Today is about easing into Hokkaido’s winter rhythm. After collecting the vehicle at Kushiro airport, we make a careful drive into the heart of crane country at Tsurui. The afternoon is spent exploring snowy farmland, river edges, and forest margins, giving our first opportunities with Red-crowned Cranes. Light is often soft and forgiving here, perfect for warming up camera settings and getting used to winter conditions before the early starts ahead.

Enjoy a scenic drive from Kushiro Airport to Tsurui, where you'll experience the breathtaking landscapes of Hokkaido. As you travel, take in the snowy landscapes and picturesque views that make this region so special. The journey offers a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Japan, with serene rivers and rolling hills along the way. Don't forget to keep your camera handy to capture the stunning scenery!

Drive time Kushiro-Tsurui 1hr or 35km

The afternoon is spent exploring Tsurui-Itō Tanchō Crane Sanctuary and the surrounding Tsurumidai Crane Observatory, river edges, and forest margins, giving you a chance to get used to moving and photographing in snowy conditions. This first outing offers opportunities to capture Red-crowned Cranes, deer, and Whooper swans in their winter habitat.

All accommodation used throughout our 8-day expedition is carefully selected for comfort, location, and proximity to key wildlife photography areas. However, due to seasonal demand and the influx of visitors during winter, specific properties may be subject to change based on availability. Any alternative accommodation will always be of a similar standard and quality to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience throughout the tour.

Tsurui Aura Shitsugen Hotel is a stylish boutique onsen retreat set in the peaceful village of Tsurui near the wetlands of Kushiro Shitsugen National Park. The modern Scandinavian-inspired hotel offers comfortable rooms, natural hot spring baths, and excellent cuisine—an ideal base for relaxing after a day photographing Red-crowned Cranes.

Green Park Tsurui Onsen Hotel is a comfortable countryside hotel located in the peaceful village of Tsurui, close to the famous crane feeding areas and the wetlands of eastern Hokkaido. Guests can relax in natural hot spring baths, including indoor and outdoor onsen, and enjoy simple Japanese-style accommodation and local cuisine after a day exploring or photographing wildlife.

Whether you’re staying in a hotel with an included dinner menu or stepping out for local specialties, Tsurui’s dining scene leans toward comforting local cuisine, grill styles, and homestyle meals inspired by Hokkaido ingredients — especially during dinner hours

A pre-dawn start delivers one of the great wildlife spectacles of winter Japan — Red-crowned Cranes lifting off Otowa Bridge as first light spills across the frozen river. The rest of the day focuses on crane behaviour at Tsurui-Itō Tanchō crane Sanctuary and surrounding farmland and sanctuaries (Akan International crane centre), with time to slow down and work on compositions, interactions, and flight. Forest edges and open fields may reveal owls and winter woodland species, with an optional evening session targeting low-light and nocturnal subjects.

Drive from Tsurui to Otowa Bridge, approximately 15–25 minutes pre-dawn.

Focus on crane behaviour in surrounding farmland and sanctuaries Tsurui-Itō Tanchō crane Sanctuary, Akan International crane centre, with time to slow down and work on compositions, interactions, and flight. Forest edges and open fields may reveal owls and winter woodland species.

Whether you’re staying in a hotel with an included dinner menu or stepping out for local specialties, Tsurui’s dining scene leans toward comforting local cuisine, grill styles, and homestyle meals inspired by Hokkaido ingredients — especially during dinner hours

The morning begins quietly with a final optional opportunity to photograph the iconic Red-crowned Crane before we transition into a more varied landscape and wildlife day. We then travel to the scenic shores of Lake Kussharo to photograph elegant Whooper Swan, Common Mergansers, against misty winter shorelines, where steaming geothermal waters and soft morning light create a truly atmospheric setting.

Drive from Tsurui to Lake Kussharo: 1.45–2 hrs, 55km.

Lake Kussharo offers surreal winter scenes, where you can witness the majestic Whooper Swans gracefully feeding in the steaming geothermal waters. These stunning birds create a beautiful contrast against the backdrop of snow-covered landscapes and delicate frost, making it a perfect winter wonderland. The serene atmosphere, combined with the enchanting sight of swans in their natural habitat, invites you to immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of this unique location.

Drive from Lake Kussharo to Nemuro / Lake Furen: This scenic journey takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours and covers a distance of 115 kilometers along the picturesque route 243 and 44. As you travel, enjoy the beautiful landscapes surrounding you, which include stunning views of the lake and the vibrant nature of the region.

If time allows, we may also make a brief scouting stop along the edges of Lake Furen, where we may catch our first glimpses of the impressive Steller’s Sea Eagle and White-tailed Eagle as they patrol the frozen shoreline and surrounding forests.

Experience the comfort of East Harbor Hotel in Nemuro, offering cozy Western-style rooms and convenient access to coastal landscapes, wildlife reserves, and local seafood dining. A welcoming base for exploring eastern Hokkaido’s rugged beauty and tranquil seaside atmosphere.

