Japan: The Tanchozuru Cranes in Kushiro, Hokkaido (Part 1)
Updated: Dec 7, 2024
The red-crowned cranes of Japan are undoubtedly among the most depicted animals in traditional Japanese painting. Any photographer who goes to Hokkaido in winter should visit them in the village of Tsurui. A striking and emotionally rich spectacle. But what are they really...
Whether or not you specialize in wildlife photography, encountering the red-crowned cranes of Japan will remain one of the most significant memories of your photography career. Witnessing such a spectacle of nature, emotions come quickly, and that ultimately is what matters most for producing authentic photographs.
As a black and white photographer immersed in Japanese culture for more than 20 years, I have always been captivated by the elegance of the Japanese cranes, known locally as Tanchozuru. These magnificent birds hold a special place in the hearts of the Japanese people, symbolizing longevity, fidelity, and good fortune.
Join me on a three-article journey to explore the history, characteristics, cultural significance, and best places to photograph these beautiful creatures.
History and Characteristics
The Japanese crane, scientifically known as Grus japonensis, is a wader from the Gruidae family, and is one of the largest and most striking birds in this family. Standing at an impressive height of up to 150 cm with a wingspan that can reach 250 cm, these birds are a sight to behold.
Their distinctive features include a predominantly white plumage, a black neck and legs, and a striking red crown. This unique combination of colors makes them a favorite subject for black and white photography, where their contrasting tones create a dramatic effect.
Historically, the Japanese crane was once widespread across East Asia, but its population has significantly declined due to habitat loss and hunting. Fossils of cranes dating back to prehistoric times have been discovered in Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost island, indicating an ancestral presence in the region. Today, these birds are found exclusively in Hokkaido where conservation efforts have helped to stabilize their numbers (see below).
Culture and Symbol
The Tanchozuru holds a deep cultural significance in Japan, often depicted in art, literature, and folklore. In Japanese mythology, the crane is a symbol of longevity and good fortune. The birds are also associated with fidelity, as they are known to mate for life. This enduring bond has made them a popular motif in Japanese art, particularly in ukiyo-e woodblock prints and traditional paintings.
One of the most famous representations of the Japanese crane is in the art of origami. The Senbazuru, or "thousand origami cranes", is a traditional practice where one folds a thousand paper cranes to grant a wish or bring good luck. They also accompany prayers in Buddhist temples where necklaces of paper cranes are offered by practitioners. These practices have become a global symbol of peace and hope, further cementing the crane's importance in Japanese culture.
Furthermore, as you may have noticed, the Japanese crane is also the emblem of Japan Airlines.
Protection Measures
The Tanchozuru are classified as vulnerable on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List. Captive breeding programs have also been initiated and have successfully released individuals back into the wild. The wetlands where they reside are strictly regulated to minimize human impact.
Efforts to protect the Tanchozuru include the creation of sanctuaries, the restoration of wetlands, and the implementation of strict hunting regulations. These measures have helped to increase the crane population, offering hope for the future of the species.
According to data from Japan's Ministry of the Environment, the crane population was estimated to be over 1000Â individuals in 2018, and the population is increasing year after year. The ideal living conditions offered by sanctuaries for their preservation, as well as wildlife protection regulations, are likely contributing factors.
The protection measures are multifaceted, with the Tsurui Village playing a pivotal role. This famous village, located in the Kushiro Wetlands, has implemented several initiatives to safeguard the cranes. One of the key measures is the creation of the Tsurui-Ito Tancho Sanctuary, a 220-hectare protected area that provides a safe haven for the birds.
The sanctuary includes feeding stations where corn is provided daily during winter, ensuring the cranes have a reliable food source. Additionally, the village has established strict regulations to minimize human disturbance, including designated observation points that allow visitors to view the cranes without disrupting their habitat.
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Education and awareness programs are also integral to the conservation efforts. The village hosts the Tancho Crane Festival annually, attracting thousands of visitors and raising awareness about the importance of protecting these magnificent birds. These collective efforts have contributed to the stabilization of the crane population, with numbers increasing from a mere 33 birds in the 1950s to over 1000 today, highlighting the success of these conservation strategies.
This growing population of red-crowned cranes is a delight for wildlife photographers, who flock to Kushiro each year to benefit from the best observation conditions in the region.
Habitat and Photography
The Tanchozuru prefer wetlands, marshes, and open fields. Kushiro Shitsugen National Park is particularly famous for being a choice habitat for these birds. Their lifespan is approximately 30 years and the cranes observed in Hokkaido stay on the island for their entire lives. They don't migrate to Russia like some other endemic bird species.
One of the best times to photograph the cranes is during the winter months, when the snow-covered landscapes of Hokkaido provide a stunning backdrop. The cranes' graceful movements and interactions with each other offer endless opportunities for capturing unique and emotive images.
Although they are present year-round, they can only be observed and photographed when humans feed them. The best time to photograph them extends from October 1 to March 31. During the rest of the year, spotting them requires considerable luck, as the cranes feed themselves and disperse into the wild.
As a photographer, capturing the essence of the Tanchozuru in black and white is a challenging yet rewarding experience. The stark contrast between the white plumage and the darker elements of their environment creates a powerful visual impact. The key to successful photography is patience and a deep understanding of the birds' behavior.
This often means returning to the same observation spots multiple times. Make sure to allocate time and, ideally, stay nearby to be there during the early morning hours.
Lifestyle and Behavior
The behavior of the Japanese cranes are as captivating as their appearance. These birds are omnivorous, with a diet that primarily consists of plants, insects, small animals, and fish. In Hokkaido, conservation centers often supplement their diet with corn and other grains, especially during the harsh winter months, to ensure their survival.
One of the most fascinating aspects of their behavior is their courtship dance, a mesmerizing display of grace and synchronization. The dance involves a series of elegant movements, including bowing, jumping, and wing-flapping, performed by both the male and female. This intricate ritual not only strengthens the bond between the pair but also plays a crucial role in their mating process.
Photographing this dance in the wild is a truly magical experience, offering a glimpse into the intimate and harmonious world of these magnificent creatures (photo below).
During this courtship period, males engage in dances to attract females. The females respond to the males they have chosen by performing a similar dance. Once the pairs are formed, the cranes remain together for the rest of their lives.
Around mid-March, females lay 2Â eggs, which are then incubated alternately by the male and female for a month. Once the eggs hatch, the young cranes are subject to the harsh laws of survival. It is unfortunately common for foxes to prey on young cranes soon after their birth. To reduce the risk of predator attacks, nests are generally built in wetland areas.
The Final Word
The Japanese crane is more than just a bird. It is a symbol of Japan's rich cultural heritage and a testament to the country's commitment to conservation. From their striking appearance to their deep cultural significance, these birds continue to inspire and captivate people around the world.
As a landscape photographer and enthusiast of Japanese culture, I am continually drawn to the beauty and grace of the Tanchozuru. Their story is one of resilience, hope, and the enduring bond between nature and humanity. Whether you are a wildlife enthusiast, a photographer, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of nature, the Japanese crane is a creature that deserves our admiration and protection.
These cranes, with their grace and resilience, embody the harmony between nature and culture. Their presence in the vast, pristine landscapes of Hokkaido serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of all living things.
This experience underscores the importance of preserving not just the cranes, but the delicate balance of the wild world we all love to photograph. It is a call to appreciate the simple, profound beauty that surrounds us and to strive for a more harmonious coexistence with nature.
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