Japan wildlife: a complete guide

While Japan is often associated with its fast-paced cities, historic temples, and tech scene, it’s also a great place to see wildlife without going too far off the beaten path. In recent years, it’s become easier to plan a nature-focused trip here, thanks to an increase in local guides, photo hides, and places to stay that are geared toward spotting animals. Here’s our guide to Japan wildlife. 

Your guide to see wildlife in Japan

One of the things that makes wildlife travel in Japan stand out is how easy it is to work into your trip. You don’t need to rent a car or venture deep into the countryside—some animals can be seen just outside major cities or along popular train routes. The Japanese approach to wildlife also differs from Western traditions, with many animals holding deep cultural significance, appearing in folklore, art, and religious practices.

The public transportation system helps too. You can reach many remote areas by train or bus, which makes it more accessible than other places where you might need a tour or private driver. And because so many nature spots are near hot springs, temples, or food destinations, it’s easy to add wildlife viewing into a broader travel plan. If you're planning on seeing Japan for yourself, be sure to check out our sample Japan itinerary, which makes for a great starting point. 

What animals can you see in Japan?

Japan’s made up of thousands of islands stretching from snowy Hokkaido in the north to subtropical Okinawa in the south, with everything from mountains and forests to coral reefs in between. That wide range of environments means the wildlife here is just as varied—and often unique to the country.

There’s a strong seasonal rhythm to wildlife in Japan. Some animals are closely tied to the changing weather—like monkeys warming up in hot springs or cranes gathering in winter (more on that in our guide to the best time to visit Japan). Officially, more than 90,000 species have been documented in Japan—but that number could top 300,000 if you count everything still being discovered. With such a range of habitats packed into one country, it’s one of the most rewarding places in Asia for spotting wildlife.

Mammals

Japan has a variety of mammals, with around 172 species. This includes 112 native land mammals, 19 introduced species, and 40 types of cetacea (whales and dolphins). Because Japan is geographically isolated, many of these animals have developed some unique traits.

Japanese macaques (snow monkeys)

Japanese macaques, or snow monkeys, are the northernmost primates in the world. They’re well-known for their habit of soaking in hot springs during the winter, a sight that draws many visitors. These monkeys also have some interesting behaviors, like washing their food before eating and passing down knowledge across generations. 

With their reddish faces and gray-brown fur, they’re easy to spot. At Jigokudani Monkey Park in Nagano Prefecture, you can see them enjoying onsen waters in a snowy setting—a pretty unforgettable experience. These monkeys have adapted well to cold climates, and their social structure makes them a fascinating species to observe.

Japanese serow

The Japanese serow looks like a mix between a goat, antelope, and cattle. It’s a protected species and is considered a Special Natural Monument. These shy, solitary animals live in Japan’s steep, forested mountains, where they navigate rugged terrain with ease. The serow has a distinctive white throat patch, beard-like facial hair, and small horns. Though once endangered, it’s now recovering, though habitat fragmentation is still a concern.
 

Japanese raccoon dog (tanuki)

The tanuki, or Japanese raccoon dog, pops up in a lot of Japanese folklore. It’s often portrayed as a trickster with magical powers, sometimes with big testicles symbolizing luck and prosperity. But in real life, tanuki are nocturnal canids that have distinct facial markings, giving them a bandit-like look, and they have a bear-like appearance. Unlike raccoons, tanuki are native to Japan, and they even hibernate partially during the winter, which is pretty unusual for canids. These animals are adaptable and eat almost anything, thriving in forests, farmlands, and even suburban areas. You’ll often see ceramic tanuki statues outside restaurants and homes across Japan.

Red fox

In Japan, the native red fox (Vulpes vulpes japonica) can be found across a range of landscapes, from Hokkaido’s snowfields to Honshu’s forests. Slightly smaller than their Western counterparts, they have reddish fur and a white-tipped tail. These foxes are most active at dawn and dusk, hunting small mammals and birds. While red foxes are real animals, they’re also believed to have inspired the mythological kitsune—supernatural foxes that appear in Japanese folklore that often trick humans by leading them astray and have the ability to shapeshift into human form.

 Sika deer

Sika deer are important in Japanese culture and Japan wildlife, with some regions seeing them as messengers of the gods. In places like Nara, the deer roam freely, and visitors can buy crackers to feed them. During the summer, their coats are spotted, and in winter they turn a more uniform brown. The males also grow impressive antlers. You can sometimes spot these deer in places like ancient temples or modern cities.