Dinner in Nemuro offers a relaxed selection of local restaurants, izakaya, and casual eateries showcasing the region’s excellent seafood. Visitors can enjoy everything from fresh sushi and seafood bowls to ramen, grilled dishes, and hearty Japanese set meals, with many venues highlighting local specialties such as Hanasaki crab and seasonal fish from the surrounding Pacific waters

This is a classic raptor and coastal birding day. Early light around Lake Furen often brings White-tailed and Steller’s Sea Eagles moving between ice, trees, and shoreline. As we drive east towards Nemuro the coast opens up with opportunities for gulls, cormorants, and winter ducks. A relaxed day exploring Nemuro.

After a rewarding morning photographing majestic Steller’s Sea Eagle, White-tailed Eagle, and the ever-curious Red Fox, we spend the afternoon exploring the rugged coastline and open landscapes of the Nemuro Peninsula. Along the way there will be time to stop for a relaxed meal and enjoy some well-earned rest and recovery before heading out for a peaceful evening walk along the quiet inlet shores of Lake Furen.

After exploring around Nemuro, we make our way to the beautiful Shunkunitai Wild Bird Sanctuary for a relaxed walk through this unique coastal ecosystem. A network of boardwalks and walking trails leads from the shoreline through open wetlands and into quiet coniferous forests along the edge of Lake Furen, offering excellent opportunities to observe and photograph local birdlife in a peaceful natural setting.

This morning offers a final opportunity to capture striking photographs of the majestic Steller’s Sea Eagle and White-tailed Eagle in their natural habitat before we begin our journey north along the scenic coastline towards Shibetsu.

Drive Time (winter estimate): The journey from Lake Furen / Nemuro to Shibetsu typically takes between 2.5 to 3 hours, covering a distance of approximately 80 kilometers along the scenic route 244. This picturesque drive offers breathtaking views of the winter landscape, making the journey just as enjoyable as the destination.

As we take the day driving north, the coast opens up with birding/wildlife on the Notsuke Peninsula offering a truly unique experience, as this narrow sandspit extends into the Sea of Okhotsk, creating diverse habitats of tidal flats, reed beds, and coastal forests. It’s a prime location for observing wintering waterfowl and raptors, as well as migratory shorebirds. With open vistas and quiet trails, the peninsula provides excellent opportunities for both photography and close wildlife observation.

Odaito Onsen Seaside Hotel is a charming coastal retreat in eastern Hokkaido, offering guests relaxing accommodations with stunning views of the Sea of Okhotsk. The hotel features natural onsen baths, both indoor and outdoor, allowing visitors to unwind while enjoying the ocean scenery. Guests can also savor fresh, locally sourced seafood and seasonal Japanese cuisine, making it an ideal base for exploring the surrounding coastline and nearby wildlife areas.

Okhotsk Onsen Hotel is a welcoming seaside retreat on the northern coast of Hokkaido, offering comfortable accommodations and rejuvenating hot spring baths. Guests can relax in indoor and outdoor onsen while enjoying views of the Sea of Okhotsk. The hotel also serves fresh local seafood and seasonal Japanese cuisine, providing a perfect blend of comfort, relaxation, and regional flavor for travelers exploring the scenic coastal landscapes and wildlife of the area.

Dining in the Shibetsu district offers a warm and authentic taste of eastern Hokkaido. Local restaurants and izakaya serve fresh seafood, seasonal produce, and regional specialties, including hearty grilled dishes, sushi, and comforting Japanese set meals. With a mix of casual eateries and cozy family-run venues, visitors can enjoy flavorful meals in a relaxed atmosphere, perfect after a day exploring the coastal landscapes and wildlife of Shibetsu.

A shorter drive gives us the opportunity to take our time, fully explore the Notsuke Peninsula, and work the stunning Shiretoko Coastline at a relaxed pace. Along the ice edge, flocks of sea ducks, majestic eagles, and curious corvids provide dynamic wildlife encounters, while shifting weather often creates dramatic light and atmospheric conditions—perfect for photography and immersive observation.

Drive Time (winter estimate): Shibetsu to Rausu: 1.25–1.45 hrs 50km (route 335).

By afternoon, we arrive in Rausu, one of Hokkaido’s premier destinations, where the rugged coastline and icy waters create ideal conditions for observing and photographing majestic raptors. Here, harbour photography often allows for close and dynamic encounters with sea eagles, providing exceptional opportunities to capture their behaviour against the dramatic coastal backdrop. As the day winds down, there is also the possibility of ethically managed owl photography for those wishing to extend their shooting hours, offering a unique chance to observe these elusive nocturnal birds in a controlled, responsible setting. This combination of eagle-rich coastal environments and evening owl experiences makes Rausu a highlight of our Hokkaido expedition, blending both action-filled wildlife moments and serene, intimate encounters in the natural landscape.

