plenty of time to shoot the SL for about 30 minutes from the time the "SL Winter Marsh" arrived at the station to the time it departed. You can get close to the SL to the distance where you can directly expose yourself to the white smoke coming out of the chimney, and take pictures of the smoke rising. There was also a realistic production, such as the engineer blowing the whistle loudly.

You can also look into the power unit and engine room of the SL. Here, an assistant engineer also demonstrated how to use a shovel to scoop coal from a coal water truck and throw it into the firebox. The SL boils water with the heat of burning this coal and generates steam to move the wheels. Even today, with the advancement of mechanization, the SL can still be seen and felt by hand. This is an irresistible experience for railway lovers, and the anticipation for the train journey that is about to begin is high.

It was time to depart, and we were finally leaving.
The steam locomotive leisurely travels approximately 60km to its final destination, Shibecha Station, emitting white smoke as it goes.

Contrary to the dignified exterior of the SL, the interior is decorated with cute decorations that incorporate motifs of cranes and Ezo deer that live in the Kushiro Marsh. The tables are made of Hokkaido wood "Tamo wood", making it a relaxing space with a warm feeling.

"SL Winter Marsh" is a 5-car train. Cars No. 1 and No. 5 are nicknamed "Tancho Cars", Cars No. 2 are called "Cafe Cars", and cars No. 3 and 4 are nicknamed "Stove Cars", each with different characteristics.

Cars No. 1 and 5 have counter seats overlooking the Kushiro River side, which are popular every year and difficult to reserve, but you can enjoy a wonderful view.
[Car No. 2] There is an in-car sales counter where you can purchase alcohol, snacks, and original goods such as "SL Winter Marsh".
[Cars 2, 3, and 4] are equipped with a Dharma stove. Like the SL, it is a coal-fueled stove and the surroundings are very warm. You can also grill and eat dried food such as sushi with the net at the top. Dry goods can be purchased at the convenience store at Kushiro Station and at the in-car sales counter in car No. 2. Being able to leisurely watch the snacks being baked is also a real pleasure unique to the "SL Winter Marsh".

[Other Facilities
・Except for the counter seats, there are box seats. There is a table in the center, so it's perfect for enjoying alcohol and snacks purchased on the train.
・Free Wi-Fi is available on the bus, and there is also a dedicated mobile charging space in cars 1 and 5.

The "SL Winter Marshland Train" is a train that traverses the Kushiro Marshland, Japan's largest marshland.
During your ride, you have a high chance of encountering wild animals such as Japanese cranes, Steller's sea eagles, and Hokkaido deer. While it can be difficult to spot animals in the vast natural landscape, the crew will announce their locations via onboard announcements, such as "There are Japanese cranes on the right side in the direction of travel," so you can relax and enjoy the ride. If you're lucky, you might even see a Japanese crane in flight. The sight of them with their wings spread is incredibly beautiful and sure to captivate your attention.

A 15-minute walk from Kushiro Station, the "Bimai Bridge" spans the lower reaches of the Kushiro River and is a beautiful European-style bridge. On the railing of the bridge are four bronze statues Image "spring, summer, autumn, and winter". At dusk, the silhouette of the bridge against the background of the sunset is so beautiful that it is called the "world's three major sunsets" along with Bali in Indonesia and Manila Bay in the Philippines.
The night view of Kushiro, which is as beautiful as the sunset, is not to be missed. It is lit up every day after sunset, and from the observation deck on the 10th floor of the Kushiro City Lifelong Learning Center Manabotto Bimai, which is located nearby, you can enjoy a romantic view overlooking the Bimai Bridge and the city of Kushiro City.

A short walk from Kushiro, "Lake Mashu" in Teshikaga Town is one of the most transparent caldera lakes in the world. It is characterized by a deep blue color, also known as "Mashu blue", and shines even more beautifully on sunny days. Due to its mysterious beauty, it is also called the "Lake of God (Kamuito)" in the Ainu language and has been revered by people since ancient times.
At the Lake Mashu-side rest house "Lake Mashu Kamui Terrace", you can enjoy the Lake Mashu from various angles. There is also a souvenir corner and shop, and the soft serve ice cream "Mashu Blue Soft" is especially popular, which Image the blue color of the Lake Mashu lake.
Around Lake Mashu, you can also see herds of Ezo deer. It is a spot where you can take a break while admiring the magnificent scenery and wildlife of nature.

