Japan Trip Part 3: Kyoto

Suzume (tree sparrows) on aerials, Kyoto

In Kyoto, we lodged in the Gion area near the Kamo River. Better winter birding than Tokyo along river (jōbitaki [Daurian Redstart]) and garden paths (shirohara [Pale Thrush]).

Seguro Sekirei (Japanese Wagtail), Kamogawa

Scores of wintering ducks, including wigeon and pintail, plus gray herons and egrets were reliably in the river. Along with a cooperative Japanese wagtail stepping from rock to rock.

Yamagara (varied tit), Kiyomizudera

I was hoping at least one temple we visited had a bird feeding station. And indeed, someone left peanuts for the varied tits at Kiyomizudera.

Kibashiri (common treecreeper), Inari Shrine grounds

The best birding, by far, was on the Inari Shrine grounds, right around the summit. There were classic mixed flocks of shijūkara (Japanese) and enaga (long-tailed) tits, plus kibashiri (treecreepers), and kogera (Japanese pygmy woopeckers). I even spotted a shime (hawfinch) along the shrine path, unexpectedly gorgeous.

Hashibuto-garasu (Jungle Crow), Maruyama Park 

Alas, I must have done something that displeased the Inari kami and came down with a dreadful cold the next day that curtailed my activity for the rest of the trip. Overall, though, nice casual winter birding in Japan.