Cruise port Kushiro (Hokkaido)

Info for port Kushiro (Hokkaido) on 5 Oct 2026

07:43

GMT +9

Port information & tips for Kushiro (Hokkaido)

Kushiro is the fascinating gateway to eastern Hokkaido and delights as the charming "City of Mist" with a unique blend of untouched nature and maritime flair. The city impresses with its immediate proximity to the expansive Kushiro-Shitsugen National Park, home to the rare red-crowned cranes, while also offering culinary highlights such as the famous Washo Market with its freshly caught fish. Visitors can also easily explore the atmospheric Fisherman’s Wharf MOO and the iconic Nusamai Bridge. Larger cruise ships usually dock at Kushiro West Port at Pier No. 4, from where the lively city center is reached in only about fifteen minutes thanks to efficient shuttle connections or taxis, making the stay particularly comfortable for travelers.

Arrival & Departure

Getting around

Highlights & Districts

Useful tips

Returning to the ship

The Port of Kushiro, a significant anchor point in eastern Hokkaido, is mostly accessible by plane for cruise guests from the DACH region. Since large cruise ships usually dock at the West Port, which is located slightly outside the center, comfortable shuttle connections to the city center are guaranteed. Given the long journey from Europe, an overnight stay the day before is also recommended to start the cruise in a relaxed manner.

Airplane

The nearest airport is Kushiro Airport (KUH), located about 20 kilometers from the city center. It is primarily served by Japanese metropolises such as Tokyo (Haneda) and Sapporo, thus offering a convenient arrival option after long-haul flights from the DACH region.

Transfer & Shuttle

From Kushiro Airport (KUH), you can comfortably reach the JR Kushiro Station or the Fisherman's Wharf MOO in the city center by airport bus; the journey takes about 33 to 45 minutes and costs around 950 Yen. Alternatively, a taxi is available, which will take you to your destination in approximately 23 to 24 minutes (costing around 7,000 to 8,500 Yen). From the docking point for larger cruise ships at West Port, free shuttle buses usually run directly to JR Kushiro Station or Fisherman's Wharf MOO, enabling a quick connection to the city center. Taxis are also available at the pier and will take you into the city for about 3,000 Yen.

Train

The central station for the region is JR Kushiro Station, which serves as an important hub in eastern Hokkaido. From here, train connections exist, for example, with the JR Ozora Limited Express to Sapporo, with the journey taking about four hours. For cruise guests docking at West Port, JR Kushiro Station is easily accessible thanks to the free port shuttles and serves as an ideal starting point for exploring the city or further travels in Hokkaido.

Check-in & Embarkation

Please note that you will usually receive a fixed time slot for check-in with your travel documents, which is mandatory for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for the journey to the port accordingly and consider that the latest embarkation time—depending on the cruise line and destination—is generally scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.

The following also applies during the trip: for shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always observe the current announcements and notices on board, as docking and departure times can change at short notice.