Today is about easing into Hokkaido’s winter. 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 in their winter habitat.

All accommodation used throughout our 12-day expedition is carefully selected for comfort, location, and proximity to key wildlife/Landscape 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 morning 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. From there, we head to Lake Kussharo to photograph Whooper Swans gathering along the geothermal shoreline, a completely different mood and palette, with steaming water and soft winter light. We finish the day with an afternoon drive to Numero, ready for the next stage of the expedition.

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

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

Drive from Lake Kussharo to Nemuro / Lake Furen: This scenic journey takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours and covers a distance of 115 km along the picturesque route 243 and 44.

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.

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.

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

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 landscape and seascape photos. 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.

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.

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 km 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 wildlife/landscapes of 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 rest of our morning after the boat tour 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.

Around midday we take a leisurely drive down the scenic coastline to Nakashibetsu Airport around 2 to 2.5 hours 80km, enjoying the final glimpses of Hokkaido’s winter landscapes along the way. From here, we board our flight to Sapporo chitose airport.

After a short flight, we arrive in Sapporo chitose airport where we settle in for the night at the elegant Portom International Hokkaido. This is a chance to relax, reset, and enjoy a comfortable evening.

Dining around Portom International Hokkaido offers a surprisingly refined and diverse culinary experience, all within easy reach of the airport. Beyond the hotel, the wider New Chitose Airport complex features an excellent range of casual and local dining options, from rich Hokkaido ramen and fresh seafood to local sweets and specialty cafés, making it easy to explore regional flavours without travelling far.

This morning we collect our rental vehicle and head out into the stunning landscapes of the Biei region, known for its rolling hills, minimalist winter scenes, and iconic photographic locations, setting the tone for the adventure ahead. As we make our way toward the rolling hills of Biei, take the time to soak in the ever-changing winter scenery. This region is renowned for its clean lines, soft light, and beautifully minimal snowy vistas. We’ll keep a flexible pace, stopping whenever it’s safe to do so, allowing us to capture those fleeting moments and striking compositions that reveal themselves along the way.

The journey from Sapporo to the rolling hills of Biei covers approximately 180 km and, in winter conditions, typically takes around 2.5 to 3.5 hours depending on weather and road conditions.

Winter roads can be slow and at times unpredictable, so we allow plenty of time, embracing a relaxed pace with opportunities to stop when safe. We will stop in at the Shirahige Waterfall and Shirogane Blue Pond as we pass through.

We’ll take time to visit two of Biei’s most iconic locations, Shirahige Waterfall and the nearby Shirogane Blue Pond. Here, we’ll slow down and focus on capturing the unique textures and colours of the landscape, from the delicate, icy flows of the waterfall to the surreal blue tones and skeletal trees of the pond. Both locations offer incredible opportunities to explore composition, contrast, and mood in a winter setting.

Nestled in the snowy hills of Biei, Shirogane Onsen Hotel Park Hills offers a comfortable and authentic Japanese stay in the heart of nature. Surrounded by winter landscapes and close to iconic locations like the Blue Pond and Shirahige Waterfall, it’s the perfect base for photographers. After a day in the field, unwind in the hotel’s natural onsen, soak in the warmth, and enjoy a relaxing evening preparing for the next day’s adventure.

Dining at Shirogane Onsen Hotel Park Hills offers a relaxed and satisfying experience, with a strong focus on fresh, local Hokkaido produce. Guests can enjoy generous buffet-style breakfasts and dinners featuring a mix of Japanese and Western dishes, from locally sourced meats and seasonal vegetables to comforting favourites and regional specialities.

Early morning, we make a short drive into the iconic Patchwork Road area of Biei, a landscape renowned for its beautifully simple compositions. Here, we’ll focus on minimalistic photography, isolated trees, gentle rolling hills, and clean lines shaped by snow and light. It’s a chance to slow down, refine your eye, and create elegant, understated images that capture the quiet essence of winter in Hokkaido.

Set against the rolling hills of Biei, we will spend the day photographing the iconic trees of Patchwork Road is an exercise in simplicity and intention. These solitary forms, such as the Ken and Mary Tree and Seven Stars Tree, stand quietly within vast, snow-covered fields, offering clean lines, negative space, and beautifully balanced compositions.

Nestled in the snowy hills of Biei, Shirogane Onsen Hotel Park Hills offers a comfortable and authentic Japanese stay in the heart of nature. Surrounded by winter landscapes and close to iconic locations like the Blue Pond and Shirahige Waterfall, it’s the perfect base for photographers. After a day in the field, unwind in the hotel’s natural onsen, soak in the warmth, and enjoy a relaxing evening preparing for the next day’s adventure.

Dining at Shirogane Onsen Hotel Park Hills offers a relaxed and satisfying experience, with a strong focus on fresh, local Hokkaido produce. Guests can enjoy generous buffet-style breakfasts and dinners featuring a mix of Japanese and Western dishes, from locally sourced meats and seasonal vegetables to comforting favourites and regional specialities.

