February 14th - 28th, 2026
Encounter and photograph the wild and mystical wildlife of Japan, including the charismatic “hot tubbing” snow monkeys (Japanese macaques) in central Honshu. These fun-loving monkeys are curious and human-like, playing, chasing, and even throwing snowballs at each other like little children in a snowball fight.
Finally, we’ll travel north to the island of Hokkaido, where bird life dominates the winter landscape. The elegant Japanese crane will dance in and out of our lenses while one of the world’s largest raptors, the Steller’s sea eagle, performs in the sky above us. We’ll also have great opportunities for red foxes and deer.
Soak in the onsen next to a playful snow monkey, photograph a pirouetting crane, or simply enjoy tea at one of the many traditional charming ryokans. Japan will be an unforgettable experience—join us in 2026!
2026 Japan Winter Wildlife Photography Tour II Travel Plans
Saturday, February 14
Depart the US/Canada
Sunday, February 15 (D)
Arrive in Tokyo at any time of the day via Haneda Airport (airport code HND).
Transfer to the Villa Fontaine Premier Haneda Airport using their complimentary airport shuttle, or you can walk directly to the hotel from Terminal 3.
Tonight, we’ll gather for a group welcome dinner. Overnight at Hotel Villa Fontaine Grand Haneda Airport
Monday, February 16 (B, D)
After a good night’s sleep, we’ll travel to the town of Yamanouchi in northeastern Nagano. Get settled in at the Kanbayashi Hotel Senjukaku (or similar), our home for the next three nights.
You’ll find Japanese life seems at a much slower pace in Yamanouchi, which is nestled in a valley between two rivers in the Japanese Alps. This is a delightful place to explore on foot. Meander the historic hot spring villages within, among Nagano’s oldest, set among traditional ryokans and charming shops. There are many public bathhouses here, and it’s common to see locals and visitors alike roaming the quaint, narrow streets in their yukata (light kimonos) and geta (wooden) sandals, traveling from one public onsen to the next. Wandering around, you will surely encounter unique scenes that provide excellent opportunities for photography.
This area is also home to Jigokudani Yaen-Koen National Park (Snow Monkey Park). The name Jigokudani translates to “Hell’s Valley” and describes its eerie atmosphere of steam and boiling water bubbling from the frozen ground. The ominous cliffs and wild forest add to the mystery and magic that the snow monkeys call home during the winter months. The snow monkeys, or Japanese macaques, are the only monkeys in the world to live so far north.
Tuesday, February 17 and Wednesday, February 18 (2B, 2D)
Each morning, we will take daily walks (about 30 minutes) along a forest trail into the nearby Jigokudani Yaen-Koen National Park to photograph the approximately 160 snow monkeys residing there. These intriguing primates love to put on a show for their human admirers. You’ll no doubt witness snowball fights among siblings, territory disputes among the males, babies clinging to their mothers, and other monkey antics. You can get very close to the monkeys as they walk around and sit in the trees or steamy hot springs. This park is between hills, so you’re walking in a very natural environment through the valley.
Overnight at Kanbayashi Hotel Senjukaku (or similar)
Thursday, February 19 (B, D)
Today, we drive back to Tokyo and fly to Kushiro, located on the northernmost island of the Japanese archipelago, Hokkaido.
Upon arrival, we have a short transfer to the ANA Crowne Plaza Kushiro (or similar). Adjacent to Kushiro’s Fisherman’s Wharf, our stay at the Crowne Plaza promises to be a memorable experience of high-quality service and elegance. Every room has spectacular views of the harbor and its natural surroundings.
Friday, February 20 (B, D)
Today, we will explore Tsurui village and also make our way to the Tsurui-Ito Tancho Sanctuary (Tsurui-mura Reserve) to photograph various birds. We’re sure to be entertained by the leaping, pirouetting, and trumpeting Japanese (red-crowned) cranes as they carry out their mating rituals. This infectious behavior often spreads through the flock in waves, leading to a thrilling display. We can expect to see flocks of 100 or more of these birds at ranges of 30 feet or less.
