winter trips in japan

• 2 Weeks for Couple
• 2 Weeks for Family
• Thailand Lantern Festival
• Indonesia(Bali)
• South Korea
• China (HK, Taiwan)
• Itinerary Ideas
• Asia Highlights Travel Reviews
• Thailand Travel Reviews
• Vietnam Travel Reviews
• Cambodia Travel Reviews
• Japan Travel Reviews
• Myanmar Travel Reviews
• China Travel Reviews

Plan a Japan Winter Trip 2024: Top Experiences & 2 Itineraries

Winter (December to February) in northern Japan is like a white fairy tale world: white snow, colorful Christmas illuminations, and a relaxed atmosphere. Although Japan is cold in winter, it still attracts visitors with its unique winter experiences, fewer travelers, and cheaper costs.

Japan is a great place to spend Christmas holidays with your family: relax in an onsen (hot spring) in a traditional ryokan (inn) while appreciating the snowy scenery in Hakone, ski with your teenage kids at Hokkaido's best powder-snow ski resort, experience dreamy wintry lighting in Shirakawa-go, and see snow monkeys bathe in an onsen in Nagano.

In this article, we are going to look at how to plan a winter travel itinerary, which could be a memorable family holiday.

• Do I Need a Visa to Visit Japan?

4 Top Japan-in-Winter Experiences

• Top 2 Winter Itineraries in Japan

Tips for Winter Travel in Japan

Winter weather in japan.

• How Much Does It Cost?

Do I Need a Visa to Go to Japan?

Japan restored its visa-waiver system from October 11th, 2022. If your country is on the Japan visa exemption list, like Australia, Canada, USA, UK and almost all European nations, you can visit Japan for 90 days (in most cases) without applying for a visa in advance.

Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family 's best-rated service across trusted platforms.

Here are four top things to do that you should not miss in Japan in winter:

1) Relax in a Onsen in a Cozy Ryokan in Hakone

Staying at a ryokan with onsens (hot spring baths) is the most attractive experience to be had on a winter's day for many travelers from Japan and abroad.

Hakone is the home of onsens and has numerous natural hot springs, some of them are believed to have healing properties. A ryokan is a traditional-style Japanese form of accommodation where you can sleep on a tatami and enjoy high-class kaiseki (multi-course classical Japanese cuisine).

Nothing is better than to relax in an onsen with stunning snowy trees and mountains around you and your family to create unforgettable holiday moments.

Suggested reading: How Long Should I Spend in Japan

2) Ski with Your Kids in Hokkaido/Nagano

Japan has lots of family-friendly ski resorts offering quality powder snow, perfect surroundings, clear English signage, and excellent service. Japan has the best ski resorts in Asia, but it is still cheaper to ski there than in Europe.

Hokkaido's pistes are definitely some of the top Japan destinations in winter , where world-class ski resorts include Niseko and Rusutsu. Skiing in Hokkaido you can enjoy light and fluffy snow, icy mountain scenery, professional English-speaking skiing lessons for kids, teenagers, and families, and fresh seafood.

Nagano, just an hour and a half from Tokyo, is also a well-known ski resort. Once the main venue for the Winter Olympics, Hakuba Valley is Nagano's best family-friendly ski resort.

Check more details about plan a ski holiday with your family >>>

3) See Charming Winter Lighting in Shirakawa-go

Shirakawa-go is a UNESCO World Heritage site , a picturesque village known for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses, which have steep thatched roofs that are named after 'praying hands'. In recent years, Shirakawa-go has become popular with travelers for its beautiful countryside views and unique farmhouses.

These farmhouses are extremely charming when covered in snow and illuminated at night. The wintry lighting scenes can usually be seen from January to February, but the lighting-up time varies from year to year and stays require advance booking.

Contact our travel advisors and we can arrange it for you.

4) Watch Snow Monkeys Soak in Onsens in Nagano

Nagano is a city surrounded by mountains and is not far from Tokyo. It's well-known for its Hakuba Ski Resort and snow monkeys that soak in hot springs. It is a good place to go for family holidays in winter.

Monkeys (Japanese macaques) in Jigokudani Monkey Park are the only ones in the world who love to soak in hot springs in winter. Watching the snowflakes fall on the monkeys, each of them relaxing in hot springs to keep warm, would be a new and unforgettable memory of the trip.

Winter Itineraries in Japan: The Top 2 Options

Here are two winter itineraries that are hand-picked for families visiting Japan for the first time with two popular lengths of holidays (9 and 14 days) , both including relaxing in hot springs, seeing snow-covered shrines, enjoying a cup of steaming Japanese tea, and the option to go skiing with your kids.

1) The 9-Day Classical Route: Cover Major Highlights in Japan and Ryokan Experience

• Tokyo–Hakone–Kyoto–Osaka

This itinerary covers the top highlights of Japan: experience kid-favoured anime elements and an attractive Christmas atmosphere and illuminations in Tokyo, soak in onsens at a comfortable ryokan with snow scenery in Hakone, spend family time in Kyoto trying on kimonos and feeding friendly deer.

Here is a summary itinerary for you ( contact us for more details):

• Days 1–3: Tokyo (samurai, make sushi, anime center, and Asakusa)
• Days 4–5: Hakone (ryokans with onsens)
• Days 6–8: Kyoto (snow-covered shrines, geishas, sake, and feed deer)
• Day 9: Osaka and departure

It's also a great idea to spend an extra 2–3 days having a family ski time in Nagano, which is not far from Tokyo.

Suggested reading: 10 Days in Japan >>>

2) 14-Day Best Winter Experience Route: Skiing, Snow Monkeys in Onsens, Wintry Lighting in Shirakawa-go

• Sapporo–Otaru–Tokyo–Nagano–Shirakawa-go–Kyoto

You can get the best winter experience in Japan with this itinerary: ski and explore a famous chocolate factory in Sapporo — capital of Hokkaido, take a day trip to Otaru to enjoy a snowy view on the Otaru Canal, see the magical sight of snow monkeys soaking in hot springs in Nagano, and appreciate the wintry lighting in Shirakawa-go.

Here is a summary itinerary for your inspiration ( contact us for further details):

• Days 1–3: Sapporo (skiing, the most famous local chocolate factory and Sapporo Ice Festival)
• Day 4: Otaru (Otaru Canal and exquisite glass)
• Days 5–7: Fly to Tokyo (Tsukiji Market, Tokyo Tower, sumo, and anime)
• Day 8: Nagano (snow monkeys soaking in hot springs)
• Days 9–10: Takayama and Shirakawa-go (well-preserved townhouses and snow-covered gassho-zukuri farmhouses)
• Days 11–13: Kyoto (geisha, tea ceremony, sake, ryokan with onsen, feed deer in Nara)
• Day 14: Depart from Kansai International Airport in Osaka

To create a wonderful winter trip in Japan, here are some suggested tips to help you to avoid unnecessary hassles.

• Christmas and New Year is one of the busiest times in Japan. It's better to plan ahead and book flights and hotels at least 6 months in advance to reserve your favourite hotel/room.
• Winter in Japan is cold and snowy. You'd better take thick clothes to keep warm. We recommend you to bring a down jacket, gloves, and waterproof boots.
• Most ski resorts in Japan have rental shops to rent or sell ski equipment, so you don't have to take heavy ski equipment to Japan. Of course, it's okay to bring your own equipment. You can pay for a delivery service that will ship your skis directly to the ski resort.

Just let us know your interests and requirements , and we can help make it happen.

Winter in Japan is from December to February and the weather is cold and dry.

• In Sapporo on Hokkaido, the average daily temperature range is from 0°C (32°F) in the warmest part of the day down to -6°C (20°F) at night. While in Tokyo or Kyoto temperatures average above freezing, ranging from 2 to 10°C (36–50°F) on average.
• The average rainfall per month in winter is low in Tokyo/Kyoto at around 58 mm (2 in), but the average snowfall in Sapporo on Hokkaido is a moderate 104 mm (4 in) — and more snow falls at Hokkaido's mountainous resorts.

December sees the beginning of winter in Japan, with clear skies, and colder and drier weather. Cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Sapporo get into the festive spirit when celebrating Christmas and New Year.

January/February is the best time to ski in the white world of northern Japan. The high-quality powder snow is the most important feature of ski resorts in Japan, which attracts many skiers to come and enjoy it.

How Much Does a Japan Winter Trip Cost?

Japan rivals Europe both in terms of facilities and service standards, which means that travel in Japan costs more than in China or in Southeast Asian countries.

US$350-500 per person per day is the typical cost for a private tour with 4-star hotels, based on a family of 3–5 people. This includes a private guide, private car, full-day itinerary, tickets for attractions, and a local 4-star hotel.

Get Inspired with Some Popular Itineraries

At Asia Highlights, we create your kind of journey — your dates, your destinations, at your pace. You can have any trip tailor made for your travel.

More Travel Ideas and Inspiration

Sign up to our newsletter.

Be the first to receive exciting updates, exclusive promotions, and valuable travel tips from our team of experts.

Why Asia Highlights

Where can we take you today.

• Middle East
• African Safari
• Travel Agents
• Loyalty Program
• Our Differences
• Privacy Policy

Address: Building 6, Chuangyi Business Park, 70 Qilidian Road, Guilin, Guangxi, 541004, China

Boutique Japan

Top 8 Reasons to Visit Japan in Winter

Even if you don’t love cold weather, it’s hard to resist the magic of winter in Japan, the coziest time of year (with delightfully few tourists).

Japan is well known for the beauty of its seasons. The cherry blossoms in spring . Vibrant fall foliage . Even the lively festivals ( matsuri ) of summer.

Yet winter is often overlooked, despite offering some of Japan’s most sublime experiences — and fewer tourists. (See our full article on the seasons and when to visit Japan ).

Because we love winter in Japan both for its unique experiences and its relative lack of crowds, we’ve compiled a few of our favorite things about this underrated season. Get yourself cozy and read on!

Is Winter a Good Time to Visit Japan?

Weather in japan in winter, 8 experiences that make winter a unique time to explore japan.

Originally written in November 2014, this post was updated and republished on December 6, 2021.

Most people are drawn to Japan’s peak seasons, spring and fall, so we’re always thrilled when a new client asks us, ​​”Is Japan worth visiting in winter?”

The answer is a resounding yes!

If you can handle a bit of cold weather, and love exploring with fewer tourists around, winter is a great time to visit Japan. As you can read in more detail below, winter in Japan offers amazing sushi and sashimi, heartwarming comfort foods and cozy izakayas , soothing hot springs and gorgeous snow-covered landscapes, and fewer crowds throughout the country.

How cold is Japan in winter? Well, let’s be honest. The weather in most parts of Japan in winter is cold – this much is true. But if you enjoy the art of coziness, you will love the feel of winter here.

When are the Winter Months in Japan?

Winter in Japan generally lasts from early to mid-December until the middle of March, but the duration and intensity vary by geography.

• In most parts of central Japan (including Tokyo , Kyoto , and Osaka ), winter temperatures range from about 25 to 45 °F (-4 to 7 °C).
• In mountainous and northern parts of Japan (such as Tohoku and Hokkaido , and the Japan Alps) it can get much colder. These areas experience a longer and more intense winter and are also blessed with abundant snowfall.
• In southern and western parts of Japan (such as Kyushu, Shikoku, and Okinawa ) it can still get cold, but on the whole, winter tends to be a bit milder.

Japan in December

In early December, it’s already winter in Hokkaido, but in places like Tokyo and Kyoto, it may still feel like late autumn. It’s common to have crisp, chilly weather and blue skies (hence the term akibare , referring to the clear sunny skies common in fall), and not uncommon to have views of Mount Fuji from Tokyo skyscraper hotels (such as Aman Tokyo and Park Hyatt Tokyo, among many others ).

By late December, it’s fair to say it feels like winter throughout Japan, though as usual the parts of the country furthest south and west (such as Kyushu, and especially Okinawa) remain milder.

Japan in January

As the crowds begin to thin following the New Year holidays , and mid-winter begins to set in, expect cold weather most everywhere you go. Even though the ski season starts before January, in most ski areas like the Alps, Tohoku, and Hokkaido, your probability of getting great conditions starts to increase once January rolls around.

For the most part, there are also very few tourists in January, other than at ski resorts. Most travelers use all their vacation time over the holidays, so if you can visit Japan in January you may have popular places like Kyoto mostly to yourself.

Japan in February

By February, most people in Japan are starting to get excited about spring (which usually begins to make itself felt by mid-March), and February can feel cold and dreary for residents. But for tourists, it’s another excellent time to visit, if you don’t mind the cold.

For travelers who enjoy spectacle, consider planning in advance to attend the remarkable Sapporo Snow Festival (Yuki Matsuri) . Held annually in February, Hokkaido’s Yuki Matsuri is one of the world’s great winter celebrations and features awe-inspiring ice sculptures, local cuisine, snow slides, snowball fights, ice bars, and more.

Just keep in mind that any holiday period tends to mean big crowds, and the Chinese New Year period (which often occurs in early February) is also a very busy time of year, with visitors flocking to Japan from throughout Asia.

Technically, winter lasts into March, though by the middle of March the cherry blossom season starts getting into full swing.

It can be hard for travelers to resist the pull of sakura (cherry blossoms) or fall foliage, but we think even people who normally dislike cold weather should consider visiting Japan in winter.

To help you decide when to travel to Japan, and whether this less crowded time of year is for you, let’s dive into what makes Japan such an appealing winter destination!

1. Fresh Sushi and Seafood

Eating local and seasonal food is nothing new in Japan, where people think little of traveling across the country to sample a local specialty in season. But while food is always a great reason to travel to Japan , winter is in some ways the best time of year for culinary travelers.

You’ll find extraordinary seasonal specialties at top sushi shops in Tokyo , and other sushi meccas such as Kanazawa , Toyama, Fukuoka , and Hokkaido. Hiroshima and Tohoku are just two of many destinations for oysters, where you can savor the bounty of winter paired with local nihonshu (sake) .

2. Japanese Wintertime Comfort Foods

Along with seafood, Japan is also outstanding when it comes to comfort foods. If you’re in Sapporo, on the northern island of Hokkaido, make sure to sample the heartwarming specialties of soup curry and miso ramen .

Winter also marks the appearance nationwide of two wintertime favorites: oden and nabe .

Oden can be found everywhere from oden -specialty restaurants to izakayas (see below) and even convenience stores . Large simmering pots of dashi -based broth slow cook ingredients such as daikon, boiled eggs, tofu, and more.

Nabe are stews (often translated as “hotpot”) composed of any of a wide range of ingredients, from vegetables to meat and seafood. Nabe is traditionally shared with friends or family, and there’s nothing more convivial than gathering around the table to enjoy one, especially in winter!

3. Cozy Bars, Izakayas , and Cafes

Speaking of conviviality, few things are more comforting than warming up at a local izakaya over small tapas-style plates and sake (see our full post on izakayas in Japan ).

An izakaya is typically a neighborhood establishment where locals go both for the food and the drink (it’s often translated as “Japanese-style tavern”). Izakayas have eclectic menus featuring anything from tofu, tsukemono (Japanese pickles), and grilled vegetables, to sashimi, yakitori, and karaage (fried chicken).

Eating and drinking at an izakaya is a great way to mingle with locals, and particularly comforting during winter.

4. Luxury Ryokans and Onsen

Without onsen (hot springs), winter in Japan would be beautiful, but perhaps not transcendent. Many countries around the world have pristine hot springs, but in Japan, the art of the onsen experience has been perfected to an extraordinary degree.

Visiting a ryokan (Japanese-style inn) with onsen, particularly in winter, is a quintessential Japanese experience and not to be missed (see more wonderful things to do in Japan ).

When staying at a ryokan with hot springs, you pass the time by soaking in healing mineral waters, contemplating nature, drinking green tea in your tatami -lined room, napping, and partaking in incredible, memorable meals. Yes, food is also an integral part of the onsen experience. A ryokan stay typically includes dinner and breakfast, both of which normally feature a beautiful array of local and seasonal specialties.

The exceptional combination of nature, culture, food, and omotenashi (Japanese hospitality) result in an experience that is both incredibly relaxing and culturally fascinating.

5. Powder Paradise: Japan’s Legendary Skiing and Snowboarding

If you love outdoor sports, what could be better than skiing or snowboarding all day, then enjoying a delicious hot meal of local Japanese cuisine and a soak in the onsen ?

Japan is blessed with abundant snowfall throughout its many mountainous regions, and you can find winter resorts around the country, particularly in Hokkaido, Tohoku, and the Japan Alps.

In Hokkaido, snowfall is so plentiful that skiers and snowboarders consider it to have some of the best-quality powder in the world. Niseko is by far Hokkaido’s best-known ski destination and is home to luxury accommodations and a thriving culinary scene. A small handful of Hokkaido’s other notable ski areas include Rusutsu, Furano, and Tomamu.

Tohoku and the Japan Alps are both slightly easier to get to (both are fairly convenient to reach by train , whereas the easiest way to get to Hokkaido for most people is by domestic flight), and can be great alternatives if you’re not attached to the idea of skiing in Hokkaido.

The 1998 Winter Olympics were held in Nagano, in the Japan Alps, and the region’s many ski resorts include Hakuba, Shiga Kogen, and Nozawa Onsen. In the Alps, you’re also within easy reach of the famous snow monkeys (see below). As for Tohoku, it’s one of Japan’s most off-the-beaten-path regions, and in addition to its many ski areas features pristine nature, history, and some of Japan’s best onsen .

While it varies a bit depending on the area, the ski season generally lasts from December to April, though expect the best conditions around January and February (naturally, it can vary a lot from year to year). And for the non-skiers traveling with the powderhounds, enjoy gorgeous snow-covered landscapes, onsen and spa treatments, and warm nihonshu !

6. Japan’s Snow Monkeys Love Winter

Humans are not the only ones enjoying onsen . Especially in winter, the Japanese macaques of the famous Snow Monkey Park soak in the remote onsen of Jigokudani.

Located in the mountains of Nagano Prefecture in the Japanese Alps, the Snow Monkey Park (Jigokudani Yaen Koen) is especially popular among family travelers , photographers, and of course animal lovers.

The Snow Monkey Park is open throughout the year, but it’s best experienced in the dead of winter, when the landscape is covered in deep snow and the local macaques have good reason to spend time savoring hot springs.

7. New Year’s Celebrations in Japan

While many restaurants and other establishments close for several days around the New Year’s period, which holds great significance in Japanese culture, it can also be a very special time to be in Japan.

Sure, you’ll find countless New Year’s Eve parties at bars, clubs, and restaurants in cities such as Tokyo and Osaka, which have some of the best nightlife on Earth. But while we love a good party, perhaps the real magic of New Year’s in Japan is found in its more old-fashioned side.

This is especially apparent in historic cities like Kyoto and Kanazawa, where locals flock to traditional districts and Buddhist temple bells ring out at midnight, creating an unforgettable, timeless atmosphere. On New Year’s Day, many Japanese people visit Shinto shrines, such as Meiji Jingu Shrine in Tokyo.

8. Enjoy Fewer Crowds in Winter

If you’re the type of traveler who loves getting off the beaten path, and avoiding touristy times of year, winter may be the ideal time for you to visit Japan.

Apart from the winter holidays, winter is generally a low season. However, keep in mind that this doesn’t quite apply to ski resorts, which tend to be at their most popular throughout the winter.

Ski areas notwithstanding, when speaking with clients who have flexible travel schedules we often ask: would you rather have warmer weather, or fewer tourists around? If you can tolerate a bit of cold, and enjoy feeling like you have a destination almost to yourself, consider bundling up for the chilly weather and travel to Japan in winter!

When to Begin Planning Your Winter Trip to Japan

We hope our introduction to the joys of winter in Japan helps you as you plan your adventure!

Depending on your dates and trip priorities, we recommend planning about 6-12 months in advance to ensure you can get your first choice accommodations and experiences.

You can see our real-time availability here, and if you’re curious to learn more about how we design each custom trip, check out our trip-planning process .

More Great Posts

Japan’s Best Boutique and Luxury Hotels & Ryokans

The best hotels and ryokans in Japan range from charming traditional inns in the countryside, to stylish design hotels and…

Traveler’s Guide to the JR Pass (Is It Worth It?)

The Japan Rail Pass (or JR Pass, for short) can be a good way to get around Japan, but many…

Major Holidays and Peak Travel Seasons in Japan

If you’re considering a trip to Japan during one of the country’s peak travel seasons, be aware that things can…

Plan Your Japan Trip

Learn more and contact us to discuss your unique trip.

Get Started

• The Process
• Testimonials

10 Best Winter Destinations in Japan 2023-2024

Here in Japan, we can enjoy four distinctive seasons: spring , summer , autumn , and winter. Each of them fascinates tourists with their respective characteristics. Especially winter, when the temperature drops and white snow completely transforms the landscape in mountainous areas, is the best time to travel around the country searching for stunning sceneries that you have never seen before. Here are the top 10 destinations for your winter trip to Japan!   

1. Hakodate (Hokkaido)

2. monkey onsen (nagano), 3. ginzan onsen (yamagata), 4. kinkakuji (kyoto), 5. nabana no sato (mie), 6. shirakawago (gifu), 7. chichibu three largest icicles (saitama), 8. drift ice (okhotsk sea), 9. metasequoia (shiga), 10. kenrokuen (ishikawa), japan wonder travel tours , other articles you might like.

Hakodate is the third largest city located in the southern part of Hokkaido. It plays a role as a transport hub connecting Hokkaido to the main island, making it one of the most popular tourist destinations with almost 5 million visitors every year. During the winter season, the climate remains relatively mild with less snowfall compared to other areas in Hokkaido.

Goryokaku is a historical spot that was once used as a fort in the late Edo period . The construction was originally started aiming to strengthen the defensive force against Western countries after Japan opened some of the main ports including Hakodate Port for international trade. The unique shape of the fort is just like a star, which attracts a number of visitors along with Goryokaku Tower , an observation tower opened in 1964 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Goryokaku!

Don’t forget to try fresh seafood caught and directly delivered from Hakodate Port! Hakodate boasts fresh seafood that is enjoyable all year round, but winter is definitely the best season as the ocean gets colder and offers a suitable environment for fish to grow. Hakodate Asaichi is a lively morning market with 250 small shops and restaurants selling high-quality seafood and local specialties. Start your day in Hakodate with a special breakfast that helps you get ready for the day!  

Opening hours at Goryokaku 9am – 6pm Admission ¥1,000 (adult) ¥750 (high school and junior high school student), ¥500 (elementary school student) *Free admission for children under elementary school age

Hotels to stay in Hakodate

• HOTEL＆SPA CENTURY MARINA HAKODATE
• Heiseikan Shiosaitei Hanatsuki
• La’gent Stay Hakodate Ekimae

Snow Monkey Park is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Nagano Prefecture . The park is home to wild monkeys that inhabit the area, and during the winter season, visitors can enjoy watching them bathing in outdoor hot springs! If you are lucky, you might be able to come across 50-60 monkeys bathing in the relaxing hot spring together. Enjoy taking pictures of the adorable monkeys but please note that touching them is not allowed. Winter is considered the best season as the temperature goes down and monkeys flock there more often to escape from the severe weather and heavy snow. Make sure to wear walking shoes as you need to hike a steep path until you finally get to the park located 850 meters above sea level.

Opening hours at Snow Monkey Park 8:30 – 5pm (summer season) 9am – 4pm (winter season) *It may be subject to change due to the activities of wild monkeys Admission: ¥800 (adult) ¥400 (child) ▶ Planning your visit to the Snow Monkeys in Nagano

Ginzan Onsen is one of the most famous hot spring resorts in Japan. Located in a deep mountainous area in Yamagata Prefecture , it was accidentally discovered by people working in a silver mine nearby during the Edo period. This was also the reason for its name; ginzan literally means silver mine in Japanese. The water is clear, a bit salty, and has a smell of hydrogen sulfide which offers a range of health benefits. Time seems to go by slowly, with a peaceful atmosphere created by historical buildings and inns dating back to the Taisho period . Winter brings a lot of snow every year which covers the entire area silently. Enjoy the breathtaking scenery of the white world while soaking in a relaxing hot spring!

Kinkakuji is a world-famous Buddhist temple located in Kyoto , the ancient capital of Japan. The main structure is often referred to as the Golden Pavilion , as most of its exterior is covered with shiny gold leaves, making it an outstanding tourist attraction among the other many shrines and temples of Kyoto. Buil in 1397, it was originally used as a private villa for Ashikaga Yoshimasa, the 3rd Shogun of the Muromachi Shogunate who ruled the nation during the time. Along with other prestigious historical spots in Kyoto, it is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

It has a beautiful traditional Japanese garden with a pond called Kyoko-chi , which allows visitors to take a relaxing stroll and take pictures of the iconic temple from different directions. It occasionally gets dressed in white snow during the winter season, and the contrast of gold and white is just amazing!

Opening hours Kinkakuji 9am – 5pm Admission ¥500 (adult) ¥300 (elementary and junior high school student) *Free admission for children under elementary school age

Nabana no Sato is a flower theme park located in Kuwana City, Mie Prefecture . It boasts a wide range of seasonal flowers and plants, making it the most popular tourist attraction in the city. You might feel a bit confused as winter is normally not suitable for enjoying blooming flowers, but it attracts many visitors all year round. Since they have a big greenhouse, which offers a suitable environment for flowers to grow regardless of season, you can enjoy some beautiful flowers throughout the year. It protects them from the cold weather in winter and fascinates visitors with countless beautiful flowers like the pretty begonias.

