Enjoying the innumerable wonders of wild birds in the forests, the lakes and the port

Lake Furen is located at the base of the Nemuro Peninsula. Various types of seaweed and marine plants grow in the lake, so many birds come to feed on this abundant food source. Red-crowned cranes breed at the lake in the summer, Steller’s sea eagles use it as a wintering ground, and various migratory birds visit in spring and fall. The wide-open expanse makes it easy to observe birds, and the nearby roadside rest area, Michi-no-Eki Swan 44 Nemuro, offers a panoramic view of the scenery. There are also seasonal activities, such as canoeing in summer and fixed-net ice fishing in winter, where you can encounter wild birds while immersed in the natural environment.

Shunkunitai is a long, narrow island made of sand that lies between Nemuro Bay and Lake Furen. Here you’ll find a variety of natural environments typical to Hokkaido—forests, grasslands, wetlands and seashore—all in the same area. It’s also home to the largest variety of wild birds in Nemuro, especially in the warmer months. The precious natural environment here, which is designated as a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance along with Lake Furen, is also known as a paradise for wild birds. Five nature observation trails have been set up on the island, allowing visitors to take in the mostly untouched nature and rich diversity of wildlife that live here.

Starting from the Ochiishi Fishing Port, you can make a circuit around Nemuro Peninsula, visiting Hanasaki Port, Habomai Fishing Port, Cape Nosappu, Onnemoto Fishing Port, Tosamuporo Fishing Port and Nemuro Port. As you tour around the ports, you’ll see seabirds, especially ducks such as the long-tailed duck and the harlequin duck, coming into the harbor, against a backdrop of classic fishing village scenery including boats and lighthouses. If you’re lucky, you might even spot seals and sea otters.
You can tour the area in half a day or take a drive for a full day with plenty of stops along the way.

A “hide” is a hut for observing wild birds. This kind of building was invented in England, where birdwatching is popular, and is widely used in Europe. Not only does it allow you to shelter from the elements and take your time birdwatching, but you can also see birds at a surprisingly close distance because they’re not aware of your presence. There are currently seven hides in Nemuro City: Tobai Hide, Citizen’s Forest Hide, Meiji Park Hide, Onnemoto Hide, Cape Nosappu Hide, Hanasaki Port Kurumaishi Hide and Bettoga Spring Hide. From each you can see different wild birds.

The Nemuro Bird Land Festival started in 2008 and is held every winter. The festival features guided birdwatching tours that began in 2014, a wild bird and nature-themed marché (market), photo and illustration exhibits, workshops, and other events that allow you to experience the wonders of wild birds from a variety of angles. There are also various kinds of tours that’ll take you around Nemuro’s must-visit spots, such as Lake Furen and the capes. From tours with local guides to slow paced tours that small groups can enjoy, you’re bound to find something that piques your interest.
This event is held as a way to encourage people to visit Nemuro in winter. It’s great fun even for those who are new to Nemuro and birdwatching.