Join us on this late spring journey to Japan, focusing on the island of Hokkaido in the far north and the Ryukyu Islands in the subtropical south. In the islands of Okinawa and Amami, enjoy the verdant subtropical forests where such charismatic species as Okinawa Rail, Amami Rabbit, Lidth’s Jay, and Ryukyu Robin have evolved in isolation. In the far north of the country, Hokkaido offers magnificent mountains, peat-moor wetlands, deciduous forests, and clear lakes where we may see Mandarin Duck, Blakiston’s Fish-Owl, Japanese Robin, and more.

Our journey in Japan begins on Okinawa, where we explore the northern third of the island, known locally as Yambaru. This protected area feels a world away from the bustling city of Naha to the south, featuring lush, misty forests. It is here where we look search for the flightless Okinawa Rail, Okinawa Woodpecker, Black-breasted Leaf-Turtle, and others. Our journey continues to the island of Amami, another Japan in miniature, where the hilly terrain covered in broadleaf forests, ferns, and cycads is home to such biological jewels like Amami Rabbit, Lidth’s Jay, Amami Woodcock, and Black Paradise-Flycatcher.

The second part of our journey starts off in Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost main island, which is home to the country’s most complete array of bird and mammal species. Iconic birds of Hokkaido include Red-crowned Crane, Blakiston’s Fish-Owl, Spectacled Guillemot, White-tailed Eagle, Brown Dipper, and Black Woodpecker. The island in spring is fresh and bright, covered in wildflowers and singing birds. We enjoy cultural delights here as well, including authentic regional cuisine and hot-spring onsen accommodations.

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  • “A good mix of nature and culture…Great that Bryan could explain the intricacies of Japanese life to us-would be difficult to negotiate without bilingual guides. Bryan made each person feel like he/she was his main focus. Really appreciated he and Koichi helping to make our son's trip special (the only one in the group below 40).” — Doris Gertler, 2023 Traveler
  • “Fantastic! I can't imagine a better itinerary for winter. The landscapes were breathtaking: volcanoes, fallow fields, rolling with snow-covered forests, running Red Foxes, and
  • crazy deer. Highlights: Blakiston’s Fish-Owl, ‘We can see Russia from here’ seabirds, including Red-faced Cormorant, and Sunrise with Red-crowned Cranes. Go-go-go...rigorous, but worth it.” — Katherine Regester, 2023 Traveler
  • “It would be hard to say enough good things about Bryan Shirley. He knows his birds and where to find them; he takes good care of his group members; he makes sure that everyone has seen the bird; he's friendly with the group and with the locals; and his knowledge of Japanese is extensive.” — Daphne Byron, 2023 Traveler

Tour Highlights

  • Visit verdant subtropical islands, long isolated from the mainland, for endemic species such as Lidth’s Jay, Okinawa Woodpecker, and Amami Thrush
  • Take a go night birding into the hills of Amami in search of nocturnal Amami Woodcock, Amami Rabbit, and Ryukyu Scops-Owl
  • Stay at a traditional Japanese onsen, enjoying authentic cuisine and taking a dip into traditional Japanese hot spring baths
  • Enjoy a scenic boat cruise near Rausu in search of Spectacled Guillemot, Orca, and more!
  • View Red-crowned Cranes in Kushiro Shitsugen National Park
  • Explore the Abashiri Birdwatching Trail in search of Black Woodpecker, Asian Stubtail, Long-tailed Rosefinch, Narcissus Flycatcher, and the white-headed subspecies of Long-tailed Tit (known locally as the ‘Snow Fairy’)
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Trip Itinerary

Itineraries are guidelines; variations in itinerary may occur to account for weather, road conditions, closures, etc. and to maximize your experience.

Thurs., May 29              Arrivals

Welcome to Japan! After arriving at the airport in Naha, we stay tonight at a hotel near the airport. Our tour officially starts tonight with a welcome dinner. 
Accommodations at a Naha Airport Hotel (D)

Fri., May 30                  Okinawa

Okinawa is the first of two Ryukyu Islands we visit on this tour, also known at the Nansei Shoto. Scientists often describe these smaller islands as living museums, the product of million of years of evolution through periodic connection and isolation from neighbouring land areas. These islands also straddle the boundary between two major biogeographic regions—the Palearctic to the north and the Indo-Malayan to the south— which adds interest to the unique hodgepodge of animals that make them their home.

We steadily make our way north throughout the course of the day, exploring rice paddies and small wetland parcels along the way in search of White-breasted Waterhen, Black-faced Spoonbill, Black-winged Stilt, and other waterbirds. We make a stop at a local rest stop for some of the best cream puffs Japan has to offer! 

We arrive at Yambaru by afternoon for our first chance at Okinawa Rail, which may either be seen crossing the road in front of us during the day or roosting in a tree or on a wire at night. Scientists discovered and described this rail to science in 1981 due a local finding and despatching a dead specimen to the Yamashina Institute for Ornithology. Imagine their surprise when they opened that parcel, revealing a species new to science! 

