know a guide for a photo tour of Japan?

Some friends of mine were about to leave on a wildlife photography tour of Japan from Jan 22nd through Feb. 6th, but it looks like the guy they booked with may have scammed them and took off with their money.

Since they already have plane tickets (thankfully they purchased these themselves), they're still interested in going. So, I offered to put a message here asking if anyone knows of a reputable tour guide who takes wildlife photographers on guided tours to Honshu, Hokkaido, and Kyushu to photograph cranes, snow monkeys, mandarin ducks, and possibly other birds and wildlife?

Of course, we can check with anyone who is recommended about dates, but it would have to be between Jan 22nd through Feb 6th.

I really appreciate any referrals you might have.

Thanks,

Nancy

Have a look here http://www.mbpworkshops.com/

Martin Bailey has a photography podcast and is running this workshop. I listen to his podcast every week and he seems like a great guy.

Nancy, when I get back home, I can go through my Japanese literature, and let you know about any information I have. But seriously, I think if you get Lonely Planet's "Hiking in Japan" or "Japan", it should be good enough.

Also, try your local Japanese embassy or consulate. They are so helpful, it borders on the ridiculous. They will give you a billion pieces of literature to read.

One thing about Japan - nobody speaks English, but everybody will help you. So you may not get to where you want, but you will certainly get somewhere

Thanks for the ideas, Tom and Ashutosh. Martin Bailey's workshop looks like a good way to go when you want a guide and don't want to hike all over to find the best birding spots in a limited time.