The Notsuke Peninsula in eastern Hokkaido is one of Japan’s longest sand spits — a narrow ribbon of wind-blown land stretching into the Sea of Okhotsk. This remote wilderness hosts extraordinary concentrations of eagles in winter and is surrounded by extensive tidal flats that attract thousands of shorebirds and waterfowl.
Star Birds
Steller’s Sea Eagle
The Notsuke Peninsula is one of Hokkaido’s most reliable locations for Steller’s Sea Eagles, with dozens roosting along the shoreline in winter. The combination of sea ice, dramatic coastal scenery, and close-range eagles makes this one of Japan’s finest wildlife photography locations.
White-tailed Eagle
White-tailed Eagles are numerous throughout winter — often more than 50 birds visible in a single scan of the coastline. Mixed flocks of both eagle species resting on ice floes create spectacular scenes.
Red-crowned Crane
Small groups of Red-crowned Cranes feed on the tidal flats and grasslands adjacent to the peninsula, particularly around Notsuke Bay. Winter combines cranes, sea ice, and eagles in one concentrated area.
Best Time to Visit
- January-March: Sea ice present; peak eagles; cranes on tidal flats
- Spring (Apr-May): Migrating shorebirds fill the tidal flats
- Autumn (Sep-Nov): First eagles arrive; waterfowl flocks building
Travel Tips
The nearest town is Betsukai, reached by bus from Kushiro. Rental car is essential — the peninsula road is 26km long. The Notsuke Peninsula Nature Center provides visitor information and maps. Dress in multiple warm layers in winter as wind chill on the exposed spit is severe.
