Today was our second full day in the city of Kushiro, and everyone aboard National Geographic Resolution looked forward to a myriad of choices. Some went to the Kushiro Japanese Crane Reserve to see the endangered red-capped crane. This was followed by the delectable gastronomic treat of walking through the Washo Market, filling our trays and bowls with all manner of seafood to enjoy before lunch! This was topped off by an icy gelato!

Others went to the Robatayaki for a barbecue. They filled their plates with delicious seafood, which they grilled on an open charcoal brazier to their satisfaction. Welcome to Japan, where the food is amazing, and we all satiated our appetites! Next, we visited the intellectually stimulating Kushiro City Museum, with displays on wild nature, Ainu culture, and salmon. We enjoyed a lovely walk through the rock garden. What a wonderful community Kushiro is. We felt a collective pang of regret that our time here has come to an end. Tomorrow, we will explore Muroran on the southern end of the island of Hokkaido!