Other nocturnal species we may see include Northern Boobook and Ryukyu Scops-Owl.
Accommodations near Yambaru (B,L,D)

Sat., May 31                 Okinawa

We spend the entire day birding in the Yambaru area of Okinawa, searching for endemics such as Okinawa Woodpecker and Okinawa Robin. We also find more widespread species in these evergreen forests, including Japanese Pygmy Woodpecker, Varied Tit, Ryukyu Minivet, Brown-eared Bulbul, Warbling White-eye, and more. 
Accommodations near Yambaru (B,L,D)

Sun., June 1                  Amami

After our flight from Okinawa to Amami today, we make a few stops along the way to our accommodations where we may see a small variety of waterbirds such as White-breasted Waterhen, Eastern Spot-billed Duck, Pacific Reef-Heron, Zitting Cisticola, and others.

In the evening after dinner, we make a short excursion into the neighbouring hills in search of Amami Woodcock and Amami Rabbit. The Amami Rabbit is especially interesting, as it is part of an ancient lineage that used to be widespread on the mainland. 
Accommodations on Amami (B,L,D)

Mon., June 2                 Amami

Here, in lush subtropical forests dotted with tree ferns and sago cycads, we search for the extraordinarily attractive Lidth’s Jay with its cobalt and chestnut plumage, the more subtly marked Amami Thrush, and other endemic and near-endemic species such as Ryukyu Green-Pigeon, Ryukyu Robin, and Sword-tailed Newt. These forests are also home to Ruddy Kingfisher, Ryukyu Flycatcher, Black Paradise-Flycatcher, and more.
Accommodations on Amami (B,L,D)

Tues., June 3                 Amami to Kushiro

Today, we take a flight from the island of Amami to Kushiro on the island of Hokkaido, which takes the greater part of the day. Hokkaido is the least populated of Japan’s major islands, with large areas of forest, agricultural fields, and windswept coastlines. We overnight in a hotel near Kushiro Airport.
Accommodations in Kushiro (B,L,D)

Wed., June 4                  Kushiro and Nemuro

In the morning, we visit the Kushiro Shitsugen, the largest marsh in Japan. The Kushiro River snakes its way south from Lake Kussharo through the wetland for over 200km. We explore this wetland ecosystem via the Onnenai Visitor Center, which includes a nice walk along a boardwalk into the marsh and through deciduous forest. Birds we may see in this area include the Red-crowned Crane, Reed Bunting, Long-tailed Rosefinch, Japanese Thrush, and White-bellied Green-Pigeon. Mammals include the Tanuki or Japanese Raccoon Dog. 

Afterwards, we steadily make our way northeast through various wetland and coastal sites where we may see Tufted Duck, White-tailed Eagle, Japanese Cormorant, Black-tailed Gull, Slaty-backed Gull, and more.
Accommodations in Nemuro (B,L,D) 

Thurs., June 5               Nemuro

Today, we continue to explore the Nemuro Peninsula, including stops at places such as the Nemuro-Shunkunitai Wild Bird Sanctuary. A boardwalk winds through this productive wetland site on the edge of Lake Furen, allowing us fantastic views of a wide range of species from Eurasian Oystercatcher and Amur Stonechat to Siberian Rubythroat and Eurasian Wryneck. We also get to board the Nemuro-Ochiishi Nature Cruise, where we may see a variety of alcids such as Spectacled Guillemot, Tufted Puffin, Rhinoceros Auklet, and Ancient Murrelet. Other pelagic species include Laysan Albatross, Short-tailed Shearwater, and Red-faced Cormorant.
Accommodations in Nemuro (B,L,D)

Fri., June 6                    Notsuke Peninsula & Yoroushi Onsen

Today, we drive out to the coast and visit Notsuke Peninsula, a 28-km long sand spit sticking out into the Nemuro Strait. The disputed island of Kunashiri on the east of the strait and the Shiretoko Mountains to the north, the scenery is quite stunning. We have more chances for many of the species possible at the Nemuro Peninsula, including Stejneger’s Scoter, Japanese Cormorant, White-tailed Eagle, and more. There should be lots of wildflowers in bloom and the ocean and marshes always have birds to keep us excited.

Eventually we make our way to our hotel for the night, and it is one of the most exciting places we stay during the trip. It is a traditional “onsen” or hot spring hotel and we make sure that we arrive in time for those who want to soak in the pools. There is also a bird feeder that gives us point blank photo ops of the more common birds of the area, but the real excitement here starts at dark … there is a pair of Blakiston’s Fish Owls that fish along the river and in the hotel’s fishpond every night!
Accommodations at Yoroushi Onsen (B,L,D)

Sat., June 7                   Rausu Area & Yoroushi Onsen

Hopefully the owl didn’t make us wait up too late last night, but today we plan on a very leisurely morning. There is more time to enjoy the hot springs or watch the bird feeders, plus the breakfast here is fabulous! Brown Dipper often visits the stream running by the dining area.

Afterwards, we descend down to a fishing village called Rausu where we take off on another boat cruise. This side of the peninsula tends to have more Orca present, and Sperm Whale are common. We should see a few new sea birds as well. Streaked Shearwater are common and although Short-tailed Albatross only breed in southern Japan, non-breeding sub-adults are frequently seen here in the summer.

This evening we enjoy another fabulous meal at Yoroushi and another chance for the Fish-Owl as well.
Accommodations at Yoroushi Onsen (B,L,D)

Sun., June 8                  Abashiri

Today, we steadily make our way to the town of Abashiri with a few stops along the way. One of these may be Kaminoko Pond, a crystal clear blue pond in the middle of the forest with a short trail. Here, we may see nesting Brown Dipper, White-backed Woodpecker, Japanese Robin, and Narcissus Flycatcher. Continuing onwards, we arrive at Abashiri where we may do a short seawatch from Cape Notoro where Black-legged Kittiwake, Harlequin Duck, and Japanese Cormorant may be fishing just offshore. Another option is the Abashiri-Yobito Birdwatching Trail, where a boardwalk provides access to swampy forest with Black Woodpecker, Marsh Tit, Asian Stubtail, Long-tailed Rosefinch, and many more forest species.
Accommodations in Abashiri (B,L,D)

Mon., June 9                 Daisetsusan | Asahidake

Our journey continues, veering to the southwest as we journey towards the mountainous heart of the island of Hokkaido. Stops along the way may give us chances to see Lesser Spotted, Gray-headed, Black, or Great Spotted Woodpeckers. Other birds we hope to see include Brown-headed Thrush and Narcissus Flycatcher. 

Our accommodations are in a small village that serves as a base for exploring Daisetsuzan National Park — our destination for tomorrow. For those that wish, enjoy an opportunity for a relaxing soak as part of our stay at the onsen.
Accommodations in Asahidake (B,L,D)

Tues., June 10               Asahidake

Boasting over 2000 square km and 16 peaks over 2000 meters, Daisetuzan National Park offers some of the most rugged scenery in all of Japan. We start the day with a gondola ride up Asahidake, the highest mountain in Hokkaido. The Ainu name for Asahidake translates to “playground of the gods” and the scenery is definitely inspiring.

The 10-minute gondola ride takes us to 1600 meters elevation (appx 5250 feet) where there are a number of trails to explore the area. Snow often lingers into late summer, but by June most of the snow has melted and the area is covered with alpine flowers. Pika enjoy the warm temperatures and fresh food, and this is one of the best places in Hokkaido for finding high elevation bird species like Pine Grosbeak, Japanese Accentor, and Red-flanked Bluetail. We do a short, relatively easy hike to a small lake to look for birds and enjoy the alpine scenery. From there, if the weather is nice, those interested in a bit more strenuous hike can continue up to the summit of Asahidake while others may opt for a more leisurely walk back to the gondola or a return to have a soak or siesta at the hotel.
Accommodations in Asahidake (B,L,D)

Wed., June 11               Tomita Farm Flowers | Lake Utoro                   

Today is a relatively easy day, as we continue our journey towards the city of Sapporo, the largest city in Hokkaido. We visit the Tomita Farm to enjoy and photograph their incredible spring flower displays, where we may take pictures in front of rolling, colorful hills of lavender, poppies, and other fragrant flowers. Here is a chance to learn about the harvesting of lavender (they grow five varieties) and extracting of oil used in a variety of products. They even sell lavender-flavored ice cream on the premises! 

Today, we also visit a couple smaller wetland and lake sites near Sapporo for further chances at any species we may have missed or revisiting species we may have already seen, perhaps the dapper Mandarin Duck or equally beautiful Falcated Duck.
Accommodations near Chitose Airport (B,L,D)

Thurs., June 12       Departures

Depending on flight times we may have time to enjoy one last morning walk before we head to the New Chitose Airport for our flight back to Tokyo and onwards to home or wherever your journey takes you. (B)

 

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    Kushiro Shitsugen National Park Scenic by Takumi Koichi

  • Black Paradise Flycatcher

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    Japanese Grosbeak

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    Eurasian Nutcracker

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    Shiretoko Peninsula near Utoro

  • White-backed Woodpecker by Ron Knight via Creative Commons, Japan tour, Japanese nature tour, snow monkeys, Japan birding, Japan Birding & nature, Naturalist Journeys

    White-backed Woodpecker by Ron Knight via Creative Commons

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    Shiretoko Pass

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    Siberian Rubythroat

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    Falcated Duck

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    Japanese Pygmy Woodpecker

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    Orca Whales by Takumi Koichi

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    Hokkaido Flower Fields

  • Japanese Tit by Alpsdake via WIkimedia Commons, Japanese nature tour, snow monkeys, Japan birding, Japan Birding & nature, Naturalist Journeys

    Japanese Tit by Alpsdake

  • Okinawa Beaches

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    Red-crowned Crane in Kushiro Shitsugen National Park

  • Mountain Hawk-eagle by Mike Prince via Wikimedia Commons, Japan tour, Japanese nature tour, snow monkeys, Japan birding, Japan Birding & nature, Naturalist Journeys

    Mountain Hawk-eagle by Mike Prince via Wikimedia Commons

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    Ainu House, Hokkaido

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    Dall's Porpoise, Shiretoko Peninsula

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    Rebun Island Coast

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    Kushiro Shitsugen National Park

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    Rhinoceros Auklet

  • Ryukyu Scops-Owl

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    Sika Deer

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    Cormorants at Shiretoko Peninsula

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    Kushiro River Canoe by Takumi Koichi

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    Daisetsu Flowers by Takumi Koichi

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    Sarobetsu Flower Garden by Takumi Koichi

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    Spotted Seal by Takumi Koichi

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    Japanese Raccoon Dog (Tanuki) by Takumi Koichi

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    Narcissus Flycatcher by Takumi Koichi

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    Lake Mashu by Takumi Koichi

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    Amur Stonechat by Takumi Koichi

  • Spectacled Guillemot

Cost of the Journey

The cost of the tour is based on the number of participants.

