From Lake Kussharo to the Pacific Ocean. 100 kilometers.
Rain and snowmelt from the caldera feeds the lake, flows into the river, passes through the Kushiro Wetlands, and returns to the sea — a complete water cycle, traced over five days by packraft.
This is a special program for people who want to go on an adventure, even for the first time. Packraft beginners are welcome — Day 1 includes full paddling and self-rescue instruction before the journey begins.
The guide is Tomoki Kokubun, who has paddled the full Kushiro River himself — by Canadian canoe in 2019, by packraft in 2022.
The Journey
Lake Kussharo (Akan-Mashu National Park) → Kushiro Wetlands → Pacific Ocean (Kushiro)
| Day | Section | Character | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
| DAY 1 (9/10) | — | Orientation, paddling and self-rescue instruction, gear and packing check | — |
| DAY 2 (9/11) | Headwaters (winding) | Dense forest, many fallen trees, technical boat control required | Approx. 20km |
| DAY 3 (9/12) | Middle section (exciting) | The most continuous rapids on the Kushiro River. Portage sections included | Approx. 27km |
| DAY 4 (9/13) | Wetlands — first half (relaxed) | Wide, slow wetland paddling. Vast open landscape | Approx. 26km |
| DAY 5 (9/14) | Wetlands — second half + Kushiro city (push to the sea) | Wetland scenery gives way to the final push toward the ocean | Approx. 27km |
On Day 5, reaching the ocean depends on wind conditions. If conditions prevent it, the group lands and walks to the nearest station.
What makes the Kushiro River special is that the overwhelming natural landscape is woven together with moments of human warmth along the way — a journey where wild nature and local daily life meet at the water’s edge.
Dates and Capacity
| Dates | September 10 (Thu) – September 14 (Mon), 2026 |
| Pre-tour arrival | September 9 (Wed) — arrive in Teshikaga |
| Capacity | 4 participants (minimum 2 to run) |
Fees
| Fee | ¥98,000 (tax included) per person |
| Own packraft discount | ¥5,000 off |
Included: Packraft, 4-piece paddle, PFD, helmet rental; 3 meals provided by the guide; accident insurance
Not included: Other meals and drinks, accommodation before/after the tour, transport, personal gear and clothing
Payment at the guide’s office on Day 1. Cash or card accepted.
Who Can Join
- Good health required
- Able to stay positive through consecutive days of outdoor activity, even when conditions are difficult or uncomfortable
- No paddling experience necessary — but prior outdoor overnight experience (e.g. mountain hiking, long trails — not car camping) is a plus
Logistics
Meeting point: Guide’s office, 9:00 AM on September 10 Airport pickup to accommodation available for arrivals at Kushiro Airport by 14:00 on September 9.
Accommodation during the tour: Tent camping (Days 2–4)
Dispersal: After reaching Kushiro on September 14
- Return the same day via Kushiro Airport
- Stay in Kushiro and continue exploring eastern Hokkaido
- Return to Teshikaga with the guide by train or car
Gear and Packing
All gear is lashed to the front and rear of the packraft during paddling. Waterproofing is essential.
Depending on conditions, the group may need to use rail transport mid-route — in which case everything (packraft and paddle included) is carried on your back. Pack light and compact. The comfort of the trip depends on it.
How to Apply
Applications by email:
Include the following:
- Name
- Age
- Phone number
- Email address
- Address
- Planned travel to the meeting point
- Outdoor experience / paddling experience
- Questions
Instagram DM inquiries also welcome.
About Tomoki Kokubun
→ Tomoki Kokubun — Guide Introduction → Tomoki Kokubun Official Site → Expedition Tour Details (Official Site)
This article was produced by Packraft Hokkaido based on information provided by the organizer. Please confirm all details — including cancellation policy and current availability — directly with Tomoki Kokubun before applying.
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