Introduction
Westernized and yet profoundly Asian, Japan remains an enigmatic land. The Japanese archipelago with its jagged and broken coastline and its high mountain peaks possesses some of the most striking scenery in eastern Asia. Nowhere in Japan is far from the sea and this has an immeasurable influence on both landscape and people. If your mental image of Japan is of shiny consumer exports, high technology, endless overcrowding and automatic everything, then join us at Bird-Photo-Tours Asia to create images of Japan’s untamed side. Imagine seeing hundreds of the stunningly beautiful but rare Red-crowned Cranes on Hokkaido, dancing and displaying at their riverine roosts and at their feeding grounds. Experience a boat ride among the shimmering pack ice and photograph one of the world’s largest and most dramatic raptor: the Steller’s Sea Eagle. Not only are the raptors huge but this land is also home to the largest owl on our planet: the magnificent Blakinston's Fish Owl. This Bird-Photo-Tour will provide the opportunity to photograph this stunning owl at close range. Think of being within arm’s reach of hundreds of delightful Whooper Swans at ice-coated and mist-fringed lakes and wintry seacoasts. Herds of sika deer and red fox, flocks of sea ducks, several species of gulls and some inspiring scenic opportunities all add to the charm of Hokkaido. A visit to upcountry Japan is an experience in itself and one that requires a spirit of adventure and a willingness to adapt to new ways. Simple things like eating Japanese food and sleeping on a futon are very different from back home, but add to our experience as we explore the cultural differences.
: Hokkaido
