Hokkaido, in its winter splendor, becomes a spectacular showcase of wildlife. This northern jewel of Japan transforms into a serene wonderland, featuring many standout species. Expect unique conditions and exclusive Japanese wildlife! This trip offers photographers an incredible opportunity for one-of-a-kind images.
Winter Wildlife of Japan: Hokkaido & Snow Monkeys
February 24 - March 9, 2025
February 8 - 21, 2026
Capture Hokkaido's Winter Wildlife and the Iconic Snow Monkeys!
Hokkaido's Winter Magic
The Snow Monkeys
Photograph the iconic Snow Monkeys, a highlight of Japan's wildlife. In the steamy hot springs of Yudanaka Onsen, these Japanese Macaques find solace from the winter chill. Photographers find a unique spectacle here: monkeys lounging languidly in the warm waters, their expressions and interactions offering a rare glimpse into their world. Exceptional photography awaits!
Cranes, Eagles, & More!
Witness the dance of the Red-crowned Cranes, the awe-inspiring majesty of Steller’s and White-tailed Eagles, and the world's largest owl in the Blakiston's fish owl.The landscape is further animated by the playful frolics of foxes and the gentle presence of Ezo Sika Deer. Each species contributes to the vibrant ecological mosaic, offering photographers a chance to capture unique wildlife that thrives in Japan’s northern wonderland.
Authentic Culture
With stays in traditional ryokans and a local guide accompanying us, you'll experience not just the stunning wildlife but the culture of Japan. This blend of cultural immersion and nature photography creates a unique narrative. It's a journey where wildlife and culture seamlessly blend, revealing the profound bond between Japan's natural beauty and its enduring heritage.
All-Inclusive Package
We offer a hassle-free photographic adventure, encompassing everything from internal flights to boat cruises. We ensure a seamless experience, with all transportation, accommodations, and special wildlife excursions included. This comprehensive package is designed to let you focus solely on capturing the splendor of Japan's winter wildlife and culture, without the distractions of planning and logistics.
Expert
Guides
Guides
Join us for an unparalleled photography tour, guided by our 5-star rated BCJ Photo Guides and enriched by the expertise of local Japanese guides. Our team ensures a comprehensive exploration of Japan's winter wildlife, bringing together professional photographic instruction and deep local knowledge. With their combined insights, you'll not only capture stunning images but also gain a profound understanding of the natural and cultural landscapes we traverse.
We connect passionate people to exceptional experiences.
TRIP DETAILS
All-Inclusive Lodge-Based Photo Safari
TRIP LENGTH: 14 Days/13 Nights
LIMITED TO ONLY 10 SPOTS
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Dates
February 9 - 22, 2025
February 24 - March 9, 2025
February 8 - 21, 2026
Price
$9,495 in 2025
$10,495 in 2026
$10,495 in 2026
Deposit
$3,000
Single Supplement
+$1,000
Start/End
Tokyo, Japan
Arrival Airport: HND
Departure Airport: HND or NRT
Arrival Airport: HND
Departure Airport: HND or NRT
This Special Trip Departure is valid for new trip reservations only (no transfers or trip credit)
Worry Free Travel Guarantee!
HERE’S THE DEAL
We offer one of the most rock solid guarantees in the travel industry - our worry free travel, peace of mind guarantee to you!We’re so confident that the photography trips we offer will not only meet but exceed the lofty expectations set forth on our website – if your trip experience does not 100% match the promises laid forth on our website we will gladly give you a credit toward a future trip.
Natural events such as wildlife & weather are certainly out of our control but every aspect of the trip including logistics, accommodations, vehicles, itinerary & your expert trip leaders will match the lofty promises we’ve made on the site – we guarantee it!
THE TRIP
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Join us to photograph the incredible and diverse winter wildlife of Japan on our Winter Wildlife of Japan: Hokkaido & Snow Monkeys trip.
This all-inclusive photography tour and workshop, crafted for both seasoned and novice photographers, unveils the serene beauty and unique wildlife of Japan during its most magical season.
Discover Hokkaido's Winter Marvels
After meeting in Tokyo and transferring to Hokkaido, our adventure begins. Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost frontier, transforms into a snow paradise in the winter. Witness the elegant dance of the Japanese cranes against a backdrop of pristine, white snowfields. These cranes, known for their courtship rituals, offer a birding spectacle unlike any other, creating perfect moments for your lens to capture.
As we journey through the frost-laden terrains, prepare to be enthralled by the sight of majestic Steller's Sea Eagles soaring over the icy coastlines. The sheer size and grace of these raptors, set against Hokkaido's stark winter beauty, make for world-class photography.
But Hokkaido's wildlife marvels don't end there. The serene Lake Kussharo is a haven for Whooper Swans, creating a surreal scene with misty waters and elegant swans in flight. And keep your cameras ready for the playful red foxes and the rare Blakiston's Fish Owl, a testament to the region's diverse ecosystem.
The Enchanting Snow Monkeys of Japan
From the snowy landscapes of Hokkaido, our trip takes a turn as we head to the Japanese Alps. Here, in the steamy hot springs of Jigokudani (Hell's Valley), resides a troop of Japanese macaques, famously known as snow monkeys. These fascinating creatures have adapted to the cold by bathing in the warm waters, offering a unique photographic opportunity. Capture their expressive faces and social behaviors in a setting that's both natural and magical.
A Photographic Journey Tailored for You
Led by professional photographers and local guides, this tour is designed to maximize your photography potential. Whether it's capturing the first light over a snowy plain or a monkey's playful gaze, we provide expert guidance and tips to enhance your skills. Our small group size ensures personalized attention and ample time to frame each shot perfectly.
We handle all logistics, from comfortable transportation to cozy accommodations, allowing you to focus solely on the art of photography. Our itinerary is meticulously planned to coincide with the best lighting conditions and wildlife activities, ensuring you return home with a portfolio of stunning images and unforgettable memories.
Western & Traditional Accommodations
On our Winter Wildlife of Japan trip, we offer a carefully selected mix of Western-style hotels and traditional Japanese inns, known as ryokans. While our journey through Hokkaido's enchanting wilderness takes us to remote and less populated regions, we ensure your stay is both comfortable and culturally immersive. The true charm of Hokkaido is found in its pristine nature and diverse wildlife, a different kind of luxury that's deeply rooted in authenticity and simplicity.
In these secluded areas, traditional 4 to 5-star accommodations are not available, but this does not compromise the quality of your stay. We have handpicked the best lodgings available, prioritizing cleanliness, comfort, and a genuine experience of Japanese hospitality. These accommodations, while not luxurious in the conventional sense, offer a unique and authentic way to experience the local culture and landscape, ensuring a memorable and restful stay as part of your photographic adventure.
This all-inclusive photography tour and workshop, crafted for both seasoned and novice photographers, unveils the serene beauty and unique wildlife of Japan during its most magical season.
Discover Hokkaido's Winter Marvels
After meeting in Tokyo and transferring to Hokkaido, our adventure begins. Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost frontier, transforms into a snow paradise in the winter. Witness the elegant dance of the Japanese cranes against a backdrop of pristine, white snowfields. These cranes, known for their courtship rituals, offer a birding spectacle unlike any other, creating perfect moments for your lens to capture.
As we journey through the frost-laden terrains, prepare to be enthralled by the sight of majestic Steller's Sea Eagles soaring over the icy coastlines. The sheer size and grace of these raptors, set against Hokkaido's stark winter beauty, make for world-class photography.
But Hokkaido's wildlife marvels don't end there. The serene Lake Kussharo is a haven for Whooper Swans, creating a surreal scene with misty waters and elegant swans in flight. And keep your cameras ready for the playful red foxes and the rare Blakiston's Fish Owl, a testament to the region's diverse ecosystem.
The Enchanting Snow Monkeys of Japan
From the snowy landscapes of Hokkaido, our trip takes a turn as we head to the Japanese Alps. Here, in the steamy hot springs of Jigokudani (Hell's Valley), resides a troop of Japanese macaques, famously known as snow monkeys. These fascinating creatures have adapted to the cold by bathing in the warm waters, offering a unique photographic opportunity. Capture their expressive faces and social behaviors in a setting that's both natural and magical.
A Photographic Journey Tailored for You
Led by professional photographers and local guides, this tour is designed to maximize your photography potential. Whether it's capturing the first light over a snowy plain or a monkey's playful gaze, we provide expert guidance and tips to enhance your skills. Our small group size ensures personalized attention and ample time to frame each shot perfectly.
We handle all logistics, from comfortable transportation to cozy accommodations, allowing you to focus solely on the art of photography. Our itinerary is meticulously planned to coincide with the best lighting conditions and wildlife activities, ensuring you return home with a portfolio of stunning images and unforgettable memories.