The red-crowned crane is one of the largest birds in Japan. Because of their red heads, their Japanese name is Tancho (“tan”= red, “cho” = top). These magnificent birds are considered a symbol of luck and longevity.
Other feathered friends we’re sure to encounter include white-naped cranes, white-tailed eagles, and black-eared kites. The Ural owl also inhabits the forests of Tsurui, so we’ll watch for this striking bird and listen for its haunting call.
We’ll spend another night at the ANA Crowne Plaza Kushiro (or similar).
Saturday, February 21 (B, D)
Today, we’ll board our private charter bus and head toward Lake Akan.
Along the way, we’ll make a stop to photograph the whooper swans of Lake Kussharo. Each year, hundreds of whooper swans winter in eastern Hokkaido, principally on Lake Kussharo, after migrating from Siberia and northern Mongolia. Although much of the lake is frozen in winter, it’s fed by hot spring water, creating warm temperatures. The winter white color of snow and ice makes for an excellent backdrop for photographs of these migrating birds.
We’ll spend three nights at Hotel & Spa Resort La Vista Akangawa Kushiro (or similar). The hotel is renowned for its beautiful views, world-class hospitality, elegant interiors, luxurious spa, and exceptional hot spring facilities.
Sunday, February 22 and Monday, February 23 (2B, 2D)
Consider Lake Akan as a “take a breather” location. You’ll have free time to shop, relax in the hotel’s spa and hot spring facilities, or explore this beautiful photogenic village. The main street is lined on both sides with folk art stores and restaurants.
This area is home to the Ainu native people. Watch Ainu dances and listen to the traditional Ainu Jew’s harp, known as the mukkuri, at the Onne Chise in the center of the village.
We’ll meet up for a Lake Mashu photo shoot. Lake Mashu is a stunning caldera lake known for its vibrant blue waters and exceptional clarity. It is often referred to as the “clearest lake in the world.” Elevated at about 2,000 feet above sea level, Lake Mashu is often shrouded in mist, adding to its mystical allure. During winter, the lake is surrounded by a pristine blanket of snow and offers breathtaking views from several observation points.
We overnight at Hotel & Spa Resort La Vista Akangawa Kushiro (or similar).
Tuesday, February 24 (B, D)
Today, we’ll pack up and head to the easternmost portion of Hokkaido island, the Shiretoko Peninsula, where we’ll base ourselves out of the town of Rausu for the next two nights.
The Shiretoko Peninsula, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and surrounding waters offer a prime example of the interaction of marine and terrestrial ecosystems. Many migratory and threatened seabirds make their home on the ice pack here each winter. We are drawn to the peninsula to capture images of the immense Steller’s sea eagle. These majestic birds have wingspans of over six feet and are one of the heaviest birds in the world, weighing in from 11 to 20 pounds.
The Notsuke Peninsula, a great place to find sea eagles, red foxes, and deer, is also nearby, and we’ll explore this area during our time in Rausu.
Overnight at Shiretoko Serai (or similar)
Wednesday, February 25 (B, D)
We are getting up early (5:00 am!) for an icebreaker boat ride to the edge of the ice pack.
We’ll depart from the port in Rausu, followed by a playful trail of various gulls, and head out as the sun works its way up over the Northern Territories occupied by Russia. Once at the ice pack, we’ll be greeted by numerous Steller’s sea eagles and smaller white-tailed eagles eager for their morning fish breakfast.
We’ll be out on the water for approximately 2.5 hours before heading back to port (the boat ride is weather-dependent, and ice conditions can vary).
The afternoon is dedicated to photographing Notsuke and the surrounding Rausu area.
We spend a second night at the Shiretoko Serai (or similar)
Thursday, February 26 (B, D)
For those who can’t get enough of birds on ice, take an optional (extra fee) 5:00 am icebreaker boat ride back out to the ice pack for more eagle photography. We’ll be back at the port in time for breakfast and to pack up our things. We’ll slowly make our way back to the city of Kushiro, stopping to photograph birds and other wildlife along the way.
We spend the night at the ANA Crowne Plaza Kushiro (or similar) adjacent to Kushiro’s Fisherman’s Wharf.
