Private Wildlife Photography Tour in Hokkaido Flying Squirrels

Hokkaido , Japan

Private Wildlife Photography Tour in Hokkaido Flying Squirrels

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About this experience

Discover Hokkaido’s adorable Ezo flying squirrels — tiny, round, and gliding silently through the forest at dawn and dusk.
This private photography tour takes you into peaceful coniferous woods near Obihiro, where these nocturnal animals peek out from their nests before sunrise and after sunset.

Observe and photograph them in natural light while learning about their unique ecology — their nesting behavior, favorite foods, and how they survive the long northern winter.
Your guide provides gentle photography support, helping you work quietly and effectively in low light to capture authentic moments in the wild.

Between sessions, enjoy the calm rhythm of the forest and seasonal wildlife such as owls, foxes, and long-tailed tits.
Rather than chasing animals, this tour is about patience, presence, and quiet connection — a chance to feel the stillness of Hokkaido’s winter and photograph one of Japan’s most endearing forest creatures.

Available options

Private Wildlife Photography Tour in Hokkaido Flying Squirrels

What's included

Warm drinks during winter sessions

Transportation within the Obihiro area (hotel pickup and drop-off)

Private, English/Japanese-speaking wildlife photography guide

3–4-hour midday rest break for comfort and data review

Use of binoculars for wildlife observation

Observation and photography in coniferous forest habitats and national parks

Photography advice on light, timing, and camera settings

Field research–based guiding to nesting and observation sites

What's not included

Camera equipment, tripod, or telephoto lens (please bring your own)

Meals and personal snacks

Personal travel insurance or equipment damage coverage

Accommodation and transportation to/from Obihiro before and after the tour

Available languages

Guide guide

JA EN

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

The guide’s vehicle is a white Nissan Vanette. I’ll be waiting in front of the restrooms at the roadside station. You can recognize me by the binoculars hanging around my neck.

About Hokkaido

Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost island, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, hot springs, and world-class ski resorts. With its vast wilderness areas, fresh seafood, and unique Ainu culture, Hokkaido offers a distinct experience from the rest of Japan.

Top Attractions

Sapporo Beer Museum

A museum dedicated to the history of beer in Japan, located in the birthplace of Sapporo Beer.

Cultural 1-2 hours Free

Otaru Canal

A picturesque canal lined with historic warehouses, now home to shops and restaurants.

Historical 2-3 hours Free to walk around

Niseko United

A world-famous ski resort known for its powder snow and excellent skiing conditions.

Adventure Full day Expensive

Shiretoko National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its pristine wilderness and diverse wildlife.

Nature Full day or overnight Moderate

Must-Try Local Dishes

Sapporo Ramen

A rich, miso-based ramen with a hearty pork broth, topped with corn, butter, and local ingredients.

Dinner Contains meat and dairy

Genghis Khan (Jingisukan)

Grilled lamb or mutton, cooked on a dome-shaped grill, often served with vegetables and dipping sauces.

Dinner Contains meat

Ikura Don

A bowl of rice topped with salmon roe, often served with soy sauce and other accompaniments.

Lunch/Dinner Contains fish

Soups Curry

A thick, hearty curry stew with vegetables and meat, served in a large pot and eaten with bread or rice.

Lunch/Dinner Contains meat and dairy

Popular Activities

Skiing and snowboarding Hiking Wildlife viewing Onsen (hot spring) bathing Shopping Dining Visiting museums and historical sites Experiencing local festivals

Best Time to Visit

Summer (June to August) and Winter (December to February)

Summer offers pleasant weather for hiking and outdoor activities, while winter is perfect for skiing and snowboarding. Both seasons attract the highest number of tourists.

20-25°C (Summer), -5 to 5°C (Winter) 68-77°F (Summer), 23-41°F (Winter)

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

JST (GMT+9)

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Hokkaido is generally safe, with low crime rates. However, travelers should exercise caution in crowded areas and be aware of potential natural hazards, such as earthquakes and heavy snowfall.

Important Precautions:

• Use licensed taxis and insist on the meter being used.
• Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas.
• Be cautious when using ATMs, and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.

Getting there

By air

New Chitose Airport • 40 km from Sapporo
Okadama Airport • 10 km from Sapporo

By train

Sapporo Station

By bus

Sapporo Station Bus Terminal, Susukino Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Efficient and punctual, with options for day passes and rail passes.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Sapporo Station Area Susukino Odori Park

Day trips

Hakodate

240 km from Sapporo • Full day

A historic port city known for its well-preserved Meiji-era buildings, seafood, and stunning views of the Tsugaru Strait.

Furano

140 km from Sapporo • Full day

A charming town known for its lavender fields, cheese factories, and scenic landscapes.

Noboribetsu

120 km from Sapporo • Full day

A popular hot spring resort town known for its geothermal activity and healing waters.

Festivals

Sapporo Snow Festival • Early February Lavender Festival • July Nebuta Matsuri • Early August

Pro tips

Visit during the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) to avoid crowds and enjoy pleasant weather.
Try local specialties, such as Sapporo ramen, Genghis Khan (Jingisukan), and fresh seafood.
Experience a traditional ryokan (inn) with onsen (hot spring) baths for a unique cultural experience.
Explore Hokkaido's national parks and wilderness areas for stunning natural beauty and outdoor activities.
Learn a few basic Japanese phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals.