Hokkaido 2027 Photography Adventure
Japan’s Northern Paradise
Experience Highlights
- Winter Wildlife - Photograph Japan’s iconic species including Japanese macaques (aka snow monkeys), Red-crowned Cranes, Stellar’s Sea Eagles, Ezo Red Foxes, and the rare Blakiston’s Fish Owl all in a winter backdrop.
- Cinematic Conditions -
Snow-covered landscapes and soft winter light set the stage for striking wildlife and scenic photography.
- Culture Alongside Nature -
Experience authentic Japanese cuisine, hospitality, and traditional onsens (hot springs) as part of your journey.
- Small Group Instruction - Leighton will always be close by to answer questions and offer in-the-field guidance on shooting techniques and practical ways to expand your creative vision.
At A Glance
Feb 24 - Mar 5, 2027
$9,250 USD
Double occupancy
Single Lodging +$1,200
Deposit: $2,000
Instructor:
Leighton Lum
Group Size: 6
Difficulty:
Easy
What's Included: Lodging, Meals per itinerary, Transportation including internal flights, Local Guides & Photography Instruction
What's Not Included: International Airfare, Travel Insurance, Personal Expenses, Meals Not Stated In Itinerary, Gratuities. Anything not specifically listed as included
Winter Wildlife in Focus
Photograph Japan’s most iconic species—including Japanese macaques (aka snow monkeys), Red-crowned Cranes, Stellar’s Sea Eagles, Ezo Red Foxes, Sika Deer, and the elusive Blakiston’s Fish Owl—set against the snow-covered landscapes of Hokkaido.
Photography Focused Adventure
Every aspect of this trip is designed for passionate photographers by passionate photographers. From sunrise boat excursions on frozen lakes to evening owl shoots, our itinerary is designed to maximize the potential to capture wall-worthy images
Cultural Immersion
Experience authentic Japanese cuisine, traditional inns, and a visit to the famed Snow Monkeys of Nagano who soak in natural hot springs—offering a deeper layer to the journey.
Small Group, Seamless Logistics
With a maximum of six participants, this workshop ensures access, flexibility, and individual attention. Domestic flights, transportation, and accommodations are fully arranged for a smooth, photography-focused experience.
Ready to Join the Adventure?
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Hawaii native Leighton Lum’s jaw-dropping images simply speak for themselves. Led by his creative eye and passion for adventure, Leighton has traveled the globe to destinations like Africa, South America, Iceland, Indonesia, and Antarctica, leading photography workshops and making his own award-winning photographs. Leighton hopes his photography inspires others and raises awareness about conservation to ensure future generations can enjoy the natural world he cherishes. Read more about Leighton and see a selection of his images.
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We understand life happens and plans may change. If you need to cancel your reservation, the following policies apply :
Deposits are NOT refundable but may be transferred to another Art of Seeing workshop for up to 24 months from date of cancellation in accordance with the following schedule:
Regardless of when you cancel, if we fill your spot*, you will receive a refund of all fees paid less your deposit and $150 processing fee. If we cannot fill your spot, the amount of your refund is based upon the cancellation date:
Cancellation 120 days or more from workshop start date: 100% refund of fees paid less deposit and $150 processing fee. Deposit transferrable up to 24 mos.
Cancellation 90 – 120 days from workshop start date: 50% refund of fees paid less deposit and $150 processing fee. Deposit forfeit.
Cancellation less than 90 days from workshop start date: No refunds.
*Canceled spots are filled after the workshop reaches full capacity
All cancellations must be made in writing. Refunds will be paid by the same method that the original payment was made.
Payments made for private workshops that you arrange with us are not refundable.
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If you've traveled with us before, thank you! You're the reason our passion is our profession, and we are deeply grateful for this blessing.
To express our appreciation, we've launched our Alumni Rewards Program which gives our 'frequent flyers' discounts on future Art of Seeing Photography Adventures. Click here for full details
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Q: What are the physical fitness requirements?
A: You should be able to walk at least a mile on level ground. The paths are well-maintained, but please note they may be snowy and potentially icy in February.Q: What is the food like?
A: The food will be authentic Japanese cuisine, including raw fish, cooked fish, a variety of seafood and vegetables, served with rice and typically miso soup. Meals are usually served as set menus, so there may not be many options to choose from. Please inform us of any allergies in advance, and we will check for possible substitutes.Q: How cold will it be?