Friday, February 27 (B, D)
We’ll fly back to Haneda Airport in Tokyo this morning.
For those interested, we’ll take a train ride into the heart of Tokyo to experience the vibrant energy of an iconic shopping district. The streets are lined with trendy boutiques, neon lights, massive department stores, and towering camera shops offering everything from the latest digital cameras to lenses and accessories.
At a farewell group dinner, we’ll reminisce over an amazing trip filled with wildlife, hot springs, and good company.
We will overnight at the Villa Fontaine Premier Haneda Airport,
Saturday, February 28 (B)
Today, we bid goodbye and fly home. Checkout time from the hotel is at 11:oo am. The hotel will provide a complimentary shuttle transfer to Haneda Airport.
SCROLL DOWN TO SEE EXPLORER IMAGES FROM PAST JAPAN TRIPS WITH NATURAL EXPOSURES!
Guest Limits
14 Guests Maximum
Trip Cost
12,500 pp, DBL occupancy
Rate includes domestic flights:
Haneda – Kushiro – HanedaSingle supplement: 1500 (limited space)
All pricing in USD
Deposit
$2500 Per person due at time of booking
Visa, MasterCard, AmEx, Discover, or check acceptedDeposits are non-refundable. If cancellations are necessary, we require this request in writing. We will do our best to resell your space. Only if we can resell your space, we will refund (minus deposit and discounts given to sell your space). No partial refunds are possible for unused services.
Installments
March 1, 2025: 6,000 pp first installment
October 1, 2025: Final paymentInstallments are payable by check only. Please make checks payable to Natural Exposures and mail to:
Natural Exposures
810 N. Wallace, Suite E
Bozeman, MT 59715Included
- Private small group travel with professional photographer Daniel J. Cox
- 13 nights accommodations
- Entrance fees for locations in the itinerary
- English-speaking guide
- Private coach/bus during the tour
- Meals where indicated (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner)
- Domestic flights Tokyo (Haneda) – Kushiro – Tokyo (Haneda)
- One boat tour for eagles
Not Included
- International airfare
- Travel/emergency medical evacuation insurance
- Laundry, drinks, Internet charges, and other miscellaneous personal expenses
- Attractions/activities not listed in the itinerary
- Meals not listed in the itinerary
- Pre/post-trip hotel nights
- Gratuities for bus driver and guide
- Second boat tour for eagles (optional)
Flights to Book
February 14, 2026
Depart US/CanadaFebruary 15, 2026
Arrive in Tokyo via Haneda (HND) at any time of the day. Group welcome dinner this eveningFebruary 28, 2026
Depart Tokyo via Haneda (HND) at any time of the day. Checkout time from the hotel is at 11:00 am.Travel Insurance
Travel/emergency medical evacuation insurance is not required for this photo tour, but we always recommend purchasing it for any trip. Emergency medical evacuation insurance is affordable and can be purchased for each trip or an entire year and can even be bundled with your regular travel insurance! We recommend one or more of the following, depending on your needs:
Global Rescue
(use code natexp)Allianz Global Assistance
(use travel agency ID F203564)Terms & Conditions
Natural Exposures cannot control nor is responsible for abnormal weather, natural disasters, or any other disaster that might affect the trip. Travel insurance should be purchased to cover any missed flights or medical problems that may affect/delay your travel. National Parks have the right to change our itinerary.
By booking a trip with Natural Exposures, you agree to the following CANCELLATION AND LIABILITY POLICY
Accommodations for 2026 Japan Winter Wildlife Photography Tour II
February 15 and 27, 2 Nights
Villa Fontaine Premier Haneda Airport (or similar)
Villa Fontaine Premier Haneda Airport is a sophisticated and convenient hotel just a short walk from Tokyo’s Haneda Airport Terminal 3. The hotel offers a blend of modern luxury and comfort, with spacious, well-appointed rooms designed for relaxation. Guests can enjoy various amenities, including complimentary shuttle services to the airport, free Wi-Fi, and a cozy lounge area. The hotel’s proximity to transportation hubs makes exploring Tokyo and its surrounding areas easy.February 16-18, 3 Nights
Kanbayashi Hotel Senjukaku (or similar)
Kanbayashi Hotel Senjukaku is a charming ryokan nestled in the tranquil surroundings of the Japanese Alps. With a rich history and traditional ambiance, this hotel offers guests a unique experience of Japanese hospitality.Rooms are elegantly designed and feature stunning views of the mountains. One of the highlights of Kanbayashi Hotel Senjukaku is its onsen facilities, where visitors can soak in natural hot springs surrounded by beautiful landscapes. The soothing waters are perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring the area.