Ussuri brown bear (Hokkaido)

Hokkaido is home to the Ussuri brown bear, Japan’s largest land mammal. These bears are closely related to the North American grizzly, and they can weigh up to 1,200 pounds (550 kilograms) and stand around 8 feet (2.5 meters) tall. With their humped shoulders and powerful claws, they’re built for digging and fishing. The Ainu people, who are indigenous to Hokkaido, have long held these bears in high regard, honoring them through ceremonies after hunts. Today, if you’re in Hokkaido, you might catch a glimpse of these bears in places like Shiretoko National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visitors can watch them fishing for salmon from designated viewpoints. 

Asiatic black bear

The Asiatic black bear, recognizable by the crescent-shaped white marking on its chest that earned it the nickname "moon bear”. They live in Japan’s mountain forests, especially on Honshu and Shikoku. These shy but strong climbers spend much of their time in trees, foraging for fruits, nuts, and insects. While they don’t feature as prominently in folklore as some other animals, they do appear in regional stories as symbols of strength and caution—wild creatures best respected from a distance. As forests shrink and human development expands, encounters between bears and people have increased, leading to growing conflict. Conservation efforts focus on protecting their habitats and finding ways for bears and humans to coexist more safely.
 

Birds

Japan is a great place for birdwatching, with more than 700 species recorded across its islands—including 17 that are found nowhere else in the world. The country’s diverse habitats, from snow-covered peaks to coastal wetlands, draw birders from around the globe. Winter is especially rewarding, when many birds migrate to Japan from colder parts of Asia and Russia. You don’t need to be an expert to enjoy it either—many of the best spots for viewing are easy to reach and well set up for visitors.

Red-crowned crane (Japanese crane)

In Japan, the Red-crowned crane—called "Tancho"—is a cultural symbol of good luck, long life, and love. These cranes are massive, standing almost five feet tall, with crisp white feathers, black wingtips, and a red patch on their heads. Their courtship dances are wild to watch—imagine two birds bowing, leaping, and calling in sync.  You’ll see them in paintings, wedding decorations, and even origami. For the real thing, head to eastern Hokkaido in winter, where they gather by the hundreds in snowy fields.

Steller's sea eagle

The Steller’s sea eagle is hard to miss. With an enormous wingspan of up to eight feet and a bold yellow beak, it’s one of the largest and most powerful eagles in the world. These striking birds arrive in Hokkaido each winter after migrating from Russia, drawn to Japan’s ice-free coastal waters where they hunt for fish. Their sharp dives and precise grabs make them a favorite among birdwatchers, especially along the drift ice coastlines near Rausu and Shiretoko. Fewer than 5,000 remain in the wild, so spotting one feels like a real privilege. A
 

Blakiston's fish owl

The Blakiston's fish owl is the largest owl species in the world, and it moves through the forests of Hokkaido almost like a shadow. With a wingspan that can reach six feet and distinctive ear tufts, these owls are a rare sight and symbolize Japan’s dwindling old-growth forests. Their deep hoots echo through river valleys at night, creating a memorable experience for those who manage to find them. With fewer than 200 individuals remaining in Japan, these owls are critically endangered and rely on clean rivers and large trees for nesting.

Japanese pygmy woodpecker

The Japanese pygmy woodpecker is small but tough. These birds are common across Japan, from city parks in Tokyo to mountain forests. Despite the urban sprawl, they manage to thrive in both secondary forests and cultivated areas. 

Their plumage is subtle, with brown-gray backs and white barring, but their rapid drumming on trees and high-pitched calls make them easy to spot. Even though they’re small, they play a crucial role in controlling insect populations and create nest cavities used by other species. Look out for their distinctive flight pattern as they move from tree to tree.

If you're ready to see the Japanese pygmy woodpecker and more in Tokyo, don't miss our guide to how many days in Tokyo. 

Mandarin duck

The Mandarin duck is a striking sight in Japan’s ponds, with the males showing off bright copper-orange sails, purple-green crests, and white eyebrow stripes. These ducks nest in tree cavities, and the ducklings make dramatic leaps to the ground soon after hatching. Once threatened by hunting for their colorful feathers, their numbers have bounced back, especially in protected parks where they’ve become a favorite for photographers. While you can see them year-round in Japan, they’re most visible during the winter months when their bright colors stand out against the bare trees.

Green pheasant (Japan's national bird)

The Green pheasant, Japan’s national bird, is often seen in grasslands and at the edges of forests. Endemic to Japan, it has developed unique blue-green feathers that shine in the light. The males are particularly striking with their white neck rings and crimson face wattles, which are especially noticeable during spring courtship. Declared Japan’s national bird in 1947, the Green pheasant also appears on the 10,000 yen note and in traditional artwork. You can hear their sharp calls in the morning.
 

