■Four seasons

Spring ■Time of new lives. 1.      The spring in Tsurui starts in May as cherry trees start to blossom. Every animal and plant, which has endured the long and harsh winter, suddenly comes to life in this season. Kushiro Marsh sheds its wintry colours and is now covered with fresh greens. This is the time of the year when Tancho-Cranes fly back to the Marsh in pairs in order to raise their new chicks.

	Summer ■Time of exuberance 1.      The Marsh is now covered with rich green, makes a wonderful contrast with the blue of the rivers that meander in its huge area. Deep in the Marsh, Tancho-Cranes are busy raising their new offspring. Cows are also busy grazing in the fields.

Autumn (Fall) ■Time of harvest and colours	Tancho-Cranes start to fly into the cornfields and feeding grounds in the village with their offspring. The trees cover the mountains with various shades of red and yellow, and the farmers are busy harvesting new crops. Cows produce plenty of milk of high qualities.

The snow and ice start to cover Kushiro Marsh, and this is the sign of long and severe winter. The Tancho-Cranes fly to and fro between their roosts and feeding grounds. They have to endure the harsh climate, but this is the season they really shine. The beauty of their performances ■singing and dancing ■in this season is just out of this world.	Winter ■Time of songs and dances.