Western & Traditional Accommodations
On our Winter Wildlife of Japan trip, we offer a carefully selected mix of Western-style hotels and traditional Japanese inns, known as ryokans. While our journey through Hokkaido's enchanting wilderness takes us to remote and less populated regions, we ensure your stay is both comfortable and culturally immersive. The true charm of Hokkaido is found in its pristine nature and diverse wildlife, a different kind of luxury that's deeply rooted in authenticity and simplicity.
In these secluded areas, traditional 4 to 5-star accommodations are not available, but this does not compromise the quality of your stay. We have handpicked the best lodgings available, prioritizing cleanliness, comfort, and a genuine experience of Japanese hospitality. These accommodations, while not luxurious in the conventional sense, offer a unique and authentic way to experience the local culture and landscape, ensuring a memorable and restful stay as part of your photographic adventure.
What's Included
- All listed meals and non-alcoholic beverages during the workshop
- All transportation during the workshop
- All lodging during the workshop
- Airport transfers
- All permits, park, and admission fees
- Internal flights (economy class)
- Professional photography guiding and instruction
- Exceptional local, Japanese guides
- Gratuity for service staff
What's Not Included
- Flights to and from Tokyo, Japan
- Meals not listed as included on the itinerary
- Lodging outside workshop dates
- Alcoholic beverages
- Souvenirs and personal items
- Gratuity for photography & local guide
- Trip Insurance & Medical Evacuation Insurance - see plans here.
Your 3 Unique Advantages
UNPARALLELED PHOTOGRAPHY TRIPS
THE BEST TEAM IN THE BUSINESS
WORLD-CLASS PHOTOGRAPHY COMMUNITY
ITINERARY
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(B,L,D) denotes Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
*Some days will involve short walks from 1-2 miles Roundtrip*
DAY 1 - Arrival in Tokyo
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Arrive to Haneda Airport in Tokyo, Japan and independently check in at our selected airport hotel.
Rest and prepare for the adventure ahead.
Rest and prepare for the adventure ahead.
DAY 2 (B,D) - Orientation, Transfer to Hokkaido, Tsurui
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Meet at 8 AM for a trip orientation and group breakfast. Afterwards, we'll fly from Tokyo to Kushiro, then transfer to Tsurui.
Tsurui is renowned for its stunning photo opportunities, especially in the winter season. This village is particularly famous for its resident Red-Crowned Cranes, known for their elegant beauty and striking red crowns. These magnificent birds provide captivating subjects for photography enthusiasts.
The evening offers a magical spectacle as the cranes return to the river at dusk, creating an awe-inspiring scene for spectacular photo sessions. You'll spend the night in a local inn in Tsurui, experiencing authentic Japanese hospitality.
Tsurui is renowned for its stunning photo opportunities, especially in the winter season. This village is particularly famous for its resident Red-Crowned Cranes, known for their elegant beauty and striking red crowns. These magnificent birds provide captivating subjects for photography enthusiasts.
The evening offers a magical spectacle as the cranes return to the river at dusk, creating an awe-inspiring scene for spectacular photo sessions. You'll spend the night in a local inn in Tsurui, experiencing authentic Japanese hospitality.
DAY 3 (B,L,D) - Otowa Bridge, Ito Tancho Sanctuary, Tsurui
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We'll start with early morning birding at Otowa Bridge, a renowned spot for observing the elegant Red-crowned Cranes. This location offers a remarkable opportunity to photograph these majestic birds, especially during sunrise when they are most active.
In the afternoon, your visit to the Tsurui Ito Tancho Sanctuary will enhance this experience. The sanctuary, established by the Wild Bird Society of Japan, is a significant feeding ground for the cranes and becomes a popular photo spot during the feeding season from November to March. Here, photographers line up to capture the beautiful scenes of cranes feeding and taking flight. In February, the cranes begin their famous mating ritutal, get your camera ready!
In the afternoon, your visit to the Tsurui Ito Tancho Sanctuary will enhance this experience. The sanctuary, established by the Wild Bird Society of Japan, is a significant feeding ground for the cranes and becomes a popular photo spot during the feeding season from November to March. Here, photographers line up to capture the beautiful scenes of cranes feeding and taking flight. In February, the cranes begin their famous mating ritutal, get your camera ready!
DAY 4 (B,L,D) - Lake Mashu, Akan Mashu National Park, Lake Kussharo
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We'll visit Lake Mashu, known for its crystal-clear waters and often regarded as Japan's most beautiful lake. This caldera lake in Akan Mashu National Park is celebrated for its stunning blue water and is surrounded by heavy fog, adding a mystical ambiance. Observation decks offer panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding caldera.
