In September 2026, I’m joining the Kushiro River Packraft Expedition, guided by Tomoki Kokubun — the first open-call edition of a 100km packraft trip down the Kushiro River, from Lake Kussharo to the Pacific.
From Lake Kussharo to Shibecha, I’ve Paddled Before
I’ve paddled the Kushiro River from Lake Kussharo down to Shibecha before, but never done the full source-to-sea through-paddle. The pull toward eastern Hokkaido goes back to elementary school. Even as a Hokkaido resident, Dotō has always been, and still is, the place I look toward. Lately my ties to the region have grown, with more chances to visit towns like Bihoro and Teshikaga.
Since Hearing About the Concept
I’d already decided to join back when Kokubun was still talking through the concept for the Kushiro River Packraft Expedition. The through-paddle itself is a trip that should be doable solo and self-contained, given the right gear and experience. Even so, guidance from a local guide who knows the area inside out should mean understanding the Kushiro River watershed, Dotō itself, and this river, at a depth that’s hard to reach alone.
What It Means to Join the First One
I expect this expedition to become an annual thing going forward. There’s meaning, I think, in being part of the first open-call edition.
About the Kushiro River Expedition
For an introduction to the Kushiro River Packraft Expedition, a 100km trip from Lake Kussharo to the Pacific, see Paddling the Kushiro River 100km — 2026 Kushiro River Packraft Expedition. Prep notes from here on — route, gear selection, campsites, and more — will be published in this category as they’re ready.
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