A slightly slower start today we make our way to the Nagano train station where we take a scenic 1 to 1.25-hour train journey through the Japanese countryside, followed by a short bus ride into the mountains, you arrive at the gateway to Jigokudani Monkey Park, setting the tone for an unforgettable photographic experience.

Photographing the snow monkeys here is a unique blend of wildlife and atmosphere, where behaviour and environment come together in a truly cinematic setting. The Japanese macaques relax in natural hot springs surrounded by snow-covered cliffs and drifting steam, offering incredible opportunities to capture both intimate portraits and wider environmental scenes.

Nagano train station where we take a scenic 1 to 1.25-hour train journey through the Japanese countryside, followed by a short bus ride into the mountains, you arrive at the gateway to Jigokudani Monkey Park, setting the tone for an unforgettable photographic experience.

The 1.6km mountain walk to Jigokudani Monkey Park is as much a part of the experience as the destination itself. Winding gently through a quiet alpine forest, the trail follows a well-maintained path that cuts through towering cedar trees and, in winter, a blanket of deep snow. The air is crisp and still, broken only by the soft crunch of footsteps and the occasional call of birds overhead.

As you make your way deeper into the valley, anticipation builds with every step. The walk is easy to moderate, suitable for most fitness levels, and typically takes around 25–40 minutes depending on pace and conditions.

After a rewarding day photographing the famous snow monkeys at Jigokudani Monkey Park, we make our way back to Nagano for a well-earned rest. Returning to the comfort of Hotel Metropolitan Nagano, the remainder of the day is yours to relax, unwind, and enjoy the slower pace of the city.

For those wanting to explore further, the area surrounding the station offers fantastic shopping, local boutiques, cafés, and restaurants, perfect for picking up souvenirs or experiencing more of Nagano’s atmosphere. Whether you choose to rest at the hotel or wander through the city streets, it’s the perfect way to finish an unforgettable winter photography experience.

Dining in Nagano is a true highlight of the experience, with the region renowned for its comforting mountain cuisine, traditional flavours, and warm hospitality. From steaming bowls of handmade soba noodles to perfectly prepared wagyu beef and fresh local produce, Nagano offers an authentic taste of rural Japan.

Our day tour takes us on a journey through the rich history and timeless beauty of central Japan as we explore two of the country’s most iconic cultural locations. We begin the day at the magnificent Matsumoto Castle, widely regarded as one of Japan’s most beautiful original castles. Often referred to as the “Crow Castle” due to its striking black exterior, Matsumoto Castle stands proudly against the backdrop of the Japanese Alps, creating incredible photographic opportunities from every angle. From reflections in the surrounding moat to intricate wooden interiors and traditional architecture, this historic site offers endless inspiration for photographers and travellers alike. We will spend time wandering the castle grounds, exploring the surrounding streets, and soaking in the atmosphere of one of Japan’s most treasured landmarks.

Later in the day we travel to the beautifully preserved historic village of Narai-juku, once a thriving post town along the famous Nakasendo Trail that connected Kyoto and Edo during Japan’s feudal era. Often referred to as “Narai of a Thousand Houses,” this charming village feels frozen in time, with traditional wooden buildings, narrow stone pathways, lantern-lined storefronts, and authentic Edo-period character around every corner. As we wander through the quiet streets, there will be countless opportunities to capture intimate travel scenes, cultural details, and the timeless atmosphere that makes Narai-juku so special. This slower-paced afternoon provides the perfect chance to experience a more traditional side of Japan while creating unique and meaningful images away from the busy tourist centres.

Travelling from Hotel Metropolitan Nagano to Matsumoto Castle by private van or bus takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours depending on road and weather conditions. The journey winds through beautiful alpine scenery and rural countryside, making the drive itself part of the experience as we travel deeper into the heart of central Japan.

Photographing Matsumoto Castle and its surrounding grounds is a dream for photographers, blending dramatic architecture with stunning alpine scenery. The surrounding gardens, traditional bridges, and seasonal landscapes create beautiful compositions throughout the day, whether capturing soft morning light, dramatic winter conditions, or the warm glow of sunset. Beyond the castle itself, the nearby historic streets and riverside areas offer additional opportunities to photograph traditional Japanese culture and atmosphere, making Matsumoto one of the most rewarding cultural photography destinations in Japan.

Narai-juku is an incredible location for travel and street photography, particularly for those wanting to capture authentic Japanese culture and timeless scenes. The weathered timber facades, hanging lanterns, small shrines, and quiet alleyways provide endless photographic compositions, while the slower pace of the village allows us to carefully explore and photograph the finer details often missed in larger cities. During winter, a dusting of snow can transform the village into a truly magical scene, adding another layer of atmosphere and storytelling to your images.

This is our final meal together, a chance to slow down and reflect on the incredible journey we’ve shared over the past 12 days across Japan. From snowy alpine landscapes and quiet mountain villages to unforgettable wildlife encounters and cultural landmarks, every day has brought something new to experience and capture.

Today marks the final day of your incredible journey. Take a moment to reflect on the unforgettable experiences you’ve had, the wildlife and winter landscapes 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 to Tokyo and beyond. 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 memories from an unforgettable Wild Japan winter expedition.