I am currently in Hokkaido till March, leading several Hokkaido photography tours; it's an exhilarating experience that allows me to indulge in two of my greatest passions: the beauty of nature and the art of photography. Hokkaido is nothing short of enchanting; it consistently ranks among the world's top destinations for wildlife photography, particularly in winter. With its stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity, this island is a treasure trove for photographers. Home to remarkable wildlife such as the majestic Steller's Sea Eagle, the elegant Red-crowned Crane, and the captivating Shima Enaga, Hokkaido boasts over 600 bird species. A significant portion of these birds, more than 60%, are migratory, while around 60 species are endemic to the region. Among this incredible wildlife is the renowned Ezo Sika Deer, found in East Hokkaido, where the largest herd of Sika Deer thrives.
About a decade ago, a thrilling adventure unfolded while exploring the awe-inspiring landscapes of Rausu, Nakashibetsu, and Nemuro. Accompanied by Koji, a crucial team member, we stumbled upon a narrow path, marked by fresh tire tracks, off the main road. Intrigued by the uncharted route, I embraced the spirit of adventure. The path was rugged, barely recognizable as a road at times, requiring me to navigate my SUV over 100 meters of pack ice. Drawing on my extensive experience in the Canadian wilderness, I was at ease and confident in our journey.
After about thirty minutes of driving, I spotted antlers on the horizon! We had stumbled upon the largest herd of Ezo Sika Deer on the planet, with numbers exceeding a thousand. I parked around 200 yards away on a narrow strip surrounded by water and ice, quickly setting up my camera gear. With the deer soon to move past us, we were perfectly positioned to capture the elusive moment. For 20 breathtaking minutes, Koji and I were fully immersed in photography until the deer, sensing our presence, retreated into Hokkaido's wild frontier. The rush of hooves, antlers, and fur brought back memories of my unforgettable encounters with wildlife in Africa and Alaska.
This extraordinary opportunity to photograph these magnificent creatures left an indelible mark on my heart—one I aspire to share with clients, team members, family, and friends. Every time I recount this story, it sparks inspiration and ignites curiosity, inviting others to join me on the Hokkaido wildlife photography tour for their own remarkable Sika Deer experience. My unwavering passion for exploration fuels my dedication to immersing myself in Hokkaido's breathtaking landscapes yearly. I invest several months scouting the region, not only to lead engaging photography workshops but also to capture its natural beauty. The allure of a perfect blizzard captivates me as it transforms the landscape and drives the largest herds of sika deer to gather on a remote parcel of land, far from the beaten path. By timing my visits for a day or two after the storm, I can witness these majestic creatures in their stunning winter habitat, creating an unforgettable experience for myself and my workshop participants. There is something truly magical about being in the right place at the right time, and I aim to share that magic with everyone who joins me in Hokkaido. I’m excitedly waiting for a blizzard while planning a visit with the magnificent Sika deer herd—almost a thousand strong! It’s such a thrilling opportunity to witness nature's beauty.