Then, we'll proceed to Lake Kussharo, the park's largest lake, famous for its swans and ducks attracted by hot springs that melt areas of the ice, creating a unique and captivating sight for photography. The natural beauty of these lakes offers endless possibilities for capturing the serene winter landscapes of Hokkaido.
Then, we'll proceed to Lake Kussharo, the park's largest lake, famous for its swans and ducks attracted by hot springs that melt areas of the ice, creating a unique and captivating sight for photography. The natural beauty of these lakes offers endless possibilities for capturing the serene winter landscapes of Hokkaido.
DAYS 5-6 (B,L,D) - Akan Mashu National Park
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We dedicate two days to Lake Kussharo, where we'll have the opportunity to photograph the stunning winter landscape and the wildlife that inhabits the area. Lake Kussharo, a part of Akan Mashu National Park, is especially famous for the Whooper Swans that migrate here during the winter months, offering a breathtaking sight against the snow-covered backdrop.
The lake's surface freezes in the middle, but its shores, warmed by thermal springs, provide a haven for these swans. This setting, combined with the presence of other bird species like the White-tailed Eagles and scenic views of the surrounding landscape, makes Lake Kussharo an ideal spot for winter photography.
The lake's surface freezes in the middle, but its shores, warmed by thermal springs, provide a haven for these swans. This setting, combined with the presence of other bird species like the White-tailed Eagles and scenic views of the surrounding landscape, makes Lake Kussharo an ideal spot for winter photography.
DAY 7 (B,L,D) - Notsuke Peninsula, Rausu
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We'll explore the wildlife-rich Notsuke Peninsula, renowned for its diverse bird species, including short-eared owls, and the Ural owl, as well as Ezo sika deer and playful Ezo red foxes. In the evening, your visit to Rausu will be highlighted by a session observing Blakiston's Fish Owl, the world's largest owl species, along the Chitorai River.
This rare and critically endangered species is a captivating subject for wildlife photography. The diversity of birdlife, including the majestic Steller’s sea eagles, and other wildlife, makes this day a highlight for nature photographers and enthusiasts.
This rare and critically endangered species is a captivating subject for wildlife photography. The diversity of birdlife, including the majestic Steller’s sea eagles, and other wildlife, makes this day a highlight for nature photographers and enthusiasts.
DAY 8 (B,L,D) - Rausu, Nemuro Peninsula
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We'll embark on an early morning boat cruise from Rausu, providing a spectacular opportunity to view and photograph a range of sea birds, including the iconic Steller’s Sea Eagle. This area, especially during winter, is a haven for these magnificent birds due to the drift ice bringing in fish.
After the cruise, we'll transfer to Nemuro, a prime birding location, for another boat cruise. Here, you can expect to see a variety of bird species in diverse habitats, enriching your photography and bird-watching experience. The scenic beauty of the Nemuro Peninsula and the variety of wildlife it offers make this day a highlight of the tour
After the cruise, we'll transfer to Nemuro, a prime birding location, for another boat cruise. Here, you can expect to see a variety of bird species in diverse habitats, enriching your photography and bird-watching experience. The scenic beauty of the Nemuro Peninsula and the variety of wildlife it offers make this day a highlight of the tour
DAY 9 (B,L,D) - Lake Furen, Cape Kiritappu
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Prepare to experience the rich birdlife of Lake Furen, a renowned feeding site for Steller's and White-tailed Eagles. This area is abundant with wildlife, especially in winter, making it a prime spot for eagle watching.
Following Lake Furen, we'll explore Cape Kiritappu and its wetlands, known for diverse bird species, offering unique photography opportunities. The Cape's dramatic landscape, along with the wildlife at Lake Furen, will provide a fulfilling day.
Following Lake Furen, we'll explore Cape Kiritappu and its wetlands, known for diverse bird species, offering unique photography opportunities. The Cape's dramatic landscape, along with the wildlife at Lake Furen, will provide a fulfilling day.
DAY 10 (B,D) - Transfer to Tokyo, Yudanaka Onsen
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Our journey takes us from Kushiro to Tokyo via an internal flight, followed by a trip to Yudanaka Onsen. Yudanaka Onsen is a historic hot spring resort town, offering a tranquil retreat with numerous traditional ryokans and onsens. The town provides a peaceful and rejuvenating experience, where you can enjoy the therapeutic benefits of natural hot springs. It's a perfect place to relax after exploring the wildlife of Hokkaido, allowing you to soak in the warm waters while reflecting on the adventures of the past days.