6 participants: $9290 DBL
7 participants: $8890 DBL
8 participants: $8590 DBL
9 participants: $8390 DBL
10 participants: $8190 DBL

Single Supplement: $975

Internal flights are included in this cost.

Cost of the Tour Includes: Accommodations for 14 nights, meals as specified in the itinerary (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner), park entrance and other activity fees for activities as described in the itinerary, professional guide services, pre-departure materials and miscellaneous program expenses.

Cost does not Include: Round-trip airfare to Naha and from Chitose, Japan. It does not include items of a personal nature such as laundry, telephone, drinks from the bar; or gratuities for luggage handling or personal services.

Travel Details

Please plan to make air travel plans only after the minimum group size has been met. We will send you a confirmation email as soon as the trip has been confirmed.

Arrival Airport: Naha International Airport (OKA)

Arrival Details: Please plan flights to arrive May 29, 2025, no later than 6:00 PM in order to join the group for dinner

Departure Airport: New Chitose Airport (CTS) in Chitose

 

Browse below for trip reports and species lists from past versions of this and other tours from this destination.

Japan

  • Carlos Sanchez

    Guide and client-favorite Carlos Sanchez has deep experience guiding in Central and South America (and in Spain!) for Naturalist Journeys. Carlos has also birded Thailand many times and he guides for us there as well. Before joining us, he was a resident guide in both Brazil and in Ecuador. A Miami native and Northern Virginia resident, he leads the new-and-notable Homestead, FL, Christmas Bird Count, is active in the Tropical Audubon Society and contributes to the blog 10,000 Birds.

    Other trips with Carlos Sanchez

  • Bryan Shirley

    Bryan Shirley graduated from the University of Kentucky with a degree in Japanese/International Economics. He lived in Japan for 3 years when he was 20 and fell in love with the language and culture and has been guiding and birding there ever since. Besides guiding in Japan, he regularly leads tours for Japanese birding groups around the US and other countries. When not guiding he has been involved with various DWR and USFWS projects such as relocating Sage Grouse, breeding bird surveys, and bird-related projects for private environmental consulting firms. He also has volunteered his time to serve as president of Utah County Birders and organizes the annual Audubon Christmas Bird Counts for Provo and Payson, Utah where he currently resides. He currently is a member of the Utah Bird Records Committee.

    Other trips with Bryan Shirley

Essential Information +

This information is important for being prepared for your journey; we want you to have Read more

This information is important for being prepared for your journey; we want you to have the best experience possible. If you only read one section, this one is key!

Ahead of your tour

  • Make sure your passport will be valid at least six months after the date of your scheduled return to the U.S. No Visas are required for U.S. citizens for stays of this duration, though you must have a return airline ticket. If you are from another country, please contact the Embassy of Japan website for guidelines.
  • Please check current CDC recommendations for travel to Japan and consult with your doctor about general travel vaccinations you should have as precaution for travel. See the “General Health and Inoculations” section below.
  • Travel insurance in case of serious medical emergency is strongly recommended. Full health coverage and repatriation is available through Allianz Travel Insurance.
  • Plan your flight reservations arriving into Naha International Airport (OKA). Plan your flight reservations departing from New Chitose Airport (CTS). Send a copy of your itinerary to the Naturalist Journeys office, please.
  • Soft sided luggage/duffel bags are easiest for packing the vans. Pack essential medications in your carryon luggage, as well as one day of clothing and optics in case of luggage delay.

Arrival into Naha International Airport (OKA) in Naha, Okinawa

Please note: If you are delayed in travel, please refer to your emergency contact list, and contact your ground operator, with a back up call to our office. In addition, you may choose to phone or text your guide. Quite a few guides will set up a WhatsApp connection so you can also reach your guide by phone. 

Please plan to arrive in time to meet the group for dinner on the first day of the tour.

Please email us a copy of your flight reservations so we have both your ARRIVAL and DEPARTURE information.

Please check the Travel Details tab of this tour for additional information and updates.

Departures from New Chitose Airport (CTS) in Chitose, Hokkaido

Please plan departures after 4:00 PM on the last day of the tour. If you prefer to overnight (additional cost) in Chitose, you can depart at your leisure the next day. The departure fee is now typically built into your airline fare.

Please check the Travel Details tab of this tour for additional information and updates.

Passports, Visas & Documents

Guidelines and regulations can change. It is always advisable to double-check the country’s documentation requirements 60-90 days ahead of traveling. Information for U.S. citizens can be found at https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages.html. If you are from another country, please contact the tour destination’s embassy website for guidelines.

Passport: At the time of writing, U.S. citizens must have a passport that is in good condition and at minimum is valid at the date of entry through your scheduled return to the U.S. However, we highly suggest at least 3 months validity beyond the end of the tour to allow for unexpected delays in return travel. Please check that expiration date! You should have at least one blank page per entry stamp. The blank pages need to say “Visas” at the top. Pages marked “Amendments and Endorsements” will not be accepted. 

Visas: At the time of writing, a tourist visa is not required of US citizens for stays the length of this tour.

As a precaution for lost or misplaced documents you carry on your person during travel, we highly recommend you keep hard and digital backup copies on your phone (either photo or PDF scan), as well as a hard copy left with your emergency contact at home. The recommended important documents to copy include, but are not limited to; your passport ID page, travel visa, the front and back of your credit card(s), the airline barcode on your luggage. This will greatly expedite getting new ones if necessary – we hope everyone will always keep travel documents close so that losing them will not be an issue.

