Spots & Experiences
Shunkunitai
Shunkunitai is a long, narrow island that stretches for 8 km and is 1.3 km at its widest point. It’s located between Nemuro Bay and Lake Furen. Since the island is surrounded by sea, lakes and tidal flats, you can find various natural environments, including coastal grasslands, wetlands, and forests all in one place. It’s a treasure trove of Nemuro’s distinctive nature, where more than several hundred wild birds can be observed. The island’s name comes from the Ainu word, shunku-nitai (Ezo spruce forest), and is one of only two places in the world where you can see a pure forest of native Sakhalin spruce growing on a sand dune.
*The content of the article is information as of 2023.
Wild Bird Paradise
Around 250 bird species have been recorded in Shunkunitai Wild Bird Sanctuary, 90% of which are migratory birds. The park is known as one of Japan’s leading bird paradises, where the red-crowned crane (designated Special Natural Monument) and the white-tailed eagle (designated Natural Monument) breed.
Diverse Vegetation
Shunkunitai is said to embody the essence of Hokkaido’s nature and has seven natural environments: hardwood forests, coniferous forests, grasslands, wetlands, lakes and rivers, tidal flats and salt marshes. This rich variety of natural environments has resulted in diverse vegetation, with around 280 plant species recorded in the past.
Nature Observation Trail
This area is home to a boardwalk and walking trails that go from the shore to coniferous forests along the lake. There are five nature observation trails, with each trail revealing the various sides of Shunkunitai.