Winter is in fact the most visited season because there is a famous illumination event that is held every night during the winter season. The entire garden is brightly lit up with sparkly illuminations with a different theme every year! The Tunnel of Lights is one of the highlights; a spectacular light display where you can walk through and take stunning pictures!   

Opening hours (During the illumination season) 10am – 9pm Admission ￥2,500 (adult)  *Free admission for children under elementary school age

Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995, Shirakawago has been among the must-visits in Japan for foreign tourists for decades. The small village is located in a deep mountainous area with a number of traditional Japanese houses and buildings preserved in great condition. The peaceful landscape takes you back to old Japan, with the green rice field in summer and a world of white in winter. Take a deep breath, and walk around the small village where the local community has lasted for centuries in harmony with nature.

Gassho-zukuri refers to a traditional architectural style of houses typical to the village. The steep thatched roof prevents the houses from collapsing because of the heavy snowfall. Some of the houses are currently used as inns, which brings you a special experience.

Chichibu three largest icicles refer to three major icicle spots located in Chichibu City, Saitama Prefecture . It consists of the following three icicles: Misotsuchi Icicles, Onouchi Hundred Icicles, and Ashigakubo Icicles.

Misotsuchi Icicles is a beauty of nature created by clear water from the Arakawa River. The icicles grow to about 30 meters in width and 8 meters in height and appear only the coldest time from January to February. Onouchi Hundred Icicles and Ashigakubo Icicles are artificial icicles created and maintained by locals. Onouchi Hundred Icicles is located in a scenic valley, and visitors can take memorable pictures from a suspension bridge! 

Hokkaido always brings us extraordinary experiences beyond our imagination. This is where you can feel the dynamic nature directly within Japan, and Okhotsk Sea is home to one of the most impressive sceneries that it can offer. The sea is located northeast of Hokkaido, geographically separated from the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Japan by several islands.

During the winter season, almost 80% of the sea gets covered with drift ice. It continues to grow until it finally appears near the coastlines, transforming the sea into a frozen world overnight! Take a cruise ship “ Aurora ” to enjoy the stunning scenery up close, which also could give you a chance to witness the wildlife such as cute seals lying on the ice! It will definitely be one of the highlights of your trip.

The 2.4 km peaceful road with 500 metasequoia trees on both sides, located in Shiga Prefecture , never stops enchanting visitors. It is widely known as a scenic spot with beautiful trees standing straight to the sky silently, but strongly. As you drive through the road, the rows of tall metasequoia trees fascinate you with different scenery for each season and the beautiful white world created by snow makes it the best destination for your winter trip.

Kenrokuen is a huge garden with 11.4 hectares of land situated in the center of Kanazawa City , Ishikawa Prefecture . Designated as one of the three great gardens in Japan, it attracts a number of visitors all year round along with Kanazawa Castle which is located nearby. It is said to be originally created by the Kaga clan, which governed the area during the Edo period. The garden fascinates visitors with a number of iconic structures such as a traditional Japanese tea house, authentic stone lanterns, beautiful ponds, and pleasant bridges. Everything is designed to perfectly match the stunning landscape and surrounding nature.

Pine trees in the garden are covered with a number of ropes stretching from the top to cover the whole tree. It is called Yukitsuri, which is a traditional way to protect the branches from the heavy snowfall! 

Opening hours Kenrokuen Garden 7am – 6pm (May 1 – Oct. 15) 8am – 5pm (Oct. 16 – February) Admission \320 (adult) \100 (child)

As winter continues for a couple of months, make sure to plan your trip accordingly depending on what you can do and see each month. Early December is perfect for those who want to enjoy both autumn leaves and winter attractions. Crowds can be usually expected during the New Year holidays, so avoid late December to enjoy your trip with less stress if you want to travel in a quiet time. From January to February, when we have the most severe winter weather with more snowfalls of the year in some regions, you can get a better chance to catch a glimpse of scenic spots or tourist attractions beautifully covered with white snow!   If you are a fan of winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding, be sure to check out our picks for the best ski resorts in Japan .

Japan Wonder Travel is a travel agency that offers guided tours throughout Japan.  From private walking tours to delicious Food and Drink tours, we can help you organize the best tours just for you! If you want to explore Japan and learn more about the history and backstories of each area you are visiting, our knowledgeable and friendly English speaking guides will happily take you to the best spots!  In addition, we can provide you with any assistance you may need for your upcoming trip to Japan, so please feel free to contact us if yu have any questions or need some help! 

▶ Tokyo Tsukiji Fish Market Food and Drink Tour Explore the most lively and popular fish market in Tokyo and try some of the local’s favorite street foods and sake with one of our friendly and knowledgeable English speaking guides! 

▶ Tokyo 1–Day Highlights Private Walking Tour (8 Hours) There’s no better way to explore an area than taking a tour with a knowledgeable local guide. You will have the chance to learn about the history and interesting background stories of Tokyo, as well as discover some hidden gems which can be hard to do without a guide.

▶ Mt. Fuji Day Trip Bus Tour from Tokyo Experience the breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji by visiting the highlights of the area on our guided sightseeing bus tour! Departing from Shinjuku in central Tokyo, you can travel comfortably to all of the best spots in the area by bus.

Follow us on  Instagram ,  Facebook , and Twitter for more travel inspiration. Or tag us to get featured! 

Happy traveling!

This post contains some affiliate links. When you click through and make a purchase we may receive some commission, at no extra costs to you.

• Popular destinations
• Hidden places in Japan
• Tours and workshop
• Food and drink in Japan
• Itinerary in Japan
• Places to visit in Tokyo
• Food and drink in Tokyo
• Seasonal events
• Tours & workshops
• Tokyo This Week
• Day trip from Tokyo
• Itinerary in Tokyo
• Places to visit in Kyoto
• Food and drink in Kyoto
• Itinerary in Kyoto
• Day trip from Kyoto
• Travel tips
• Accommodation
• Cultural tips
• Transportation
• Tokyo Tours
• Kyoto Tours
• Kimono Rental
• Fukushima Tours
• Mount Fuji Tours
• Tour Package
• Media Kit（English/日本語)

Fun Things to Do in Winter: 12 Best Destinations to Enjoy Winter in Japan

Winter is a beautiful time to visit Japan. There are many beautiful winter destinations to choose from. From enjoying gorgeous winter scenery to fun winter activities, to places serving specialty winter cuisine, you can find something for your trip. This article will help you decide on the best winter destinations to visit in Japan. Main image: PIXTA

Why should you visit Japan in winter?

Japan is often well-known for its spring and fall seasons . However, the cold winter season is no less of a great time to visit the breathtaking country. Japan has a variety of experiences that are unique to winter ! For example, during winter , there are beautiful illuminations . Cities and towns are decorated in lights from around November till February. The surreal scenes the cold nights and snow create are a view you can only see during winter . There are also a variety of snow festivals, with extravagant displays of statues and objects made of snow and ice, winter activities you can enjoy with your family and friends, and also warm your body up at an onsen after a long cold day. The scenery and the contrast between cold and hot is a very relaxing onsen experience unique to winter in Japan. Here is a quick list of some of the most recommended winter destinations to help narrow down your options.

1. Sapporo Snow Festival (Sapporo): Enjoy the stunning snow and ice sculptures on show

The Sapporo Snow Festival is one of Japan's most popular winter events. It is held over one week in February in Sapporo , Hokkaido. People from all over Japan head to Hokkaido to enjoy the stunning snow and ice sculpture displays. Before the pandemic, it attracted around two million visitors every year. The festival has three areas: the Odori Park site, the Susukino site, and the Tsudome site. Each area has different-sized sculptures, with the Odori Park site featuring some of the largest snow sculptures lit up daily. The Susukino site typically features around 100 ice sculptures, and the Tsudome site, which is slightly less central, is an area where you can play in the snow. The sites offer activities such as snow slides, snow rafting, and more snow sculptures to admire. The Odori and Susukino sites are located in central Sapporo and can be accessed either on foot (around 20 min.) or via the Namboku Subway Line (around 10 min.) from Sapporo Station. The Tsudome Site is slightly harder to access but can be accessed using a shuttle bus or a 15-minute walk from Sakaemachi Station, 10 minutes on the Toho subway line from Sapporo Station.

• Address Various places in Sapporo city, Hokkaido, 060-0042 View Map
• Nearest Station Odori Station （Namboku Line / Tozai Line / Toho Line）
• Phone Number 011-281-6400

2. Zao Juhyo Festival (Yamagata): Enjoy Yamagata’s famous snow monsters on Mount Zao

These startling figures, known as the “snow monsters,” are called “juhyo” in Japanese and can be seen on the summit of Mount Zao, in Yamagata. These spooky shapes are actually trees that have been swallowed whole by the snow, creating the image of scary monsters. You will find these monsters lit up during the Zao Juhyo Festival, held around early January till early March. Make sure to dress warmly when visiting this incredibly popular destination, as the weather tends to be harsh at the top of the mountain . To reach Zao Onsen , close to where the snow creatures are, you must take a bus from Yamagata Station. The ride is around 40 minutes. Once you have reached Zao Onsen , take two ropeways to reach Jizo Summit Station.

• Address Zao Onsen, Yamagata City, Yamagata Prefecture, 990-2301
• Nearest Station Yamagata Station （Ou Line / Yamagata Line / Yamagata Shinkansen） 37 minutes by bus
• Phone Number 023-694-9518

3. Nabana no Sato (Mie): Visit one of Japan’s most famous illuminations

A garden of flowers and light, Nabana no Sato is a very famous winter illumination site with over 5.8 million LEDs lighting up the spectacular garden of flowers. The LEDs light up the dark, cold winter nights and create romantic images among the sea of flowers. They even have an open-air hot spring foot bath, restaurants, and shops where visitors can stop and warm themselves up or take a short break. Nabana no Sato is around a 35-minute trip from Nagoya Station. It takes around 25 minutes to reach Nagashima Station, and then there is a direct bus from Nagashima Station to Nabana no Sato, which takes around 10 minutes. From Osaka, it is a 2-hour train ride from Namba Station to Nagashima Station.

• Address 270, Nagashimachokomae Urushibata, Kuwana-shi, Mie, 511-1144 View Map
• Nearest Station Nagashima Station （JR Kansai Main Line） 21 minutes on foot
• Phone Number 0594-41-0787

4. Shirakawago (Gifu): Take in this real-life winter wonderland

Shirakawago is well-known for its farmhouses with steep roofs. These buildings were specially made to combat the large amount of snow the region receives yearly. With around one to two meters of snow, during winter , Shirakawago turns into a real-life winter wonderland. The locals often plan special illumination events from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. to add to the already magical atmosphere of Shirakawago. In 2024, illuminations are scheduled for the following dates (all of which are Sundays): ・January 14 ・January 21 ・Janaury 28 ・February 4 ・February 12 ・February 18 From Kanazawa Station, there is a highway bus visitors can take, which will take around 90 minutes. Note that the last bus that can access Shirakawago departs before the light-up starts. For safety reasons and to help avoid overcrowding, the number of visitors allowed into the village is limited. All visitors must get an advance reservation to visit during the light-up events. To enjoy the illuminations, there are three ways of visiting: 1. Joining a bus tour. Several tour companies offer tours from Takayama and Kanazawa. Reservations would need to be made directly with the tour operators. (There is also a tour available at the link below.) 2. Stay overnight. There is a limited number of rooms available and many local lodgings held a lottery system in previous years. It's important to book accommodations early for availability. (For 2024, note that all accommodations are fully booked for the illumination period.) 3. Visit by car. This involves registering for a parking space as well. Details on this and on tours can be found on the Shirakawago Tourist Association website .

• Address 1086 Ogimachi, Shirakawa, Ono District, Gifu 501-5627

5. Ginzan Onsen (Yamagata): Be transported back a hundred years to Japan’s Taisho Era

Ginzan Onsen is a very popular hot springs town in Japan, and its iconic wooden structures, many originally constructed around the 1920s and 1930s, are visited by crowds of tourists every year. The atmosphere will leave you breathless and feel like you have taken a step back in time. Along the beautiful Ginzan River are multiple traditional Japanese ryokan inns. Stroll along the snowy footpaths and then warm your body up at one of the authentic hot springs . While it makes a great day trip, staying overnight in Ginzan Onsen lets you have the whole snowglobe fantasy to yourself! Because of the area's popularity, be sure to book accommodations well in advance (and make sure they include meals, as the number of restaurants is very limited). To get to Ginzan Onsen , it is a 40-minute bus ride from Oishida Station. Getting to Oishida Station from Tokyo is around a three-hour Shinkansen ride.

• Address Yamagata Prefecture Obanazawa City Yamagata Large Ginzan Shinhata, 999-4333 View Map
• Nearest Station Oishida Station （Ou Line / Yamagata Shinkansen）
• Phone Number 0237-28-3933

6. Oirase Gorge (Aomori): Tour through this beautiful winter valley

The breathtaking Oirase Gorge is filled with frozen waterfalls, rows of stunning icicles, and mountains covered in pure white snow. This beautiful scenery has even been designated as a Special Place of Scenic Beauty . Take advantage of a Winter Bus Tour, like one offered by Towada Travel , so you can fully enjoy the views without worrying about driving in the winter climate.

• Address Oirase Keiryu building, Towada-shi, Aomori larger section of a village Okuse character Tochikubo 183, 034-0301 View Map
• Nearest Station Shichinohe-towada Station （Tohoku Shinkansen / Hokkaido Shinkansen）
• Phone Number 0176-74-1233

7. Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park (Nagano): Go on a one-day trip to see the bathing monkeys!

When you think of winter in Japan, the image of the snow monkey relaxing in the onsen may have been a photo you have seen already! Jigokudani Yaen-koen is located in the northern part of Nagano Prefecture . Because of the steep slopes of the valley and steam coming off the hot springs below, this area became known as “Jigokudani” - “Hell Valley.” The numerous wild Japanese macaques (or “snow monkeys”) have called this area home for ages. And today, you can enjoy watching the adorable snow monkeys soaking in the hot springs , surrounded by snow! While you can make it on your own to the Jigokudani Monkey Park , given the park ’s location, it is convenient to join a tour. The tour below showcases some of the exciting areas of Nagano, including the iconic monkeys bathing in the onsen .

• Address 6845 Yamanouchi-machi, Shimotakai-gun, Nagano, Japan 381-0401

8. Icicles of Misotsuchi (Saitama): A magical art-like scenery only seen during winter

This magical world created by icicles is just a short train ride away from Tokyo. The icicles can grow to around 30 meters in width and 8 meters in height and are formed by the headstream of the Arakawa River . This view can only be seen from mid-January till mid-February, as it is the coldest time of the year. The illumination of the icicles is also a sight to see. The icicles of Misotsuchi can be visited by taking the Seibu Ikebukuro Line from Ikebukuro Station to Hanno Station and then transferring to the Chichibu Line to Mitsumineguchi Station. From there, you will need to either take a bus or taxi to reach the icicles of Misotsuchi. Be sure to check the official website for dates and details.

• Address 4066 Otaki, Chichibu, Saitama 369-1901, Japan

9. Shiretoko Drift Ice (Hokkaido): A spectacular and unique view of drifting ice

Shiretoko is a peninsula located in northern Hokkaido, and its abundance of nature enabled it to become a World Heritage Site . The adjacent Sea of Okhotsk experiences a build-up of drift ice (or Ryuho) during winter . This beautiful sight can only be seen during early February and March. In order to celebrate this magical view, the Shiretoko Ryuho Festival is held and allows visitors to enjoy both the drifting ice, ice domes, and exciting illuminations. If you're staying in the area, various hotels and ryokans offer warm onsens from where people can view the drifting ice. You can also join a tour to don a dry suit and enjoy an exciting walk on the ice as well! The easiest way to get here is by taking a night bus named “Eagle Liner,” which departs from Sapporo Station. The night bus will deliver you to Utoro Town in Shiretoko in the morning. Accessing Shiretoko via train is somewhat more complicated, as it involves around a 4-hour trip from Sapporo to Kushiro , then another 2 hours and 26 min. on the Semmo Line to Shiretoko -Shari Station. From here, you would take a bus from Shari Bus Terminal to the Utoro Hot Spring area.

• Address Rausu-cho, Menashi-gun, Hokkaido and Shari-cho, Shari-gun, 099-4100 View Map
• Nearest Station Shiretoko-Shari Station （Senmo Main Line）
• Phone Number 015-432-7500

10. Shirohige Waterfall (Hokkaido): A unique waterfall that resembles a white beard?

Shirohige Waterfall is located 600 meters above sea level and is known for the water flowing in between the rocks, which resembles a white beard, hence the name “shirohige” (translating to white beard). During winter , most of the rivers freeze, including white beard; the flowing water creates a dreamlike scene. The frozen waterfall is lit at night, adding to the fabulous view. Shirohige Waterfall is a 30-minute bus ride from JR Biei Station. You can also enjoy this area on a day trip tour from Sapporo as well.

• Address Shirogane, Biei-cho, Kamikawa-gun, Hokkaido, 071-0235 View Map
• Nearest Station Biei Station （Furano Line） 30 minutes by bus
• Phone Number 0166-94-3025

11. Mt. Fuji (Yamanashi/Shizuoka): Take in Japan's most iconic mountain

In winter , you can enjoy stunning clear views of Japan’s iconic 3776-meter-tall mountain from many areas. But to really soak it all in, you’ll want to head to Lake Kawaguchi. One of the famed “Fuji Five Lakes ,” this area affords incredible views of Japan’s majestic mountain . Also in the area is Arakurayama Sengen Park , home to the iconic five-story pagoda that’s widely considered one of Japan’s best landmarks . Toward the southeast is Oshino Hakkai, a popular scenic spot with ponds and stunning Mt. Fuji views. You Getting to the Lake Kawaguchi area via bus or train is easy, and we recommend staying overnight to enjoy a memorable experience: sunrise over Mt. Fuji. If you are considering a day trip, however, several tours are available. Some include options to tour the area or even head to the Gotemba Premium Outlets to enjoy some shopping. Any way you get there, visiting in winter also means there is a higher chance of seeing Mt. Fuji due to the cold and clean air, and you can see it beautifully covered in white snow!

• Address Fujikawaguchiko-machi, Minamitsuru-gun, Yamanashi, 401-0301 View Map
• Nearest Station Kawaguchiko Station （Kawaguchiko Line (Fujikyuko)） 1 minute on foot

12. Izu Shaboten Zoo (Shizuoka): Watch the adorable capybaras come to take a bath in the hot springs

Izu Shaboten Zoo is home to beautiful botanical gardens and animal attractions. But visit during winter , and you’re in for a treat! Home to Japan’s first-ever capybara onsen , Izu Shaboten Zoo is a must for families. You can admire these adorable creatures taking a bath in the hot springs - a treat only during the winter months. There is also a petting area where you can touch the capybaras and other animals. Izu Shaboten Zoo is around two and a half hours by train and bus from Tokyo Station .

• Address 1317-13 Futo, Itō, Shizuoka 413-0231

Tips for an exciting winter adventure!

One of the pros of traveling during winter is that it is considered off- season . While the holiday season (Christmas and New Year) tends to be busy with the locals, tourist-wise, many decide not to travel during the cold months. This means you will be able to enjoy all of these exciting destinations without the worry of overcrowding, making these destinations well worth your time. Take advantage of various transport passes to make the most of your exciting winter adventure. Most prefectures and/or regions will have some form of a pass, which will often allow you to take as many rides as you like within a day. In many instances, if you show these passes, they usually give you a discount on entrance fees to famous tourist spots. In particular, when traveling to Japan, if you are able, the Japan Rail Pass is very convenient as it allows you to ride JR trains and buses. They have an extensive transport network throughout the country, and it is beneficial when you want to access various destinations efficiently, as this rail pass also covers the Shinkansen. Lastly, do not forget to eat the multiple specialties of each region. If you are a seafood lover, winter is the season perfect for a range of seafood , including oysters and crab. These delicacies are particularly tasty during the winter season . Other than seafood , during winter , dishes such as a hot pot or a bowl of ramen are great to soothe your tired body and taste the unique flavors of each region. Make sure to enjoy both the event at the destination but also the local foods and winter specialties at the various prefectures to make the most of traveling during winter in Japan!

• Category Winter

Share this article.

Limited time offer: 10% discount coupons available now!

Recommended places for you.

Yoshida Gennojo-Roho Kyoto Buddhist Altars

Nijo Castle, Kyoto Imperial Palace

Kamesushi Sohonten

Umeda, Osaka Station, Kitashinchi

Jukuseiniku-to Namamottsuarera Nikubaru Italian Nikutaria Sannomiya

Kobe, Sannomiya, Kitano

Rukku and Uohei

Sapporo / Chitose

ISHIDAYA Hanare

10 Breathtaking Places in Yamagata to See the Cherry Blossoms

Dreamy Japan: 5 Scenic Onsen Towns in Yamagata Prefecture

Explore Tohoku in Winter With 5 Budget-Friendly Travel Passes (Local Recommended!)

10 Dreamy Places in Fukushima to See the Cherry Blossoms

Plan Your Visit to Zao Onsen (Yamagata) - A Comprehensive Guide

19 Best Things to Do in Morioka: See, Eat, and Shop Your Way Through Iwate's Capital City

Top 3 Restaurants: Best Sushi in Dotonbori According to a Local Food Critic

Visiting Sendai in Winter: Weather, Clothes, and Everything You Need to Know For Your Trip!

Plan Your Next Skiing Adventure at Gassan Ski Resort in Yamagata (2023-24 Guide)

Getting Around Hokkaido in Winter: Transportation Tips to Know Before You Go

Cleansing with Fire: Spiritual Bonfires during Japanese New Year‬‬‬‬‬‬!

Todai-ji Temple: Home to the Great Buddha of Nara - And a Nose Hole That Brings You Luck!?

• #best sushi japan
• #what to do in odaiba
• #what to bring to japan
• #new years in tokyo
• #best ramen japan
• #what to buy in ameyoko
• #japanese nail trends
• #things to do japan
• #onsen tattoo friendly tokyo
• #best coffee japan
• #best japanese soft drinks
• #best yakiniku japan
• #japanese fashion culture
• #japanese convenience store snacks

Niigata's Murakami City: Enjoy Fun Events, Sightseeing, and Local Cuisine!

We use cookies to improve our contents. Check the detail and update your settings here .

We use cookies to improve our services.

For more details, please click here .

• Change setting
• Food & Drink
• Accommodation
• Things To Do
• All the categories

Transportation

• Weather & Seasons
• Long-Term Stay
• Travel Tips
• Event Tickets
• About MATCHA
• Company Profile
• MATCHA Special Features

Visiting Japan in Winter: Weather, Clothing, and Travel Tips 2023-2024

If you are planning to visit Japan in winter, read this article for information on weather, average temperatures and what to wear in the cold months. Recommended winter activities, snow festivals, and other travel tips are also introduced here.

All About Winter in Japan

Japan is cold in winter and it is snowing in many places across the country. There is a unique beauty to the scenery, however, and there is a myriad of fun activities and delicious dishes that can only be enjoyed during this season.

We have compiled a guide of useful information for people planning to visit Japan during winter .

Japan in Winter: Travel Tips 2023-2024

Winter Temperatures in Japan What to Wear? Recommended Winter Clothing The Highlights of Winter in Japan 1. Winter Illuminations 2. New Year Celebrations 3. Snow Scenery 4. Winter Sports and Snow Festivals 5. Hot Springs

If you plan to explore Japan by car, use the coupon below to get a 10% discount on Nippon Rent-A-Car services!

Winter Driving in Japan: 11 Precautions and Tips

Winter Temperatures in Japan

Winter in Japan generally lasts from December to February .

In Tokyo, December temperatures tend to be around 12ºC (54°F) in the afternoon and drop to about 5ºC (41°F) in the morning and at night.

By January, afternoon temperatures drop to 10ºC (50°F) and morning temperatures tend to hover between 2ºC - 3ºC (35°F - 37°F). In February, afternoon temperatures are about 10ºC - 11ºC (42°F - 50°F) while morning and evening temperatures fall to about 3ºC (37°F).

Tokyo winters are sunny with little rain or snow. The air is dry, with the humidity around this time generally staying at a constant 30%.

What to Wear? Recommended Winter Clothing

You will need a coat in December. On some days, gloves and scarves might come in handy.

In January and February, you will need a down jacket or a coat. You will definitely need gloves and a muffler too.

Photo by Pixta On windy days, it is a good idea to have a knit cap and earmuffs. If you plan to be outside for a long time on cloudy days or in the evenings, we recommend that you use disposable kairo (heating pads, also called pocket warmers) to protect your hands and feet from the cold.

The heating pads can be purchased at any convenience store, supermarket, and drugstore. A pack of 10 heating pads costs around 200 yen. In order to use them, you just need to open the pack. The iron sand contained in the pad will begin to heat up in contact with the oxygen in the air. The pad will stay warm from 8 to 12 hours.

5 Types of Heat Packs: How to Stay Warm on Cold Winter Days in Japan

Please keep warm by wearing proper clothes and drinking hot drinks. If you do catch a cold, stop by a drugstore such as Matsumoto Kiyoshi and get some medicine. Light medicine to soothe a sore throat or to treat a fever can be bought without a medical prescription. In case of high fever and severe coughing, it's recommended that you go to the hospital.

Japanese Phrases To Use When You're Sick Or In The Hospital

It will be freezing outside but building interiors will be heated; it would be wise to layer your clothing so that you can take layers on and off when necessary.

↑ Return to the top of article.

The Highlights of Winter in Japan

1. winter illuminations.

Winter illuminations are one of the distinctive features of this season in Japan. The cities and towns are decorated with beautiful lights from around the end of November to February.

In Tokyo , you can find beautiful illuminations around Tokyo Station, in Ginza and Yurakucho, as well as Ebisu and Roppongi. The wide parks located less than one hour away from Tokyo, such as Sagamiko Pleasure Forest and Ashikaga Flower Park, have been drawing the attention of thousands of visitors thanks to the innovative collaboration between light and nature.

In Osaka , the Nakanoshima Park Illumination has an exciting theme every year while Kobe's Illuminarie are famous worldwide for the scale and splendor of the lights. If you visit Japan in the winter, do check out some of the light-up events around the city!

2. New Year Celebrations

From around the beginning of December, you can feel everyone's anticipation of the New Year celebrations all around the cities and towns of Japan. The shops will be showcasing products for the New Year, such as auspicious osechi cuisine , New Year's decorations , New Year's greeting cards and lucky bags (fukubukuro) full of goods that can be bought at special discount prices.

If you spend the New Year in Japan, how about joining the crowds for the traditional New Year midnight shrine or temple visit ?

In Tokyo, there are plenty of countdown parties and concerts held either in the open or in clubs and live music venues. The New Year's Fox Parade held in Oji , a town in the Kita ward of Tokyo, is increasingly popular, attracting participants from all around the country.

Year of the Dragon 2024 - The 12 Animals of the Zodiac in Japan

3. Beautiful Snow Scenery

The Shirogane Blue Pond in Hokkaido

When it comes to winter, natural scenery never fails to capture our hearts. The sight of entire vistas glittering white with freshly piled snow will both refresh and enthrall you.

However, such scenery cannot be enjoyed everywhere in Japan. In fact, in big cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Fukuoka, snow is a rare sight.

Hokkaido is the first area to experience snowfall in Japan, with the first snowflakes drifting down in early November. The frozen Blue Pond in Biei and the drift ice in Abashiri are some of the splendid winter scenery in Hokkaido.

Ginzan Onsen in Yamagata. Photo by Pixta In Aomori, Akita, and Iwate, snow begins to fall around mid-November, while in Yamagata, Miyagi, and Fukushima, it will start snowing in late November.

Ginzan Onsen, a famous hot spring town in Yamagata, or the snow monsters of Zao are some of the sights that shouldn't be missed in winter in northeastern Japan.

Shirakawa-go Village in Gifu. Photo by Pixta

In Niigata, Toyama, Ishikawa, Fukui, Gifu (Takayama), and Nagano, it begins snowing in early December.

The Shirakawa-go Village or the hot spring resorts in Takayama is where you can enjoy idyllic winter scenery. You can visit these areas on bus tours from nearby major cities like Nagoya or Osaka.

Even in regions where snow does not tend to pile up, you can find snowy landscapes if you head towards the mountains.

For example, snow is very rare in Kyoto itself but places like Kinkakuji Temple, Ginkakuji Temple, and Kifune Shrine are famous for their snowy backdrops in the winter. The combination of temples and gardens is particularly gorgeous, and many visitors come to Japan during wintertime just to enjoy these evocative scenes.

4. Winter Sports and Snow Festivals

Japan is a mountainous country, which means it's an ideal environment for winter sports such as skiing, snowboarding, skating, and snow trekking.

Hakuba (Nagano), the GALA Ski Resort (Niigata), and the Bandai ski Resorts (Fukushima) are popular ski resorts that can be easily accessed from Tokyo.

Hokkaido's Niseko area is the go-to destination for those who wish to enjoy several days of skiing on powder snow. Additionally, there are six ski resorts near Sapporo, and other excellent slopes near Chitose, Rusutsu, and Otaru.

Gorgeous snow festivals are being held at various locations in eastern and northern Japan such as the Sapporo Snow Festival , the Asahikawa Winter Festival, and the Otaru Light Path.

They all contain extravagant displays of buildings and statues made completely out of snow and ice, which are illuminated at night, creating a wonderful landscape that can be enjoyed only during this season.

Each festival has various events that attract many visitors from all around the country. The tasty hot local dishes available at the yatai food stalls are themselves one of the attractions at these events.

5. Enjoy the Snow Scenery from a Hot Spring Bath

Winter is also the best time to appreciate hot springs . There's nothing like warming up by taking a hot bath in thermal water. Moreover, many hot spring resorts in the mountains offer open-air baths with wonderful views.

Noboribetsu Onsen in Hokkaido, Manza Onsen in Gunma, and Nozawa Onsen in Nagano are just some of the places where you can enjoy the amazing experience of taking a bath while gazing at the snowy landscape outside.

The Best 15 Onsen in Japan: Hot Springs to Visit in the Winter

Should I visit Japan in winter?

Visiting Japan in winter can be a wonderful experience, as the country offers a variety of unique seasonal attractions and activities during this time. For instance, winter is a great time to visit the northern island of Hokkaido for its snow festivals and winter sports, or to enjoy the beauty of snow-covered landscapes in regions such as Nagano and Shirakawa-go. Additionally, winter is also a great time to enjoy traditional hot springs (onsen) and seasonal cuisine, such as hot pot dishes and seasonal seafood.   However, if you are not a fan of cold weather or snow, you may want to consider visiting Japan during a different season. Keep in mind that the weather and temperature can vary significantly between regions, so it's important to plan accordingly based on your interests and preferences.

How cold is Japan in winter?

The temperatures in Japan during winter can vary depending on the region and the specific time of the season. In general, northern areas such as Hokkaido experience colder temperatures, with average highs often around freezing or below. Other regions, such as Tokyo and Kyoto, typically have milder winter temperatures, with average highs ranging from around 8 to 12 degrees Celsius (46 to 54 degrees Fahrenheit). However, it's important to note that cold snaps and occasional heavy snowfall can occur, particularly in the northern and mountainous areas. It's a good idea to check the specific weather patterns for the time and region you plan to visit when considering a trip to Japan in winter.

Is Japan cheap in December?

The cost of visiting Japan in December can depend on various factors such as transportation, accommodations, and seasonal activities. Specifically, December is considered to be a part of the high travel season due to the winter holiday season, especially with the popularity of Christmas and New Year's celebrations. As a result, you may find that prices for flights, accommodations, and certain attractions could be higher than during other times of the year. On the other hand, many shops and department stores hold year-end sales and it's easier to find bargains. Additionally, there are seasonal activities and events unique to December, which can add value to your visit. It's always best to plan ahead, compare prices, and consider off-peak destinations and activities to make the most of your budget when traveling to Japan in December.

What should I wear in winter in Japan?

In winter, especially in the colder regions of Japan, it's important to dress warmly and layer your clothing to stay comfortable. We suggest wearing a eavy coat or insulated jacket, especially in colder regions, as well as layered clothing and thermal undergarments to trap heat and stay warm. Scarf, hat, and glove are important for protecting your neck, head, and hands from the cold. Waterproof and insulated footwear along with warm socks are essential if you plan to spend time outdoors in cold temperatures.

Is Kyoto worth visiting in winter?

Yes, Kyoto is definitely worth visiting in winter. In addition to the beautiful temples, gardens, and historical sites that Kyoto is famous for, there are beautiful winter illuminations at Kyoto Station and other locations, which add to the city's charm. The New Year traditions, which include special ceremonies at shrines and temples, as well as seasonal cuisine, are also a unique feature of Kyoto in winter. Additionally, Kyoto's traditional machiya townhouses and streets take on a special beauty in the winter, especially when dusted with snow. Please note, however, that it rarely snows in winter; there may be some snowfall in January and February.

Enjoy Your Winter Trip to Japan!

Winter in Japan is cold, but there are so many things that can only be enjoyed during this time: hot spring baths, hot pot dishes, snow-covered scenery, New Year events, and many more. Make sure to dress warmly and head out to experience everything that the season has to offer.

Main image by Pixta

The MATCHA editorial department. Our articles feature useful travel information for visitors to Japan, from how-to guides to recommended places to visit.

Related topics

Top articles, related article.

Top 45 Cherry Blossom Spots in Japan - 2024 Guide

Cherry Blossoms in Japan: 2024 Forecast and Best Spots

Japan Fall Foliage Forecast 2023: 25 Destinations and Tips

Nature / Seasons

Fall Foliage in Northern Japan 2023: Top 11 Spots in Tohoku

Autumn in Japan 2023: How to Enjoy the Fall Foliage Season

Japan in Winter: 10 Must-See Snow Festivals! 2024

Summer in Japan: 20 Fun Things to Do to Beat the Heat

15 Winter Things To Do In Japan - Hot Springs, Festivals, And Glistening Snow!

Weather In Japan - The Year Round Climate And Temperatures

Weather & Seasons

Start planning your trip

Special Features

Popular Searches

Latest news.

Showa Kinen Park Flower Festival 2024: Enjoy Nemophila, Tulips, and More!

A Must for Nature Lovers! Win a Free Stay at Unzen Amakusa National Park

A World of Light and Color! Van Gogh Alive in Japan 2024

Cherry Blossom Light-up in Tokyo! Yomiuri Land's Jewellumination

Cherry Blossoms and Sky Lanterns! Aichi Hanami Lights 2024

Japan's Public Holidays and Long Weekends in 2024

Aeon Mall Okinawa Rycom: A Shopping Mall Featuring a Resort Aura

Suica and Pasmo IC Cards: Prepaid Transportation Passes in Japan

Riding Taxis in Japan: The 6 Best Apps to Grab a Cab

How to Travel to Kyoto From Osaka: The Fastest and Cheapest Ways

New articles.

Feel the power of fresh greenery with your whole body

The "Refa Room" is born ♪ A beauty experience!

[About 3 hours from Tokyo] A trip to Murakame City, Niigata Prefecture, to encounter a garden filled with the joys of spring and fresh greenery

About 30 minutes by Shinkansen from Fukuoka/Hiroshima! 5 spots you should visit when coming to Yuda Onsen, Yamaguchi City

[Eeyan ! From Osaka Shopping Street] Jinaimachi Craft Beer Connects the World

A Japan Winter Itinerary + 7 Unique Things To Do In Japan In Winter

Thinking of visiting Japan in winter? Don’t leave these unique experiences off your Japan winter itinerary.

A Japan winter itinerary is going to be packed with magical sights that most tourists don’t get to see.

That’s because winter in Japan is a truly unique time – and that means you can enjoy some of the most unique things to do in Japan when you visit during the winter season.

If you’re still deciding when to visit Japan, this winter itinerary might just convince you that the colder months are one of the best times to visit Japan.  

Even if you’ve visited Japan in the spring, summer or autumn, winter in Japan will be a completely new experience.

Here’s how to plan a trip to Japan in winter, including where to go, what to add to your Japan winter itinerary and must-know tips for visiting Japan in winter.

Is it worth visiting Japan in winter?

Japan 2-week itinerary: winter edition, the japan rail pass, tokyo in winter, day trips from tokyo in winter, hokkaido in winter, kyoto and osaka in winter, 1 – visit an onsen, 2 – slurp ramen, #3 make the most of indoor entertainment, 4 – stay in a traditional japanese house, 5 – indulge in the izakaya experience, 6 – go shopping, 7 – take part in a traditional tea ceremony.

Just to let you know… This post (probably) contains affiliate links, including Amazon Associates links, and I may receive a small commission if you click one. This is at no extra cost to you and allows this site to keep running.

First things first, you’re probably wondering if winter is even a good time to visit Japan.

After all, even if you’re only just starting to plan your trip to Japan , you’re probably well aware of the famous cherry blossom festival .

And while taking part in the annual hanami (flower viewing) tradition should be on every traveller’s bucket list, it’s also, understandably, peak travel season in Japan.

Given that many visitors time their trip for the spring and summer seasons, places generally get busier (and more expensive!) at these times.

As much as I loved witnessing the cherry blossoms turn the streets of Kyoto pink, I still feel winter is a totally underrated time to visit Japan.

Not only will most places be quieter and have fewer crowds during the off-peak months, but winter is when Japan may just be at its most enchanting of all.

Japan in winter itinerary

When it comes to planning a Japan winter itinerary, I would largely follow this itinerary for 7 days in Japan, with a few extras added in.

Those extras would be two of my favourite places in Japan and both are better in winter: Hokkaido and the snow monkeys hot springs at Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park.

While both of these places can be enjoyed all year round, they really come into their own in the colder season when snow lines the ground.

The 2-week Japan itinerary below will help you see the best of Japan in winter in just a couple of weeks.

If you have more time, you could easily spend at least one more full day in each of the places included.

And if you don’t have a full two weeks to explore, I would reduce the number of city days and focus on spending a few days in Hokkaido.

While northern Japan has something to offer in every season, winter really is the best time to visit Hokkaido.

With heavy snowfall, snow festivals with snow sculptures – such as the Sapporo Snow Festival – and many of the best winter activities that Japan has to offer, it would be a shame to miss Hokkaido on a winter trip to Japan!

• Day 1: Arrive in Tokyo. Explore the city, including the eccentric Tokyo nightlife
• Day 2: Explore Tokyo
• Day 3: Day trip to Mount Fuji
• Day 4: Take the shinkansen to Hakodate
• Day 5: Explore Hakodate. Transfer to Sapporo for the night
• Day 6: Take a day trip to Noboribetsu and Jigokudani “Hell Valley”
• Day 7: Enjoy winter sports (or get cosy in one of the many ski resorts), visit seasonal events or take a day trip to a National Park
• Day 8: Travel back to Tokyo on the shinkansen
• Day 9: Take a day trip to see the snow monkeys (alternative: Hitachi Seaside Park)
• Day 10: Travel to Kyoto
• Day 11: Explore Kyoto during the day, then experience Kyoto at night
• Day 12: Visit Nara Park
• Day 13: Transfer to Osaka, visiting Himeji Castle on the way. Explore Osaka
• Day 14: Osaka/departure day

If one thing becomes abundantly clear when planning a 2-week winter itinerary for Japan, it is that the Japan Rail Pass is essential.

This handy little card gives you access to the entire network of high-speed trains (and some non-high-speed local trains) across the country, making it possible to squeeze much more into your winter trip to Japan.

If you plan to visit Hokkaido – I highly recommend it! – it will also save you a small fortune on the cost of travel in Japan.

It’s best to order your pass before you leave because it’s much cheaper than buying it once you arrive. Plus, it’s also much easier.

You can buy your pass on this website (the best place to buy!) and get free delivery to almost any country in 24-48 hours. If you prefer, you can also do as I did and pick your pass up when you arrive, but you’ll save time by getting it delivered.

Where to go in Japan in winter: in detail

Unlike other countries – like Spain or parts of the United States , for example – the fact that it’s winter won’t restrict you much in Japan.

If anything, it’ll mean you get to see a really special side to this already magnificent country.

Here’s a breakdown where to go during winter in Japan, including the places included in the winter itinerary above:

Most trips to Japan will begin with at least a few days in Tokyo since most international flights land at Narita Airport (or sometimes Haneda Airport).

Although you might not be able to enjoy strolling around the city’s expansive parks as much, there won’t be many things you’ll have to skip.

Even when it’s chilly outside, you can still enjoy all the city’s highlights, including Harajuku’s shopping street and Golden Gai’s unique nightlife . In fact, Golden Gai’s tiny bars are even cosier when it’s cold outside.

You also won’t have to skip the 24-hour karaoke, 24-hour sushi trains or the many ramen houses.

Insider travel tip

If you haven’t already booked your flights, I recommend using WayAway to find the best options. Not only do they aggregate the largest number of supplies and the best prices, but you can also get 10% cashback with a WayAway Plus membership!

WayAway Plus is one of my favourite travel hacks because you can save money on almost anything. You just use their search engine to find the best deals and get up to 10% of the cost back in cold hard cash (in your Paypal account).

I love it so much that I’ve teamed up with them to give Alajode readers an exclusive discount of 55% (less than $4 per month)! Sign up using this link and enter the code “ ALAJODE ” to save on your next travel bookings.

With a destination like Japan, you could save hundreds of dollars in just one trip.

The Japan winter itinerary above includes a couple of day trips from Tokyo.

While it’s possible to spend the night at most of these destinations, there’s really no need. As long as you have a Japan Rail Pass , it’ll be just as easy – or even easier – to head back to Tokyo at night.

My one tip would be to stay as central in Tokyo as possible. Being close to a train station – especially Tokyo station – will be super helpful when it comes to making the most of your time in Japan.

Plus, since winter in Japan can get quite chilly, it will minimise the amount of time you need to spend out in the cold.

Anywhere in the Shinjuku or Shibuya area will make a great base for exploring Tokyo and beyond via rail:

Recommended sustainable Tokyo hotels:

• Stay in the heart of the city in luxury: Imperial Hotel
• Apartment living with home comforts: Citadines Shinjuku Apart-Hotel
• A luxe stay with traditional touches: JR Kyushu Hotel Blossom
• Quirky and affordable: Book and Bed
• For unrivalled views of the city: Kimpton Shinjuku (by IHG)

While it’s not possible to hike Mount Fuji during the winter months, it’s still very possible to visit.

And it’s something you won’t want to miss!

Seeing Fuji capped in a layer of snow is a sight you’ll never forget, but is only possible for a few months of the year.

The best way to see Mt. Fuji is on a day tour such as this one that stops at several scenic spots. The bus picks up and drops off in Shinjuku, which is another reason to make it your Tokyo base.

Hotel deals in Shinjuku (updated live)

If you haven’t booked your Tokyo accommodation, these limited-time hotel deals are updated daily and many of them off free cancellation if you change your mind:

Shibu Onsen & Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park

One place you won’t want to miss in Japan in winter is Shibu Onsen.

A short bus ride and hike from this small onsen town you’ll find the famous snow monkey hot springs . 

Winter is also the best time to see the Japanese snow monkeys bathing in natural hot springs because the cold weather means they spend more time in the water. Which means more cuteness and even better travel photos !

The easiest way to visit is on a day trip from Tokyo. It’s a long(ish) journey, but joining an organised guided tour from Nagano station is the easiest way to take the stress out of logistics.

This one-day tour meets where the shinkansen arrives and will drop you off after, so you can make the most of your JR Pass. It also includes lunch and sake tasting!

Hitachi Seaside Park

Hitachi Seaside Park is an expansive garden that changes with the seasons.

The park has been designed so that each area has different plants and flowers in bloom at each time of year.

That means that, if you v visit in the winter, you’ll see a completely different spectacle to what you would see in the summer.

Even if it wasn’t set up to change seasonally, the design of this park is a piece of art worth seeing.

You can visit on a day trip from Tokyo , but stay overnight if you want to make the most of it and get the Japanese onsen experience .

Outside of Tokyo, Hokkaido is a must if you’re visiting Japan in winter.

In fact, winter in Hokkaido is a pretty magical experience and probably the best time to visit Japan’s northernmost island. And since Hokkaido has a much longer winter than the rest of the country, it’s well-equipped for winter travellers.

If you’re an avid skier, you’ll love Hokkaido’s ski towns and resorts. And even if you’re not, staying at one is a great way to unwind in the Japanese mountains.

Whether you head there or not, make sure you leave time for Noboribetsu. If you only do one thing in Hokkaido during winter, take a soak in the hot springs and enjoy the incredible views.

You can visit on a day trip from Sapporo or, if you want the full onsen experience, book a night at the Noboribetsu Grand Hotel (if there are any rooms still available – it books up fast!).

Hokkaido loves winter and has several festivals celebrating the colder months of the year.

The Hokkaido Snow Festival is the most popular of all, taking place in late January and/or early February every year. If you can time your Hokkaido trip around it, it’ll almost definitely be worth it.

And if it doesn’t, you can still enjoy the Sounkyo Ice Festival which runs all the way until March.

Japan’s other major cities, Osaka and Kyoto, both have their own unique charm during winter. You could visit both on a day trip or overnight adventure from Tokyo, but stay a little longer if you can.

Kyoto may just be the most photogenic city in Japan, and even more so in winter. The only thing more magical than seeing its narrow streets and towering temples is witnessing them covered in snow.

Kyoto gets incredibly busy during cherry blossom season and the warmer months, so winter is a great time to see it without the crowds. Plus, there’s even more nightlife to enjoy there.

Osaka doesn’t suffer from the freezing temperatures that other Japanese cities face during the winter, so it’s a great time to visit Japan’s second-largest metropolitan area.

You can still enjoy all the same shopping, restaurants and entertainment , but with smaller crowds than in peak season. As a foodie hotspot, Osaka is a great place to try some local delicacies in the warm .

In addition to that, Osaka also has its own share of light festivals and celebrations to enjoy throughout the winter.

Once again, I’d recommend choosing Osaka accommodation that is centrally located and/or close to a train station because travel distances can be significant.

Both Kyoto and Osaka make a great base for exploring nearby tourist attractions. Some of the best ones to explore during the Japanese winter include:

• Himeji Castle

Activities to add to your Japan in winter itinerary

Wherever your trip to Japan takes you, make sure you add these unique experiences to your Japan winter itinerary.

They’re all just a little bit better when it’s cold outside!

There’s nothing like slipping into a natural hot bath when it’s freezing out. If you can, find an open-air one and enjoy the fresh surroundings.

Just make sure know the onsen rules first!

Ramen is good at any time of year, but it’s the best when it’s cold outside.

There’s nothing like feeling the warm, yummy noodle soup heat you up from the inside out.

I’m yet to try bad ramen in Japan, but the best by far was in Hokkaido. But perhaps that’s just because it was coldest there…

Japan has no shortage of indoor activities. From robot shows to karaoke contests, there’s always plenty to keep you entertained when you don’t want to be outside.

Do a little digging and you never know what you might find.

Japanese homes may just be the most logical houses on the planet.

From sliding doors that can make the room as big or as small as you like, to dining tables complete with blankets to cover your legs, there’s nowhere cosier to stay during the winter.

There are plenty of ryokan style accommodation options on Booking.com, Hotels.com and Agoda , including both hotels and homestays, and it’s well worth spending at least one night in one!

Izakaya are informal bars that serve drinks and snacks similar to tapas.

Every visitor to Japan should try to visit one of these bars, especially in the winter. When it’s cold outside, the cosy atmosphere is a great place to warm up.

Alternatively, sign up for an izakaya cooking class to learn more about Japanese culture while trying some food yourself.

Japan is home to some of the best brands on the planet.

From electronics to fashion, there’s no shortage of unique places to shop – especially in the capital city, Tokyo.

During the winter months, prices are often reduced as stores prepare for the new season, so it’s the perfect way to escape the cold and experience a new side of Japanese culture.

Tea plays an important role in Japanese culture – and is also the perfect way to warm up on a winter day.

You’ll learn all about it while sipping a warm cup of ceremony-grade matcha.

Tea ceremonies are available in Osaka, Kyoto , Tokyo and almost every big city so there’s no reason not to add one to your Japan winter itinerary!

RELATED READ: Norway’s Lofoten Islands are another great winter trip – here’s why.

Japan Travel Planning

Even though I found Japan surprisingly easy to travel, it still pays to be prepared.

In fact, it’s one country where you’ll really save yourself some time and money (not to mention stress!) by having as much prepped in advance as possible.

Here is a checklist of things to have prepared before you go:

Shinkansen Tickets

The Japan Rail Pass is a no-brainer for anybody who wants to see more than one part of Japan.

Booking in advance is super simple – much simpler than buying in Japan – AND comes with free 24-48 hour delivery.

I booked through JRailPass.com and can’t recommend them more for their price, efficiency and customer service.

GET YOUR TICKETS

Travel Insurance

The good news: things generally run smoothly in Japan and, when they don’t, the healthcare is some of the best in the world.

The bad news: when things don’t go to plan, it can be very expensive.

That’s why travel insurance is a must in Japan.

Since moving to Portugal, I use and recommend True Traveller because they cover a wide range of activities and circumstances.

If you’re resident outside of Europe, EKTA travel insurance offers affordable, transparent and extensive coverage all over the world.

WiFi/Sim Card

Getting a sim card in Japan is tricky (and expensive!). Unfortunately, I waited until I was there and learned the hard way, so I highly recommend arranging your WiFi situation before you go.

The best way to stay connected while travelling Japan is with an eSim that you can use right away or this local sim with unlimited data that you can pick up on arrival.

Save on flights to Japan

Did you know that you can save up to 10% on flights with a cashback service?

With WayAway Plus , you can find the cheapest flights, transfers and other travel services and receive part of your purchase back in cash. It goes straight to your Paypal account!

I use WayAway to book all my flights so that I can save extra and have secured an exclusive discount for Alajode readers to do the same.

Use this link and the code ‘ALAJODE’ to save a massive 55% on your yearly membership plan and start saving. That mean you’ll get up to 10% off all travel services for less than $4 per month. In just one trip to Japan, that could save you hundreds of dollars!

Not only does a VPN help protect you and your data while travelling, it can also help you access geo-locked content.

That’s something that comes in really handy in a place like Japan, especially if you don’t speak the local language!

NordVPN is the one I use and trust, and currently has this great deal available.

Airport Transfers

If you’ll be arriving late or staying somewhere fairly remote, consider booking an airport transfer on arrival.

This will take a whole lot of stress out of an already confusing situation when you land in Japan, especially after a long flight.

I’ve found this website has the best prices and the widest availability (sometimes in places where there aren’t even taxis!).

About Jodie Marie Dewberry

Jodie has been travelling the world full time since 2017, sharing the most unique places in the world along with tips for living as a digital nomad. She is a passionate wildlife photographer and has worked with a number of prominent travel brands, including airlines, tourism boards, hotels and tour operators.

Leave a comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Jack in Japan

Your guide to all things JAPAN

• Destinations

Japan in Winter: A Guide to the Best Winter Activities and Destinations

Are you ready to explore the wonders of winter in Japan? This article will guide you through the key information and essential activities for your cold-weather excursion. From snow-draped landscapes to thrilling winter sports, hot springs, cultural celebrations, wildlife encounters, culinary delights, and unique snow experiences, Japan in the winter has something to offer everyone.

Explore the magic of Kyoto’s winter gardens or hit the slopes in Niseko, a powder snow paradise. Experience the social warmth of Sento or witness the luminescent beauty of winter illuminations. Encounter the famous snow monkeys or indulge in seasonal seafood and hearty Japanese comfort foods. Whatever your interests, Japan in the winter has it all. This article will help you plan your perfect winter itinerary, navigate Japan’s winter weather, and answer frequently asked questions about visiting Japan during the winter months.

Key Information

Exploring the snow-draped landscapes of japan, the japanese alps, the magic of kyoto’s winter gardens, the thrill of winter sports in japan, niseko: a powder snow paradise, hakuba valley: skiing amidst majestic views, japan’s hot springs during winter, private onsen escapes, the social warmth of sento, cultural celebrations: winter festivals in japan, sapporo snow festival, illuminations that light up the night, encounters with wildlife: the famous snow monkeys, culinary delights: winter’s flavorful offerings, seafood at its seasonal best, warm up with hearty japanese comfort foods, unique snow experiences, drift ice adventures in hokkaido, mystical snow monsters of zao, planning your perfect winter itinerary, when winter lasts: timing your visit, staying cozy: accommodation choices, navigating japan’s winter weather, winter apparel guide, travel safe: coping with snow and ice, frequently asked questions, is it a good time to visit japan during winter, is japan expensive in winter, what months constitute winter in japan.

Winter in Japan is a season of abundant snowfall that transforms the country into a picturesque wonderland. From the UNESCO World Heritage sites in Mie Prefecture to the snow-covered slopes of Hakuba Ski Resort, there is something for everyone. The holiday season starts in early December, making it the perfect time to explore traditional Japanese inns in onsen towns like Nozawa Onsen and Noboribetsu Onsen. These places are known for their hot water and Japanese hot springs, providing a warm escape from the chilly winter temperatures.

Tokyo Station has become a hub for those seeking the best ways to travel to popular destinations. With the JR Pass in hand, convenience stores are at every corner, making travel easy and convenient. Fewer crowds make navigating parts of Japan easier, like Akita Prefecture or Shiga Kogen.

Early January is ideal for attending Japan’s most popular winter events. For example, visitors can attend the Yokote Kamakura Festival and admire snow sculptures or partake in outdoor activities like ice skating. In Odori Park, the light-up event near Mt Fuji is a spectacle, especially during the snow season when thick snow blankets the area.

Visiting public baths after a day of enjoying powdery snow at popular places like the Hakuba Ski Resort offers a glimpse into the heart of Japanese culture. Taking part in unique activities, such as watching sumo wrestlers, also offers this glimpse.

For those seeking a serene experience, winter in Shiga Kogen is known for thick snow and snow slides. Alternatively, visitors can also consider visiting the lesser-known Yokote Kamakura Festival in Akita Prefecture, which promises fewer tourists and extra serenity.

Overall, Japan is one of the most popular winter adventure destinations, offering something for everyone, from winter sports to cultural experiences.

Japan’s winter landscape is a unique experience. Winter begins in December and the coldest month is February. The northern regions of the country are more rugged and full of snow-capped mountains, while it remains mild in Okinawa. In this section, we’ll explore two winter destinations in Japan that offer a unique experience: The Japanese Alps and Kyoto’s Winter Gardens.

The Japanese Alps are a winter wonderland that offers a sight to behold. Imagine mountains blanketed in powder snow, with ski resorts nestled amidst their slopes. However, it’s not just about the snow. The Alps’ charm lies in adventure. Whether carving down a slope or basking in the serene mountain views, there’s a sense of exhilaration and peace that is uniquely Alpine. A visit to the traditional villages of Ogimachi and Gokayama adds cultural richness to your winter escapade. It makes the Japanese Alps an unforgettable winter destination.

Kyoto’s Winter Gardens offer a softer hue, leaving behind the image of the towering Alps. Snowfall gently covers the temples and pagodas, transforming the city into a calm winter haven, awaiting the warmer weather. During winter, certain gardens stand out, including the Karesansui at Ryoan-ji Temple, the stroll garden at Ginkaku-ji Temple, and the Hojo Garden at Tofuku-ji. The snow enhances their Zen beauty, reflecting the Japanese appreciation for nature and beauty. These gardens provide a peaceful escape from the cold and are essential stops on any winter itinerary in Japan.

In summary, Japan’s winter landscape offers a unique experience to travelers. The Japanese Alps and Kyoto’s Winter Gardens are two winter destinations that offer a unique experience. The Japanese Alps offer a range of winter sports and cultural experiences, while Kyoto’s Winter Gardens offer a peaceful escape from the cold.

Japan is a top destination for winter sports enthusiasts. Two of the most popular destinations for skiing and snowboarding are Niseko and Hakuba Valley.

Niseko, located in Hokkaido, is a haven for powder snow enthusiasts. It is renowned for its excellent skiing conditions, with plenty of snow, varied slopes, and an active après-ski scene. The ski resorts in Niseko, such as Annupuri and Hanazono, are well-known for their outstanding powder snow. After a day of skiing or snowboarding, visitors can unwind with craft beers and rare whiskies in the vibrant après-ski scene.

Table: Niseko Ski Resorts

Hakuba Valley, located in Nagano Prefecture, offers a diverse skiing experience suitable for skiers of all abilities, from beginners to experts. The valley has several popular ski resorts, such as Happo-One Snow Resort and Tsugaike, each with its special features and beautiful views. Skiers can glide down the slopes and enjoy the amazing views of the nearby mountains, adding a special charm to skiing in Hakuba Valley.

Table: Hakuba Valley Ski Resorts

Japan’s ski season typically runs from December to April, with peak season in January and February. Both Niseko and Hakuba Valley offer a wide range of winter sports activities, including skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. With their unparalleled skiing conditions and stunning views, Niseko and Hakuba Valley are must-visit destinations for winter sports enthusiasts.

Japan is famous for its hot springs, or onsens, which are a great way to warm up after a day of winter activities. Onsens are known for their warm and calming environments, providing a refreshing break from the winter cold. There are two types of onsens to choose from: private onsens and sento bathhouses.

Private onsens offer an intimate natural hot springs experience. They are perfect for those seeking solitude or a romantic getaway. Picture yourself alone in a hot spring bath surrounded by beautiful winter scenery. Private onsen resorts often have many amenities, including electric kettles and tea sets in rooms, along with public and smaller private baths. They offer luxury and a close experience with nature.

Some of the most popular private onsen destinations in Japan include Zao Onsen, Ginzan Onsen, and Nozawa Onsen. Zao Onsen is famous for its outdoor hot springs, which offer stunning views of the surrounding snow-covered landscape. Ginzan Onsen is located in a picturesque town with traditional Japanese architecture, while Nozawa Onsen is known for its large variety of hot springs.

In contrast to private onsens, sento bathhouses offer a communal bathing experience. Sento bathhouses are traditional in Japan and are places where locals meet, chat, and unwind. A visit to a sento is more than just bathing; it’s a way to experience the friendly social atmosphere of Japan. In a sento, you soak in warm waters and enjoy the company of others.

Some of the most popular sento bathhouses in Japan include the Kinosaki Onsen, which has seven public bathhouses, each with its own unique style, and the Oedo Onsen Monogatari, which is a theme park-style bathhouse in Tokyo.

In conclusion, Japan’s hot springs offer a variety of experiences to suit any traveler’s preferences. Whether you prefer a private onsen escape or the social warmth of a sento bathhouse, Japan’s onsens are sure to leave you feeling rejuvenated and relaxed.

Japan’s winter is not only about snowy landscapes and hot springs, but it is also a time of vibrant cultural celebrations. Among the cultural celebrations, Japan’s winter festivals are an impressive display of Japanese culture. The Sapporo Snow Festival and winter illuminations are two of the most popular winter festivals in Japan.

The Sapporo Snow Festival is held annually in Hokkaido’s capital city and is a grand celebration of winter’s beauty. The festival started in 1950 as a creative project by local students, and now it is a huge event that attracts people from all over the world. The festival offers a variety of attractions across three sites: Odori, Susukino, and Tsudome. Visitors can enjoy amazing snow and ice sculptures, thrilling slides, and snow rafting. The sculptures’ craftsmanship is breathtaking, and visitors can participate in snow activities or enjoy the local food. The Sapporo Snow Festival is an unforgettable part of any Japanese winter itinerary.

As night falls, cities across Japan come alive with stunning winter illuminations. These bright light displays turn parks, buildings, and streets into enchanting scenes that look like a fairy tale. Among these illuminations, the Kobe Luminarie stands out. The Kobe Luminarie takes place every December and represents hope while honoring the victims of the 1995 Great Hanshin earthquake. Walking under the beautiful lights, visitors can feel deep respect for the resilience and spirit of the Japanese people.

Other winter festivals in Japan include the Asahikawa Winter Festival, Yokote Kamakura Festival, and many snow festivals that take place in various parts of Japan. These festivals are an excellent way to experience Japanese culture and enjoy the New Year holidays.

Japan’s winter is not only known for its scenic landscapes and cultural events, but also for its unique wildlife. One of the most famous wildlife encounters in Japan is at the Jigokudani Monkey Park, where visitors can observe Japan’s famous snow monkeys in their natural habitat. These Japanese macaques are known for their habit of bathing in natural hot springs during the winter to stay warm in Nagano’s cold climate. Watching these wild monkeys bask in the hot springs surrounded by the beautiful winter landscape is a heartwarming experience. Visitors can also witness the monkeys’ faces turn red from the warm water and cold air, adding a touch of wild charm to the Japanese winter. If the monkey park is not of interest, visitors can check out one of Japan’s many zoos.

Japanese cuisine is renowned for its seasonal ingredients, and winter is no exception. The winter season in Japan offers a plethora of fresh seafood and comforting dishes that are full of flavor.

During winter, many fish and shellfish are at their peak, providing fresh and flavorful tastes. Sashimi, sushi, and grilled fish are some of the popular seafood dishes that are available during the winter season. Local markets such as Omicho in Kanazawa and Tottori Kara in Tottori are great places to try winter seafood.

Japanese winter cuisine also offers comforting dishes that are perfect for the chilly weather. Sukiyaki, a savory hot pot, and oden, a hearty stew, are popular dishes that warm and comfort both body and soul. Izakaya restaurants are great places to try these dishes, along with other comfort foods such as ramen and nabe.

In conclusion, winter in Japan is not just about snowscapes and hot springs; it also offers a variety of flavorful dishes that are sure to delight any food lover.

Hokkaido offers a unique experience of walking on a vast, frozen sea with ice stretching to the horizon. It is a chance to see northern Japan’s stark, beautiful winter. Drift ice adventures in Hokkaido can be experienced through walking tours or scenic boat cruises. The beauty of drift ice can be experienced while exploring the ice, and one may see Steller’s Sea Eagles and other wildlife. This makes the adventure even more exciting. Asahikawa is a popular starting point for drift ice tours in Hokkaido.

Zao in Yamagata prefecture is known for its heavy snow and strong winds that shape the trees into eerie figures called snow monsters, also known as juhyo. These snow monsters are unique to winter and make the landscape look like it’s from a fantasy novel. Viewers can see the snow monsters from a distance or up close, which adds intrigue to Japan’s enchanting winter landscape. The mystical snow monsters of Zao can be accessed through a ropeway ride, followed by a short hike. Visitors can also enjoy skiing and snowboarding in the Zao area. The blue pond, located in the same area, adds to the beauty of the winter landscape.

In conclusion, Japan offers unique snow experiences beyond skiing. Drift ice adventures in Hokkaido and the mystical snow monsters of Zao are two such experiences that offer a glimpse into Japan’s enchanting winter landscape.

When planning a winter trip to Japan, it is important to choose the right time to visit. The winter season officially starts in December and ends in February, with peak snowfall usually occurring from mid-January to late February. For those interested in skiing or snowboarding, it is recommended to aim for the peak snowfall period. Visitors hoping to experience the winter festivals should check the dates of the events to ensure they don’t miss out. If visiting the snow monkeys or exploring the snow monsters of Zao is on the itinerary, it is best to plan the visit between December and February.

To start the trip, visitors can arrive at Tokyo Station. It is essential to stay warm and comfortable during the winter trip to Japan. There are many accommodation choices available, from traditional ryokans to modern hotels. For a traditional experience, visitors can stay in a ryokan, which offers tatami-matted rooms and communal baths. For those who prefer modern amenities, many hotels provide comfort, convenience, great views, delicious food, and hot springs.

Timing the winter trip to Japan is crucial to ensure visitors can experience everything they want to see and do. The peak snowfall period is ideal for skiing or snowboarding. Visitors interested in seeing the snow monkeys or the snow monsters of Zao should plan their visit between December and February. Winter festivals are also a popular attraction during this time, and visitors should check the dates of the events to avoid missing out.

Finding the perfect place to stay is just as important as scheduling the trip. To stay warm and comfortable during the winter trip, visitors can choose from various accommodation choices. Ryokans offer a traditional experience, with tatami-matted rooms and communal baths. For those who prefer modern amenities, many hotels provide comfort, convenience, great views, delicious food, and hot springs. Visitors should choose the type of accommodation that suits their preferences and budget.

Japan’s winter weather can be challenging, with heavy snowfall and icy conditions in many regions. However, tourists can still enjoy their visit to the fullest with the right clothing and safety measures. This section provides a guide on how to navigate Japan’s winter weather, including what to wear and how to travel safely.

Wearing the right clothes is crucial for staying comfortable in Japan’s winter climate. Layering is essential, with materials like wool, down, fleece, and thermal fabrics providing the best insulation. Tourists should consider packing thermal underwear, a warm hat, gloves, and a scarf to keep themselves warm.

Footwear is also important. Waterproof hiking shoes offer the best protection against cold and wet conditions. Thick socks are also recommended for warmth and comfort. Additionally, tourists should pack hand and feet warmers, which can be found in most convenience stores in Japan.

It is important to note that indoor heating in Japan is not as common as in other countries, so tourists should also consider wearing layers indoors to stay warm and comfortable.

Being careful and well-prepared is key to safe travel in snowy and icy conditions. With the heavy winter snowfall in Japan, it’s important to stay safe while enjoying the winter landscapes.

Whether driving or walking, tourists should be aware of the conditions and navigate with care. It is recommended to wear shoes with a good grip to prevent slips and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles to prevent accidents on icy roads.

Tourists should also be aware that crowds in Tokyo and Osaka can make walking on snowy or icy sidewalks more difficult. It is important to be patient and take extra care when navigating through crowded areas.

Remember, safety is of utmost importance when enjoying Japan’s winter wonderland. By following these winter apparel and travel safety tips, tourists can have a safe and enjoyable winter experience in Japan.

Winter in Japan can be a good time to visit, especially in December when the weather is cool and the country is less crowded. However, visitors should be prepared for colder temperatures and the possibility of snow in some regions.

Japan is generally less expensive in winter, except during the New Year holidays, which is a peak travel season. Visitors can save money on their trip by taking advantage of off-peak prices and discounts.

Winter in Japan typically lasts from December to February. While temperatures vary by region, it is the perfect season to enjoy hot springs and beautiful winter scenery. Visitors should pack warm clothes and be prepared for colder temperatures in the northern regions.

I've been living in Japan for over 10 years. I tell you about all the pros and cons of life through the eyes of a foreigner.

• Things to Do
• Food & Drink
• Shopping & Style
• Coca-Cola Foodmarks
• Restaurants & Cafes
• Music & Nightlife
• Neighborhoods
• Los Angeles

12 most beautiful winter destinations in Japan

From snowy mountains to a white onsen town, there are plenty of places to make the most of the chilly season

Sure, Japan is popular for spring cherry blossoms and colourful autumn foliage, but don’t pass up the winter season. Come the cooler months, Japan has many magical spots boasting some of the country’s best scenery.

Whether you prefer to spend your time at a sprawling ski resort , a snowy onsen town or to catch a stunning ice festival, there’s so much to see when the weather cools down. And don’t worry about the cold – you can always warm up after an outdoor excursion by dipping into a hot spring or slurping up a hearty bowl of ramen. If you’re looking for a new place to explore this winter, add these gorgeous destinations to your itinerary.  RECOMMENDED: The best hot spring getaways in Japan

Japan's winter wonderlands

Zao Snow Monsters, Yamagata

The Zao Hot Springs Ski Resort  is home to these chilling ice monsters otherwise known as juhyo . These natural formations are actually evergreen trees that become enveloped with snow and make for a stunning winter sight. For the ice monsters to appear, specific climate conditions have to be met, meaning there’s only a limited number of places and times that you can see this natural phenomenon.

Shirakawa-go, Gifu

The immaculately preserved Japanese village of Shirakawa-go is a sight to behold during the winter. Also designated as a Unesco World Heritage Site, the village is made up of numerous gassho-zukuri thatched-roof farmhouses that have been converted into hotels, restaurants and museums. The houses are designed to withstand heavy snowfall and make for a whimsical sight when covered in fresh snow.

Kamakura Snow Hut Village, Nagano

This magical igloo village in Nagano is actually a restaurant , and opens every winter. Restaurant Kamakura Village is made up of 20 pop-up igloos nestled in the snowy Japanese Alps in the small town of Iiyama. Each igloo fits up to four people and you'll be treated to a noroshi nabe, a tasty local hot pot made with miso, pork and local veggies. The snowy restaurant will return this winter from January 20 to February 29 2024.

Yunishigawa Onsen, Tochigi

This magical winter wonderland can be found at the Yunishigawa Kamakura Festival in Tochigi prefecture. The snowy festival takes place annually from late January to early March and showcases hundreds of illuminated mini snow huts known as kamakura . You can stroll through the kamakura, which are set up around the Sawaguchi riverbed at Yunishigawa Onsen. This year the festival is scheduled to be held from January 26 to February 25 2024.

Jigokudani Monkey Park, Nagano

Head to this park to meet the Japanese macaques, better known as snow monkeys, who lounge around in its steamy hot spring waters. You’ll find this winter retreat inside Joshinetsu Kogen National Park in Nagano prefecture. The monkeys often bathe in the onsen year round, but if you’d like to catch them with snowy surrounds, head up to the park between January and February.

Nabana no Sato Illuminations, Mie

This festival may not be snow-related, but the light-up at Nabana no Sato is one of the best winter illuminations in Japan . This botanical garden on the small island of Nagashima in Mie prefecture turns into a brilliant display of winter lights, showcasing millions of sparking LEDs forming iridescent rivers, waterfalls and more. The illumination continues all the way through to May, so there’s plenty of time to stop by and see it.

Sapporo Snow Festival, Hokkaido

Every February, Sapporo turns into a winter fairytale land during its annual Snow Festival . The festival first started back in 1950, when students began building snow statues in Odori Park, and has since become a full-blown week-long event with extravagant ice sculptures taking over the park, the grounds of Tsudome community dome and the city’s Susukino district. For this winter, the festival returns from February 4 to 11 2024.

Otaru, Hokkaido

Hokkaido’s port city of Otaru hosts an annual snow festival every February, and it sure is a showstopper. Known as the Otaru Snow Light Path Festival , the city's streets are illuminated with hundreds of lights and snow statues. We particularly love the view of the floating lights along Otaru’s main canal, which runs near the trendy Warehouse District. Hoping to check it out? Mark your calendars for this season’s festival scheduled from February 10 to 17 2024.

Kenrokuen, Ishikawa

Kenrokuen in Ishikawa prefecture is considered one of Japan’s three great gardens. The well-manicured space is a popular spot to visit year-round, but during the winter, it’s particularly special. When snow falls, a blanket of white covers the grounds and turns the landscape into a truly serene space. The garden is often lit up during winter evenings and sometimes mini concerts are even held at the on-site Uchihashi-tei teahouse.

Ginzan Onsen, Yamagata

Once a former silver mine, Ginzan Onsen has since been turned into one of the most picturesque onsen resort towns in all of Japan. As a reminder of the past, it’s name literally means ‘silver mountain hot spring’ and the area features numerous ryokan (traditional Japanese inns), which line the river that runs through the town. Ginzan Onsen really is a stunner in winter when fallen snow collects on the rooftops and streets. Best of all, the town centre is pedestrian-only, so you can meander through this picture-perfect spot at your own pace.

Misotsuchi Icicles, Saitama

Heading up to see the Misotsuchi Icicles in Chichibu makes for an ideal day trip from Tokyo. Best seen in January and February, this natural phenomenon is the result of spring water from the Arakawa River being frozen to the surface of rocks. The icicles are also worth a visit in the evening as they are lit up in different colours to add to the mystical atmosphere.

Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, Toyama

This spectacular route through the Japanese alps stretches from Toyama all the way to Nagano prefecture and offers some pretty impressive scenery. Most notable is the staggering snow corridor, where the buildup of snow can reach as high as 20 metres. Due to the danger of collapse, the snow corridor is only open from spring onwards, but you could fool anyone into thinking its winter with a few photos from this spot.

More from Time Out Tokyo

The most beautiful places in Japan

See the real Japan in the peaceful rolling hills of Hokkaido, a Nagano nature reserve dotted with volcanoes, and more

6 best onsen destinations in Japan

Warm up as well as rejuvenate your body and mind at these scenic hot spring resorts, easily accessible from Tokyo

The best national parks in Japan

• Things to do

[image] [title]

Discover Time Out original video

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

• Terms of use
• Work for Time Out
• Time Out Group
• Advertising
• Modern slavery statement
• Manage cookies

Time Out Tokyo

• Magazine subscription
• Digital edition
• Buy the guide to Tokyo

Time Out products

• Time Out Worldwide

• Meet The Team

Visiting Japan in the Winter – The Ultimate Itinerary

Updated on April 20, 2024

Are you set to uncover the “Japan in the Winter” allure? Strap on your skis, dip into steaming onsens, and witness luminescent festivals. This article takes you to the heart of “Japan in the Winter” allure. It showcases the essential activities and sights for your cold-weather excursion.

Key Information

Winter in Japan is a time of abundant snowfall.

It brings unique experiences and transforms the country into a picturesque wonderland.

From the UNESCO World Heritage sites in Mie Prefecture to the snow-covered slopes of Hakuba Ski Resort, the season offers something for everyone.

The holiday season starts in early December.

It is the perfect time to explore traditional Japanese inns in onsen towns like Nozawa Onsen and Noboribetsu Onsen.

These places, known for their hot water and Japanese hot springs , provide a warm escape from the chilly winter temperatures.

Tokyo Station has become a hub for those seeking the best ways to travel to popular destinations.

With the JR Pass in hand, convenience stores are at every corner.

Fewer crowds make navigating parts of Japan easier, like Akita Prefecture or Shiga Kogen.

Early January is ideal for attending Japan’s most popular winter events.

For example, you can visit the Yokote Kamakura Festival and admire snow sculptures.

You can also partake in outdoor activities like ice skating.

In Odori Park, the light-up event near Mt Fuji is a spectacle, especially during the snow season when thick snow blankets the area.

Drift Ice Adventures in Hokkaido

Picture yourself standing on a vast, frozen sea, with ice stretching to the horizon. This is the thrill of a drift-ice adventure in Hokkaido. It’s a chance to see northern Japan’s stark, beautiful winter.

You can experience the beauty of drift ice through walking tours or scenic boat cruises. While exploring the ice, you may see Steller’s Sea Eagles and other wildlife. This makes the adventure even more exciting.

Mystical Snow Monsters of Zao

From the frozen seascape of Hokkaido, we journey to the snow-covered slopes of Zao in Yamagata prefecture .

In Zao, heavy snow and strong winds shape the trees into eerie figures called snow monsters.

The snow monsters, unique to winter, make the landscape look like it’s from a fantasy novel.

Viewing the snow monsters from a distance or up close adds intrigue to Japan’s enchanting winter landscape.

Planning Your Perfect Winter Itinerary

With so much to see and do, planning your winter itinerary is key to enjoying a fulfilling visit to Japan.

When Winter Lasts: Timing Your Visit

Choosing the right time for your winter trip to Japan is essential to your planning process.

The country’s winter season officially starts in December and ends in February.

However, peak snowfall usually occurs from mid-January to late February.

The best time to visit depends on what you want to experience. Here are some recommendations:

• Aim for the peak snowfall period if you’re looking forward to skiing or snowboarding.
• If you’re keen on visiting the snow monkeys or exploring the snow monsters of Zao, plan your visit between December and February.
• And if you’re hoping to experience the winter festivals, check the dates of the events to ensure you don’t miss out.
• You can start your trip at Tokyo Station.

Staying Cozy: Accommodation Choices

Finding the perfect place to stay is as important as scheduling your trip.

It’s essential to stay warm and comfortable in Japan’s winter; many options are available.

For a traditional experience, stay in a ryokan.

These inns have tatami-matted rooms and communal baths. If you like modern amenities, many hotels provide comfort, convenience, great views, delicious food, and hot springs.

Navigating Japan’s Winter Weather

Japan’s winter weather can be challenging, with heavy snowfall and icy conditions in many regions.

But, with the right clothing and safety measures, you can navigate the cold weather and enjoy your visit to the fullest.

Winter Apparel Guide

Wearing the right clothes is crucial for staying comfortable in Japan’s winter climate.

Layering is essential, with materials like:

• thermal fabrics

providing the best insulation.

Footwear is important.

Waterproof hiking shoes offer the best protection against cold and wet conditions.

Remember, staying warm and comfortable is crucial to enjoying your winter adventures in Japan.

Travel Safe: Coping with Snow and Ice

Being careful and well-prepared is key to safe travel in snowy and icy conditions.

With the heavy winter snowfall in Japan, it’s important to stay safe while enjoying the winter landscapes.

Whether you’re driving or walking, here are some tips to stay safe in winter conditions:

• Be aware of the conditions and navigate with care
• Wear shoes with a good grip to prevent slips
• Maintain a safe distance from other vehicles to prevent accidents on icy roads

Remember, safety is of utmost importance when enjoying Japan’s winter wonderland.

Before You Go

Embarking on a winter journey through Japan is like stepping into a magical world. Snow transforms landscapes into works of art.

So bundle up, prepare for an adventure, and enter Japan’s winter wonderland.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it good to go to japan during winter.

Yes, winter can be a good time to visit Japan , especially in December when the weather is cool and the country isn’t too crowded.

Is Japan expensive in winter?

Yes, Japan is generally less expensive in winter, making it a great time to visit if you want to save money on your trip.

Excluding the New Year holidays, a peak travel season, winter in Japan is considered off-peak and less crowded.

What months is winter in Japan?

Winter in Japan generally lasts from December to February .

During this time, temperatures vary by region, but it is the perfect season to enjoy hot springs and beautiful winter scenery.

Adam has lived in Japan for over 20 years. Married with two daughters, he's fully immersed in Japanese life and has traveled extensively around the country. He works full time from home.

The Ultimate Japan Winter Itinerary (2 Weeks, 4 Cities)

02/27/2023 by Kristin Addis 2 Comments

When I think of the Japanese winter, I picture that feeling of being in a snow globe, or sitting in a steaming onsen (hot springs), or beautiful views of Mt. Fuji. It’s a tall order, to be sure, but like always, Japan delivered.

We recently spent two delicious weeks there, getting a taste of big cities, tiny villages, some of the most famous sights, and of course, delicious food. Honestly? I think we did a great job.

This is the ultimate two-week Japanese winter itinerary:

Table of Contents

Our journey began in Kyoto and finished in Tokyo. If you can book one-way flights, this eliminates a transit day. You can also consider taking the two-hour bullet train from Tokyo over to Kyoto for the start of your trip.

Though it’s never a guarantee that you will get snow in Kyoto — in fact, it’s a rarity — seeing some of the most famous sites with the white stuff was magical.

Day 1: Bamboo grove

Head to Arashiyama as early as you can to walk through the bamboo forest and check out some of the shrines. The earlier you go, the smaller the crowds should be — however, the bamboo is thick and it can be dark super early in the morning. Though the shrines often have entrance fees that are usually around ¥500, the bamboo is free to walk through and enjoy.

You’ll see busy stands selling snacks close to the entrance, but honestly, they were a bit on the pricey side, and we found better ones elsewhere.

Jet lag took up more of the early part of our journey than intended, but if you are able, try to see the Kinkaku-ji temple, a golden pagoda surrounded by tranquil gardens and a pond. Finish the day with sunset on the famous street leading up to Hokan-ji temple.

Day 2: Kaiseki and torii

Our second day began with an early journey to Fushimi Inari Taisha, a Shinto shrine dating from 711 CE, with its famous walkways straddled by thousands of torii gates, and is free to enjoy. This and the bamboo forest were the sites I most hoped to see in Kyoto, and it was just as magical in person as I’d dreamed it would be.

It’s open 24 hours, as is the bamboo forest, so heading there early is a great idea. We happened to get there around 8am on one of the coldest, snowiest days of the year in the lowest season, and therefore had it almost to ourselves for a few minutes, but by 9am, busloads of people were showing up.

From there, check out the Kojingamine outlook for an overview of the city, followed by a visit to the Tō-ji temple, the tallest wooden pagoda in Japan dating back to the year 796.

Finish the evening with a stroll through the historic Gion district, or better yet, take a food tour. Ours involved a few hours of walking around, learning about the local culinary history, tasting traditional snacks and spices unique to Kyoto, and finishing with a kaiseki dinner, a ritual meal consisting of several courses created by a team of chefs. Each one features a different cooking style, though you can usually count on a rice dish, miso, sushi, and some kind of dessert. This is the highest level of dining in Japan and should not be missed! (The exact tour we took is no longer available, but you can book something similar .)

Day 3: Tea ceremony and shrines

Have you ever wanted to don a kimono? Participating in a tea ceremony is one of the best ways to get your chance. You’ll have the opportunity to learn the ritual around drinking green tea while wearing this traditional garment, plus get a photo doing so.

Finish the evening with sunset at Kiyomizu-dera, a Buddhist temple that is part of the Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto UNESCO World Heritage site.

Where to stay : Since we have a little one and arrived late at night into Kyoto, I booked a nice, affordable Airbnb near Kyoto Station. We loved our little spot!

(Due to our desire to catch an event that I’ll discuss later on in the post, we could only spend three nights in Kyoto, but it deserved so much more! I’d recommend staying at least three, if not more.)

This adorable town full of friendly people is the gateway to the Japanese Northern Alps, as they’re called. We picked this town for its historic feel and famous food, and the likelihood of it being a winter wonderland (it was!).

Day 4: Journey to Takayama, known for delicious Hida beef

You’ll spend a good chunk of the day getting to Takayama, which is best accessed on Japan Rail (JR) via Nagoya. The ride there is beautiful, most of it alongside a deeply blue river. (Sometimes there’s also a direct bus, though, so be sure to check! We tended to use Google Maps for our planning, which I suggest doing when weighing your options.)

Spend the afternoon and evening sampling some local Hida beef, which is incredibly flavorful and tender, at Kyoya restaurant, where you cook your meal over a charcoal grill at your table! It was a delicious experience at a place we didn’t even realize was famous — we just stopped by, since it was near our Airbnb. Apparently a reservation is normally essential, so be sure to call ahead.

Day 5: Sanmachi and Hida no Sato folk village

Check out the historical houses (pictured below the subheading above) in Sanmachi, a neighborhood with traditional Edo-era architecture dating back to the 1600s through the 1800s. You’ll find small eateries, shops, and houses all along the way.

There’s a morning market along the river as well, where you can find food vendors. It’s perfect for an early stroll.

Spend the afternoon checking out the Hida no Sato folk village, an open-air museum featuring more Edo-era farmhouses. In the summer months, you’ll see grass growing on the thatched roofs, and in the winter, the village is famous for having feet of snow packed to the tops of the houses. It was magical to see them that way! Entrance is ¥700.

(The village also a great primer for the next stop, Shirakawa-go, a larger UNESCO World Heritage village from the same era.)

– Read More –

Traveling in Japan with a Baby

Day 6: Shinotaka ropeway or Gero onsen

Head out of town to the Shinotaka Ropeway (¥3,300 per adult), about a 1.5-hour bus ride each way, or consider heading to the town of Gero, south of Takayama, for a night. It’s one of the most famous onsen towns in Japan, known for its particularly smooth water.

(Due to my tattoos I can’t use most onsen , which I’ll discuss later, but for this reason, we opted to skip Gero.)

Where to eat: In Takayama, we loved the Tori Coffee and Sabou Usagi cafés, as well as Uemura for dinner. The latter is a truly tiny restaurant serving organic food the chef grows himself. I cannot recommend it enough! I messaged him via Instagram to book. Sakurajaya is also a fun experience, sitting at the bar and watching the chef make the food in izakaya fashion (informal, small dishes).

Where to stay : I loved our Airbnb here! It was the cheapest of the trip, at around $90/night, and had its own outdoor bathtub, which was magical with the snow!

Shirakawa-go

Day 7: UNESCO site Shirakawa-go

Light Up Shirakawa-go was the event I mentioned that caused us to leave Kyoto a bit earlier than I normally would have. Each winter, for six Sundays over January and February, Shirakawa-go lights up all of its buildings in the evening. If you are planning way ahead and can snag a reservation to stay overnight, do it, but if not, you can take a bus tour to the event from Takayama.

Tickets for this may sell out, as the number of visitors is capped. I logged on right when they went on sale in November and had to refresh the page for a couple of hours before finally getting through, but I’m happy to say that it was worth it. It truly felt like we were in a snow globe.

If you can’t get tickets for the light-up event, be sure to head there during the day. It is easy to access from Takayama via a bus that runs hourly (the bus costs ¥700, village admission is free). The village and buildings are quaint, there are a few museums you can enter for a couple hundred yen, and there’s an observation deck as well. The village would be delightful in every season, though I loved seeing it so snowy!

Stay: it’s possible to overnight in Shrakawa-go in the traditional houses . They book up well in advance for the light up event, though other times of year or other evenings would be easier. You’re only allowed to stay for one night in each house and they ask that you don’t bring large suitcases as there isn’t room for storage.

Day 8: Journey to Mt. Fuji

This was our longest travel day, making our way down to Yamanashi prefecture. It was so worth the journey, though, as staying on a lake with a view of Mt. Fuji was a highlight for us.

There were dozens of ways we could have chosen to get there, though we opted for the JR back through Nagoya, followed by a bus. (In 2023, the bus that runs between Takayama and Kawaguchiko was not running, but it would be by far the best and cheapest way in the future.)

Kawaguchiko

Wintertime is generally the clearest time of year and offers the best chance to see Mt. Fuji, one of the most famous sights in Japan.

When we were deciding between Kawaguchiko and Hakone, another popular spot an hour south, one of my Instagram followers suggested Kawaguchiko (and Takayama!), and I’m so glad we took her advice. We had gorgeous mountain views over the lake day after day.

Day 9: Chureito Pagoda

You can’t visit Kawaguchiko without seeing the Chureito Pagoda, which as one of the most iconic views in Japan.

That said, it was also my biggest heartbreak of the trip, having wanted to see this view of Mt. Fuji for years. The clouds rolled in just as we were getting off the train. C’est la vie!

The pagoda is free to visit. You’ll have to climb quite a few stairs to get there, though, but it’s worth it.

Consider also stopping by Oishi Park, which is easy to access from the sightseeing-loop bus, for another iconic Fuji view.

Day 10: Soak and stare at Fuji

We spent a good chunk of our tenth day hanging out at our hotel, to be honest. I recommend booking a place to stay on the opposite side of the lake from Mt. Fuji (the northern side), so that you can take a day or so to just relax and enjoy the view.

We booked Ubuya , a ryokan (traditional Japanese inn that typically features tatami-matted rooms) that had private hot springs on the balconies. Since I have tattoos, this was the only way that I was going to get to enjoy onsen that are so iconic in Japan in the winter.

Due to tattoos’ association with gang culture, almost all onsen and even hotel spas in Japan ban those with tattoos, unless it’s very small and can easily be covered with a Band-Aid. You can’t cover them up with a swimsuit, either, as one is fully nude in onsen .

This ryokan was definitely a splurge for our trip, but it was worth it! We also ate breakfast and dinner in the hotel, the latter a kaiseki meal in a private room set up for us and the baby.

Day 11: Fuji ropeway and Asama shrine

Are you down for an Insta-famous photo opportunity? There are two big ones in the area, including the Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway. It’s a short journey, so I normally would not feel the ¥1,800 per person round-trip is worth it, since you can get a great view of the mountain from the lakeside. But you can get some pretty cool pictures swinging with Mt. Fuji at a swingset at the top. You’ll have to queue up and pay an additional ¥500 for the photo op, which we didn’t do, but part of me wishes we had.

Next, take the bus bound for the Asama shrine and either walk from there, which is a 30-ish-minute uphill climb, or take a taxi to Tenku no torii. They’ll ask for ¥100 per person at the entrance and there will be another queue, but I loved the photos we got! (pictured at the beginning of the Kawaguchiko section).

Note: The “suicide forest” is also in the Kawaguchiko area, but it’s generally regarded as disrespectful to visit. Please pick other activities instead. There are many other beautiful forests in Japan!

Stay : As mentioned above, we booked Ubuya and loved the experience. If it’s out of your price range, I re commend staying on the same side of the lake and booking another hotel nearby so that you can still get the Fuji view from your room.

Welcome to the largest city in the world! I am usually not a big-city person, but Tokyo is a different animal. It’s one of the most unique places I’ve ever been, and there’s almost a limitless supply of things to do. Though you can only ever scratch the surface, these are some of my favorites:

Day 12: TeamLab and Harajuku

Harajuku is one of the most famous areas of Tokyo — and for good reason. There’s awesome shopping, creative cafés, and some famous local culture to check out. If you’re looking for something more traditional, in the same area, you can walk around the Meiji Jingu Shinto shrine.

From there, pop by the Hie shrine for another opportunity to walk through a smaller version of the Kyoto torii gates, as well as view one of the lovelier shrines in Tokyo, featuring white walls and a green roof.

Finally, do not miss a TeamLab exhibit! This art collective’s immersive art experiences get me every time. They tend to only remain open for a few years; TeamLab Planets should be open for another year or so, and it’s a must-see. I highly recommend going in the hours before closing so as to have fewer people in your photos. Book your ticket ahead of time too: this one somehow let us skip the whole line! Entrance is ¥3200.

Day 13: Nakano, Shibuya crossing, and ramen

On our second-to-last day, I knew I wanted to do another food experience. There are a couple that I was looking at, including a walking tour in the famous Tsukiji fish market and a six-bowl ramen tasting . The latter just happened to fit better with our schedule, and it was delicious! We visited three ramen shops, all of which featured several unique flavors and styles. Garrett and I also shared each of our bowls, so that we could sample all of the flavors, so we ended up having 12 ramen samplings. Our favorite was the inventive pesto ramen, though I always love the curry version and was surprised by how much I enjoyed the squid ink as well.

Give yourself some extra time to check out Shibuya crossing, where the tour begins, which is the famous all-direction crosswalk that as many as 3,000 people use at a time! It’s quite a sight. If you want to see it from above, the Starbucks is a popular place to check it out.

We followed our ramen tour with a giant ice cream at Daily Chico at the Nakano broadway, pausing to take the photo featured above on one of the adjacent streets, which you can find by glancing to your right as you walk up the broadway.

Day 14: Imperial Palace, Disney, and unique kaiseki in Ginza

On your last day, you’ll have to make a difficult choice about what to see. I have a complete Tokyo itinerary here with a bunch of options. If our son were a bit older, we would have loved to go to Tokyo Disney or Disney Sea. Better believe it’s on the docket for the future!

Since our hotel was near the Imperial Palace, we opted to take a walk around the grounds. Keep in mind that you actually have to take a tour in order to get closer. The gardens are lovely, though, and the trees lining the streets near Tokyo Station are a great winter photo op.

I’d finish your trip with one of the most unique kaiseki experiences, in the high-end Ginza district of Tokyo: Tsurutokame , the only all-female kaiseki restaurant in Japan, featuring not only delicious food but incredible presentation. I was vegan when I visited a few years ago, and they even created a completely vegan menu for me! It was a highlight of all of my trips to Japan. It’s also popular, so book well in advance!

Where to stay : I splurged a bit on this part of the trip as well, booking us at the Prince Gallery Kioicho Hotel . The view from the room made it so worth it! The breakfast was delicious, and the location was central, but the best part about it was definitely the service, which was top-notch.

Although many of you won’t need to worry about this, it was also the only place we stayed in Japan that had a crib!

Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost major island, is important to mention. Many people choose to ski its famous powder (known in the ski world as Ja-pow), during all or at least part of their winter trip.

From Tokyo, you can take the bullet train and be in Hokkaido in about four hours. Although it was under consideration for us, since we are not really ski people (who live in a ski town — it’s weird, I know) and had a baby with us, we passed.

But there’s good reason to visit. Sapporo, the largest city, has a snow festival each year that features massive ice and snow sculptures. It usually only lasts for a week, so plan your trip accordingly if you’d like to see it.

Getting Around

Getting around Japan was pretty straightforward using Google Maps. I would sometimes cross-reference with blog posts that specifically discussed the journey between certain destinations, just to be sure, but Google Maps was almost always correct. I also appreciated that it would usually give me the exact platform and even car to use in order to make a quick exit.

That said, both Kyoto Station and Tokyo’s larger metros can be confusing, although there were information desks scattered throughout, and they were super helpful — I would just show them where I was trying to go, and the staff person would point in the right direction.

To Rail Pass or not to Rail Pass?

Should you get the Japan Rail Pass ? Only foreigners are allowed to get this pass, which for a one-time fee gives you unlimited rides on the Shinkansen (bullet train) and Japan Rail lines. If you are going to be taking long-distance trains between Kyoto and Tokyo or Hokkaido, for example, it could make a lot of sense.

We opted not to do it, however, since two of the towns we visited — Takayama and Kawaguchiko — involved bus travel. It didn’t work out to be financially advantageous for us, just barely. We did, however, get the Tokyo metro pass , and I recommend the Hakone pass if you opt to go there.

If you do plan to take trains during the high season, it will probably make sense to get the JR pass and book your seats ahead of time. There are only a few cars on each train that are unreserved, which only worked out for us because we were there during low season. Book highway buses ahead of time as well, either in person at the station or online. I hadn’t realized this was important — we were lucky to grab the last seats on our bus to Kawaguchiko, which would’ve been such a pain to have missed!

Also, be sure to have cash on hand. There are ATMs in most convenience stores and train stations. We found that the ticket machine did not take our foreign credit cards, but if we waited in line for in-person service, we could buy a train or bus ticket with a card. Many restaurants also prefer cash.

Language and other notes

Although I can read a bit of Japanese, thanks to my years studying Mandarin and the similarities between the two, I don’t speak it beyond hello ( konnichiwa ) and thank you ( arigato ). Thanks to Felix, I learned that the word for “cute” is kawaii .

I found that people were always willing to try to communicate, though, since Japanese people are friendly and wonderful hosts. So I highly recommend downloading Japanese on Google Translate before you go. That way you can access it offline if you need to show somebody something or ask a question.

Also keep in mind that people bow as a sign of respect, a greeting, or thank you. Be sure to bow back, fully facing the person.

Japan is easily one of my favorite countries to explore because it’s just so different from anywhere else on earth. You get the opportunity to travel back in time, to feel blasted to the future in the big cities, and the friendliness is incredible.

Note: Some links in this post are affiliate links to the hotels and activities that we participated in. Purchasing through these links supports us at no extra cost to you

About Kristin Addis

Kristin Addis is the founder and CEO of Be My Travel Muse, a resource for female travelers all around the world since 2012. She's traveled solo to over 65 countries and has brought over 150 women on her all-female adventure tours from Botswana to the Alaskan tundra.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

 subscribe to our newsletter

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

06/21/2023 at 11:50 am

Hello! I enjoyed reading about your trip, the photos are amazing. I am starting to come around to the idea of going to Japan during winter. What dates/month did you travel?

Kristin says

07/01/2023 at 10:40 am

This was end of January into February 🙂

For a limited time, book your 2020, 2021 & 2022 group tour packages with no deposit required!!!

• Custom Groups Custom Groups Overview Student Groups MICE Special Interest Groups
• About Japan About Japan Destinations Attractions Must See & Do
• About Us About Us Contact us Testimonials Terms & Conditions Travel Agent Services Disclaimer Site Map
• News Press Releases Blog Media
• Your Trip Get Started How to make a reservation Travel Tip FAQs Inquiries

Last Name *

Browse Group Tours by Season

Winter in japan.

Why should you visit Japan in winter? Winter in Japan offers must-see sites blanketed in snow, savory seasonal dishes, and a list of winter activities for every traveler. Japan's winter season is vast depending on the region, but each are unique in beauty.

Winter in Japan can range from a generous amount of snowfall, to dry and mild weather conditions depending on certain parts of Japan. Japan enjoys its winter season in a list of ways. There is nothing like bathing in an outdoor onsen (hot springs) on a cold day, attending cheerful snow festivals, or enjoying delicious foods unique to the season. Northern regions of Japan, such as Hokkaido, experience an ample amount of snow that is perfect for its beautiful winter festivals. Kyoto or Tokyo, however, are known for its mostly dry and sunny winters, so you can still enjoy sightseeing.

Visiting Japan in December While traveling to Japan in December, visitors can expect many local festivals, Christmas illuminations, and fewer tourist crowds. December is a great time to visit Japan, especially Tokyo. The climate is mild, not too cold, and mostly dry. You may even catch autumn leaves lingering early in the month. Although Christmas is not a national holiday in Japan, the country is big on night time illuminations, which are a romantic atmosphere to stroll around in. December also marks the first chance to see the famous onsen-bathing snow monkeys in Nagano. Visiting Japan in Januaryr Traveling to Japan in January means visitors have the opportunity to meet the famous Japanese snow monkeys at Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park. The red-faced monkeys, or Japanese Macaque, can be found bathing in an outdoor onsen (hot springs) against an icy backdrop in the forest. January is also the perfect time for travelers to unwind in a warm onsen and enjoy savory foods unique to the cold season. Gardens and temples are particularly beautiful too, with delicate specks of snow and few visitors, it really sets the winter scene. Visiting Japan in February If you plan on visiting Japan in February, you're in luck because this is the month where Japan's greatest winter festivals take place. To name, there is the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival, Sapporo Snow Festival, Otaru Snow Light Path, Asahikawa Winter Festival, and the Sounkyo Ice Waterfall Festival. Additionally, travelers will have the chance to board an "ice breaker cruise" and sail across drift ice, and experience ice smelt fishing on the frozen Lake Akan. There is also the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival to see early-blooming cherry trees, and of course, the onsen-bathing snow monkeys.

Japan Winter Tours

Japan Winter Tours incorporate must-see sites in prominent regions, fun winter activities, and the most charming winter festivals the country has to offer. Experience pleasant, dry weather in Japan's big cities and beautiful landscapes blanketed with snow in the northern regions. Our travelers on our Japan Winter Tours have the chance to see the red-faced snow monkeys and the most impressive snow sculptures.

Travel to Japan on one of our Japan Winter Tour packages to experience the best winter attractions. Visit must-see sites in Tokyo and Kyoto, or meet Nagano's famous snow monkeys.

Spring (Mar - May)   (119)

Summer (Jun - Aug)   (48)

Autumn (Sep - Nov)   (95)

Winter (Dec - Feb)   (21)

December 2024   (7)

January 2025   (5)

February 2025   (11)

December 2025   (7)

January 2026   (4)

February 2026   (12)

December 2026   (7)

Deluxe   (222)

Deluxe-Plus   (21)

Ultra-Deluxe   (9)

Classic Tour   (31)

Cherry Blossoms   (73)

Autumn Leaves   (41)

Festival   (69)

Special Interest   (94)

less than 9 nights   (100)

9-14 nights   (158)

15 nights +   (25)

Hokkaido   (49)

Tohoku   (26)

Kanto   (238)

Chubu   (237)

Kansai   (238)

Chugoku   (110)

Shikoku   (96)

Kyushu   (32)

Okinawa   (0)

Kyoto Aoi Festival   (9)

Kawazu Cherry Blossoms   (4)

Lavenders   (11)

Snow Monkeys   (52)

Shirakawago   (85)

Gion Summer Festival   (4)

Awa Odori Dance Festival   (4)

Sapporo Snow Festival   (5)

Otaru Snow Light Path   (1)

Ice Breaker Cruise   (5)

Wakasagi Smelt Fishing   (5)

Shiretoko Nature Cruise   (8)

Blue Pond   (14)

Arashiyama Bamboo Forest   (197)

Miho Museum   (109)

Ise Grand Shrine   (4)

Kumano   (6)

Koyasan   (20)

Himeji Castle   (98)

Kurashiki Canal Area   (99)

Miyajima Island   (106)

Shimanami Kaido   (88)

Takeda Castle   (2)

Motonosumi-Inari Shrine   (2)

Adachi Museum of Art   (6)

Naoshima Island   (12)

Tottori Sand Dunes   (2)

Kyoto Cuisine with Maiko   (35)

Shikoku Pilgrimage Route   (4)

Takachiho   (28)

Baby Blue Eyes Flowers   (7)

Wisteria   (11)

Takayama Festivals   (16)

Shibazakura Festivals   (10)

Tohoku 3 Great Summer Festivals   (3)

Green Tea Ceremony with Maiko   (163)

Sushi-Making   (196)

Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route   (6)

Japan Deluxe Tours

Visit the must see sites of japan with group sizes ranging from 12 to 35 people..

