Places I'm Visiting: Japan 2025 – Japanese Bush Warbler

Finally. The Japanese Bush Warbler, known locally as the Uguisu, is a secretive skulker, frequently heard and rarely seen. I have lived in Japan for a total of nearly 20 years and never seen this ubiquitous songster. Like the Bewick's Wrens common in Northern California, the Japanese Bush Warbler has an oversized voice. It's hard to believe such a small bird can make so much noise. Everywhere in rural Japan you hear the Uguisu's distinctive song. It's a drab little bird, but its song is hauntingly beautiful. I had never seen one until yesterday. Because they tend to stay hidden deep in foliage and they move quickly, I was lucky to get this shot of one in full song. Not a great photo. I wish it were sharper, but it will do. Finally.