Unforgettable Hokkaido Photo Workshop Tour: Shima Enaga and Winter Wildlife

As early spring arrives in Japan, our JDS Hokkaido Photo Workshop Leaders are reflecting on another extraordinary Hokkaido Photography Workshop Tour. This year’s journey through Japan’s northernmost island was nothing short of spectacular, offering breathtaking winter landscapes, diverse wildlife encounters, and the rare opportunity to photograph the beloved Shima Enaga (Aegithalos caudatus japonicus)—Hokkaido’s tiny, snow-white feathered gem.

Throughout the workshop, participants ventured into Hokkaido’s pristine forests, guided by JDS Hokkaido photography tour leaders, who have spent nearly 30 years photographing wildlife in this stunning region. Each morning, the group listened for the distinct "tsee-tsee-tsee" calls of the Shima Enaga, spotting them as they flitted between snow-dusted branches. These Long-tailed Bushtits (Aegithalos caudatus) provided an endless source of inspiration, their delicate, round forms standing out beautifully against the winter backdrop.

This year’s tour offered a rare glimpse into the pre-spring behaviors of the Shima Enaga, as the flocks of 10–20 birds began to disperse in preparation for the breeding season (April–July). Participants observed the formation of monogamous pairs, with males holding their territories while females explored neighboring areas—an insight into the species’ fascinating social structure. As the group photographed these charming birds between 2.5 and 10 meters up in the trees, they marveled at how effortlessly the Shima Enaga blended into their icy surroundings, appearing almost like tiny snowballs with tails.

Beyond the Shima Enaga, the JDS Hokkaido Photo Workshop provided countless other unforgettable wildlife encounters. Under the expert guidance of [Your Name], participants captured striking images of Red-crowned Cranes (Grus japonensis), Steller’s Sea Eagles (Haliaeetus pelagicus), Ezo Red Foxes (Vulpes vulpes schrencki), and Sika Deer (Cervus nippon yesoensis). From the graceful dance of the cranes to the powerful flight of the eagles over pack ice, every moment in the field was a chance to create once-in-a-lifetime photographs.

Now, as Hokkaido transitions into spring, our JDS Hokkaido Photo Workshop Leaders are already planning for next winter’s adventure. For those who have ever dreamed of capturing the iconic wildlife of Japan’s north island, including the enchanting Shima Enaga, 2026's Hokkaido Photography Workshop Tour promises another unforgettable experience.