If you want to experience magnificent nature, be sure to check out "Iwozan" (Sulfur Mountain), also located in Teshikaga town.
As its name suggests, it was once an active volcano where sulfur was mined. Even though the mine has closed, smoke still rises from the mountainside, and the smell of sulfur hangs in the air.
You can get very close to the roaring fumaroles, making this a truly impressive spot.
At "Iwozan MOKMOK Base," located at the foot of Mt. Iwo, you'll find exhibits showcasing the history of Mt. Iwo, as well as souvenirs, drinks, and sweets for sale. They offer photogenic gourmet items such as their signature "Kawayu Onsen Steamed Eggs" and the yellow "Iwozan MOKMOK Cider," which is inspired by sulfur, so why not take some pictures with Mt. Iwo in the background?

Washo Market is a must-visit when you come to the port town of Kushiro. Located about a 5-minute walk from Kushiro Station, this large market is known as "Kushiro's kitchen," with approximately 50 shops, mainly selling seafood. Many of the ingredients are caught in Kushiro, and the market prides itself on the freshness of its products.
The most popular item here is the "Katte-don," a seafood rice bowl where you can choose your own toppings. You buy rice at a deli in the market, then select and purchase the seafood you want to put on top at a fish shop. The staff will then assemble it for you, and your "Katte-don" is complete. Sashimi is sold by the slice, so you can add as much of your favorite toppings as you like. Be sure to create your own original "Katte-don"!

Kushiro's representative food culture "robatayaki". A dish of fresh seafood grilled over charcoal. From shops where skilled staff grill to shops where you can experience grilling yourself, there are many robatayaki restaurants in Kushiro City. In addition to carrying fresh ingredients at all stores, many stores offer local sake from Hokkaido Kushiro. Why not spend a moment slowly drinking sake while enjoying a warm robatayaki with your tongue?

Hokkaido Among gourmet foods, the "Mashu Pork Bowl" is a gem that only those in the know know. You can eat it around Teshikaga Town, where Lake Mashu is located. The seasoning varies depending on the restaurant, but the most popular is the Mashu pork bowl at "Meal and Cafe poppotei" in front of JR Mashu Station. The loin is grilled over charcoal and mixed with a sweet and spicy sauce, and the aroma of charcoal-grilled meat and the coarsely ground pepper on the surface whet your appetite. The tender and easy-to-chew meaty loin has a strong seasoning, so the rice goes well.

Related tour examples
・Tour to board the "SL Winter Marsh"
・ Tour to see the spectacular winter scenery of Hokkaido
・Tours to observe wild birds and wildlife

Questions regarding meeting and departure
Q: After making a reservation, how can I confirm the meeting place and time?
A: After booking, you can check your "meeting place," "meeting time," and "emergency contact information" on your My Page. You can also view your "travel itinerary" online before departure.

About luggage
Q: Can I bring my suitcase to participate?
A: If you are traveling by bus, we have space for luggage, so you can bring your suitcase. However, please limit yourself to two large suitcases per person.

Language support
Q: Can I participate even if I don't speak Japanese?
A: Yes, you can. The tour is operated in Japanese, but important information is available in English and Chinese (Traditional) using AI translation equipment and written information. Tour conductors and drivers also use translation apps, so there is no need to worry about the language.

About payment
Q: What is the payment method? What is the currency?
A: Payment is made online in Japanese yen (credit card). The exchange rate is subject to the rules of the credit card company. Instant payment is required at the time of booking.

About local support
Q: Do you have physical stores in Taiwan or overseas?
A: In Taiwan, KNT Taiwan is the sole distributor of Club Tourism. For on-site consultations, please contact KNT Taiwan.

Passengers in Taiwan, please contact "Taiwan General Agent, Taiwan Kansai International Travel Agency" to register.
Online Registration https://www.knt-taiwan.com/contact.php
Call to register 02-87717551 (Mon~Fri 09:15~18:00 (excluding holidays))
Email info@knt-taiwan.com

The "SL Winter Marsh" slowly moves through the silver Kushiro Marsh, cranes dancing in the snowy field, Lake Mashu shining in the clear air, and the magnificent scenery of Mt. Iwo ....... Kushiro in winter has a special landscape that can only be encountered during this season. In addition, you can enjoy seasonal gourmet food such as seafood bowls and robatayaki, and it is an area packed with highlights. In search of spectacular views and memorable moments that you have not yet seen, why not take a trip to Kushiro in winter?