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Red-crowned cranes
Observe the amazing spectacle that is the annual red-crowned crane mating dance.
The tancho or red-crown crane are believed to represent longevity and have long played a special part in Japanese mythology. Sadly, however, in recent years their numbers have diminished due to urbanisation. Today half the world's tancho population make their winter home in the safety of Tsurui's crane sanctuary and this is a beautiful spot to experience the cranes' famous mating dance. The red-crowned crane stands 1.5 metre tall with a wing span of 2.5 metres.
InsideJapan are delighted to work with a certified Hokkaido guide and wildlife photography expert based in Tsurui who can ensure visitors have the best bird watching experience possible.
When to go: The best time to see the red-crowned cranes is in winter, ideally in February. However, due to the protection they have been afforded in this area the cranes no longer migrate so can be seen all year round
For more information email us: [email protected] or call: + 44 117 244 3380
A quick note about our experiences: Our experiences are designed to be part of a complete, tailor-made travel package and are not available to book individually. This allows us to ensure every detail – from accommodation to transport – is perfectly coordinated for you. If you're interested in one of these experiences, we'd love to help you build a full itinerary around it!
Interested in this Experience? It is included in this tour:
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Japan in the winter is a magical destination, blanketed in snow and free from the crowds that throng the cultural hotspots in summer.
Winter Highlights
From incredible snowy landscapes and rare birds in Hokkaido to traditional gardens and cultural treasures on Honshu; this tour demonstrates the myriad attractions of the winter season on Japan's two largest islands.
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