Hokkaido’s Winter Photography Tour & Holiday

Experience frozen wonders of Hokkaido in the winter through our epic Japan photo tour.

Over 10 action packed days you’ll capture breathtaking winter scenery as Hokkaido Island transforms into a winter wonderland.

This destination is a dream for photographers looking to add a unique touch to their portfolios. Immerse yourself in this winter wonderland and photograph an abundance of extraordinary wildlife. Capturing snow monkeys, whooper swans, red-crowned cranes, owls, deer, eagles, and more.

As you explore the northernmost island of Japan, be prepared to indulge in fascinating traditions, immersing yourself in rich culture. Your journey will be guided by our renowned photography experts – who a specialise in Hokkaido wildlife. With their wealth of knowledge, you are guaranteed an educational and remarkable tour of the second largest island in Japan. You’ll be provided with all the necessary skills for a truly unforgettable adventure in this splendid part of the world.

Don’t miss the chance to witness Hokkaido’s unspoiled snowy landscapes in winter on this photo excursion!

Location:

Hokkaido, Japan

Duration:

10 Days

Skill Level:

4.5

Fitness Level:

Moderate

Tour Outline

Please find below a rough schedule outlining the intended tour schedule. However, keep in mind that this may change due to unexpected situations or bad weather.

Day 1

• You’ll arrive in Hokkaido in the early morning.

• Here our professional photo guides and drivers will greet you.

• As a group, you’ll then be transported to your accommodation situated in the remote village of Tsurui.

• You will have some leisure time to relax and freshen up before convening in the evening for dinner.

• Following dinner, you will have the chance to unwind and rejuvenate in an authentic Hokkaido onsen bath.
Day 2

• We’ll start the day early to document the magnificent avian species that Tsurui is widely recognized for.

• Over the following days, we will seek out the red-crowned cranes – one of the rarest birds on Earth.

• Your expert photographic mentors will guide you to strategic vantage points, to capture the cranes in their natural surroundings.
Day 3

• On the third day, we’ll embark on a continued exploration in search of elegant cranes.

• We will traverse diverse settings to catch sight of Sika deer, Hokkaido foxes, as well as eagles and Ural owls.
Day 4

• We rise early on day four as we travel to Rausu, a charming fishing town located on the outskirts of Nemuro Strait.

• Hopefully, we’ll catch sight of the white-tailed sea eagles soaring gracefully in the sky.

• The rest of the day will be spent on a sea excursion.

• As we navigate along the coastline, we will be in a prime position to observe flocks of protected eagles in action.

• Upon our return to land, the evening will be spent at Lake Furen, located within the Notsukefurendoritsu National Park.
Day 5

• On day five, we will enjoy our breakfast and then proceed to a sunrise photography session at Lake Furen.

• Following this, we will check out from our lodging and continue our journey towards the charming lakeside town of Teshikaga.

• Once we arrive, we will spend the day exploring the remarkable Akan National Park.
Day 6

• On the sixth day, we will greet the sunrise at Akan National Park, specifically at Lake Kussharo.
• The view of this volcanic lake is stunning when observed from the Bihoro mountain pass. A prime location for panoramic landscape photos.
• Once we have concluded this experience, we will head back to the hotel for breakfast.
• Following breakfast, we will check out of our current accommodation and commence our journey towards Biei.
• Along the way, we will make several stops to further explore different compositions for minimalistic photography. Focusing on solitary trees standing resolute within the captivating snow-covered landscapes.
• Upon our arrival in Biei during the evening hours, we will proceed to check in at our hotel just in time for dinner. This hotel will serve as our home base for the next three evenings.
Day 7 - 8

• Over the course of the following two days, our primary focus will be capturing picturesque snowy landscapes of Biei. Our objective will primarily revolve around photographing various tree formations.
• Additionally, a visit to the renowned "Christmas tree" situated in Biei will be included in our itinerary. We will explore the captivating Blue Pond, which takes on a particularly enchanting allure during the winter season.
• Aside from these iconic locations, we'll also visit some spots off the beaten track. Providing more unique compositions in the Hokkaido landscape.
Day 9

• On the ninth day, we shall venture towards Sapporo, the esteemed capital of Hokkaido.
• Our evening photography session shall take place by the shore, where an exceptional torii gate emerges from the waters. This presents an ideal opportunity to master the art of long exposure photography, allowing us to capture ethereal and musing landscapes.
Day 10

• On our final day we shall wake early to witness the sunrise.
• Our first stop will be Ebisu Iwa, a stunning cove characterised by extraordinary rock formations at sea. This location is ideal for gaining insights on capturing seascapes, particularly through neutral density filters. Resulting in captivating cloud formations and serene water surfaces.
• Following sunrise, we’ll head back to the hotel for breakfast and begin the process of checking out.
• We’ll then set off 2-hour drive to Sapporo Chitose Airport.
• From there, you’ll have the opportunity to catch your flight back home or continue your journey to your chosen destination.
• It is recommended to schedule any departing flights for after 14:00, considering the possibility of unforeseen delays.

Additional Information

What's Included

Accomodation

Equipment Needed

What's Included

Accomodation

Equipment Needed