Highlights from Japan in Spring

Our birding journey through Japan spanned from the wetlands and mountains of Honshu to the subtropical forests of Okinawa and Amami, and the wild coasts and the temperate forests of Hokkaido. 

We began on Honshu, where sneaky Marsh Grassbirds and Green Pheasant set the tone. In the Japan Alps, we found Yellow and Grey Buntings and explored the amazing Zenkoji Temple in Nagano. Around Mount Fuji, we enjoyed Japanese Accentor, plentiful Goldcrests, and hearty local fare.

In Okinawa, we encountered Okinawa Rails behind our hotel and several Ryukyu endemics at forest and dam sites. A fabulous Ryukyu Leaf Turtle, a scarce endemic, was another highpoint of our visit. 

On Amami Ōshima, highlights included Black-faced Spoonbill, Owston’s Woodpecker and Ryukyu Flycatcher. Ryukyu Scops Owl, Northern Boobook, Amami Black Rabbit, and the elusive Amami Woodcock were all seen beautifully during a magical night drive. 

Hokkaido brought a dramatic shift: we started our birding at the scenic wetlands of Kiritappu, spotting Pacific Loon, Japanese Cormorant and Siberian Rubythroat. Two nature cruises off the Shiretoko Peninsula Rausu spectacular views of at least 30 Orcas and pelagic birds including breeding Spectacled Guillemots, Northern Fulmar and Rhinoceros Auklet not to mention a mama Brown Bear with cubs!

Further forest explorations on the Notsuke Peninsula and Lake Akan offered Long-tailed Rosefinch, Pine Grosbeak, Eurasian Wryneck and Grey-headed Woodpecker. At Yoroushi, we were treated to unforgettable views of Blakiston’s Fish Owl whose arrival disrupted our sumptuous gourmet dinner.

This remarkable trip captured Japan’s extraordinary avian diversity and natural beauty—an unforgettable experience from start to finish.