My name is Blain Harasymiw, and for over thirty years I’ve been living my dream as a photographer in Japan. Throughout these decades, the landscapes, wildlife, and culture of this beautiful country have inspired me to share its wonders with others. Of all the adventures I lead, my annual and all-season Hokkaido photo tours hold a special place in my heart—and a main reason is my pursuit of one enchanting, elusive creature: the Shima Enaga.

Chasing the Shima Enaga: Hokkaido’s Snow Fairy

The Shima Enaga (Aegithalos caudatus caudatus), often called the “Snow Fairy” or “Long-tailed Tit,” is a tiny, white, and impossibly cute bird unique to Hokkaido. Measuring just 13-15 cm (about 5-6 inches) from beak to tail, the Shima Enaga is famous for its round, fluffy body, pure white face, and expressive eyes. Its endearing appearance has earned it nicknames like “snowball bird” and “marshmallow bird.”

But as adorable as they are, Shima Enaga are notoriously difficult to track, spot, and photograph. These tiny birds move quickly among the dense branches, rarely pausing for long. Their white plumage blends perfectly with Hokkaido’s snowy forests, making them natural masters of camouflage. In fact, over 90% of photographers who travel to Hokkaido with the dream of photographing a Shima Enaga leave without a single usable shot.