General Health & Inoculations Information – Be Prepared!

Health requirements for entry to any country can change. It is always advisable to double-check the country’s health requirements and recommendations 60-90 days ahead of traveling. A helpful website for planning is the CDC recommendations for travel to Japan or by phone (800) CDC-INFO or (800) 232-4636.

We will share your health information with your guide. This information will be kept confidential but is very important as we want to be best prepared in case of medical emergency. 

Vaccinations: Bring copies of your vaccination records with you. At the time of writing there were no required vaccinations to enter Japan. However, the CDC recommends that all travelers be up to date with routine vaccinations and basic travel vaccines (such as Hepatitis A and Typhoid) before traveling to any destination. Please check with your doctor for recommendations at least 6 weeks before departing on your trip in case there are any that require followup inoculations or time to become effective before departure.

Mosquito born illness: Mosquitos can be prevalent during warmer months and protective measures are essential to reduce any risk of mosquito born diseases (such as Malaria, Dengue fever, Zika, Japanese encephalitis and other diseases that are contracted by mosquito bites). Travelers can reduce their risk of disease by protecting themselves from mosquito bites in lower elevation areas by using protective clothing and mosquito repellent containing DEET or Picaridin. You may consider using Permethrin spray (online or from REI) to treat your field clothing and socks before your departure. You may also purchase field clothing permeated with insect repellent such as the Craghoppers Insect Shield collection. 

Prescriptions: It is a good idea to pack any meds you take regularly in your carry-on luggage.  Bring an extra pair of glasses or contact lenses. Bring an adequate supply of any prescription medications you use, a copy of the prescription and a list of generic names of your medicines as “back-up” in case it is necessary to purchase drugs while abroad. You’ll want to keep medications in their original, labeled containers. 

Allergies: To be prepared for environmental triggers to allergies or breathing difficulties, please bring your allergy and/or asthma medication(s).  If you have severe allergies talk to your doctor about carrying an EPI pen and notify your guides. It is also recommended to carry with you an up-to-date record of known allergies, chronic medical problems and Medic Alerts so that, if necessary, emergency treatment can be carried out without endangering your health.

Common Ailments: We recommend that you bring a travel-sized first aid kit and a supply of standard over-the-counter medications for prevention or treatment of common ailments (such as motion sickness, diarrhea, constipation, stomach upset, cough, congestion, head or body aches, insect bites and sunburn); as well as ointments, moisturizer, sunscreen, oral rehydration salts, band-aids, moleskin for blisters, cotton swabs, nail clippers, and tweezers, etc.

Altitude sickness: If high altitude will be encountered on your trip, it can affect some and, if there is a concern, be prepared. The most general symptoms are headache and occasionally fatigue and dizziness. You’ll want to take it easy, particularly at first. The likelihood of these symptoms can be reduced by resting, drinking plenty of water, avoiding alcohol and taking aspirin. If you have worries about the altitude, ask your physician about medications (such as Diamox) that may be right for you. For more information, see https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/yellowbook/2024/environmental-hazards-risks/high-elevation-travel-and-altitude-illness.

Weather & Climate

Okinawa can be warm in May and June with highs in the low 80s and lows in the mid to high 60s. Hokkaido has a wide range of climates but during June, you can expect comfortably cool to pleasant temperatures in the 50s and 60s during the day, in some locations into the 70s with moderate rainfall, and some periods of clouds and fog. Check your favorite weather website closer to your departure to better predict what the weather will be on your adventure.

Annoyances & Hazards

Mosquitoes can be prevalent where we will travel during this time of year, therefore, protecting yourself from bites is essential. See the General Health & Inoculations section above for details about protective measures to prevent mosquito born illnesses. Ticks are rare, but not impossible. Please listen carefully to any advice given by your local guide. 

Food & Drink

Tap water is safe to drink everywhere in Japan, and the wide variety and high quality of Japanese cuisine is one of the highlights of any trip to the country.

Bottled water will be available for field trips and drinking water is provided for you to refill a bottle. One of the many ways we strive to do our part for the environment is by trying to reduce our consumption of plastics; if convenient we appreciate you bringing reusable water bottles. Your guide will let you know when bottled water is preferable.

Packing, Clothing & Laundry

Dress is very informal and laundry services are available for a fee at our hotels. While some people will change for dinner, it is usually just to a drier or cleaner version of what they wore during the day.

Please, pack light. We are serious about this – we move around a lot! We know it is challenging with such a wide variety of potential temperatures in the winter, but please do not bring anything more than you must. 

TRAVEL TIP: Imagine NOT getting your suitcase. Wear your most important shoes for the field and have one day’s clothing change (including a change of underwear!). And please do not pack any essential medications, or your vital optics, in your checked luggage!

Spending Money

The official currency in Japan is the Yen. We advise you carry a mix of different types of payments, such as cash, an ATM card, and a credit card. For the current exchange rate, please refer to an online converter tool like www.xe.com, or your bank. If you plan to exchange cash in country, bring large U.S. bills ($50 or $100) in good condition (no rips or tears) that will give you the better rate when exchanging to local currency.