The town's atmosphere becomes more traditional as you move upwards from the station, offering a glimpse into Japan's rich onsen culture. Another special resident resides here, which will be our focus for the next two days - the Japanese macaque (also known as the snow monkey)!
The town's atmosphere becomes more traditional as you move upwards from the station, offering a glimpse into Japan's rich onsen culture. Another special resident resides here, which will be our focus for the next two days - the Japanese macaque (also known as the snow monkey)!
DAYS 11-12 (B,L,D) - Jigokudani Monkey Park
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We'll be visiting the Jigokudani Monkey Park, home to the famous anow monkeys. These Japanese macaques bathe in the park's natural hot springs, providing unique and captivating photo opportunities. The park, set in the monkey's natural habitat within the forests of the Jigokudani Valley, allows you to observe these monkeys from a close distance.
They are accustomed to humans and can be seen engaging in various social interactions. The park is especially photogenic during winter when the area is covered in snow. Our visits to the Jigokudani Monkey Park, combined with the tranquil atmosphere of Yudanaka Onsen, promises a memorable photographic experience.
They are accustomed to humans and can be seen engaging in various social interactions. The park is especially photogenic during winter when the area is covered in snow. Our visits to the Jigokudani Monkey Park, combined with the tranquil atmosphere of Yudanaka Onsen, promises a memorable photographic experience.
DAY 13 (B,L,D) - Jigokudani Monkey Park, Transfer to Tokyo
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We'll have a final photography session with the snow monkeys at Jigokudani Monkey Park. This last opportunity allows you to capture any missed moments and bid farewell to these unique subjects. After this memorable session, we'll transfer back to Tokyo, marking the conclusion of an incredible photographic journey through the winter landscapes and wildlife of Japan!
DAY 14 (B) - Depart Japan, Flights Home
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After breakfast, airport transfers are provided to either Toyko airport. Flights home can be booked at any time.
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To sum it up, one of my best travel experiences ever! So much so, that I have already signed up for 2 more trips."
Once the trip began, it was just one great experience after another. From the first meeting where our guides Grant and Alex took us through the upcoming weeks plans, to the final breakfast, it was like traveling with a group of friends. We were guided to the best light and locations as well as some little known places that Grant had researched a few weeks prior. It was nice to get some unique shots a little off the beaten path.
To sum it up, one of my best travel experiences ever! So much so, that I have already signed up for 2 more trips."
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This was a week-long trip around the Kenai Peninsula that included an all-day fjord boat trip (orcas, humpbacks, seals, birds and a calving glacier), a flight to spend a morning with bears on the beach, a second boat trip to Seldovia (rafts of otters, puffins and...more), and lots of landscape photography. I can't imaging a better week of shooting.
The small group (BCJ is noted for them) bonded quickly and were open to sharing experiences and tips. The guide, Liz Carmel, helped everyone learn something, no matter their prior level of experience. (She was awesome!)"
This was a week-long trip around the Kenai Peninsula that included an all-day fjord boat trip (orcas, humpbacks, seals, birds and a calving glacier), a flight to spend a morning with bears on the beach, a second boat trip to Seldovia (rafts of otters, puffins and...more), and lots of landscape photography. I can't imaging a better week of shooting.
The small group (BCJ is noted for them) bonded quickly and were open to sharing experiences and tips. The guide, Liz Carmel, helped everyone learn something, no matter their prior level of experience. (She was awesome!)"
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David S.
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"Recently completed my 5th trip with Backcountry Journeys, this time to Iceland - the Land of Fire and Ice. This was an awesome trip that took in the entirety of this beautiful country, from active volcanos to the northern lights to glacier fed rivers, streams and beaches. As usual with my previous trips with BCJ, this trip was well planned and we stayed at great lodges and had superb meals."
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Worry Free Travel Guarantee!
HERE’S THE DEAL
We offer one of the most rock solid guarantees in the travel industry - our worry free travel, peace of mind guarantee to you!We’re so confident that the Photography Trips we offer will not only meet but exceed the lofty expectations set forth on our website – if your trip experience does not 100% match the promises laid forth on our website we will gladly give you a credit toward a future trip.
Natural events such as wildlife & weather are certainly out of our control but every aspect of the trip including logistics, accommodations, vehicles, itinerary & your expert trip leaders will match the lofty promises we’ve made on the site – we guarantee it!
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