A: On average, temperatures will be in the 20s°F, with possible windy and snowy conditions. Be sure to pack warm, layered clothing to stay comfortable in these winter conditions.Q: What if I want to arrive early or stay after the workshop dates?
A: No problem, just let us know your arrival and departure details and we will book the additional hotel nights for you as required (additional cost).
Q: Is there an extra fee for a private room?
A: Yes, prices are based on double occupancy. If you don't have a travel partner, we will pair you with a same-gender roommate (if a roommate is unavailable, you will be charged the single lodging rate).
If you prefer a private room, single lodging fee is $1200.
Q: Can my non-photographer friend/partner attend?
A: Absolutely! Travel partners who may not share your passion for photography are very welcome to join. Just make sure they’re comfortable being part of a group that focuses primarily on photography, including meals, rest, and discussions about photography. However, due to limited space, we are unable to offer a discount for non-photographer partners.
| Day | Date | Itinerary | Overnight | Meal |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 24-Feb | Arrival Tokyo - Arrive at Haneda Airport and transfer to your hotel in Tokyo for a comfortable start to your adventure. | Shinagawa Prince | - |
| 2 | 25-Feb | Tokyo – Nagano - Today we travel from Tokyo to Nagano by private transport. The afternoon will be at your leisure to relax and prep your camera gear for the upcoming adventures. | Hotel Kokusai | - |
| 3 | 26-Feb | Nagano - We’ll begin the day with visit the famous Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park. After a short 30-minute hike, you’ll have the chance to photograph the Japanese macaques, who’ve mastered the art of using natural onsens to stay warm during the winter months. Afterward, we’ll return to Tokyo via private shuttle for a comfortable ride back. | Shinagawa Prince | - |
| 4 | 27-Feb | Tokyo – Kushiro - Today we will fly from Haneda to Kushiro, where you’ll meet your guide at Kushiro Airport. We’ll head out to photograph the famous, Red-crowned Cranes in their natural habitat, capturing their graceful beauty in the stunning winter landscape. | Tsurui | B |
| 5 | 28-Feb | Kushiro – Nemuro - In the morning, we’ll capture stunning shots of the Red-crowned Cranes before spending the rest of the day traveling to Nemuro, searching for wildlife. Along the way, we’ll photograph the Ezo Red Fox, Sika Deer, and if we're lucky, the elusive Ural Owl. | Nemuro | B,D |
| 6 | 1-Mar | Nemuro - Today, we’ll photograph the majestic Stellar’s and White-Tailed Eagles soaring over the frozen Lake Furen. Afterward, we’ll head down the Nemuro Peninsula in search of wildlife, including the Ezo Red Fox, Sika Deer, and various small birds. | Nemuro | B,D |
| 7 | 2-Mar | Nemuro – Rausu - Today, we'll capture stunning shots of eagles on the frozen Lake Furen, then head back down the Nemuro Peninsula in search of wildlife. In the evening, we'll travel to Rausu for a night session to photograph the rare and elusive Blakiston's Fish Owl in its natural habitat. | Rausu | B,D |
| 8 | 3-Mar | Rausu - We’ll begin the morning with a sunrise boat session to photograph the Stellar’s Sea Eagles and White-tailed Eagles perched on the sea ice. After a short break, we’ll head out on another boat ride for more eagle photography. In the evening, we’ll have another Fish Owl session, capturing the rare Blakiston’s Fish Owl. | Rausu | B,D |
| 9 | 4-Mar | Rausu – Kawayu - We’ll start the day with another sunrise boat session to photograph the Stellar’s Sea Eagles and White-tailed Eagles. After a short break, we’ll take another boat ride for more eagle photography. We will then be transported to Kawayu, searching for wildlife along the way. We’ll make a sunset stop depending on the wildlife and scenery we encounter along the way. | Kawayu | B,D |
| 10 | 5-Mar | Kawayu – Tokyo - This morning, we’ll capture the elegance of Whooper Swans on a frozen lake during a beautiful sunrise shoot. Afterward, your guide will drop you off at Nakashibesu Airport for your domestic flight back to Haneda, departing around 4:00pm. You’ll arrive back in Haneda in time for your international flight home, with flights leaving around 8:00pm or later being ideal. | - | B |
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