When using the ATM to withdrawal cash, keep in mind it might only accept cards from local banks or not allow cash advances on credit cards. Many U.S. banks charge a fee of $1 - $5 each time you use a foreign ATM. Others may charge you a percentage of the amount you withdraw. Check with your bank before departure. You must become familiar with how to use your ATM card and PIN number ahead of the journey.

We suggest you have more than one card available, if possible. You may want to bring more than one brand of card (VISA and Mastercard are commonly accepted; American Express is less common). You can use credit cards at lodges to pay your bar and gift tabs. Not every shop will accept every card. Some smaller shops and restaurants, or taxis require cash, so it is always a good idea to ask before making a purchase. Also, we recommend that you advise your bank or credit card company that you will be traveling abroad to avoid questions, card freezes, or charges. If you have a choice of cards, bring one with no foreign exchange fees.

Traveler’s checks are not widely accepted. They can be difficult to exchange. We do not advise you use them.

Gratuities

Tipping throughout the tour is at your discretion. Some guidelines follow. At larger (mostly city) hotels, tip maids and bar service as you would at home. At eco-lodges, there is typically a staff tip box in a public area; the going rate per person is $6-$10 a day, which is shared among staff for maid service, and general staff service at the lodges. Gratuities for group meals are already included. Your Naturalist Journeys host will take care of smaller tips such field trip services by boat drivers, night drive outings, single activities. Your additional tip is encouraged for birding tour guides and drivers who are with you for several days or the full trip; $10-$15 per day per guest is standard for guide service, and half that for a driver. If you have more than one local guide at a location, they will share the daily amount. We encourage tipping for the local teams hosting you; anything extra for your Naturalist Journeys host is at your discretion.

Cell Phones & Internet Service

Your guide is well connected and can help if any urgent communication need arises. However, it is highly recommended that you travel with a CELL PHONE, if only as a precaution for the unfortunate occurrence of a medical emergency during an outing and needing swift accessibility to critical personal or medical contacts. 

Please check with your wireless provider to see if your phone and service will work in your destination country and ask for “international roaming” service for your phone. If you still have a cell phone that accepts a SIM card, you may be able to buy a local SIM card at the airport to insert in your mobile phone.

If your phone can connect to Wi-Fi, you may be able to make voice and video calls free of charge. Please contact your cell phone provider for further details. Another option if you have access to Wi-Fi, is to use smartphone apps like Skype, WhatsApp, or Viber to send text messages, and make voice calls, or video calls. Many smartphones, tablets, or laptops come with one of these apps pre-installed or you can download for free. If bringing a laptop or tablet, get a good dustcover to protect it at all times.

Make sure if you do NOT want to use your cell phone that you turn off your cellular data. You could incur huge charges if you are not on Wi-Fi. Putting your phone in airplane mode if you mainly use it for photos will save the battery as well. 

Your hotels and most local restaurants provide Wi-Fi at least in their common areas. Although it is generally a reliable service, it can be affected by adverse weather conditions due to the remote location.

Please refrain from taking or making cell phone calls in the vehicles when traveling with other passengers, unless it appears to be an emergency. This disrupts other guests, plan on cell phone call use on your own time.

Electricity

The standard in Japan is the same as in the United States and Canada: 110 volts AC (5060 cycles). Plugs are set up in the same style. Plugs and sockets are of types A (2 prong) and B (3 prong). You will not need a power plug adapter in Japan as power plugs fit. But you might benefit from bringing a 3 to 2 prong adapter in case type 3 sockets are not available. You can find more information at www.power-plugs-sockets.com

Time

Japan is on Japan Standard Time (UTC –7), with no daylight savings time. Check www.timeanddate.com before leaving home for your conversion.

Questions?

If you have any questions, please contact Naturalist Journeys by email at clientservices@naturalistjourneys.com or telephone our office: (520) 558-1146 or toll free: (866) 900-1146. Many thanks for traveling with us and we hope you enjoy your journey!

 

Pace & Protocols +

Pace of the Tour & What to Expect You will receive a Schedule-at-a-Glance and list of Read more

Pace of the Tour & What to Expect

You will receive a Schedule-at-a-Glance and list of hotels (our eContact List) a few weeks before your departure. This will serve as an outline for each day and alert you to any recent changes made in the schedule or to our hotels, if needed.

Our journeys are set up to follow the rhythm of nature. Our focus is on birding and nature; we offer full, well-planned field days and often get up early for that magical time around dawn. We generally follow the published itinerary, but we stay flexible to the weather, wildlife opportunities and the interests of the group. Your guide will keep you apprised of the next day’s schedule at each evening meal, noting what to bring and what to prepare for. Questions and/or concerns are welcome.

The pace of our Naturalist Journeys tours is moderate; to fully participate you should be able to get in and out of vehicles several times a day, and walk 1-3 miles over uneven terrain. It is important to participate with a flexible attitude as adjustments may be made in our schedule to make the most of our time in the field or for other purposes at your guide's discretion. We are not a “listing” bird company that drills down on target species, but at times we do wait for those special species unique to the places we visit. During the day, we take time to stop for photos and for educational opportunities to learn about conservation projects, landscapes, and geology. We appreciate other taxa as well as birds, with mammals often the biggest draw but plants and butterflies are also very popular. Our clients often lend their own expertise to the mix.

We like to make meals a fun and memorable part of the experience, too. Breakfasts are often at hotels, and we carry snacks, fruit, and water in the vans each day. Lunches are a mix of picnics in the field (weather dependent) and a chance to dine with locals at small cafes and restaurants. For dinner, we pride ourselves in our homework to keep up with the best choices for dining, choosing restaurants with atmosphere that specialize in local foods. On occasion we keep dinner simple to go back out in the field for sunset wildlife viewing or night walks. In some remote locations, our choices are limited. If you are tired, room service for dinner may be an option you can choose.

Naturalist Journeys International Trips: Guide Role

Naturalist Journeys supports ecotourism and the development of excellent local guides. Once we know our international partners and guides well, we can send out small groups working directly with these trusted partners, adding a Naturalist Journeys guide to assist the local expert when we have a group of 6-7 or more. This helps us keep your costs down while retaining tour quality. The local guide is your main guide. You can expect your Naturalist Journeys guide to be well-researched and often they are experienced in the destination, but their role is not to be primary, it is to help to organize logistics, help you find birds, mammals, and interesting other species in the field, keep reports, help facilitate group interactions, and to keep the trip within Naturalist Journeys' style. Local guides live in the countries we travel to, know the destinations intimately, and are often the strongest force for conservation in their countries. They open many doors for us to have a rich experience.

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted in any vehicle or in any situation where the group is participating in an activity together, such as a vehicle excursion or a guided walk. Please respect all designated smoking areas at hotels and restaurants.

Transportation

As a courtesy to each other, we ask that all travelers please rotate seating. On international trips we may all be in one small bus, on some trips we are in vans, particularly the roomy Sprinter Vans when available. Some areas require us to be in smaller 4-wheel drive or safari vehicles. Rotation allows you to sit with different drivers and alternate front and back seating.

Photo Release & Sharing

We take many group photos and will share photos with the group. And after your tour, we will organize a chance to share photos via Dropbox or Google Photos. Please note that this is our policy and if you prefer to be excluded, we need to know ahead of your tour.

By registering for this tour, you agree to grant to Naturalist Journeys and its authorized representatives’ permission to record on photography film and/or video, pictures of my participation in the tour. You further agree that any or all of the material photographed may be used, in any form, as part of any future publications, brochure, or other printed materials used to promote Naturalist Journeys, and further that such use shall be without payment of fees, royalties, special credit or other compensation.

Travel Insurance

You are traveling in remote areas. Naturalist Journeys strongly recommends you have full medical and evacuation insurance from a company such as Allianz, for all international travel. If you do not have medical coverage or evacuation coverage on your existing travel insurance policy or for some reason elected not to take that out, we advise getting an evacuation plan with Global Rescue, World Nomads, Medjet, Allianz (they can do evacuation only) or a similar company. These plans are typically $300-$400 for a year for multiple destinations. This coverage may be a part of a larger Travel Insurance policy but can also be purchased on its own.

Questions?

Please contact Naturalist Journeys by email at clientservices@naturalistjourneys.com or telephone our office: (520) 558-1146 or toll free: (866) 900-1146 if you have any questions. Many thanks for traveling with us and we hope you enjoy your journey.

 

Packing List +

Please pack light! Soft luggage is much easier for us to pack than a more rigid Read more

Please pack light!

Soft luggage is much easier for us to pack than a more rigid hard sided piece, so if you have the choice, please use your soft luggage. Be sure to have your name and address on the inside of the bag, as well as on the luggage tag on the handle. It is our hope that you can pack in one checked suitcase that does not exceed 45 pounds. Be sure to pack your personal medication, airline tickets, passport, binoculars, camera, and other essential items in your carry-on bag. You will want a day pack for field trips, so this is an ideal carry-on. Please reconfirm your airline’s baggage weight and size restrictions about a week or so before departure.

Hokkaido has a wide range of climates but during June, you can expect comfortably cool to pleasant temperatures in the 50s and 60s during the day, in some locations into the 70s with moderate rainfall, and some periods of clouds and fog. Check your favorite weather website closer to your departure to better predict what the weather will be on your adventure.

Dress is comfortable and informal throughout the trip. Dressing in layers is the best way to be comfortable. Also, choose clothing you don’t mind getting dirty or muddy and things that are comfortable and easy to wear.

Clothing & Gear

  • Long pants, 2-3 pair
  • Long sleeved shirts, 2-3
  • Comfortable, casual clothes for evening (a cleaner version of your field clothes)
  • Personal underclothing and pajamas
  • Socks, various weights for different conditions
  • Comfortable walking/hiking shoes, consider if these will work in wet conditions
  • Sturdy, warm, and waterproof hiking boots with good tread
  • High quality outerwear that can double as wind and rain protection, best is coat and pants
  • Fleece vest, windproof is great
  • Hat with broad brim for sun, and warm cap for cooler times
  • Comfortable clothes for evening (a cleaner version of your field clothes or a skirt, etc.)
  • Bathing suit (optional, but you might really enjoy the hot springs!)

Equipment & Miscellaneous

  • Airline tickets or e-ticket verification
  • Passport, visa (if required), health and travel insurance info, current vaccinations, money & credit cards.
  • A secure pouch to carry the items above on your person (such as a secure, under-clothing money pouch)
  • As a backup: copies of all the above (phone and/or paper) packed in a separate location than on your person, plus a set given to your emergency contact at home as a backup. For passport, copy of the  ID and entry stamp pages.
  • Small daypack or fanny pack for carrying your field gear
  • Cell phone and charger
  • Binoculars
  • Spotting scope and tripod (optional)
  • Camera, charger/extra batteries, memory cards/film, lens cleaning supplies and your instruction manual (optional)
  • Umbrella – compact and not brightly colored
  • Walking stick – we find that many travelers appreciate a walking stick on trails, sporting goods stores carry collapsible models that pack easily in your suitcase (optional)
  • Small flashlight with fresh batteries
  • Alarm clock
  • Sunscreen/lip balm
  • Sunglasses with neck strap
  • Toiletry articles
  • Water bottle (or plan to refill one bought on location)
  • Notebook or journal and pen (optional)
  • Field guides (optional)
  • Laundry soap if you plan to do hand washing (TIP: laundry “sheets” work perfectly!)
  • Earplugs – in urban and even rural areas barking dogs and traffic noise can be annoying
  • Rechargeable power bank (optional)
  • If you are a coffee drinker, consider bringing packets of instant coffee as hotel rooms typically only have tea and not all restaurants serve coffee.

WE DO NOT RECOMMEND TRAVELING WITH PRECIOUS OR VALUABLE JEWELRY – don’t tempt anyone and don’t bring things you’d regret losing - your mind will be at ease!

Medical & First Aid Items

  • Health Insurance information
  • Vaccination records
  • Personal medications (and copy of vital prescriptions)
  • Motion sickness preventatives if likely to be needed on bus, van drives, etc.
  • Personal first aid kit and medications for general ailments
  • Copy of eyeglass prescription, medical prescriptions and any medical alerts
  • Extra pair of eyeglasses or contacts
  • Band-aids, moleskin to protect against blisters

 

Suggested Reading List +

There are many titles of interest for Japan; the following are a few that we Read more

There are many titles of interest for Japan; the following are a few that we have enjoyed that can get you started.

Top Picks

Merlin App – Japan Pack. A phone-based birding app from Cornell University Laboratory of Ornithology. Before departing the U.S., download the app for free, then from within the app, download the “pack” for Japan.

Lonely Planet Japan

Field Guides

Japanese Birds. APP for Apple/Android. Enwit Inc. Full version ($28.99) or Lite ($4.99)

Birds of Japan (Helm Field Guides)

Birds of Japan (Lynx & Birdlife Intl. Field Guides)

Photographic Guide to the Birds of Japan and North-East Asia

Japan Birds

Natural History

Japan: The Natural History of an Asian Archipelago

History & Culture

A Modern History of Japan: From Tokugawa Times to the Present

A Concise History of Japan

Hirohito and the Making of Modern Japan

Phrasebook: Lonely Planet Japanese Phrasebook & Dictionary

Memoir/Non-Fiction

At Home in Japan: A Foreign Woman's Journey of Discovery

Your guide will also have a selection of reference books and materials for participants to share. As an Amazon Associate, Naturalist Journeys earns from qualifying purchases, and may get commissions for purchases made through links on this page at no added cost to you.

 

Useful Links +

Learn more about your destination at these external websites, carefully researched for you. Read more

General

Okinawa

Hokkaido

Notsuke Peninsula

Nature, Wildlife & Biology

Birding Japan Overview

Birding in Japan Blog (overview with photos)

Endemic Animals of Japan

Blakiston’s Fish-Owl - eBird

Red-Crowned Crane

Siberian Rubythroat

Japanese Robin

Oriental Cuckoo

Bears in Hokkaido

Conservation, Parks & Reserves

“3 Japanese organizations dedicated to conservation” – Article in Zenbird

Daisetsuzan National Park

Shiretoko National Park and UNESCO site

Kushiro-Shitsugen National Park

Geology & Geography

“How Hokkaido Came To Be” – Article, Hokkaido Magazine

Geography of Hokkaido

Geography of Japan

History & Culture

Brief History of Japan

Japanese Culture – Encyclopedic Overview

Ainu Culture

Matsumoto Castle

Izumi-Fumoto Samurai Residences

Zenkoji Temple

Japanese Cuisine

Helpful Travel Websites

20 Essential Japanese Phrases for Travelers (6-minute video)

Naha International Airport (OKA)

New Chitose Airport (CTS)

National Passport Information Center

U.S. Department of State International Travel Information - Japan

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)

Transportation Security Administration (TSA)

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) - Japan

Canada Travel Advice and Advisories - Japan

Travel Health Pro (UK) - Japan

Foreign Exchange Rates

ATM Locator

Electricity and Plugs - Japan

Date, Time, and Holidays - Japan


Photo credits: BANNERS: Hokkaido Summer Flower Fields (NJ Stock), Blue-and-white Flycatcher (NJ Stock), Red-crowned Cranes (NJ Stock), Smew (NJ Stock), Lavender Field (NJ Stock), Japanese Pygmy Woodpecker (NJ Stock), Black Paradise-Flycatcher (NJ Stock), THUMBNAILS: Red-flanked Bluetail (NJ Stock), Red-crowned Crane (NJ Stock), Japanese Robin (NJ Stock), Okinawa Rail (NJ Stock), Eastern Spot-billed Duck (NJ Stock), Long-tailed Rosefinch (NJ Stock), Spectacled Guillemot (NJ Stock), Reed Bunting (NJ Stock)

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