Steller’s Sea-Eagle

We will have multiple opportunities to see this giant and iconic raptor that is endemic to coastal northeast Asia.

Exploring Japan in the wintertime is a fantastic way to experience stunning wildlife spectacles, experience a rich and exciting culture, and soak in natural and architectural beauty. We’ll witness stunning snow-capped peaks, enchanting forests, and serene ponds and streams. Shrines, temples, and castles will provide a connection to the country’s long history and remarkable culture. Exploring coastal areas and wetlands both in the northern and southern parts of the country will provide us with a scenic setting to witness Japan’s birds. 

Expected avian highlights include watching a congregation of majestic Steller’s Sea Eagles in Hokkaido, sitting by a warm fire and watching a Blakiston’s Fish Owl hunting outside the window, and admiring adorable flocks of Long-tailed Tits foraging in quiet forests. We will visit the natural hot springs where Japan’s famous “Snow Monkeys” bathe. Viewing mind-bogglingly massive congregations of cranes (5+ species) and ponds brimming with wintering waterfowl including Mandarin Duck, Smew, and Baikal Teal are also must-sees on this tour.

Dates: December 1st – 13th, 2026 (12 nights/13 days)

Cost: $7,250 single. $700 per-person discount for doubles. $750 deposit due upon registration.

What’s included:

▪ All lodging during the trip.

▪ Transportation on a comfortable small bus.

▪ Breakfasts, lunches (many in the field or on the road), and dinners.

▪ Expert and knowledgeable naturalist guides, Sam Darmstadt & Bryan Shirley. Bryan, a fluent Japanese speaker, has led many trips in the country and also guides Japanese birders in the U.S.!

▪ Any entrance fees and park admissions, including a boat trip in Hokkaido.

What’s not included:

▪ Airfare to/from Tokyo.

▪ In-country flights (we will book these, but they will be billed separately. They are projected to be approximately $500)

▪ Meals in airports and any alcoholic beverages.

▪ Tips/gratuities.

▪ Extras in hotels (e.g., room service, laundry, etc.).

▪ Trip Insurance (highly recommended)

Accommodations and physical requirements:

▪ All of the lodging is in comfortable hotels or traditional Japanese onsens (hot spring lodges).

▪ While no strenuous hiking is expected, we will spend plenty of time walking on park trails. Total walking for a day may total two or more miles. Depending on the weather, there may be walking on snow and/or ice.

▪ Temperatures will range from subtropical (near 80 °F) to wintery (below freezing).