These tours are great for first time visitors to Japan looking for comfortable accommodation with all entrance fees and most meals included. Our Japan Deluxe Tours are accomodated with professional tour guides, fluent in both Japanese and English, to ensure an educational and valuable visit. Air-conditoned, private coaches are also included, so you can enjoy a comfortable and hassle-free time in Japan. Our tours range from 7 to 21 days, to various regions of Japan.

Deluxe-Plus Small Group Tours

Experience the culture of japan at a slower pace with groups of 10 to 18 people. (smaller group departure available).

These tours combine enrichment, enjoyment, and education with time to truly absorb and appreciate your surroundings. Our Deluxe-Plus small group tours are created to cater to those who are interested in having a deeper understanding of Japan's culture. You will have the opportunity to participate in culturally rich activities and visit destinations only locals may know. Experience luxurious hotels and travel at a leisurely pace when you book a Deluxe-Plus small group tour.

Budget Group Tours

Our budget tours are designed for our guests who are on a limited budget..

Explore the must-see sights and enjoy the hassle-free trip to Japan at an affordable price. Our most cost-effective way to see the highlights of Japan while staying in budget-friendly accommodations. If you would like to have a quick stop to sample the must-see sights of Japan, or plan to explore Japan on your own but would like to take a short trip to learn about Japan before your self-guided journeys. These are the tours for you.

Active Small Group Tours

Travel japan more flexibly in groups of 6 to 13 people using public transportation..

Explore Japan off the beaten path via Japanese public transportation, walking, hiking, cycling and more. Take more time to enjoy local experiences and picturesque landscape. Our Active Small Group Tours combine the best of cultural destinations with off-the-beaten-path via Japanese public transportation, Discover the country of Japan the way the locals do and see Japan from a different angle. A focus on getting away from the crowds and into the real Japan, see the diversity of Japan’s countryside unfold before your eyes.

Group Tour | Deluxe           Book Now & Save $100

Group Tour | Deluxe     Book Now & Save $100

5 Days 4 Nights | from US $1898.00

Kawazu / Mt Fuji / Matsumoto / Yudanaka / Obuse / Nagano

Take an exclusive 5-day trip beyond tokyo to experience the blooming of japan's earliest cherry blossoms at the kawazu cherry blossom festival and a trip to see the adorable snow monkeys.

7 Days 6 Nights | from US $2898.00

Tokyo / Hakone / Hikone / Koka / Kyoto / Nara / Osaka

Perfect introduction for first time visitors with limited time..

5 Days 4 Nights | from US $2898.00 (Limit to 10 guests)

Mt Fuji - Matsumoto - Obuse - Yudanaka Onsen

Go beyond tokyo for a 5-day journey to mount fuji, matsumoto, obuse, and nagano prefecture, and photograph japan's natural splendor including the adorable snow monkeys of yudanaka..

Group Tour | Active          

Group Tour | Active    

8 Days 7 Nights | from US $2905.00 (Limit to 13 guests)

Kyoto / Nakatsugawa / Magome / Tsumago / Kiso Fukushima / Narai / Kiso Hirasawa / Asama Onsen / Tokyo

A small-group guided winter tour to the nakasendo trail. walk or snow-shoe on five days for 1-3 hours..

8 Days 7 Nights | from US $3198.00

Tokyo / Lake Kawaguchi / Matsumoto / Yudanaka / Takayama / Shirakawa-go / Kanazawa / Kyoto / Nara / Osaka

The must see sights of tokyo, takayama & kyoto... plus the snow monkeys..

Anime Flavor Tour is the best thing to fulfill your Otaku needs. We will go to some of the popular anime spots while learning about Japan’s culture.

9 Days 8 Nights | from US $3598.00

9 Days 8 Nights | from US $3698.00

Tokyo / Hakone / Kawazu / Lake Kawaguchi / Matsumoto / Yudanaka / Takayama / Shirakawa-go / Kanazawa / Kyoto / Nara / Osaka

The must see sights of tokyo, takayama & kyoto... plus the kawazu cherry blossom festival & snow monkeys..

9 Days 8 Nights | from US $3798.00

Shiraoi / Lake Shikotsu / Sapporo / Otaru / Asahikawa / Sounkyo / Kitami / Abashiri / Lake Tofutsu / Lake Akan / Kushiro

See the sapporo snow festival, as well as three other main winter festivals in hokkaido..

10 Days 9 Nights | from US $4098.00

Tokyo / Hakone / Hikone / Koka / Kyoto / Nara / Osaka / Himeji / Kurashiki / Hiroshima / Shimanami Kaido / Oobokekyo Gorge / Takamatsu / Kobe

Perfect for those who want to visit the well known regions of japan..

Spring Tours (Mar - May)

Summer Tours (Jun - Aug)

Autumn Tours (Sep - Nov)

Winter Tours (Dec - Feb)

Travel Styles

Deluxe-Plus

Ultra-Deluxe

Walking Tour

Cherry Blossom Tours

Autumn Leaves Tours

Festival Tours

Special Interest Tours

Seasonal Attractions

Cherry Blossoms

Takayama Spring Festival

Kyoto Aoi Festival

Shibazakura Festivals

Baby Blue Eyes Flowers

Lavenders in Hokkaido

Gion Summer Festival

Tohoku 3 Great Summer Festivals

Awa Odori Dance Festival

Autumn Leaves

Takayama Autumn Festival

Snow Monkeys

Sapporo Snow Festival

Ice Breaker Cruise

Wakasagi Smelt Fishing

Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival

Things Not to Miss

Shirakawago

Miho Museum

Naoshima Island

Himeji Castle

Shiretoko Nature Cruise

Sushi-Making Experience

Kyoto Cuisine with Maiko

Green Tea Ceremony with Maiko

Ise Grand Shrine

Most Beautiful Places in Japan

Otaru Snow Light Path

Tottori Sand Dunes

Arashiyama Bamboo Forest

Miyajima Island

Motonosumi-Inari Shrine

Adachi Museum of Art

Shimanami Kaido

Takeda Castle Ruin

Kurashiki Canal Area

Takachiho Gorge

• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar

Destinations

• Plan Your Trip

Japan’s Magical Winter Season

My first trip to Japan in winter was unspectacular—you might even say it was bad. It was late January 2015 and I headed to Hokkaido, but not to ski. Although local tourism authorities had helped me put together an itinerary, I was woefully underprepared, and left Japan the second week February feeling like I’d missed something.

That’s the bad news. The good news? From my 2019 cold weather swing through Tohoku and Hokuriku, to 2023, when I made a second stab at a winter journey around Hokkaido , the magic of this understated, underrated season has steadily revealed itself.

No matter what about Japan snow season attracts you, or where you think you’ll end up traveling, be sure to continue reading. I’ll not only ensure you avoid the mistakes I made during my first Japan winter itinerary—I’ll guide you toward the transcendental experiences that have now define winter in Japan for me.

How Cold Does It Get in Japan?

The weather varies throughout Japan’s winter season—and, not surprisingly, depending upon where in the country you travel. For example, while Japan in January is usually below freezing (especially in Hokkaido, where it can dip below -20ºC, and the Tohoku region ), I’ve found that places like Kansai and Shikoku can be comparatively balmy during this period, with highs around 10ºC or even higher.

In general, the temperature in Japan in February will decrease, and the propensity for snowfall will increase. This is even the case in cities like Tokyo and Kyoto , which in spite of pictures you might’ve seen online, aren’t exactly winter wonderlands. Certain parts of Japan can be cold and snowy well into the spring—the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route just north of the Japanese Alps , for example, doesn’t even open for traffic until mid-April!

Places to Visit in Japan in Winter

For most people planning a winter holiday in Japan, the country’s northernmost island is going to be near the top of the list. However, Hokkaido is not exclusively for skiers, even though it might seem that way on paper, given how many people make a beeline for Niseko . For example, you can enjoy a walk along the icicle-lined Otaru Canal , attend the Sapporo Snow Festival , marvel at the “Penguin Parade” in Asahikawa , see red-crested tancho cranes in the marshlands surrounding Lake Akan near Kushiro or peer down on Hakodate ‘s star-shaped Goryokaku fort covered in snow.

When clients contact me about a Japan winter itinerary, I often tell them they should choose Tohoku (the northeastern part of Honshu island) instead of Hokkaido. The reason I give them? “Tohoku,” I explain, “is Hokkaido’s scenery with the culture of mainland Japan.” To put it another way, you’ll enjoy wild nature but more typical Japanese architecture and traditions. Spend your days amid the “snow monsters” in Yamagata , and your evenings bathing at Zao Onsen . Traipse amid snow-buried warrior homes in the Kakunodate Samurai district, or visit Akita prefecture’s Yokote Castle when locals build kamakura , which are basically Japanese igloos.

Mt. Fuji and The Japanese Alps

Probably the third-most popular destination in Japan in the winter is the Japanese Alps , which are famous for many of the same reasons Tohoku and Hokkaido are—and not just because of the Hakuba ski resort. Here again, skiers aren’t the only ones who can have a good time, even if Nagano prefecture is home to many of Japan’s best ski resorts. I personally love to base myself in the castle city of Matsumoto and take day trips from there, whether to the scenic Chuo Alps , charming towns like Shirakawa-go and Takayama or the historical Nakasendo trading route. You can also do various activities at Mt. Fuji during the winter , although you obviously can’t climb it.

Perhaps the strangest destination option for Japan winter travel is sub-tropical Okinawa , but not for the reasons you’re thinking. To be sure, while seeing Okinawa’s unique species of cherry blossoms is a pretty singular experience, you shouldn’t be expecting beach time on Tokashiki Island or at Kabira Bay on Ishigaki . Of course, it could still be possible, particularly if you choose to visit during early winter (so, Japan in December) or later in the season, in early-to-mid March. Additionally, the chill winter months are the perfect time to enjoy warming Okinawan cuisine, including taco rice and hearty pork Okinawa soba noodle soup.

Japan’s Major Cities

Although the list of things to do in Tokyo in winter is relatively short, this uncrowded season is still a great time to visit the Japanese capital. Likewise, places like Kyoto , Nagoya and Osaka are practically deserted during winter—and are absolutely delightful if you’re lucky enough to get snow. Fukuoka ‘s chilly winter nights provide the perfect justification to gorge yourself on rich tonkotsu ramen, while Hiroshima manages to feel even more solemn when it’s cold.

Things to Do in Japan in Winter (Besides Ski)

Gawk at the incredible beauty around you.

The thing that shocked me most as I executed my Japan winter itinerary was how colorful the country was during this seemingly dead season. From the vermillion gates of Tokyo’s Hie Shrine , to the tangerine glow above Mt. Fuji at sunset, to the turquoise waters of Tsuru no Yu onsen, to the cloudless azure of the skies above Zao Onsen’s pure white snow, Japan is a vibrant rainbow of color in the winter, much to my surprise and delight.

Practice Your Winter Photography Skills

As a result of what I’ve just written, another top choice for what to do in Japan in winter is snow photography , which is more difficult than you might expect. For instance, while scenes without snowfall require slight over-exposure in order to capture the brilliant white carpet before you, you’ll want to turn up your ISO (and speed up your shutter!) in order to get shots of falling snow just right, lest they be blurred. Invest in a good pair of gloves so your hands don’t freeze, and an extra battery of two—they die faster in the cold!

Enjoy Japanese Animal Adventures

Japan in the winter isn’t just for humans—it’s also when many of the country’s cuddliest residents are at their most resplendent. Of course, seeing animals during a Japan winter travel itinerary isn’t without its caveats—in any season. To start with, while a hike to see the snow monkeys of Jigokudani , a bus journey to the red-crested tancho cranes of Hokkaido or a train ride to see the deer of Nara is relatively innocuous, I’d probably think twice before visiting the so-called “ Fox Village ” of Miyagi prefecture . Likewise, there are certain winter animals you should probably avoid, most notably the bears that are endemic in many parts of Japan.

Savor Warming Winter Foods

One of my favorite things about winter time in Japan is eating—and eating everything in sight! To be sure, while certain dishes (like seasonal oden bowls with spicy mustard, piping hot ramen and steaming plates of tonkatsu curry) seem better suited for season, I’m just as likely to tear into a plate of fresh sushi or enjoy whatever local soft cream flavor is hot, especially the gold-covered variety that’s so popular in Kanazawa ! Just make sure to watch your calorie consumption, if you care about that sort of thing—icy sidewalks can make it difficult to run or jog in Japan in winter.

Visit a Ski Resort Anyway

As you search for things to do in Hokkaido in winter (or even Tohoku, as the case may be), the majority of places you find are going to relate to skiing. However, you needn’t be a skier to visit these places. Whether you get loaded at an après ski bar in Niseko , or ascend the aforementioned Mt. Zao in Yamagata to marvel at the towering snow monsters, you don’t need to be on a pair of skis (or even snowshoes) in order to enjoy Japan’s ski season.

Best Onsen for Japan in Winter Travel

Many people email me asking what to wear in Japan in winter (TIP: a trip to UNIQLO once you arrive in Tokyo should put you in contact with most of what you need), but in some cases the answer is surprisingly simple: Nothing at all! In my opinion, winter is the very best time of year in Japan to enjoy onsen hot springs, particularly if you can find a place to bathe outdoors.

As far as the best (or simply my favorite) Japan winter onsen, that’s a bit more difficult to say. Takaragawa Onsen , located in Gunma prefecture a couple hours north of Tokyo, will always hold a special place in my heart—it’s objectively the most beautiful “natural” hot springs hotel in Japan. I find Akita prefecture’s Tsuru no Yo somewhat overrated, on the other hand, while Shuhokaku Kogetsu in Kawaguchiko probably has the best view (SPOILER ALERT: Mt. Fuji reflected in the waters of Lake Kawaguchi), even if it’s prohibitively expensive for the majority of travelers.

Other FAQ About Traveling to Japan in Winter

Is japan worth visiting in winter.

Visiting Japan in winter is absolutely worthwhile, even if you don’t ski. From light crowds even in the temperate cities of Kyushu and Shikoku , to the chance of seeing your favorite attractions in Kanazawa or Kyoto blanketed in snow, Japan is at its most undisturbed during the winter months.

Is Japan cold in winter?

Japan can be very cold in winter, or very mild. If your Japan winter itinerary takes place in Hokkaido or the Tohoku region, you can expect lots of snow and temperatures well below 0ºC/32ºF. Destinations in Japan’s south and west like Shikoku and Kyushu are mild and sunny, while Okinawa can be downright balmy. Major cities like Tokyo, Kyoto and Hiroshima can be cool and wet, but rarely get legitimately cold or snowy.

Does it snow in Tokyo in December?

Tokyo almost never sees snow, in December or otherwise. If your Japan winter travel itinerary focuses exclusively on the Kanto region and you absolutely must see snow, consider riding the Shinkansen to Nagano or Nikko , or taking a day trip to hike Mt. Takao if you’ll only be in the Tokyo’s city center.

The Bottom Line

In some ways, I prefer Japan in winter to every other season, though that wasn’t the case until somewhat recently. If you can curate a Japan winer itinerary spotlighting places that interest you and experiences that keep you on your toes, the magic of this underrated, understated season will wrap itself around you like a bamboo stalk dusted with fresh snow. You needn’t ski in order to enjoy Japan at its snowiest, though you might commission a custom Japan winter trip to make sure you can see the best of the rest of what’s on offer, whether you’re contemplating visiting Japan in December, January or February.

Plan Your Japan Trip

Subscribe to email updates!

Words, images and design ©2018-2024 Robert Schrader, All rights reserved. Read Privacy Policy or view sitemap .

• South Africa
• Philippines
• New South Wales
• Northern Territory
• South Australia
• Western Australia
• Switzerland
• United Kingdom
• Netherlands
• New Zealand
• Solomon Islands
• Itineraries
• About Travel2Next
• Hotel Reviews
• Travel2Next TV
• Travel Shop

• Destinations
• Things To Do

A Guide To Winter in Japan

Winter in Japan is a white wonderland in Asia.

- This post may contain affiliate links. Read our disclosure.

Winter in Japan is like a fairytale with snow-covered slopes and although it is not the season to see flowering cherry blossoms, there are plenty of other treasures to discover while exploring Japan in winter . Japan’s four islands – Honshu, Hokkaido, Kyushu and Shikoku – offer plenty of amazing sights perfect for exploring during the colder months.

If you’ve never been to Japan during winter , I’d recommend you seriously consider it. If you’re planning your first trip to Japan, while winter may not be the first season that comes to mind there are many reasons to visit during winter in Japan . Although winter is our favourite season in Japan if you’re planning on seeing a range of famous places, it doesn’t matter what time of year you visit.

1- Japan is beautiful in winter

2- japan is less crowded in winter, 3- the japan snow season is fantastic, 4- winter is the best season to soak in a japanese onsen, 5- winter festivals in japan are amazing, 6- it’s the time of year to see the snow monkeys, 7- japanese food seems to taste better, what are the winter months in japan, 1- niseko , 2- hakuba , 3- shiga kogen , 4- winter in tokyo, 5- winter in kyoto, 6- winter in osaka, 7- winter in takayama, 8- winter in gero, japan winter itinerary .

Tip: Save money on travel around Japan and buy a multi-day JR Pass online or choose a 7, 14 or 21-Day Japan Rail Pass before you arrive in the country. 

Also read: 50 Incredible Things To Do In Japan

Winter in Japan 

• 1 Day Tour: Snow Monkeys and Snow Fun in Shiga Kogen – an incredible experience with nature in winter.
• From Sapporo: Winter Wonderland Hokkaido Region Day Tour – a Japan winter experience not to be missed.
• Nagoya: UNESCO Tour to Shiragawago and Takayama – these charming destinations are perfect in winter in Japan.

What is Japan Like In The Winter?

You’ve probably never thought of visiting Japan in December or even in November, so here are some reasons to consider a trip to Japan during the colder months.

Just about anywhere you go in Japan during winter, you’ll see white wintery landscapes straight out of a picture book. 

Aside from skiers, snowboarders and those who like winter sports, most visitors shun travelling to Japan in winter because it’s cold.

This means you’ll be able to avoid the crowds and tour at leisure. 

Visiting Japan in winter is an opportunity to learn to ski or snowboard and there are excellent winter resorts in the Japanese Alps that are reasonably priced. 

There are many activities for non-skiers too.

Looking for inspiration? Here are some travel with friends quotes to share and bookmark these 100 travel quotes to inspire you to get out and travel. 

There’s no better time to warm the bones than winter in Japan while soaking in traditional Japanese hot springs.

In Japan there is a way of doing everything – they call it ‘the Japanese way’ – and bathing in hot springs publicly in an onsen is no exception.

Winter in Japan is the time to rug up and be dazzled by the winter illuminations of a winter festival and there are many to choose from around Japan. One of the most famous is the Sapporo Snow Festival.

Recommended tour: From Sapporo: Winter Wonderland Hokkaido Region Day Tour

Head to a monkey park and watch these adorable creatures do winter in Japanese.

When the weather is cold outside, there’s nothing like tucking into a bowl of piping hot noodles. Japanese food is tasty and the colder weather makes it the perfect time to fuel up.

For more about Japan, read:

• 20 Incredible Landmarks in Japan
• 20 Best Beaches In Japan
• 25 Things To Do In Tokyo At Night
• 25 Landmarks In Tokyo
• A Guide To Winter In Japan
• 50 Things To Do In Japan
• Japan Itinerary (10 days)
• Where To Stay In Tokyo
• Osaka Itinerary
• Nagoya Itinerary
• Where To Stay In Nagoya
• 12 Things To Do in Takayama
• How To Use The Toilets In Japan
• 20 Things To Do In Osaka At Night
• Where To Stay In Osaka
• 20 Things To Do In Hiroshima
• Where To Stay In Hiroshima
• 20 Things To Do In Yokohama
• 15 Things Japan Is Famous For
• 20 Things To Do In Kamakura
• 20 Things To Do In Nagano
• 20 Day Trips From Tokyo
• 3 Day Trips From Osaka
• The Most Beautiful Japan Tourist Spots
• Hakuba Hotels
• Hakuba Ski Resort
• Japanese Onsen Tips
• Where To Stay In Kyoto Like A Local
• Arashiyama Monkey Park
• Eating and Drinking Matcha
• Amanemu Review
• 20 Japanese Drinks
• 20 Things To Do In Kyoto At Night
• 20 Japanese Cities
• 20 Things To Do In Fukuoka
• Where To Stay In Fukuoka
• 20 Things To Do In Nara
• 20 Things To Do In Hakone
• 20 Things To Do In Sapporo
• Where To Stay In Sapporo
• 20 Things To Do In Kanazawa
• 20 Things To Do In Okinawa

20 Things To Do In Sendai

20 things to do in saitama.

Japan winter months are from December to January and, in general, the weather in Japan in winter is usually sunny and the humidity is low.

• Japan in December is festive, with holiday decorations in the cities and ski resorts. Japan weather in December is cold and it’s important to dress in layers. 
• Japan in January is a great time to go to catch some of the vibrant festivals. 
• In Japan in February, you can expect the temperatures to be around 10ºC (42°F) and it’s a lot colder than this at night. Check the weather here . 

Is Winter A Good Time To Visit Japan?

Yes, because Japan is a fantastic destination for skiers and snowboarders.

Japan’s snow season usually starts in mid-December and lasts until early April, which gives skiers and snowboarders a few months to choose from when planning a Japan holiday on the slopes.

Although Japan’s main cities have plenty of attractions to interest most visitors, Japan also has some of the best powder skiing in the world. 

With more than 500 ski resorts in Japan, there’s plenty of choice for all budgets but the best snow is in northern Japan (Hokkaido and Tohoku) and along the coast (Niigata and Nagano). 

Here are the best resorts for a Japan snow season vacation:

In the south of Hokkaido on the slopes of Mount Niseko-Annupuri, Niseko’s main resorts are Grand Hirafu, Niseko Village and Annupuri. 

You can ski all three, which meet at the mountain top, with the Niseko All Mountain Pass. 

Niseko is famous for its light powder snow, spectacular backcountry skiing off the groomed trails. 

Niseko is in the Shiribeshi sub-prefecture in Hokkaido, Japan. 

Bindings, boards, boots and baths.

Does this list give you a tingling and a craving for the best powder in the world?

If you have ever been skiing in Japan, you know already how wonderful a Japanese winter can be but if you haven’t, a trip to Hakuba in Nagano Prefecture in the south of the country will introduce you to the joys of the Japan snow season. 

Learning to ski is fun and fortunately, the instructors are cool, hip, superbly qualified and they speak English well.

Many instructors follow the snow trail in both hemispheres teaching year-round and will transform you into a Japan winter snow-bunny in no time.

Winter in Japan is a great time to visit with kids too, with plenty of other activities such as ice skating, snowshoeing and sled rides.  

Hakuba has accommodation and activities to suit all styles to choose from including Western-style hotels and Japanese ryokans. 

There are a variety of runs, from black runs to wide open gentle slopes.

Would you ski or snowboard? Snowshoe in silent forests or ski-doo for an adrenaline rush?

As this mighty ring of mountains sits squarely on a steady supply of thermal waters, you will, no doubt, soak in the various onsen for their restorative waters and enjoy a long, soothing soak after a day out on the slopes.

Hakuba is in the Nagano Prefecture and can be accessed as a day trip from Tokyo.

Shiga Kogen Ski Area has 19 ski resorts on the slopes of Mount Yokote (2305m) and Mount Oku Shiga Kogen that can be accessed with one lift ticket 

During the Nagano Winter Olympics, the slalom and giant slalom events were hosted in Higashidateyama Resort.

Shiga Kogen is in Nagano Prefecture. 

Recommended tour: 1-Day Tour: Snow Monkeys & Snow Fun in Shiga Kogen

How Cold is Japan in Winter?

How cold it is depends on whether you’re visiting the north or the south of Japan. Below are some average temperatures in various places.

The coldest cities are:

It’s one of the best seasons to visit Japan’s largest cities and even though it’s cold, you will be spending time commuting from one place to the other, mainly underground or in well-heated train stations. 

The cities have lots of indoor winter activities and if you’re not planning on hitting the slopes, here’s why you should consider visiting these cities in Japan during the winter. 

• Tokyo in December: High:12ºC (54°F)/Low: 5ºC (41°F) 
• Tokyo in January: High: 10ºC (50°F)/Low 2ºC~3ºC (35°F~37°F)
• Tokyo in February: High: 10ºC~11ºC (42°F~50°F)/Low 3ºC (37°F)

In Tokyo, all buildings are kept at a steamy temperature and I almost found them too hot.

Tokyo Central station is well signed posted and has a travellers’ help office with English-speaking experts who provide maps and explanations on how to get from A to B.

If you, like me, get lost despite expert help there is always a kind person who will show you how to get to where you are going.

