Japanese Serow, Flying Squirrel, Giant salamander,Japanese Robin, Macaques, Deer & Mountain Wildlife
Join a 3-day wildlife photography tour in Kyoto and Nara, designed for travelers who want to observe and photograph Japan’s native and iconic wildlife with a local guide.
This small-group tour runs from late April to November 30 and offers opportunities to photograph Japanese macaques, sika deer, Japanese flying squirrels, Japanese serow, wild birds, and seasonal mountain wildlife. From mid-May to mid-July, the tour is also especially recommended for photographers hoping to photograph the Japanese robin.
The route combines riverside birdwatching in Kyoto, macaque photography in Arashiyama, deer and cultural landscapes in Nara Park, evening flying squirrel observation, and an early morning mountain safari toward the Odaigahara area.
This tour is focused on ethical wildlife watching, photography support, and respect for wild animals and their habitats.
Tour Highlights
- 3-day wildlife photography tour in Kyoto and Nara
- Photograph Japanese macaques in Arashiyama
- Visit Nara Park for deer and seasonal wildlife photography
- Evening observation for Japanese giant flying squirrels
- Early morning mountain safari in Odaigahara area
- Possible encounters with Japanese serow, sika deer, Japanese badgers, and mountain birds
- Japanese robin photography opportunities from mid-May to mid-July
- Spring and autumn are recommended seasons for Japanese serow
- Includes 2 nights accommodation
- Guided by a local wildlife guide
- Small-group format suitable for overseas travelers and photographers
Best Season for This Tour
This tour is available from late April to November .
Wildlife activity changes by season, and sightings are never guaranteed. However, each period offers different photography opportunities.
| Season | Wildlife & Photography Highlights | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Late April-May | Fresh green forests, birds, Japanese serow | Very Good |
| Mid-May-Mid-July | Japanese robin, forest birds, lush mountain scenery | Excellent |
| Late July-August | Deer, macaque,Flying squirrel | Good |
| September-November | Japanese serow, autumn colors, mountain wildlife | Excellent |
For photographers interested in the Japanese robin, the best timing is usually mid-May to mid-July.
For Japanese serow, spring and autumn are especially recommended.
Target Wildlife
Possible species include:
- Japanese serow
- Japanese giant flying squirrel
- Giant salamander
- Japanese macaque
- Sika deer
- Japanese robin
- Japanese badger
- Asian black bear
- Birds (Japanese robin, Ural owl, Japanese pygmy woodpecker, Red-flanked Bluetail, Long-tailed tit etc)
※The bird species you can see vary depending on the season. If there are any particular species you’d like to see, please let us know.
The Odaigahara area is also known as habitat for the Asian black bear, although sightings are rare and never guaranteed. The tour focuses on safe and respectful wildlife observation.
Sample Itinerary
※The itinerary may change slightly depending on the season and wildlife activity.
Day 1: Kyoto Birdwatching & Night Wildlife
16:00-17:00
Birdwatching along the Kamo River in Kyoto
17:00-18:00
Dinner
18:00-24:00
Night herping for Giant salamanders
Depending on the season and conditions, this may include observation of river wildlife such as the Japanese giant salamander. Observation is conducted carefully and respectfully. We do not touch animals, disturb their habitat, or disclose sensitive locations.
Day 2: Monkeys, Deer & Flying Squirrels
11:00-13:00
Photograph Japanese macaques in Arashiyama
13:00-14:00
Lunch
14:00-15:00
Transfer to Nara
15:00-17:00
Wildlife photography in Nara Park, followed by hotel check-in
17:00-19:00
Rest and dinner
19:00-21:00
Japanese flying squirrel observation
Day 3: Early Morning Safari & Mountain Birdwatching
04:00-08:00
Early morning safari while traveling toward the Odaigahara area
As we travel through mountain forest habitat, we may encounter Japanese serow, sika deer, Japanese badgers, and other wildlife. The area is also known as habitat for the Asian black bear, although sightings are rare and never guaranteed.
08:00-08:30
Packed Breakfast
08:30-10:00
Mountain trail birdwatching
From mid-May to mid-July, this part of the tour is especially recommended for photographers hoping to photograph the Japanese robin.
10:00-13:00
Transfer and drop-off at Nara Station or Kyoto Station
Price
From JPY 150,000 per person
For groups of 2 or more guests
Private solo tour: JPY 180,000 per person
Included
- 2 nights accommodation
- Local transportation during the tour
- Professional guiding
- Wildlife observation sessions
- Photography support
- English guidance
- Meals
- Rental Wader for Giant salamander observation
Not Included
- International flights
- Transportation to the meeting point
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses
- Camera equipment
- Head light
- Additional hotel nights before or after the tour
Meeting & Drop-Off
Meeting location: Kyoto city area
Drop-off: Nara Station or Kyoto Station
Exact meeting details will be discussed after booking.
Who This Tour Is For
This tour is recommended for:
- Wildlife photographers
- Bird photographers
- Nature lovers
- Travelers interested in Japan’s native wildlife
- Visitors looking for a deeper experience beyond standard sightseeing
- Small groups or solo travelers who want a private wildlife experience
A moderate level of fitness is recommended. The tour includes early mornings, night observation, walking, and outdoor conditions.
Important Notes
Wild animals are not kept, baited, or controlled. Sightings are never guaranteed.
The itinerary may change depending on weather, wildlife activity, road conditions, river conditions, and safety considerations.
For conservation reasons, sensitive wildlife locations are not publicly disclosed.
During wildlife observation, guests must follow the guide’s instructions at all times. We do not touch wildlife, chase animals, use excessive light, feed animals, or disturb natural behavior.
Ethical Wildlife Watching Policy
We believe wildlife tourism should support respect for nature. This tour follows a low-impact approach:
- No feeding wild animals
- No chasing or surrounding animals
- No disclosure of sensitive locations
- Safe distance from wildlife
- Respect for local rules and protected habitats
Booking
To request availability, please contact us with:
- Preferred tour dates
- Number of guests
- Main wildlife interests
- Hotel location before the tour
- Any health, mobility, or dietary considerations
We will reply with availability, meeting details, and booking instructions.
This tour is also recommended for those with limited time or for anyone who wants to focus exclusively on observing the Japanese Giant Salamander.
