Japan is home to some of the most fascinating birds in the world. From large raptors to small passerine birds, the islands offer habitats that attract both resident species and long-distance migrants. Bird watchers visit Japan year-round to see wild birds in bamboo forests, shallow lakes, and mountainous regions. The variety of bird species in Japan makes it one of the most rewarding destinations in East Asia for anyone who enjoys nature.
Bird Species
Birds of Japan include both widely distributed species and those unique to the region. Some are residents that thrive in dense vegetation, while others arrive during the breeding season from northern Japan, eastern Russia, and northeastern China. You’ll find everything from medium sized birds with brown plumage to large raptors with broad wings and white plumage.
Closely related species can be seen across South and Southeast Asia, while introduced species have also found a place in Japanese landscapes. The Ornithological Society recognizes more than 600 bird species in Japan, a mix of small birds, long distance migrants, and beautiful birds with distinctive appearances.
Blue Rock Thrush
The blue rock thrush is a medium sized bird found in rocky areas and cliffs. Its dark gray and blue plumage makes it stand out against stone landscapes. A resident bird in Japan, it often sings from high perches. While it is widely distributed across Southeast Asia and eastern China, it remains a favorite sight for bird watchers in Japan.
Red Crowned Crane
The red crowned crane is one of the most famous birds of Japan. Known for its white plumage with a red crown, it is often associated with longevity and good fortune. Found in northern Japan, particularly on Hokkaido, these cranes live in shallow lakes and tall grass wetlands. They are long distance migrants but some populations remain year-round. With their broad wings and distinctive appearance, they are considered some of the most beautiful birds in East Asia.
Blakiston's Fish Owl
Blakiston's fish owl is the largest owl species in the world. With dark brown plumage, rounded wings, and a rounded head, it is adapted to forested areas near rivers where it can catch prey such as small fish. Found mainly in northeastern Asia, including northern Japan and eastern Russia, this owl is rare and considered endangered. Its ability to eat fish makes it different from other birds of prey.
Steller's Sea Eagle
The Steller's sea eagle is one of the most striking wild birds of Japan. It has a black crown, broad wings, and massive wing feathers. Its distinctive white plumage contrasts with its dark brown body. Found in northern Japan during the winter, it is closely related to the white tailed eagle. Both species eat fish and small animals, often seen along coasts and shallow lakes. Their large size and long tail feathers make them unforgettable to bird watchers.
Birdlife International
Birdlife International plays an important role in protecting birds of Japan. The organization works with local partners to conserve habitats such as bamboo forests, mountainous regions, and shallow lakes. Many bird species, including the crested ibis and the Japanese white eye, depend on these areas for survival. Conservation projects on Sado Island, for example, have focused on restoring populations of the crested ibis, once nearly extinct in East Asia.
Birds of Japan
Other birds of Japan include small passerine birds such as the narcissus flycatcher, the warbling white eye, and the long tailed tit. These small birds rely on tall grass, forested areas, and dense vegetation for nesting and aerial feeding. Pest control is another role many passerine birds play, eating small insects that would otherwise spread quickly.
During the breeding season, the whooper swan arrives from Arctic regions to nest in northern Japan. Closely related species such as the eastern spot billed duck and the spot billed duck are often seen in shallow lakes and rivers. Together, these species highlight the diversity of birds in Japan.
Brown Eared Bulbul
The brown eared bulbul is a medium sized bird with brown plumage and a dark gray upper breast. Widely distributed across East Asia, it thrives in forested areas and bamboo forests. Its distinctive call makes it easy to identify. Although sometimes considered noisy, this resident bird plays an important role in spreading seeds and maintaining the balance of local ecosystems.
Warbling White Eye
The warbling white eye, also known as the Japanese white eye, is a small bird with a green back and a white eye ring. Found across South Korea, eastern China, and Japan, it is a resident bird that often forms flocks. They feed on small insects and nectar, making them essential for pollination. Their rounded wings and quick movements make them one of the most recognizable small passerine birds in Japan.
Spot Billed Duck
The eastern spot billed duck is a resident bird in Japan, often seen in shallow lakes and rivers. With a black bill tipped in yellow and brown plumage, it has a distinctive appearance. Unlike long distance migrants, the spot billed duck stays year-round, nesting in tall grass near wetlands. Bird watchers can see them throughout Japan, from northern regions to more temperate areas.
Long Tailed Tit
The long tailed tit is a small passerine bird with a rounded head, long tail feathers, and soft brown and white plumage. They are social birds, often moving in groups. Found in forested areas and bamboo forests, they feed on small insects during aerial feeding. Their small size and rounded wings make them agile in dense vegetation, making them a delight for bird watchers.
If you love the beauty of Japan birds, you’ll also enjoy exploring wall art that celebrates nature and wildlife. At Laboo Studio, our collections include prints inspired by landscapes, animals, and seasonal themes that bring the outdoors inside. Just like watching wild birds in their habitats, these artworks capture the calm and detail of the natural world, making them a perfect choice for your home.