With its perfect blend of tradition, comfort, and stunning natural beauty, Kanbayashi Hotel Senjukaku is an ideal destination for those seeking an authentic Japanese experience in a peaceful setting.
February 19-20 and February 26, 3 Nights
ANA Crowne Plaza Kushiro (or similar)
Adjacent to the Kushiro’s Fisherman’s Wharf, the ANA Crowne Plaza Kushiro is a favorite amongst many who visit the city on the east coast of Hokkaido. A stay promises a memorable experience with a high quality of service and elegance that is synonymous with the ANA chain of hotels. The classic exterior houses a spacious atrium lobby and the largest guest rooms in Kushiro, specially designed for comfort, each of which boasts spectacular views of the harbor and its natural surroundings. The first-class teppanyaki restaurant is a must-try amongst the several restaurants that boast the freshest seasonal seafood and other fare to satisfy the palate. Complete your evening with a variety of quality spirits and cocktails and soak in the breathtaking seascape.February 21-23, 3 Nights
Hotel & Spa Resort La Vista Akangawa Kushiro (or similar)
Nestled in the heart of Hokkaido’s beautiful Kushiro region, Hotel & Spa Resort La Vista Akangawa Kushiro offers a serene retreat with luxurious accommodations, breathtaking views of Lake Akan, and an exceptional onsen experience. Guests can relax in the resort’s natural hot springs, indulge in fine dining with seasonal local ingredients, and unwind at the luxurious spa.February 24 and 25, 2 Nights
Shiretoko Serai (or similar)
Shiretoko Serai features spacious guest rooms with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the Sea of Okhotsk, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the serene environment. Each room is thoughtfully designed, combining contemporary amenities with warm, rustic touches.Dining at Shiretoko Serai Rausu highlights the region’s fresh, local ingredients. Guests can enjoy exquisite kaiseki meals that celebrate seasonal flavors, often featuring seafood caught from nearby waters.
One of the standout features of the hotel is its onsen facilities, where visitors can relax in natural hot springs while taking in views of the rugged coastline and beautiful landscapes. The soothing waters are perfect for unwinding after a day of outdoor adventures.
Helpful Information for 2026 Japan Winter Wildlife Photography Tour II
PASSPORT and VISA
US citizens must have a valid passport and an onward/return ticket for tourist/business “visa-free” stays of up to 90 days. Your passport must be valid for the entire time you’re staying in Japan, and one blank page is required for the entry stamp. Please visit the US Department of State – Bureau of Consular Affairs for the most up-to-date entry requirements.
VACCINATIONS
All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please visit the CDC for the latest vaccination recommendations and health notices for travel to Japan.
CAMERA GEAR
We’ll send a list of suggested camera gear to bring, and Dan will phone each guest to discuss gear before departure time.
CURRENCY
Japanese yen
WEATHER
Expect sub-zero temperatures in Hokkaido. It’s very warm inside buildings, so bring layers. Daylight is from 7:00 am to 5:00 pm. We’ll be photographing from dawn to dusk, taking breaks for meals and to warm up. It could be cold in the mornings!
ACTIVITY LEVEL
Each guest must be able to walk short to moderate distances, carry their camera gear, and, at times, walk on ice/inclines. It is an approximate 1-mile walk on a forest trail each day to the Snow Monkey Park. The walk is mostly flat and not too difficult, but it could be icy, so ice cleats are a must! This is the only area where there will be a fairly long walk.
All other locations will require minimal walking, and the bus can get close to photography areas.