Marine life 

Japan’s surrounded by four major bodies of water—the Pacific Ocean, the Sea of Japan, the East China Sea, and the Sea of Okhotsk—which makes it a great spot for marine life. From the cold waters around Hokkaido to the warm seas near Okinawa, Japan has some amazing opportunities to see marine creatures in their natural environments, whether you’re into diving, snorkeling, or prefer whale-watching from a boat. If you're ready to see Japan for yourself, don't miss our guide to how to plan a trip to Japan. 

Humpback whales

Humpback whales migrate through Japan from December to May. These massive whales, reaching up to 50 feet (16 meters) long, are known for their breaching and their eerie songs that can travel miles underwater. If you're in Okinawa or the Ogasawara Islands, you might get to see them. Watching their bubble-net feeding or courtship displays is a pretty unique experience. For anyone into wildlife photography or simply taking in nature, seeing a humpback's tail fluke disappear beneath the surface is an incredible moment.

Sperm whales

Sperm whales, known from Moby-Dick, are found in the deep waters off Japan’s Pacific coast, especially around the Ogasawara Islands and Kii Peninsula. These creatures are the largest toothed predators on Earth, and they can dive as deep as 10,000 feet (3,000 meters) to hunt giant squid in the dark depths of the ocean. 

Their huge heads contain the largest brain of any animal, and the organs inside them were once sought after by whalers for the valuable spermaceti oil. Now, there are responsible whale-watching tours in Japan where you can spot these impressive animals. They’re easy to identify with their wrinkled skin and the unique forward-angle spout from their asymmetrical blowhole. Marine biologists are fascinated by their complex social behaviors.
 

Orcas (Shiretoko, Hokkaido)

Orcas, also known as killer whales, are found in the cold waters around Hokkaido, especially near the Shiretoko Peninsula, a UNESCO World Heritage site. These striking black-and-white animals are incredibly smart and have complex social structures. If you’re in Japan between January and March, you might see them during the drift ice season, when they hunt seals and fish among the ice. What’s interesting about the orcas in Shiretoko is the way their hunting behaviors are passed down through generations. Each pod has its own set of vocalizations, almost like a unique dialect.

Dolphins

You’ll spot dolphins all year along Japan’s coast, especially near places like Mikura Island and the Izu Peninsula. Bottlenose, Risso’s, and Pacific white-sided dolphins are the most common, usually moving in pods and communicating through clicks and whistles. They’re known for being smart—able to recognize themselves in mirrors and solve problems—and in some areas, they’ve had long-term interactions with people, coming back to the same bays over generations. If you’re out on a boat, you might see them surfing the waves or popping up to check you out, which is a hit with kids. If you're going with the whole family, don't miss our guide to Japan with kids. 
 

Sea turtles

Five types of sea turtles swim in Japan’s waters—green, loggerhead, hawksbill, olive ridley, and leatherback. Every summer, females return to beaches like those on Yakushima and the Ogasawara Islands to nest, continuing a cycle that’s been going on for millions of years. Leatherbacks are especially interesting—they can dive deep and keep their bodies warmer than the surrounding water. Across Japan, conservation groups work to protect nesting sites and care for injured turtles. Depending on the season and where you are, you might see hatchlings making their way to the sea or spot adults while snorkeling. 

Manta rays

Manta rays cruise through the southern waters around Okinawa and the Yaeyama Islands, moving like they’re flying underwater. They’re huge—up to 22 feet (7 meters across)—but gentle. Unlike stingrays, they don’t have a stinger. They feed on plankton and are surprisingly quick when they need to be. Mantas also have big brains for their size and have shown signs of self-awareness in research studies. A lot of people see them at cleaning stations, where smaller fish pick off parasites while the mantas hang out. If you’re diving or snorkeling, it’s a pretty peaceful sight—just these massive, quiet animals gliding past, almost like they’re in no rush at all.
 

Best places to see wildlife in Japan

Japan's six distinct biogeographic regions—Hokkaido, Northern Honshu, Southwestern Honshu, Shikoku, Kyushu, and the Ryukyu Islands—each host their own unique wildlife. This means that even short travels can open up the opportunity to see different animals, depending on where you go.

The four main islands—Honshu, Hokkaido, Kyushu, and Shikoku—make up 97% of the country’s land area. With mountain ranges dominating the terrain (about 73% of Japan is mountainous), the country’s landscape varies greatly. Japan sits on the Pacific "Ring of Fire," meaning it experiences frequent seismic activity, including over 100,000 earthquakes each year. The volcanic landscape has also given Japan abundant hot springs and fertile soil. Despite the limited habitable land, dense forests cover about 67% of Japan, offering diverse ecosystems, from subtropical Okinawa to subarctic Hokkaido. 
 

