Land in Sapporo, transfer to Jigokudani, settle in, and capture evening scenes in snowy forest environs.
Summary
Traverse winter’s heart in Japan — from Jigokudani for the snow monkeys to icy marshlands and frost-laden forests. The Mecca for minimalistic photography. A place where you can connect with yourself and communicate through imagery. An absolute dream in our eyes. Our trip will take us from the remote valley in South-west Japan for the snow monkeys to the northernmost end of Japan in search of the Stellars Eagles. A journey that you will not forget very easily. Join us to a place that will transform you as a wildlife photographer.
Itinerary
Land in Sapporo, transfer to Jigokudani, settle in, and capture evening scenes in snowy forest environs.
Visit hot springs to photograph snow monkeys, combine ambient portraits and behavioral frames.
Move eastward to Kushiro, starting early morning from Jigokudani to Tokyo and onwards by flight
Photograph red-crowned cranes, marsh wildlife, reflections, textures, and subtle minimalism in snow.
Travel to Lake Kussharo after a full day with the cranes, shoot surrounding wetlands, ice edges, and waterbird activity at dusk if time permits
Explore landscapes around the lake with a full day with the swans.
Move to Rausu, stopping on coastline or forest edges for atmospheric captures. afternoon in Notsuke for Fox
Early morning boat ride at Rausu for eagles, afternoon in Notsuke,
A final boat ride to meet the eagles before we head out to catch our flights to tokyo,
Stays
Inclusions
Photo Gallery
FAQ
A Japan Tourist visa will be required.
Ensure that your passports have at least 6months of validity
We arrive in Tokyo and will be taking a bus to our hotel. We will be met with by our local guides at the hotel.
A lot of cold and biting winds are to be expected.
Temperatures down to -30C and a lot of standing around in cold and snow.
We will be having an exclusive mini bus for our group
If someone wants extra boat rides for the eagles, those can be arranged on the spot.
Base / Under Layers
Thermal top (moisture-wicking)
Thermal bottom / long underwear
Thermal / wool socks (multiple pairs)
Underwear (quick-dry)
Mid Layers
Fleece or wool sweater / pullover
Insulating jacket (light down or synthetic)
Outer Layers
Heavy down / insulated winter jacket (windproof & waterproof)
Waterproof / windproof shell jacket (overlayer)
Insulated, waterproof pants / snow pants
Footwear
Waterproof winter boots (high enough to block snow)
Ice-grip attachments / crampons (optional for icy sidewalks)
Accessories / Extremities
Waterproof gloves or mittens (pair)
Liner gloves (thin inner pair)
Warm hat / beanie (covers ears)
Neck gaiter / scarf
Balaclava / face mask (for very cold/windy days)
Ear muffs (optional)
Hand warmers / foot warmers (disposable or reusable)
Eyewear / Sun Protection
Sunglasses
Ski or snow goggles (if you’ll be in heavy snow)
Sunscreen (for UV reflection from snow)
Lip balm & moisturizer