Step into an unforgettable winter journey across Hokkaido, Japan, designed for the dedicated birdwatcher and wildlife photographer. Scheduled for February 2027, this small-group eco-tour offers a specialized, niche experience centered on Hokkaido’s iconic winter wildlife, including spectacular birding opportunities in iconic natural areas. Catering to experienced travelers who value authenticity over luxury, the itinerary blends expert-guided activities and immersion in remote landscapes with comfortable local accommodation, providing a unique and intimate escape that lightly touches upon Japanese cultural elements.
Wings of Winter: A Journey Through Hokkaido
7 Days 6 Nights-
3 Star Hotels
-
Bullet Train, Tour Van
Wings of Winter: A Journey Through Hokkaido
Itinerary
-
Day
01Travel from Tokyo to Kushiro by Train
Arrive Kushiro and meet with our local guide. Tsurui Crane Feeding Station for Red-crowned Cranes. Overnight at Yumekoubou.
Meal Plan: Dinner
-
Day
02Kushiro – Yoroushi
Pre-breakfast birding at Otowa Bridge for roosting cranes. After breakfast visit Kushiro Marsh National Park, Lake Toro, Shirarutoro, Lake Kussharo for Steller’s Sea Eagles, Ural Owls, Whooper Swans. Overnight at Yuyado Daiichi and see Blakiston’s Fish Owl at night.
Meal Plan: Breakfast & Dinner
-
Day
03Yoroushi - Rausu
After breakfast, visit Shibetsu Fishing Port for seagulls and sea-ducks followed by Notsuke Peninsula, stay at Rausu no yado Marumi in Rausu. Night visit to Washinoyado for Blakiston’s Fish Owl.
Meal Plan: Breakfast & Dinner
-
Day
04Rausu – Teshikaga
Board Eagle Boat for Steller’s Sea Eagles on the ice pack. After cruise, drive to Suigou Park in Teshikaga, stay at Pension Papilio.
Meal Plan: Breakfast & Dinner
-
Day
05Teshikaga - Furen
Pre-breakfast bird watching around the inn. Visit Lake Kussharo for Whooper Swans in the morning, and afternoon visit Hashirikotan in Lake Furen for eagles. Overnight at Lodge Furen.
Meal Plan: Breakfast & Dinner
-
Day
06Furen
Board the Ochiishi Nature Cruise for Auks, Cormorants and Sea Otters. Visit Cape Nossappu for Red-faced Cormorant and Rock Sandpiper. Overnight at Lodge Furen.
Meal Plan: Breakfast & Dinner
-
Day
07Furen - Kushiro
Visit the eagle feeding place at Lake Furen. Drive along the coastline through Kiritappu Marsh, Cape Kiritappu and Lake Akkeshi. Drop off to Kushiro Airport for onward journey.
Meal Plan: Breakfast
FAQs
What specific wildlife can I expect to see, and where are the key viewing locations?
The tour is centered on Hokkaido's winter wildlife, with a focus on spectacular birding. Key species you can expect to see include Red-crowned Cranes (at Tsurui and Otowa Bridge), Steller’s Sea Eagles (at Lake Toro, Lake Kussharo, and on the Eagle Boat cruise), and the elusive Blakiston’s Fish Owl (at Yuyado Daiichi and Washinoyado). Other highlights include Whooper Swans, Ural Owls, Auks, Cormorants, and Sea Otters (on the Ochiishi Nature Cruise).
What type of accommodation is included in the tour?
The tour utilizes local accommodation (such as Yumekoubou, Yuyado Daiichi, and Pension Papilio) which aligns with the tour's emphasis on authenticity and intimate lodging over conventional luxury hotels. The accommodation is selected to provide access to the remote natural areas visited.
What makes this specific Hokkaido winter tour unique?
This experience is unique because it offers a specialized, niche experience focused intensely on Hokkaido’s winter wildlife and remote landscapes. It is a carefully curated blend of spectacular, expert-guided birding opportunities, immersion in the natural environment, and the use of intimate, local lodging, while also providing a light exposure to Japanese cultural elements.
Immersive expeditions that combine adventure, science, and education, taking you deep into the world of wildlife and predators across stunning global destinations.
See it online https://www.predatours.com/trip/wings-of-winter-a-journey-through-hokkaido-2/