3 Key Features of the Iwabokki River Course
Panoramic Reed Fields
Paddle beneath a wide open sky with reed fields stretching as far as the eye can see — one of the most expansive views in the entire wetland.
Untouched Main Channel
This stretch of the Kushiro River has no dams or artificial structures — a rare, unspoiled waterway running through the heart of the wetland.
A Unique Perspective
Keep an eye out for JR local trains passing in the distance — a rare view of Hokkaido's countryside seen only from the water.
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 (Main River Channel) |
| 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. |
This course is available by advance request — please contact us to check availability and arrange your 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%. Tours may be cancelled due to adverse weather or high water levels. We will contact you in advance in such cases.
Your Iwabokki River Adventure Step-by-Step
Arrival & Check-in
Meet your guide at JR Hosooka Station, 10 minutes before departure. We'll check you in and prepare your gear.
Transport to the Launch Point
A short transfer takes you to the launch point on the main Kushiro River channel.
Safety Briefing & Launch
Get geared up and receive your paddling lesson before launching onto the wide river channel.
Into the Reed Fields
Paddle the unspoiled main channel of the Kushiro River, with panoramic reed fields stretching to the horizon on both sides.
Paddle & Observe
Take in sweeping views of the wetland, keep an eye out for wildlife, and — if you're lucky — a passing JR local train in the distance.
Arrival & Return
Reach the Iwabokki Water Gate, the goal of your journey, before transferring back 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 the river.
A Glimpse of the Iwabokki River
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 to Explore the Iwabokki River?
This course is available by advance request. Contact us to check availability — your tour price includes:
- Experienced & Knowledgeable Guides
- All Gear & Insurance Included
- Hokkaido's Most Unspoiled River Channel
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
Hosooka River Course
A 3-hour river journey from Toro Lake through narrow wetland channels to Hosooka.
View Course