There are some pretty crazy things to do in Tokyo Midtown during winter and the best places to visit in Japan in winter are in the Tokyo underground, where you can explore fantastic eateries for amazing food and crazy themed cafes.

From Cat Cafes to Owl Cafes , Ninja Restaurants to fine dining, electronic cities to manga districts, Tokyo is vibrant and full of life.

Tokyo also has one of the best festivals in Japan, the Setsubun Festival sends away winter by throwing beans to the devils while the Kamakura Festival is also very popular leading into spring. 

Seeing Kyoto’s temples, pagodas and shrines covered in snow is a magical sight and the Golden Pavilion looks especially lovely in the snow. 

Kyoto is also a city of festivals and winter is a great time to catch up on culture at the Toshiya Festival (January), when young women in kimonos compete in an archery competition, or the Setsubun Festival (February).

Visit Kitano Tenmangu Temple to see thousands of plum trees blooming in February and participate in a tea ceremony during the Baika-sai festival.

Recommended tour: Kyoto: Top Highlights Full Day Trip

The good thing about this city is the weather in winter is not quite as cold as other cities, making it a good time to visit.

A great time to visit is during the Festival of Lights, where 4 km of the Umeda central district is a festive affair from November to January. 

Winter is also a great time to visit parks and other attractions, such as Namba Park, Tennoji Park and Osaka Castle, where Christmas 3D light shows light up the trees and buildings, just like in a fairytale. 

Recommended tour: Osaka: Deep Backstreets Exploration

Another place to visit in Japan in winter is Takayama , also known as Little Kyoto because of its ancient sites and well-maintained Edo period buildings.

Takayama also has special local foods, such as sansai (mountain vegetables), wasakana (river fish) and Hida beef – a rival to Wagyu beef.

You’ll love the local soba noodles and there are quality sake breweries where you can keep warm on your Japan winter holiday.

Hōba miso is a local way of grilling beef or fish on a hōba leaf (from the native Magnolia obovata) or also on an oak leaf.

Takayama has the highest snowfalls and is one of the best cities to visit in Japan in winter for photography.

Picture red-lacquered bridges, framed by red-pines bonsai-ed to please the eye with kimono-clad women, making it a quintessential Japanese winter experience.

As Takayama has always been a salubrious area, the old quarter is dotted with the stunning-looking Kura houses.

A Kura house is a mud-brick, fire-resistant building among the all-wood and paper houses of old, where citizens would store their valuables to save them from the regularly occurring fires.

Today, these attractive storage houses are converted to boutiques, trendy cafes and sake tasting locales.

Recommended tour: Nagoya: UNESCO Tour to Shiragawago & Takayama

Gero practically exists as a place for ‘taking the waters’ as it sits on rich underground currents of thermal waters.

Be brave, undress and slip in the hot water pools but there are a few steps to follow prior to doing so.

It’s one of the best places to visit in Japan in winter to warm up.

The Suimeikan Ryokan has three onsens inside their luxury premises (six if you consider the three become six as they are gender-separate).

My favourites are always the open-air ones.

There is nothing like walking out naked to the outdoor pools (even better if it is snowing) and settling in for a relaxing long soak amongst rocks.

The rocks are artistically displayed among the greenery with backdrops of panoramic views that offer the perfect scenery to enjoy in Japan in winter.

Enjoy the scenery of snowed-covered landscapes, mountains and gushing rivers.

One of the best travel tips I can give you when visiting Japan is that soaking in an open-air onsen is a quintessential winter in Japan experience.

If you’re not a skier or snowboarder and are keen to explore cities, then a five-day Japan in winter itinerary covering three cities would be enough.

If you have more time, I would suggest getting out of the city and visiting other places in Honshu, Hokkaido and Shikoku.

Hokkaido is particularly great at this time of year for its wonderful Sapporo Snow Festival .

Day 1 – Tokyo

Arrive in Tokyo and get acclimatised by walking around the city to admire the winter lights.

Make it a point to go to Shibuya Crossing and keep in mind that the heating inside most buildings can get rather hot, so dress in layers.

Day 2 – Hakone

Take a trip to Hakone, where you will get a view of one of the most famous Japanese mountains, Mount Fuji.

One of the best Japan winter attractions is its hot springs, which Hakone is well-known for, and staying at a traditional Japanese ryokan here is another winter treat. 

Recommended tour: From Tokyo to Mount Fuji: Full-Day Tour and Hakone Cruise

Day 3 – Osaka

Take the bullet train and explore one of Japan’s most vibrant cities to visit during winter. Grab an Osaka 1 day pass , which will give you unlimited rides on the subway and discover the city’s famous castle, Shitennō-ji Temple and the Kita area. 

Day 4 – Kyoto

inter in Kyoto is straight out of a Japanese storybook as its gardens, shrines and temples are a magical white winter wonderland. Although Kyoto can easily be visited as a day trip from Osaka, staying overnight in the city is a lovely experience in winter. 

Day 5 – Tokyo

Back in Tokyo, enjoy a winter’s view of the Tokyo Imperial Palace or warm up in one of Tokyo’s quirky cat, owl, maid, manga or robot cafés.

Japan video edited by InVideo .

Plan Your Trip

Rent A Car – Find the best car rental rates at Discover Cars . They compare car hire companies to provide you with the best deal right now.

Find A Hotel – If you’re curious about this article and are looking for somewhere to stay, take a look at these amazing hotels .

Editor's Picks

101 travel quotes – inspiring the journey, 60 luxury escapes for your bucket list, 25 australian landmarks, 21 famous landmarks in japan.

10+ Best Places to Visit in Japan in the Winter

Table of Contents

When you think of the best places to visit in winter, you might think of snowy mountain resorts in Europe or the Rockies.    If you’re not a fan of snow, you might think of an island getaway in the Caribbean. But there’s nothing better, in my opinion, than winter in Japan . The winters in Japan are beautiful, cozy , and a lot of fun. Depending on where you go, you have mountains with some of the best skiing conditions in the world, beaches and great weather, or mild temperatures in the cities like Tokyo or Kyoto that make sightseeing more comfortable than in summer. No matter your winter travel preferences, you’ll find something for you in Japan in the winter.

Check out our traveler gift guide.

THIS ARTICLE MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS. PLEASE READ  THE DISCLAIMER  FOR MORE INFO

When is Winter in Japan?

The winter season in Japan is a relatively brief one starting around the beginning of December and running through to the end of February or at the latest, mid-March. But, as with many countries, the further north you travel, the winters begin to get longer and harsher.

In some parts of northern Japan, especially Hokkaido, and in the more mountainous regions like the Japanese Alps, winter can extend from November right through to May with the coldest temperatures being experienced around mid-season in February.

Stay in southern Japan or in the Pacific Ocean coastal areas, and because of the milder climate there, you might not see one snowflake fall all winter and the days can often be gray, damp, and overcast. In Tokyo, winter is usually December to February with cooler weather on either side that would also be great to travel in.

Head west to the prefectures along the coastline of the Japanese Sea facing towards Russia and Korea and winter is a whole new story. Temperatures drop to below zero almost daily, and heavy snowfalls are frequent.

Also see our Packing list for Japan in Winter.

Get Bookish Travel Inspo right in your Inbox

Sign up to get bookish travel news, inspo, deals, and more.

You have successfully joined our subscriber list.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Japan in Winter?

Japan is a country that receives over twenty million visitors annually, and as with many places that attract travelers in vast quantities; it has its touristic high and low seasons.

January to March is one of the best times to visit Japan as it is considered to be the low season: there are fewer crowds, and accommodation is generally more economical. 

Though it has to be said, forget the days leading up to and after New Year . The same as Oban in August and Golden Week in late April, New Year is one of the main celebratory periods and can be absolute chaos for transportation. Hotel reservations are also hard to come by as everything is booked well in advance and many businesses, shops, and restaurants close for the holidays.

Early December is also a good time to visit Japan as it’s the shoulder month between high and low seasons, the weather is cold but clear and there are not so many visitors to contend with.

What to do in Japan in Winter

Before we get into the specifics of  where  to go in Japan, I thought I’d list some overall things to do .  These are things that happen in multiple places or are quintessentially winter things you can find all over Japan.  They’re all special to Japan in winter and shouldn’t be missed.  

New Year Celebrations

From around the beginning of December, you can feel everyone’s anticipation of the  New Year celebrations  all around the cities and towns of Japan. The shops will be showcasing products for the New Year, such as auspicious osechi cuisine , New Year’s decorations, New Year’s greeting cards, and lucky bags full of goods that can be bought at special discount prices.

2024 is the  Year of the Dragon . You will be able to find products with illustrations of cute dragons, which are considered auspicious this year.

If you spend the New Year in Japan, how about joining the crowds for the traditional New Year midnight shrine or temple visit? In Tokyo, there are plenty of countdown parties and concerts held either in the open or in clubs and live music venues. The  New Year’s Fox Parade held in Oji, a town in the Kita ward of Tokyo, is increasingly popular, attracting participants from all around the country.

Winter Illuminations

Winter illuminations  are one of the distinctive features of this season in Japan. The cities and towns are decorated with beautiful lights from around the end of November to February.

In  Tokyo , you can find beautiful illuminations around Tokyo Station, in Ginza and Yurakucho, as well as Ebisu and Roppongi. The wide parks located less than one hour away from Tokyo, such as Sagamiko Pleasure Forest and Ashikaga Flower Park, have been drawing the attention of thousands of visitors thanks to the innovative collaboration between light and nature.

In  Osaka , the  Nakanoshima Park Illumination  has an exciting theme every year while  Kobe’s Illuminarie  is famous worldwide for the scale and splendor of the lights. If you visit Japan in the winter, do check out some of the illumination events around the city. And when you’re finished, check out Osaka nightlife for a unique blend of classic and modern.

Check out this Tour around Mt. Fuji with the 5 Story Pogoda and Illuminations viewing.

Winter Scenery

Naturally, if we are talking about sights in winter, natural landscapes never fail to capture our hearts. The sight of entire vistas glittering white with freshly piled snow will both refresh and enthrall you. However, such scenes do not just occur everywhere in Japan. In fact, in big cities like  Tokyo ,  Osaka , and  Fukuoka , snow is a rare sight.

Hokkaido  is the first area to experience snowfall in Japan, with the first snowflakes drifting down beginning at the end of October and early November. In the areas of  Aomori ,  Akita , and  Iwate , snow begins to fall from  early November to mid-November,  while in the areas of  Yamagata ,  Miyagi , and  Fukushima , it will start falling  from mid-November into late Novembe r.

In places such as  Niigata ,  Toyama ,  Ishikawa ,  Fuku i, and  Nagano , it begins snowing from late November to early December, so you can enjoy the scenery then.

Even in regions where snow does not tend to pile up, you can find snowy landscapes if you head towards the mountains. For example, snow is very rare in  Kyoto  itself but places like Kinkakuji Temple, Ginkakuji Temple, and Kifune Shrine are famous for their snowy backdrops in the winter. The combination of temples and gardens is particularly gorgeous, and many tourists come to Japan during wintertime just to enjoy these evocative scenes.

Winter Sports

Japan is a mountainous country, which means it’s an ideal environment for winter sports such as skiing, snowboarding, skating, and snow trekking. 

You can find excellent  ski resorts near Tokyo  or you can enjoy a few days in Hokkaido, the most popular destination for exciting winter activities. Our favorite ski resorts are in Hakuba Valley, see our Complete Guide Here . But Niseko in Hokkaido is world-renowned.  We’ll go into them in more detail below.

See also our list of best ski resorts in Japan. or Family-Friendly ski resorts .

Gorgeous  snow festivals  are being held at various locations in eastern and northern Japan, like the Sapporo Snow Festival. They all contain extravagant displays of buildings and statues made completely out of snow and ice, which are illuminated at night, creating a wonderful landscape that can be enjoyed only during this season.

Each festival has various events that attract many visitors from all around the country. The tasty hot local dishes available at the yatai food stalls are themselves one of the attractions at these events.

Check out this great Japanese festival list so that no matter when you visit Japan you can find a festival for your trip.

Visiting Sapporo in winter is popular due to the snow festival. To make the most of the season,  add a guided tour of local food  in Sapporo’s Susukino neighborhood, to sample fresh seafood and delicious dishes to help warm up.

Hot Springs

Winter is also the best time to appreciate  hot springs  or onsen as they’re called in Japan There’s nothing like warming up by taking a hot bath in thermal water. Moreover, many hot spring resorts in the mountains offer open-air baths with wonderful views. Minakami Onsen in Gunma or  Nozawa Onsen  in Nagano are just two places where you can enjoy the amazing experience of taking a bath while gazing at the snowy landscape outside.

Best Places to Visit in Winter in Japan

Finally, let’s get into our list of the best places to go to in Japan in winter. 

Winter in Hokkaido is really cold, yet it’s one of the most beautiful places to visit in the world. The world’s famous Sapporo Snow Festival takes place in the capital city, Sapporo for 2 weeks and turns the whole city into a dreamy winter wonderland.

Over 2 million visitors attend the event every season from Japan and overseas and they are indulged with spectacular snow and ice sculptures.

The nearby ski resort of Niseko (about 2 hours by car/bus) is another must-visit in Hokkaido.  It’s the number 1 ski resort in Japan and is renowned for its quality of powder snow throughout the winter. 

Okhotsk Sea

The Drift Ice or ryuhyo in the Okhotsk Sea north of Hokkaido is the northern hemisphere’s southernmost region to see drifting ice, located on a similar geographical latitude as Portland, Oregon, and Venice, Italy. 

The ice originates from the Amur River in Russia and then drifts through the Sea of Okhotsk to reach Hokkaido, usually in mid-January to early February, before melting before April.  

Hokkaido is Japan’s northern-most island. It is by far the coldest place in Japan and gets the most snow.  It is home to some of the best skiing in the world and should be on any winter itinerary for Japan.  The best way to get to Hokkaido from elsewhere in Japan, especially Tokyo or more south, is by plane. You can fly into Sapporo and venture out from there.

I recently put Hokkaido on my list of Top Hygge Destinations around the world.

The Kamakura Festival

The Kamakura Festiva l, held in Akita prefecture in the north of Japan, is another favorite snow festival held from February to March.  Dome-shaped snow structures are created in various sizes. Within each kamakura there is a snow altar dedicated to the water deity, to whom people pray for ample water.

A charcoal brazier is set up to provide warmth and grill  rice cakes . In the evenings (18:00 to 21:00), children invite festival visitors into their kamakura and offer them rice cakes and amazake, a type of warm sweet  rice wine  with zero or very low alcohol content. In return, the visitors make an offering to the water deity at the altar.

The  festival  area extends east of Yokote Station to Yokote Castle, which is located about two kilometers away across Yokote River. Starting from the station, visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the streets of the town and appreciate scenes of kamakura built beside houses in the neighborhood. It is also possible to take part in kamakura making at one of the hands-on sessions at Komyoji Park.

Ginzan Onsen

Winter is arguably the best season to enjoy Onsen (hot spring bath) as there is nothing better than soaking up our bodies in a hot bath when it’s cold outside. Moreover, to enjoy it in an even better way could be surrounded by snow. There are hundreds of Onsen towns in Japan, but if you wish to enjoy a snowy Onsen experience, definitely head north.

Ginzan Onsen in Yamagata Prefecture is one of the most historical and picturesque Onsen towns in Japan. The town offers an amazing preserved nostalgic townscape from the 19th century and has been featured in the media in past. It was chosen as “Japan’s most charming winter village” by CNN.

Juhyo Ice Trees

Juhyo Ice Trees are an amazing winter phenomenon that can be captured in Japan in the northern ski resort at Zao.  The Zao ice trees are one of the most unique and spectacular snow arts made by nature.  

Hundreds of snow monsters cover the slope at Zao Ski Resort and visitors can enjoy skiing and snowboarding past these trees. At night, the snow monsters are lit up and display mystical winter scenery.

Jigokudani Monkey Park. 

The snow monkey park near Nagano offers a unique experience of seeing wild monkeys bathing in natural hot springs. The park is inhabited by Japanese Macaques, which are usually just called snow monkeys.  The park is located in the monkey’s natural habitat in the forests of Jigokudani Valley in Yamanouchi.  

Book Tickets Here.

The park has one man-made pool where the monkeys gather, but monkeys can be seen bathing in the natural baths and rivers around the main pool.  

Accustomed to humans, the monkeys can be watched from very close and they will almost completely ignore the human guests around them.  But, you shouldn’t try to pet or feed the monkeys and just watch them going about their lives. 

The park is open all year but from December to March is the best time to visit because of the beautiful snowy scenery and the most amount of monkeys wanted to warm up in the baths.   If you happen to be visiting other times of the year you can still come to Jigokudani but there are also plenty of places to see snow monkeys in Japan .

There is a bit of a walk from the car park to the actual park so if you have little ones, you might need to consider that, especially if it’s snowy and your kids tire of walking in their boots and snow gear after a short hike.  We brought a plastic sled to give the kids a hand on the long winding hike. 

While you’re in Nagano, I recommend visiting either Hakuba or Nozawa Onsen .  Both towns are a short drive (though in opposite directions) from Nagano and offer some world-class ski areas (some of the ski events for the Nagano Olympics were held in Hakuba), a great ski town atmosphere, and obviously onsens. 

If you’re new to skiing, I recommend booking a private lesson to help you stay safe on the mountain and have a fun time.

Misotsuchi Icicles. 

            Another winter phenomenon in Japan, and this one is more accessible from Tokyo. The icicles of Misotsuchi are gigantic icicles created by flowing water over the cliffs upstream from the waterfall in the Chichibu area in Saitama Prefecture, which is located next to Tokyo, making it a great day trip.  During the peak season, the special light-up event is held and lightens up the icicles mystically. 

Tokyo Disney Resort

If you’re a die-hard Disney fan, or just want to feel the nostalgia of your innocent youth, a trip to Tokyo Disney won’t disappoint. Especially in winter before Christmas, I think TDR is magical.  With special performances, holiday decorations, and limited-time food and merch, a trip to Disneyland might just be what you need at the end of your trip to Japan. 

Located very close to Tokyo, you can easily get a feel for the park in one day (or add a second day and visit Tokyo Disney Sea. I recommend choosing a weekday to avoid crowds and try to stay away from the big holidays like Christmas and New Year or other Japanese holidays that happen during winter.  

Buying tickets for Tokyo Disney Resort can be a little tricky. You can get tickets on the TDR website (though it can be hit or miss working with foreign credit cards), most conbini like 7-11 or lawson, at a JTB travel agent, on klook , or if you stay at a Disney hotel or partner hotel (but double check when you book that they’re guaranteeing tickets for guests.)

Check out what to do at Tokyo Disneyland during Christmas here .

Tokyo SkyTree

            The Sky Tree is a fun experience any time of the year, but in winter you can get great views of a snow-covered Mount Fuji.  Between May to September Fuji-san is often obscured by haze or clouds (and in my opinion doesn’t look as impressive without snow) so winter is my recommended time for viewing.  

The Skytree also gets you a great view over the city if you can stomach the jaw-dropping height.  A view over one of the largest cities in the world, as well as a spectacular view of an iconic volcano, is a must when visiting Japan. Buy your tickets on Klook. It’s cheaper than other places online and it will save you so much time in line.

While you’re in Tokyo shop for a good book at one of these English Bookstores .

Shirakawago Village 

Shirakawago Village is a charming and rustic traditional Japanese village located in Gifu Prefecture, Central Japan. The UNESCO World Heritage village displays the beautiful scenery in each season collaborating with the surrounding nature.

In winter, the snow covers the whole village and creates a wonderful view. The special light-up events are held several times during winter. It is one of the most beautiful and traditional places Japan has to offer.

Check out this tour of the village.

Japanese Winter Food

Eating local and seasonal food is the norm in Japan, where people it’s common for people to travel across the country to sample a local specialty in season.  But while food is always a great reason to travel in Japan, winter might just be the best time of the year for culinary travelers. 

Top sushi spots in Tokyo, as well as other sushi hubs like Kanazawa, Toyama, Fukuoka, and Hokkaido all, showcase seasonal specialties from the winter catches.  

In Sapporo, you can sample heartwarming foods like soup curry, and miso ramen.  Winter also brings about two of the nationwide winter favorites: oden and nabe. 

Oden is a type of nabemono (a Japanese one-pot dish) that has several ingredients like boiled eggs, daikon, and konjac, in a dashi broth, can be found anywhere from oden-specialty restaurants to  izakayas  and even convenience stores like 7-11 or Lawson.  

Oden is one type of nabe, but nabe or “hotpots” can be made from a wide range of ingredients and are usually shared with family and friends.  

Talking about izakayas, they’re a great place to spend a cold winter evening.  Izakayas are a small local establishments, sort of like a bar or tavern but serve small tapas-style dishes. Every izakaya I’ve been in has a cozier vibe than you might get from a typical bar in the U.S. and is a great place to experience Japanese food and culture. 

Check out one of these Restaurants:

Or take a Food tour of Tokyo.

Japanese Winter Fashion

When packing for Japan’s winter weather you’ll need a down jacket or coat, gloves, a hat, and possibly a scarf.  If you’re sticking near Tokyo, some (obviously) close-toed shoes would be fine, but if you’re venturing north or to the mountains, you’ll need boots that can withstand snow.  

For gift ideas for the traveler in your life, check out our traveler gift guide.

Buy on Amazon

Winter is a great time to visit Japan.  From amazing winter sports to cozy hygge experiences , you should visit Japan in the winter if you have a chance.  Hopefully, this list gave you an idea of some of the best places to go in Japan and spark your wanderlust for your next adventure.

Are you ready for Japan?

• Book Your Flights – To find the cheapest flights, flexibility is a must. Some great options are Google Flights for the calendars to find the cheapest options, Skiplagged , and Skyscanner . For more options see our resources page . For Japan, check flights for both Tokyo Airports (Haneda and Narita), as well as Osaka (Kansai).
• Find Transportation- Buy your JR Pass for your bullet train and inter-city travel before you leave home. Research a Suica card, the public transportation card you can either buy before or as soon as you arrive.
• Book Your Accommodation – Look at Booking.com, Hotels.com , or Expedia for hotels in Japan. You can also look at AirBnB or VRBO as we’ve had great luck finding inexpensive, large, and clean homes to rent.
• Book Tours and Experiences- Check Klook or Viator for some of the best tours and attractions for a great price for experiences like Tokyo Skytree , TeamLab Borderless , and Universal Osaka . For Tokyo Disney Resort, check my guide here.
• Stay Connected – Order a pocket WIFI for airport pickup if you’re with a family or group, or order a SIM card just for your phone. Check out our guide to staying connected here.
• Buy Travel Insurance- I always recommend World Nomads for insurance. It’s better to protect yourself in case of mishaps. Learn more about World Nomads in this FAQ post.
• Pack Your Bags – Check out my packing lists , or my favorite travel gear to help you remember all of the essentials.
• Learn About Japan – Learn about Japan with guidebooks like Lonely Planet , or, shameless plug , search around my site for more info.

Hey, I’m Mackenzie, a writer, book lover, and traveler. I've been to 65 countries and have found the best bookstores, coffee shops, and literary activities around the world. I have 10 years of travel writing experience, writing for my own sites and for other large brands. When not writing, I'm probably running or hiking, reading, or watching British TV. Like this article? Consider buying me a coffee to help keep the posts coming.

Similar Posts

Top 5 Murakami Novels: Beginner’s Guide

Haruki Murakami is one of the most acclaimed contemporary Japanese authors with a worldwide readership. His work is known for its surrealistic elements, vivid imagery, and intricate characters. I started really getting into Murakami’s books when I moved to Tokyo. Before then I had only heard of his name in passing, knowing that he was…

10+ Best Places for Book Lovers to Spend Christmas

Christmas is a magical time of year, filled with joy, traditions, and the warmth of loved ones. For book lovers, there is an additional layer of excitement as they seek out new literary adventures to indulge in during the holiday season. Whether it’s curling up by a crackling fire with a classic novel or wandering…

The Complete Literary Travel Guide to Edinburgh

Edinburgh, the first UNESCO City of Literature, is a place where history, literature, and architectural beauty converge. With its cobbled streets, medieval castles, and stunning landscapes, it’s no wonder this Scottish city has been a muse for countless literary greats throughout the centuries. In this Literary Travel Guide to Edinburgh, we’ll set out through the…

Hygge Travel Essentials

I’ve said before that hygge and coziness have become really important to me.  Maybe because I’m prone to stress and anxiety, or maybe because I just like a cozy blanket, but either way, I’ve taken to bringing coziness and hygge into as many aspects of my life as I can. And one of those is travel. …

12 Things To Do in Wichita Falls, TX

Take a look at the list I’ve put together of things I’ve done here, and a few I have yet to do (but have heard many times they are a must). For more up-to-date info on events in town, check out Choose Wichita Falls, a great resource for finding things to do and keeping yourself from being bored.

19+ Books to Read Before Visiting Finland

Before traveling, I always recommend travelers look beyond the Top 10 Lists or bucket list items and read books from another culture to better immerse themselves into the culture and traditions of that place. While guidebooks and travel blogs provide valuable insight into the practice aspects of travel, they often fail to capture the essence…

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

10 Best Places to Visit in Japan in Winter 2023-2024

Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Japan during Winter

Planning a trip to Japan? Are you wondering which season to visit??

