Izunuma and Uchinuma: Tohoku's Largest Migratory Bird Sanctuary Where Greater White-fronted Geese Winter

Izunuma and Uchinuma

Izunuma and Uchinuma wetlands straddling Kurihara and Tome in northern Miyagi are registered under the Ramsar Convention as internationally important wetlands. Each autumn through winter, massive flocks of greater white-fronted geese and whooper swans migrate from Siberia to winter here.

Highlights

• Dawn Takeoff (Toyadachi): The spectacular sight of tens of thousands of birds taking flight simultaneously at dawn
• Evening Return: Massive flocks returning to the marsh at dusk
• Greater White-fronted Geese Wintering: The largest wintering site for these geese in East Asia
• Swan Flocks: Peaceful scenes of swans gliding on the water

Viewing Period

• October–March: Wintering period for geese and swans
• Early Morning (around sunrise): Best time for the takeoff spectacle

Getting There

• From JR Tohoku Main Line Nitta Station by car: about 15 minutes
• Also accessible from Furukawa or Ichinoseki Stations (car required)

Tips

Arrive before dawn to witness the takeoff spectacle. Thorough cold-weather protection is essential. Get observation information at the Izunuma Sanctuary Center.

📚 Sources

This article is edited from publicly available information such as guidance published by the cities of Kurihara and Tome and Miyagi Prefecture, public information on the sanctuary center and the lotus-viewing boats of Izunuma and Uchinuma, and public information on the Ramsar Convention registration. That Izunuma and Uchinuma are wetlands registered under the Ramsar Convention and known as a wintering ground for white-fronted geese is based on official registration and public information. The arrival period of the geese, lotus timing, boat operation, and access may change, so please confirm official information before visiting.

Visitor Checklist

• Time needed: Allow about half a day for observing the dawn liftoff of the geese and touring the sanctuary center.
• What to prepare: Winter dawns are bitterly cold, so dress warmly; binoculars are handy for birdwatching.
• Getting there: It is convenient to go by car from stations such as Nitta Station on the JR Tohoku Main Line; for early-morning observation, allow plenty of time.
• Suggested route: In winter, observe the mass liftoff of the geese at dawn, then learn about the wetland nature at the sanctuary center.
• Best seasons: The geese liftoff is in winter (around November to February), and for lotus flowers, summer (around July to August) is recommended.