5 hour private experience
Location: Asahikawa, Hokkaido
Offered in Japanese, with a friendly Deeper Japan guide interpreting in your language
A minimum of 2 guests is required to book. Solo participants are welcome but will be charged the 2-person rate
Meet the master
With over 40 years of experience, hunting guide Toshihiko has devoted his life to these forests. As owner of a local abattoir and venison restaurant, he oversees the entire hunt-to-table process, and, guided by a philosophy of gratitude and zero waste, he ensures each animal’s life is honored through thoughtful preparation.
What you’ll do
Join a seasoned Hokkaido hunter and venture into Hokkaido's deep, hidden terrain to hunt for deer. While hunting directly is not permitted in Japan except for Japanese license holders, observe this expert hunter at work while learning more about conservation in Hokkaido. After hunting, return to the hunter's restaurant and abattoir to witness the preparation process.
Things to Note
Participants take part strictly as observers during the hunt. The handling or discharge of firearms without a valid Japanese hunting license is prohibited under Japanese law.
This experience does not include lunch or dinner. Should you wish to reserve a meal at the guide’s venison restaurant following the tour, please let us know in advance and we will be pleased to arrange it.
Peak deer season runs from October to January. The general deer hunting season runs from October to March. Hunting can also occur during April to September for conservation purposes, so please inquire if you are interested in hunting in Hokkaido at this time.
Who can attend
Children must be 12+
Availability
Session 1 (7:00 - 12:00)
Please note that while peak hunting season is from October-January, hunting may be available upon request year round
Access
25 min taxi ride from Asahikawa station.
Wild in Equilibrium
The mountainous forests of Hokkaido stretch wide and wild, home to a rich diversity of wildlife — including indigenous Ezo deer. While hunting in Japan carries a long heritage, from Edo-era samurai falconry to the bear-hunting Matagi traditions, today it has evolved into a practice rooted in conservation and population management, striving to maintain a balance between nature and man, wilderness and agriculture. Hokkaido’s Ezo deer, in particular, present a significant ecological challenge due to their surging numbers, requiring the expertise of licensed hunters like Toshihiko to help restore sustainable equilibrium. Overseeing the process from field to table, he honors each animal through full utilization, operating his own abattoir and restaurant. Join him in venturing deep into Hokkaido’s striking landscapes, quietly observing as he reads the terrain for subtle signs of movement — an immersive encounter with the region’s living ecosystem and its carefully stewarded wild.
Cancellation Policy
Please make your booking at least 7 days in advance. See cancellation policy here.
A detailed itinerary will be emailed to you once your booking has been confirmed.