An evening photoshoot of the Blakiston’s Fish owl. Visit the Washi no Yado hide for the opportunity to photograph the elusive Blakiston’s Fish Owl. This is a rare and privileged experience, offering intimate access to one of Japan’s most iconic and endangered winter species in a controlled setting. (Optional)

Livemax Resort Rausu offers a comfortable coastal retreat on the edge of the Shiretoko Peninsula. After a day photographing sea eagles or exploring winter drift ice, unwind in natural onsen baths, enjoy fresh Hokkaido food, and relax in spacious rooms with peaceful views.

Perched on the rugged coastline of Rausu in eastern Hokkaido, Bear Elephant Hotel offers simple, comfortable accommodation with sweeping views across the Sea of Okhotsk. Warm hospitality, hearty local cuisine, and its close proximity to Shiretoko’s wildlife-rich landscapes make it an ideal base for photographers and nature lovers exploring this remote winter wilderness.

Dining in Rausu offers a delightful taste of Hokkaido’s coastal cuisine. Local restaurants and ryotei-style eateries serve fresh seafood caught from the nearby Sea of Okhotsk, including crab, scallops, salmon, and other seasonal fish. Visitors can enjoy hearty Japanese set meals, sushi, grilled dishes, and warming winter specialties in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Many venues provide scenic views of the coastline, allowing guests to pair delicious regional flavors with the serene beauty of Rausu’s seaside landscapes.

An early morning boat cruise in Rausu (weather dependant) offers an unforgettable wildlife experience, gliding along the icy waters of the Sea of Okhotsk as the first light illuminates the winter landscape. This is prime time to observe majestic Steller’s Sea Eagles and White-tailed Eagles perched or hunting along the ice shelves, while other seabirds and waterfowl create a lively backdrop. The combination of tranquil winter waters, drifting ice, and close wildlife encounters provides both spectacular photographic opportunities and a serene, immersive start to the day.

The afternoon is deliberately kept flexible to allow participants to tailor the experience to their own pace and interests. It provides an ideal window for rest and recovery after a busy morning of wildlife photography, or for reviewing and organising images to capture the best moments from the day. Alternatively, if conditions and light are favourable, there is the opportunity to return to the harbour for additional shooting, taking advantage of the dynamic coastal scenery, the interplay of winter light on the water, and the behaviour of the eagles and other wildlife. This unstructured period ensures everyone can make the most of both the environment and their personal photography goals, whether that means relaxing, refining techniques, or seizing new photographic opportunities as they arise.

If you missed the chance to observe the elusive Blakiston’s Fish Owl on the first night, don’t worry—there is one final opportunity to seek out this rare and magnificent bird. Under careful and ethically managed conditions, we will return to a suitable location where the owl may be found, providing a last chance to witness its striking presence and capture photographs. This encounter offers a thrilling conclusion to the evening, highlighting one of Hokkaido’s most iconic and secretive species in a safe and responsible manner.

Dining in Rausu offers a delightful taste of Hokkaido’s coastal cuisine. Local restaurants and ryotei-style eateries serve fresh seafood caught from the nearby Sea of Okhotsk, including crab, scallops, salmon, and other seasonal fish.

On the final day of our tour the coast may still present last opportunities to photograph eagles and other wildlife before we begin our journey home. As we drive south along the scenic coastline, the route winds through open farmland and quiet forested stretches, offering occasional glimpses of winter wildlife such as Sika Deer, Red Fox. This leisurely drive provides a reflective end to the expedition, with plenty of opportunities to pause, take photographs, and savor the tranquil beauty of Hokkaido one last time. (Don't forget the group photo)

We take a leisurely drive down the scenic coastline to Nakashibetsu Airport around 2 to 2.5 hours,, enjoying the final glimpses of Hokkaido’s winter landscapes along the way. From here, we board our flight to Sapporo chitose airport, marking the conclusion of our Japan Winter Birding Expedition. For those continuing on to Tokyo or returning home, we wish you safe travels and hope that the memories, wildlife encounters, and photographs from this journey stay with you for years to come.

Check late afternoon flight, make sure rental car is clean before drop-off at Orix car rental by Nakashibetsu airport. Stay night in Sapporo, fly next day home or catch your connecting flight home from Sapporo Chitose airport.

Our journey concludes upon arrival in Sapporo, where you can connect with your onward flight home or continue your travels within Japan. For those wishing to unwind a little longer, an additional night in the city offers the perfect opportunity to relax, refresh, and reflect on the remarkable winter experiences shared before departing the following day.

If you have stayed on, today marks the final day of your incredible journey. Take a moment to reflect on the unforgettable experiences you’ve had, the wildlife you’ve encountered, and the memories you’ve created along the way.

As you prepare for departure, be sure to gather all your belongings, double-check your travel documents, and ensure everything is in order for your onward journey. Make your way to the airport with plenty of time to navigate security and enjoy any last-minute shopping or dining opportunities.

This is your chance to savor the final moments of your adventure, carrying with you stories, photographs, and a heart full of joy from an unforgettable winter birding experience in Japan.