is a subprefecture of Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan. Kushiro is home to a population of red-crowned cranes, estimated in 2022 to number about 1,900. Geography Municipalities Mergers History November, 1897: Kushiro Subprefecture established. August, 1922: Renamed Kushironokuni Subprefecture (釧路国支庁). October 20, 1948: Ashoro District transferred to Tokachi Subprefecture. April 1, 1957: Name returned to Kushiro Subprefecture. References External links Official Website Subprefectures in Hokkaido