Saw this bird near Chikugo River, (about 5 miles inland from where mouth emptied into the Sea of Japan) in Kyushu Japan. Liked hanging out in the reeds and trees both. Almost constantly singing, but it wasn't beautiful. More like cack cack cack cacking. It had a slightly down turned upper bill. Legs quite long, and body about the size of a starling I would guess. They were quite shy, and stayed well hidden most of the time. Appreciate your help, Kawasemi
Oriental Reed Warbler Acrocephalus orientalis.
Listed in older books as a subspecies of [European] Great Reed Warbler Acrocephalus arundinaceus.
Resin
Boy, you sure hit the nail on the head and nailed it, so to speak. It's size really had me thinking it might be a thrush or thrasher, and I assumed it couldn't be a warbler. The song recording at Wikipedia was exactly what I heard. This is a warbler with that size and powerful voice? Birds never cease to fascinate me. Thanks again Resin!
Kawasemi
