Birding in Japan - Private Tours & Workshops 

More than 600 bird species have been recorded in Japan to date.  The majority are migratory, more than 60%.  Approximately 60 species are endemic or sub-regional endemic.  Japan is latitudinally long at over 3,000 kilometers and has 6,852 islands, and Blain, our workshop leader, has explored and photographed on over 200 of these islands.  Japan’s flora and fauna are divided by two ecological lines, the Blakiston’s Line which is between Hokkaido and Honshu, and the Watase Line which is just below Kyushu.  Hokkaido wildlife is internationally recognized for its abundance and diversity, so you can enjoy birding and experience encounters with Sika Deer and other Hokkaido native species.  One of our main offices is located directly between both lines on the busiest route of the birding migratory path during spring and autumn.

Birding in Japan includes species such as the Japanese White Eye or Mejiro in February while they sip the sweet nectar or the Kawazu sakura, the earliest blooming cherry blossom.  Also, in winter, you can photograph the Steller’s Sea Eagles, Red-crowned Cranes, White-tailed Eagle, Black Kites, Golden Eagles, Japanese Water Rail, Shima Enaga, Daurian Redstart, Brown-headed Thrush, Grey and Yellow Wagtails, Mute Swan, Whooper Swan, the Rustic Bunting, the Japanese Wagtail, Eastern Spot-Billed Duck, Azure-winged Magpie, Eurasian Nuthatch, Little Grebes, Glaucous Gull - the second largest gull in the world, Kingfishers, the Okinawa Rail, the Great Spotted Woodpecker, the Green Pheasant, baby Swallows, and Martins, and, if lucky, the Oriental Stork, which was thought to be extinct, but is on a comeback.  Images can be viewed here. This is not an exhaustive list.  Depending on which region you are visiting and photographing, we recommend birding in Hokkaido from December to March.  Kanto Japan is best from February to April because of cherry blossoms.  The recommended period for migratory birds on the Sea of Japan starts at the end of March. It continues until June, then again from September to December; our itineraries are flexible depending on seasonal conditions and are modified accordingly to give us the best viewing opportunities.

Why Choose this Birding Photography Tour/Workshop?

• Birders of all levels are welcome.
• All cameras, scopes, video cameras, binoculars, and formats are welcome
• Telephoto lenses, 400mm, 500mm,  800mm, 1000mm, or 1200mm are very welcome
• Activity level: leisurely - moderate, depending on species’ preferences 
• Waders, life vests, and climbing gear are available for rental in shops
• Transportation - SUVs with Business Class Seating, and each participant has a window seat
• All tours and workshops include lodgings and meals
• Small group size equals quality time in the field
• Handheld radios and tracking device frequencies known and used for spotting 
• Each evening and morning, we discuss our best shooting options with our weather conditions so we will be well-prepared
• 2024 is Blain's 27th year leading birding and wildlife photographers' wildlife tours throughout Japan, including Hokkaido, Kanto, Tohoku, Chubu, Kansai, Chugoku, Kinki, Shikoku, Kyushu, and Okinawa Japan. Blain has led birding and wildlife spotting tours on over 300 of Japan's 6,852 Islands. Join now and enjoy birding with award-winning pro photographer and bird watcher Blain Harasymiw.

Cost: From $1100 per day per person based on 3 - 4 participants, 2 participants from $1400 per day per person; single person $2100 per day.

Are you ready for an unforgettable birding experience in Japan? Join us for a personalized birding photography adventure that will take you through some of the breathtaking landscapes and vibrant ecosystems! To begin your journey, please fill out the contact form below. Let us know your desired travel dates, the number of participants in your group, and a few keywords of the bird species you wish to observe. Whether it’s the majestic Steller’s Sea Eagle, the charming Japanese White Eye amidst cherry blossoms, or the stunning views of Hokkaido, Okinawa, Tokyo, and Mt. Fuji, we can tailor this workshop to your interests. Don’t miss out on the chance to capture stunning photographs and create lasting memories. Pill out the form today, and let’s make your birding adventure in Japan a reality!

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