Wildlife and Culture of Japan Photo Safari

Although not widely known for its wildlife, Japan does in fact offer some wonderfully photogenic native species as well as some Asian specialties. We’ll venture to this beautiful country’s rural regions, including the northern island of Hokkaido, to photograph some of the most attractive wildlife subjects.

Our leader is award-winning photographer Wolfgang Kaehler.

In spite of Japan’s large human population, this island nation remains an important migratory stop for Asian bird species, and provides a home to many other notable species. The Japanese revere nature and wildlife and have set aside parks, reserves and natural areas which they are justly proud of.

The rare and beautiful red-crowned crane, also called the Japanese crane, is the second-rarest crane in the world. It nests and raises its young in Siberia and migrates in winter to Japan, Korea and China. However, a non-migratory flock resides on the rural northern island of Hokkaido, where we will dedicate a major portion of our trip. The crane has figured prominently in Japan’s religious and cultural symbols.

Here we’ll also find the whooping swan and one of the world’s most impressive eagles, the Steller’s sea eagle, which haunts the sea ice blown south from Siberia. And we can’t leave the country without visiting the hot springs which are the favorite soaking spots for the snow monkeys, or Japanese macaques.

In addition to our wildlife subjects, you’ll have lots of time to photograph the beauty of the Japanese winter landscape. We’ll spend time in Kyoto with its stunning traditional architecture and temples.

Join Wolfgang Kaehler on this exciting wintertime celebration of Japan’s natural heritage!  

--Photos in this section © Wolfgang Kaehler