Jigokudani Monkey Park, Nagano

Jigokudani Monkey Park in Nagano is known for its Japanese macaques, or snow monkeys, who love to soak in the hot springs. The park is set in a beautiful mountain landscape, and in winter, the sight of the monkeys huddled in the steaming waters while snow falls around them is something you won’t forget. 

The 200-member troop is used to visitors, so you can get quite close and enjoy some great photo opportunities. To get there, you’ll hike about 30 minutes through the forest, where you can take in the stunning scenery as well. The park became famous after it was featured in National Geographic in 1970, and it’s a solid stop for anyone interested in wildlife.

Nara Park, Nara

In Nara, you’ll find more than 1,200 sika deer wandering freely around the city. These deer are considered sacred, and some regions of Japan have long believed they are messengers of the gods. This tradition dates back to the 8th century when a deity is said to have arrived at Kasuga Shrine on a white deer. The deer in Nara have become quite accustomed to people and have learned a few tricks—like bowing for crackers (shika senbei) and even waiting at crosswalks. The park, which covers 1600 acres (660 hectares), is also home to several UNESCO World Heritage sites. Visiting in autumn is lovely, with the deer framed by the colorful leaves, and in spring, you can see the fawns.
 

Kushiro Shitsugen National Park, Hokkaido

Kushiro Shitsugen National Park, located in Hokkaido, is Japan’s largest wetland. It’s a key habitat for the red-crowned crane. The park’s 70,000 acres (28,000-hectare) marshland has been around for thousands of years and remains one of Japan’s most pristine environments. Winter is a great time to visit if you want to see the cranes up close as they perform their courtship dances against a snowy backdrop. The park has wooden boardwalks and canoe tours, plus observation areas where you can take your time to enjoy the scenery. Besides cranes, you might spot Yezo deer, white-tailed eagles, and even the Japanese huchen, a giant freshwater fish.

Shiretoko Peninsula, Hokkaido

If you’re looking to experience one of Japan’s more remote natural areas, Shiretoko is worth the journey. It's way up in northeastern Hokkaido, where forests, cliffs, and cold coastal waters come together to support all kinds of wildlife. It is one of the best places to visit in Japan. You might spot brown bears fishing along the shore in summer or catch sight of orcas and seals from a boat. In winter, drift ice forms along the coast, changing the landscape entirely. 

The name “Shiretoko” comes from the Ainu language and loosely translates to “the end of the earth,” which fits—it really does feel far from everything. Volcanic activity shaped much of the terrain here, so expect crater lakes and steep, forested hills. A mix of ocean currents brings nutrients to the area, which helps explain the dense biodiversity. Wildlife cruises and guided boat trips are the easiest way to see the animals without venturing too deep into the backcountry.
 

Iriomote Island, Okinawa

Iriomote has a totally different feel. It’s part of the Yaeyama Islands near Taiwan ( some of the and some of the best islands in Japan), and most of it is covered in subtropical jungle and mangrove forests. The island is home to the Iriomote cat—a rare wild feline that’s been spotted by very few people. You’re not likely to see one, but kayaking through the mangroves gets you right into their territory. It’s a good way to take in the landscape, especially since the island doesn’t have many roads. You can also hike to small waterfalls like Mariyudu or Kanpiré, or snorkel along the coast where coral reefs grow close to shore. Iriomote’s wildlife can be a surprise—saltwater crocodiles, habu snakes, and flying foxes all live here—so it has more in common with parts of Southeast Asia than mainland Japan.

Ogasawara Islands

This group of islands sits about 600 miles (1,000 km) south of Tokyo and takes a full day to reach by ferry. But if you're curious about isolated ecosystems, it’s a fascinating place. 

The Ogasawara Islands have been separated from the mainland for so long that many species evolved here and nowhere else. That includes a huge portion of the plants and nearly all of the land snails. From February to April, you can see humpback whales migrate through the area, often breaching near the boat. Sperm whales live here year-round, and several types of dolphins are also pretty common. There’s a marine protected zone around the islands, so the coral reefs and sea life are relatively undisturbed. Snorkelers and divers often spot hawksbill turtles and tropical fish in shallow water, especially near the main island of Chichijima. 

If you're planning a trip to Tokyo as your base, be sure to see our guide to the best area to stay in Tokyo.
 