ADDITIONAL NOTES
The Japanese are very quiet and reserved—a very giving group of people. There is not an actual word for “no” in their language; they find it too impolite to say. Japan is very clean and safe. When you get out of the cities, especially in Hokkaido, you’ll swear you’re in Minnesota in the winter! There are a lot of dairy farms, and snowmobiling, ice fishing, and wildlife can be seen all around. We’ve had many great opportunities to photograph birds, foxes, and deer on past trips.
Domestic flights to and from Hokkaido (via Haneda) are included in your trip. They are commercial flights/larger planes, so there are not usually any carry-on issues. There are two airports in Tokyo: Haneda and Narita. Both are international. Make sure you fly in and out of Haneda (HND).
We’ll also have private bus transfers between locations. There is a fair amount of driving on this trip, but it is needed to see the different wildlife Japan has to offer.
Beds will range from a futon on the floor to low beds to North American-style beds. Internet is available throughout the trip.
Onsens are natural hot spring baths. They are found all over Hokkaido. Men and women have separate areas to bathe; all are nude. Some inns will have private baths available. Onsens vary from extremely nice and fancy to basic cement rooms (some indoor, some outdoor). We suggest trying them out! They sure warm you up after a long, cool day outside.
FOOD
In some of the more remote areas, the inns will serve Japanese food with minimal options. Usually, there is enough variety for everyone to find something they like; many have delicious hot soups. If they mention Western-style food, this usually means Italian (pasta or pizza). Both tea and coffee are served everywhere, including in vending machines, hot in a can! We’ll eat some meals at low tables sitting on the floor and others at standard tables. Most will be standard. We did not include some meals, so you can explore on your own. Also, when we travel to the Snow Monkey area, we will stop at a convenience roadside stop. They are everywhere in Japan along the highways and have lots of options for food and gift items as well as clean bathrooms (everything is clean in Japan!!). It is usually easier for everyone to choose what to eat at these stops.
Have a question?
Have a question about this tour? We're happy to answer any queries you may have.
Testimonials from Natural Exposures' Explorers
"Dan and Tanya are the nicest people you can travel with."
Bob Ross, California
"A wonderful trip filled with fantastic opportunities to see and photograph the snow monkeys and cranes along with a nice view into the Japanese culture."
Cathy Pemberton, California
"Totally joyful trip to see the animals, scenery, people and culture - and I'm not even a photographer! Yet I was engrossed with it all - thank you so much."
Peggy Kapner, Arizona
" A historic trip - Japan's two worst snow storms in 20 years and we persevered. Great group, great times."
Claude Lecours, Ontario
"Dan and Tanya offer the best photo tour experience in the industry."
Mark Pemberton, California
"Amazing!! :) First class al the way!"
Michelle Duggan, Massachusetts
"Dan and Tanya are the best tour guides I have experienced so far. Overall wonderful trips!"
Pat Dillon, California
"Dan and Tanya are great to travel with. Their trips are well organized and provide great experiences and learning possibilities in photography to all of their guests. If snags occur in the schedule, they are always ahead of the issue to make it transparent to their guests."
Lynne Edwards, California
"Dan and Tanya make traveling easy. Everything is looked after for you. The accommodations are top notch and the wildlife access superb. Love exploring with Dan and Tanya."
Rhonda Handley, Beeton, Ontario
"Dan and Tanya are so caring of each person's needs and desires."
Bev Graham, California
"Seeing Japan with Dan and Tanya was an incredible experience! As always, Tanya attended to every detail and made sure we were always so well cared for. I learn so much each trip with Dan and feel like my skills improve every time! What amazing opportunities to learn and experience! One of my very favorites surprisingly was shooting whooper swans in a snowstorm!! Dan's enthusiasm is infectious and his eye and teaching skills exceptional, so you can achieve the most from each shooting opportunity. The "white on white" shoot was fantastic! You guys are the BEST!"
Christine Crosby, Oregon
"Good! Loved seeing the Snow Monkeys. They were on my "bucket list" and got some wonderful pictures! Great seeing the eagles dive for the fish. Swans were beautiful and glad Dan showed me how to make my pictures white and not gray."
Lani Dillon, California
"My pleasure, you are very, very gracious hosts. TOPS."
Joel Kleiner, New York
