3 Key Features of the Hosooka River Course
Three Landscapes in One Tour
Start on the open water of Toro Lake, wind through the narrow "green tunnel" of the Alekinae River, and finish on the wide main channel of the Kushiro River.
Deep Nature Immersion
This route takes you further into the wetland than our Toro Lake course, for those who want a longer, more adventurous encounter with untouched wilderness.
Guided the Whole Way
Your guide navigates alongside you for all 3 hours, sharing knowledge of the wetland's ecosystem and Ainu traditions connected to this land.
Tour Details
| Duration | Approx. 3 hours |
|---|---|
| Price |
|
| Participation Age | 3 years old and above Children in elementary school and under must be accompanied by a parent in the same canoe. |
| Min. Participants | 2 people |
| Season | April – November |
| Difficulty | Beginner–Intermediate (Lake & Narrow River Channels) |
| Meeting Point |
JR Senmo Line, Hosooka Station Address: 〒088-2141 Hokkaido, Kushiro-gun, Kushiro-cho, Takofutake (View on Map) |
| Access | Approx. 40 min from Kushiro City | Approx. 50 min from Kushiro Airport (KUH) |
| Meeting Time | 8:50 / 12:50 (please arrive 10 minutes early) |
| Cannot Participate | Guests who have consumed alcohol or are hungover. Guests who are pregnant (please consult us in advance). Guests with medical conditions should notify us before booking. |
Cancellation Policy
| 8+ days before | Free of charge |
|---|---|
| 7–3 days before | 30% |
| 2 days before | 50% |
| 1 day before | 80% |
| Day of tour | 100% |
No-shows without notice are charged 100%. Small rain will not cancel the tour, but severe weather or high water may. We will contact you in advance in such cases.
Your Hosooka River Adventure Step-by-Step
Arrival & Check-in
Meet your guide at JR Hosooka Station. We'll check you in and prepare everything for your journey.
Transport to Toro Lake
A transfer takes you to the starting point at Toro Lake, where the river journey begins.
Safety Briefing & Launch
Get geared up, receive your paddling lesson, and launch onto the calm waters of Toro Lake.
Across the Lake
Paddle across Toro Lake's open water before entering the narrower waterways that lead deeper into the wetland.
Into the Green Tunnel
Wind through the narrow Alekinae River, a hidden channel enclosed by reeds, before emerging onto the main Kushiro River.
Arrival at Hosooka
Finish your journey on the wide Kushiro River main channel and return to Hosooka Station.
What to Wear & Bring
Recommended Clothing
Dress in layers you don't mind getting slightly wet or dirty. The wetland can be cool even in summer, especially in the morning.
- Summer
- Long sleeves and pants are recommended for insect protection.
- Spring & Autumn
- Warm, windproof layers are essential. A rain jacket is highly recommended.
- Footwear
- Sneakers or shoes with a heel strap. Sandals, heels, and flip-flops are not permitted.
- Avoid
- Cotton, denim, skirts, and any footwear without a heel strap.
What to Bring & What's Included
All essential equipment is included in your tour price.
- Included Gear
- Canoe, paddle, life jacket, guide fee, insurance, and tax.
- Change of Clothes
- Bring a spare set of clothes and a towel just in case.
- Insect Repellent
- Strongly recommended — the wetland is a natural habitat and insects are part of that!
- Sun Protection
- Hat and sunglasses are highly recommended.
- Eyeglasses / Contacts
-
- If you wear glasses, a strap is recommended for safety.
- We recommend using disposable contact lenses if possible.
- For hard contacts, swimming goggles are recommended.
- Drinks
- Bring water or your favourite drink, along with a waterproof case for phones and cameras.
- Camera
- Bring a camera at your own risk. Wildlife encounters are frequent — you'll want it!
Meeting Point
Location: JR Senmo Line, Hosooka Station
Address: 〒088-2141 Hokkaido, Kushiro-gun, Kushiro-cho, Takofutake
Meeting times: 8:50 / 12:50 (please arrive 10 minutes early)
Access: Approx. 40 min from Kushiro City / 50 min from Kushiro Airport (KUH)
Please wait at the station — our guide will meet you there and take care of transport to Toro Lake.
A Glimpse of the Hosooka River Journey
Our guides take photos during the tour! You can view and purchase them afterwards.
Why Choose Flying Dolphins?
A Wide Variety of Adventures
From thrilling rafting and canyoning to serene lake and wetland canoe tours, we offer a diverse lineup of nature experiences across Hokkaido.
Hokkaido's Best Natural Spots
We don't just run tours — we guide you into the heart of Hokkaido's most spectacular wild places, from the mountains of Furano to the wetlands of Kushiro.
Expertise You Can Trust
Your safety is our priority. All tours are led by experienced, certified guides, and our equipment is thoroughly maintained and inspected for your peace of mind.
Ready for the Hosooka River Journey?
Secure your spot for a 3-hour paddle deep into the wetland. Your tour price includes:
- Experienced & Knowledgeable Guides
- All Gear & Insurance Included
- A Truly Immersive Wetland Experience
Explore Our Other Kushiro Courses
Toro Lake Course
A short, relaxing 2-hour paddle on Hokkaido's largest wetland lake — perfect for families.
View Course
Iwabokki River Course
A 3-hour paddle through open reed fields on the main Kushiro River channel.
View Course