Kerama Islands, Okinawa

Just west of Okinawa’s main island, the Keramas are easy to get to by ferry but still feel pretty low-key. Only four of the 22 islands are inhabited, and the rest are mostly unspoiled. The beaches here are clean, and the water is incredibly clear—sometimes you can see all the way to the sea floor. From January to March, humpback whales migrate through the nearby channel, and it’s common to see them on day trips. Snorkeling is popular around Zamami Island, where sea turtles feed on seagrass near the shore. Tokashiki Island has calm, protected bays that attract manta rays—especially around natural cleaning spots where small fish help them shed parasites. The whole area falls within a national park.
 

Best time to visit for wildlife viewing in Japan

Japan’s unique weather and climate zones offer plenty of opportunities for wildlife spotting throughout the year. With six distinct climate zones, ranging from Hokkaido’s cold continental climate to Okinawa’s humid subtropical conditions, Japan hosts a remarkable variety of animals. The annual "tsuyu" (rainy season) from June to mid-July has a big impact on wildlife, especially with amphibians and insects, though it can make mammal sightings more challenging.

Recent studies show that Japan is warming faster than the global average, leading to shifts in species migration and habitat ranges. Local wildlife guides now keep an eye on the cherry blossom front and autumn foliage changes, which are useful markers for when different species start moving.

January–February: Best for snow monkeys and winter birds

Winter in Japan brings a lot of wildlife action in the northern and alpine regions. In Nagano Prefecture, you can see Japanese macaques (snow monkeys) soaking in hot springs, surrounded by snow. On Hokkaido’s eastern coast, you’ll spot Steller’s sea eagles and white-tailed eagles near the drift ice. In Kushiro Marsh, red-crowned cranes perform their mating dances, and whooper swans gather in the unfrozen lakes. For those into marine life, the Shiretoko Peninsula is a good spot to see seals lounging on ice floes.

March–April: Best for cherry blossoms and spring migration

When the cherry blossoms bloom, wildlife starts to wake up too. Migratory birds like Japanese reed warblers and Siberian rubythroats arrive in the Kanto Plain and wetlands after traveling from Southeast Asia. Humpback whales pass through the Ogasawara Islands with their calves on their way north. Asian black bears begin to emerge from hibernation in the mountains, and Japanese giant flying squirrels become more active in the forests of central Honshu. If you’re in the woods, you might hear the calls of copper pheasants or green pheasants as they start their courtship rituals.
 

June–July: Best for marine life and forest creatures

Summer brings a lot of activity in both the water and the forests. The coral reefs around Okinawa and the southern islands are full of colorful fish, sea turtles, and manta rays. Whale sharks and dolphins are commonly seen near Mikura-jima and the Izu Islands. On Yakushima, the ancient forests are home to Yaku deer and Yaku monkeys. In central Honshu, alpine meadows burst with butterflies and wildflowers, and you might spot Japanese serow and mountain hawk-eagles hunting along the ridgelines.

September–October: Best for autumn wildlife activity

As the leaves turn red and gold, animals get busy with their seasonal behaviors. Thousands of migratory cranes and geese move through the Kushiro marshlands in Hokkaido. In Nara and Nikko, sika deer enter rutting season, filling the air with their distinctive calls as the males compete for mates. Japanese giant salamanders become more visible during breeding season in the mountain streams of western Honshu. Along the coast, especially in the Sea of Japan, seabirds and raptors pass through, while Japanese macaques forage for winter food in central Japan’s mountain forests.
 

 How to experience wildlife responsibly

If you’re planning to see wildlife in Japan, it’s worth doing a bit of prep to make sure your experience doesn’t harm the animals or their habitats. The country has 34 national parks, all with clear rules designed to protect species like Hokkaido brown bears, Japanese macaques, and Okinawan dugongs. You’ll find things like no feeding policies, marked viewing spots, and seasonal access limits. These are in place for a reason—to keep both people and animals safe and to reduce stress on the environment.

A few basics go a long way. Keep a respectful distance—at least 50 meters (about half a football field) from bigger animals. If you want a closer look, bring a telephoto lens instead of trying to get physically closer. Stick to trails and paths, and try not to make sudden movements or loud noises.

Guided tours can also be a good way to go, especially those led by certified naturalists. These guides usually have a solid understanding of the local ecosystem and animal behavior, which helps you get more out of the experience without causing disruption. The Japan Association of Travel Agents (JATA), which has a "Green Tourism" certification. This one zeroes in on rural areas, supporting agricultural communities while keeping natural habitats intact.

If you're interested in going a step further, the Japan Ecotourism Society runs programs where visitors can learn more about conservation and even take part in things like habitat restoration. These trips aren’t just about seeing animals—they’re about understanding the bigger picture and supporting the areas you’re visiting.