Visiting Japan in winter is one of the greatest options as you can enjoy numbers of seasonal attractions and activities only this time of the year!

From snow events to winter illuminations, the winter in Japan offers some of the most spectacular scenery that you may wanna see once in your lifetime!

Check out my picks of the 10 best places to visit in Japan during winter 2023-2024 and find where to go in Japan in winter!

1. Abashiri Drift Ice

Hokkaido is the coldest city in Japan, and various kinds of spectacular winter phenomena and scenery can be captured in this northernmost land during the cold season. The drift ice is one of them (Ryuhyo in Japanese). The Sea of Okhotsk along Abashiri City, Hokkaido is known as the southernmost point see drifting sea ice just like in the Arctic.

Visitors can take the ice breaker sightseeing ship and watch the dynamic drift ice in close for the limited time of the year.

Related link: https://ms-aurora.com/abashiri/en/

2. Sapporo Snow Festival

Winter in Hokkaido is really cold, yet it’s definitely one of the most beautiful places to visit in the world. The world’s famous Sapporo Snow Festival takes place in the capital city, Sapporo for 2 weeks and turns the whole city into the dreamy winter wonderland.

Over 2 million visitors attend the event every season from Japan and overseas and they are indulged with spectacular snow and ice sculptures.

More info: Sapporo Snow Festival

3. Ginzan Onsen

Winter is arguably the best season to enjoy Onsen (hot spring bath) as there is nothing better than soaking up our bodies in a hot bath when it’s cold outside. Moreover, to enjoy it in even better way could be in snow. There are hundreds of Onsen towns in Japan, but if you wish to enjoy snowy Onsen experience, definitely head to north.

Ginzan Onsen in Yamagata Prefecture is one of the most historical and picturesque Onsen towns in Japan. The town offers an amazing preserved nostalgic townscape from 19th century and has been featured on numbers of medias in past. It was chosen as “Japan’s most charming winter village” by CNN.

More info: Ginzan Onsen: Nostalgic Hot Spring Town from 19th Century

Winter phenomena can be captured in Japan, not only in Hokkaido, and one of them can be seen at a popular ski resort in northern Japan. Zao’s ice trees (Juhyo) is one of the most unique and spectacular snow arts made by nature.

Hundreds of snow monsters covered the slope at Zao Ski Resort, and visitors can actually enjoy skiing and snowboarding passing by the trees. At night, the snow monsters are lit up and displays mystical winter scenery.

More info: Zao Onsen: Meet the Snow Monsters

5. Kamakura Festival

Besides Sapporo Snow Festival, numbers of snow events are held in the northern part of Japan during winter. Kamakura is one of the traditional winter items in Japan which is a dome shaped snow sculpture in various sizes. Yunishigawa Kamakura Festivals is held annually at Yunishigawa Onsen Town in Tochigi Prefecture.

The event features countless small Kamakura domes lightened up dreamy during the night. The event runs for a month from February to March and offers several fun snow activities to visitors.

More info: Yunishigawa Onsen Kamakura Festival

6. The Icicles of Misotsuchi

Another winter phenomena in Japan, and this one is more accessible from Tokyo. The icicles of Misotsuchi is gigantic icicles created by flowing water over the cliffs upstream from the waterfall in Chichibu area in Saitama Prefecture, which is located next to Tokyo.  During the peak season, the special light-up event is held and lightens up the icicles mystically.

More info: The Icicles of Misotsuchi: Take a Winter Day Trip from Tokyo

7. Jigokudani Monkey Park

Besides Mount Fuji and Cherry Blossoms, one of the most iconic and unique scenery of Japan is the Snow Monkeys. The sight of wild monkey bathing in hot bath surrounded by white snow can be captured at Jigokudani Monkey Park in Nagano Prefecture.

The snow monkeys literally live around the park so you can meet them through the year, but the best season to visit is definitely winter. It’s located in Yamanouchi Town, in the Shiga Kogen Highland on the Japanese Alps.

More info: Meet the Snow Monkeys at Jigokudani Monkey Park

8. Nabana no Sato

Numbers of illumination events are held across the country through winter, and it’s now a top tourist attraction in Japan among locals and tourists. One of the most spectacular and popular winter illuminations is held at Nabana no Sato, the amusement park in Mie Prefecture.

Approx 8 million LED lights are used to create the stunning arts of lights at the vast park including the famous the “Tunnel of Lights”. The illumination event runs from mid autumn till early spring annually.

More info: Nabana no Sato: Spectacular Winter Illumination

9. Shirakawago

Shirakawago Village is a charming and rustic traditional Japanese village located in Gifu Prefecture, the Central Japan. The village displays the beautiful scenery in each season collaborating with the surrounding nature.

In winter, the snow covers the whole village and creates a wonderful view. The special light-up events are held several times during winter.

More info: Shirakawago: the Best Time to Visit

10. Kifune Shrine

Kyoto is the top tourist destination in Japan through the year, and there are hundreds of historic sites to visit. Kifune Shrine is one of the best hidden gems in Kyoto. The shrine can be enjoyed all year around but winter could be the best time to visit. The light-up event is held at night during January and February only when it snows.

More info: Kifune Shrine: New Travel Destination in Kyoto

How did you enjoy the list? For more beautiful places in Japan in other seasons, please check out listed articles!

▽Related Articles▽

▼Editor’s Picks▼

"The world is my oyster" A globetrotter 🌎 and hammock lover 🌞 who loves taking adventures to fuel wanderlust. Born and raised in Japan, I have lived and explored countries around the world. As a resident of Japan and based on my travel experience, I'd love to share my knowledge and tips for travelling Japan with my readers. I hope my story will help you plan your trip and have a great time in Japan 🌈

• Things to Do

• Media & Industry
• Meetings & Events
• Select Language 简体中文 繁體中文（香港） 繁體中文（臺灣） India (English) Bahasa Indonesia 한국어 ภาษาไทย Tiếng Việt Singapore (English) Philippines (English) Malaysia (English) Australia/New Zealand (English) Français Deutsch Italiano Español United Kingdom (English) Nordic countries（English） Canada (English) Canada (Français) United States (English) Mexico (español) Português العربية Japan(日本語) Global (English)
• India (English)
• Bahasa Indonesia
• Singapore (English)
• Philippines (English)
• Malaysia (English)
• Australia/New Zealand (English)
• United Kingdom (English)
• Nordic countries（English）
• Canada (English)
• Canada (Français)
• United States (English)
• Mexico (español)
• Global (English)
• Fujiyoshida
• Shimonoseki
• Ishigaki Island
• Miyako Island
• Kerama Island
• Tokyo Island
• Koka & Shigaraki
• Hida Takayama
• Ginza, Nihonbashi
• Beppu & Yufuin (Onsen)
• Ginzan Onsen
• Nagasaki Islands

• Kumano Kodo
• Shikoku Karst
• Amami Oshima
• Hachimantai
• Omihachiman
• Aizuwakamatsu

• Diving in Japan
• Skiing in Japan
• Seasonal Flowers in Japan
• Sustainable Outdoors
• Off the Beaten Track in Japan
• Scenic Spots
• World Heritage
• Home Stays & Farm Stays

• Japanese Gardens
• Japanese Crafts
• Temple Stays
• Heritage Stays
• Festivals and Events
• Theater in Japan
• Japanese Tea Ceremony
• Cultural Experiences in Japan
• Culture in Japan

• Local Cuisine Eastern Japan
• Local Cuisine Western Japan
• Local Street Food
• Japan's Local Ekiben
• Japanese Whisky
• Vegetarian and Vegan Guide
• Sushi in Japan Guide
• Japanese Sake Breweries

• Art Museums
• Architecture
• Performing Arts
• Art Festivals
• Japanese Anime and Comics
• Japanese Ceramics
• Local Crafts

• Scenic Night Views
• Natural Wonders
• Theme Parks
• Samurai & Ninja
• Iconic Architecture

• Wellness Travel in Japan
• Japanese Ryokan Guide
• A Guide to Stargazing in Japan
• Relaxation in Japan
• Forest Bathing (Shinrin-yoku)

• Experiences in Japan
• Enjoy my Japan
• National Parks
• Japan's Local Treasures
• Japan Heritage
• Snow Like No Other
• Wonder Around Japan

• Visa Information
• Getting to Japan
• Airport Access
• COVID-19: Practical Information for Traveling to Japan
• Anime Tourism
• Countryside Stays
• Accessible Tourism
• Hokkaido Great Outdoors
• Scenic World Heritage in Tohoku
• Shikoku’s Nature and Traditions
• Southern Kyushu by Rail

• Traveling by Rail
• How to Travel by Train and Bus
• JR Rail Passes
• Scenic Railways
• Renting a Car
• Sustainable Travel in Japan
• Travel Brochures
• Useful Apps
• Online Reservation Sites
• Eco-friendly Accommodation
• Luxury Accommodations
• Traveling With a Disability
• Hands-free Travel
• How to Book a Certified Tour Guide
• Volunteer Guides
• Tourist Information Center

• Japanese Manners
• Spring in Japan
• Summer in Japan
• Autumn in Japan
• Winter in Japan
• Cherry Blossom Forecast
• Autumn Leaves Forecast

• Japan Visitor Hotline
• Travel Insurance in Japan
• Japan Safe Travel Information
• Accessibility in Japan
• Vegetarian Guide
• Muslim Travelers
• Safety Tips

• JAPAN Monthly Web Magazine
• Arts & Cultures
• Nature & Outdoor
• Festivals & Events
• Insider Blog
• Things to do
• Local Guides
• Food & drink
• Traditional
• Hokuriku Shinetsu

My Favorites

${v.desc | trunc(25)}

Planning a Trip to Japan?

Share your travel photos with us by hashtagging your images with #visitjapanjp

GUIDE Skiing in Japan Japan is world-famous for its powder snow

• Stories & Guides

Ride powder snow and carve lines on Japan's most coveted slopes in Niseko, Hakuba, the Japan Alps and traditional hot spring towns

Japan ranks consistently as one of the top destinations in the world for skiing and snowboarding. Thanks to the cold winds that blow over the Sea of Japan, the country receives some of the highest amounts of snow in the world.

Come for the skiing and snowboarding, stay for the hospitality, cuisine, hot springs and culture.

When to ski in Japan

The ski season in Japan generally begins in December and lasts until April but the actual dates depend on each resort and their location. Hokkaido, due to its location in the north, and the mountains of Nagano, located in higher altitudes, tend to get more snow earlier in the season than other places.

The peak season is in January and February, the months that get the most consistent snowfall. There can also be significant dumps of snow in March, though the weather begins to be more unpredictable with a higher chance of warm spells. The Christmas and New Year's holidays, as well early February, draw the highest number of crowds on the slopes.

Where to ski in Japan

There also plenty of skiing and snowboarding destinations to choose from throughout the country; Tohoku in northeastern Japan offers family-friendly resorts with beginner and intermediate terrain, while central Honshu—in particular, Niigata, Nagano and Gunma—offer many great options, with some close enough to Tokyo to make a day trip.

Japan's best skiing: Niseko or Hakuba?

It's sometimes a difficult choice between these two areas if you have limited time in Japan. Both areas get a lot of snow in winter and you won't be disappointed by the expansive terrain or views.

Niseko, a mountain village in western Hokkaido, is rated as a popular destination. It's beginner friendly and has the most options for English speakers in Japan, not to mention the views of Mt. Yotei.

You can also find good deals on lift passes and accommodation at lesser-known resorts throughout Japan which still have great quality skiing and fewer crowds.

Skiing in Hokkaido

Niseko is a renowned ski resort in Hokkaido, but it's not the only one. There are several other resorts on the island that get high volumes of snow every season—and they are often less crowded than Niseko.

Skiing the Japanese Alps

Skiing in Tohoku

Day trips from tokyo.

Luckily the mountains aren't too far from Tokyo and there are some excellent ski and snowboarding options close enough to make a day trip if you are pressed for time but want a taste of skiing in Japan. Visit Gala Yuzawa in Niigata for the convenience—there is a gondola connected to the train station—or head just a bit further south in Niigata to Kagura Ski Resort where the heights give you access to powder snow and long runs. It's also a good place for beginner and intermediate skiers. Access the area by shinkansen to Jomo Kogen Station.

For snowboarders

Japan is a dream for snowboarders—thanks to the many resorts with wide runs, ungroomed slopes and a huge amount of powder snow that falls in winter. Snowboarding is particularly popular in Japan, at least compared to North America and Europe. Almost all resorts allow snowboarders on the slopes and have facilities for boarders, but make sure to check in advance if there are certain “off-limits” areas.

Family friendly skiing

If you're coming to Japan with children, many resorts offer mixed-level terrain for family members at different levels, along with day care, kids lessons and English-language lessons. Shiga Kogen resort is a safe bet for families, with its varied slopes. Nozawa Onsen had a kids' ski school. Tsugaike Kogen in Hakuba has gentle slopes for beginners, and there are several ski schools in the Hakuba area that have both group and private lessons for children. Most resorts also have a kids' play area where you can play in the snow and go sledding. Paid childcare is also available at many of the resorts, although the majority of places offer it only in Japanese. In Niseko, some accommodations offer childcare services. Self-contained accommodations like apartments and houses are also popular among families who want to cook their own food.

Getting there

There are many different transportation options to the ski resorts around Japan. It usually consists of a combination of bullet train or plane plus local bus transport to the resorts. Some hotels and chalets offer free shuttle services from local train stations.

You can get to Niseko by taking a 90-minute flight from Tokyo to the New Chitose Airport in Hokkaido, then a 3-hour direct bus to Niseko which makes several stops in the three main areas of Hirafu, Niseko Village and Annupuri. There are also direct flights to New Chitose from Australia and other Asian countries.

If you want to go directly to Hakuba after arriving on your international flight, Chuo Taxi runs long-distance transfer services from Narita and Haneda airports, which take around 4-5 hours.

Cost of skiing in Japan

Cost at a glance

Lift Pass 3,500 yen - 5,000 yen

Rentals from 3,300 yen / set

Accommodation from 5,000 yen / night

Ski Rentals

Every ski resort in Japan has rental outlets, usually located at the base of the mountain near the main lifts and gondolas, or in the villages surrounding the slopes. Most outlets offer a range of rentals—high quality and branded gear is available at a premium, and older versions of skis and snowboards can be rented at lower cost. It's usually more economical to rent ski and snowboard sets, which include the skis or snowboard, boots and poles. Some places also rent helmets, masks, gloves, jackets and pants. You don't normally need to book in advance, but if you have large feet or require large sizes, it's best to inquire in advance to check if the rental outlet has your size available.

Transporting your own gear

If you've decided to bring your own gear with you and skiing in Japan is part of a larger itinerary, baggage and delivery services can transport your gear to your hotel at the ski resort, or onward to other cities in Japan you will be visiting. The service is inexpensive and is available in airports and convenience stores, and your accommodation can help you arrange this service and many hotels have the delivery forms readily available.

Compared to Europe and the U.S., Japan remains underdeveloped in terms of apres ski options. If you're looking for great restaurants and bars, Niseko is the place to go for the range of food, drink, and nightlife catering to international travelers. Hakuba comes in second, with a number of izakaya, craft beer bars and restaurants located in Hakuba Village. Other areas of Japan are relatively quiet at night, but offer traditional hot springs and Japanese-style pubs run by locals, affording travelers a uniquely Japanese experience. Sip a hot beverage, drink warm sake or dip in a natural hot spring after a day out on the mountain.

Ski Lessons

For beginners, many of the popular ski resorts offer both kids and adult lessons, half-day or full-day. If you would like to guarantee an English-speaking instructor, it is recommended to book lessons in advance during the peak season—availability of instructors can be limited and they get booked quickly during the high season.

Off-piste and backcountry

Other areas are more relaxed about skiers and boarders going off-piste, but be aware that this is at your own risk; if you become injured or stranded, the cost of being evacuated is not covered by the resort and you will be charged for it.

Guided skiing

If you're going off piste or backcountry, it's best to hire a professional guide. Heli-skiing is very limited in Japan, and one of the places to do true heli-skiing is on Mt. Shiribetsu, north of Rusutsu resort. Book a package with local outfitters in Hokkaido—reserved for high-level intermediates and experts only. Cat skiing is available at Niseko and Tomamu resorts in Hokkaido along with some smaller resorts in Honshu.

Accommodation

While you're in japan.

While you enjoy the thrill of skiing or snowboarding with family and friends, take some time to explore Japan's cultural side. During the winter, there are also many snow festivals featuring elaborate ice sculptures, igloos, lanterns and illuminations at night. Make the most of your holiday trip to Japan at these fun, festive events.

The latest information may differ, so please check the official website

* The information on this page may be subject to change due to COVID-19.

• Story & Guide
• Ski & Snowboard
• Winter Guide

Did this information help you?

out of found this information helpful.

Thank you for your feedback.

Recommended for you.

Please Choose Your Language

Browse the JNTO site in one of multiple languages

• India Today
• Business Today
• Reader’s Digest
• Harper's Bazaar
• Brides Today
• Cosmopolitan
• Aaj Tak Campus
• India Today Hindi

I spent 10 days travelling Japan during Sakura 2024. It's a spell hard to break

A trip to japan during its legendary cherry blossom season is life-altering in the best, humblest, most efficient of ways..

Listen to Story

• Japan is a wonderland in spring
• The months of March-April are the busiest in Japan in terms of tourist footfall
• People from all over the world travel to Japan in spring to see its famed cherry blossoms

While the country's big-hitting cities such as spiritual Kyoto, cosmopolitan Osaka and vibrant Tokyo, Japan's capital and a popular springboard for Mount Fuji, are all must-sees, there are the sunny southern islands of Japan to discover too. With breath-taking beaches and a slower pace of life, they're the ideal spot for a more leisurely trip. And then there are the Japanese Alps, vast and verdant, and a hugely popular choice for a Japan skiing holiday.

While you need to consider where you'd like to visit on your epic Japan adventure, there's also the case of how . Flights go direct from London to Tokyo, but when it comes to choosing how to traverse this incredible country there are numerous options – from guided coach tours to luxury cruises.

For a helping hand with where to start, we've rounded up some of our favourite ways to discover Japan, including a group tour across the Japanese Alps , a 17-day cruise during beautiful cherry blossom season, and an indulgent inclusive break in sun-drenched Okinawa.

A tour of Japan's essential highlights

Embark on this thrilling 13-day roundtrip from Tokyo, which showcases the magical, ancient heritage of Japan as well as its futuristic, neon-lit metropolises. This guided tour, which includes coach travel and hotel accommodation, will give you plenty of time to soak up the colour and culture of Japan's capital, which boasts the bustling shopping district of Ginza, vivid Harajuku, iridescent Akihabara electric town, and world-famous Meiji Shrine in Shibuya, the commercial district.

Beyond Tokyo, you'll visit majestic Mount Fiji, Japan's tallest peak; ride the Shinkansen, the high-speed bullet train; see the resident deer in the city of Nara; spend the day in Hiroshima, which has been rebuilt into an attractive, modern city; and have the chance to stay in a ryokan , a typical Japanese inn, in Kyoto. This accessible and fully-organised tour covers all the essentials and more.

Join us on the Good Housekeeping 13-day Japan tour in August 2024.

A cruise in beautiful cherry blossom season

One of the biggest draws to Japan is undeniably its picturesque cherry blossom season and the custom of hanami , admiring the beauty of it. Every spring, millions of locals and visitors alike patiently wait for the first sakura (the Japanese term for cherry blossom) buds to bloom, showing off their delicate, baby pink-hued petals. The abundance of blossom flowering is celebrated with festivals, picnics and the eating of seasonal, sakura-themed delicacies.

If experiencing this springtime phenomenon is on your bucket list, then this 17-day cruise in Japan is for you. While giving you the opportunity to catch the cherry blossom in cities like Tokyo and Osaka, the leisurely sailing with Holland America enables you to see plenty more of Japan, too. Other port stops include Kagoshima, Nagasaki, Aomori and the lively, karaoke-loving city of Busan in South Korea. And all of this is without mentioning the incredible entertainment, food and bars onboard your ship, of course.

Embark on a 17-day cherry blossom cruise around Japan with Good Housekeeping in 2025.

FIND OUT MORE

A jaunt through the Japanese Alps with plenty of tradition

While this group tour ticks off the unmissable cities of Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto and Nara, it takes its guests on a journey through the beautiful Japanese Alps, a series of mountain ranges on the island of Honshu. This mountainous region is home to an abundance of picturesque cities and towns, all offering a glimpse into Japan's rural life. On this 13-day tour you'll visit the pretty city of Takayama, which brims with Edo Period houses, food and craft markets and traditional restaurants.

You'll also get the chance to wander the village of Shirakawago, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its thatched roof farmhouses that are said to resemble the praying hands of Buddhist monks. Along with admiring gorgeous scenery, you'll have the chance to get on hands-on with activities such as miso-making, washi paper-making, gold leaf crafting and origami. If you're craving a taste of traditional Japan, you'll find bags of it on this brilliantly-curated trip.

Explore the Japanese Alps with Good Housekeeping in 2024 or 2025.

A city break in Tokyo, Japan's energetic capital

If you've got limited time or would prefer to dedicate your trip to just one destination in Japan, then Tokyo is the answer. Known as Edo until 1868, the Japanese capital is the world's most populous city and thus it's a melting pot of activity, culture and cuisines. As city breaks go, you'll be spoilt for choice here: see the Imperial Palace and many landscaped gardens (we like Koishikawa Korakuen and Hama Rikyu) in central Tokyo, the museums and towering Skytree viewing platform for city-wide views in northern Tokyo, and the busy shopping and entertainment districts of Shibuya, Shinjuku and Harajuku in the west.

For easy access to all of this (and so much more) it's best to base yourself centrally, and a hotel would give you the benefit of a helpful concierge to offer recommendations, book transfers and advise on transport throughout your trip. In a city with so much to offer, a bit of local knowledge goes a long way.

Plan a Tokyo city break British Airways, where you can book flights and hotels as a package.

A relaxing all-inclusive holiday in Okinawa

The idyllic island of Ishigaki is part of the Okinawa Prefecture in southern Japan, where the climate is tropical and the weather is warm and humid all year round. It's here that you'll find Club Med's Kabira Ishigaki resort , perched on the edge of the Kabira peninsula with endless views of the turquoise ocean ahead. A family-friendly resort, Kabira Ishigaki is the ideal way to see Japan with a hearty side of rest and relaxation. You can lounge around the freshwater pool and unwind with a treatment in the spa, or, on days where you can muster the energy, try your hand at windsurfing or kayaking in the crystal-clear sea.

The ocean is sacred here, as it's home to manta rays and other marine life, and guests wanting to learn more about life under the water's surface can book eco-friendly snorkelling tours or day trips to nearby islands. There's the chance to experience local culture on dry land too, as guests can take part in sanshin lessons (an Okinawan musical instrument that's similar to a banjo) and sample Okinawan flavours with a selection of traditional dishes, all served in a restaurant that offers 180-degree sea views. Sounds like paradise to us...

Soak up the sun, sand and sea of southern Japan at Club Med's Kabira Ishigaki resort.

@media(max-width: 64rem){.css-o9j0dn:before{margin-bottom:0.5rem;margin-right:0.625rem;color:#ffffff;width:1.25rem;bottom:-0.2rem;height:1.25rem;content:'_';display:inline-block;position:relative;line-height:1;background-repeat:no-repeat;}.loaded .css-o9j0dn:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/goodhousekeeping/static/images/Clover.5c7a1a0.svg);}}@media(min-width: 48rem){.loaded .css-o9j0dn:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/goodhousekeeping/static/images/Clover.5c7a1a0.svg);}} Travel

Everything you need to know about Japan in spring

The best hotels in Sydney

Our guide to Danube river cruises

The best river cruises

The best cruises for 2024

The best spring holidays for 2024

Lake Orta is the hidden gem of the Italian Lakes

Best time to visit Japan: Here's when to go

The best places to visit in Japan

Surprising things about Japan's cherry blossom

A guide to Tampa, the overlooked city in Florida

STARS AND STRIPES

• Middle East
• Asia-Pacific
• Map Of Memorials
• Entertainment
• - Video Games
• Europe Travel
• - Quick Trips
• - After Hours
• Pacific Travel
• The Meat and Potatoes of Life
• U.S. Travel
• Storm Tracker
• Rewards for readers
• Get Stripes
• Stripes Lite
• Archives/Library
• Special Publications
• Mobile Apps
• Email Newsletters
• Digital Access
• Home Delivery
• Marine Corps
• Coast Guard
• Space Force
• Archive Photo Of The Day
• - Military Matters
• - Force For Hire
• Out of Uniform
• Communities
• Stripes Europe
• Stripes Guam
• Stripes Japan
• Stripes Korea
• Stripes Okinawa
• Our Other Websites
• In Memoriam
• Month of the Military Child
• Best of Germany
• Best of the Pacific
• Letters to Santa

3 great spring festivals to check out in Japan’s Tohoku region

Omagari Fireworks (Photo courtesy of Omagari Fireworks Executive Committee)

After a long winter, Japan’s Tohoku region is finally enjoying the arrival of spring with vivid colors of sakura, peach, plum and azalea blossoms.

The return of the blooms and spring weather means it is once again time to get out and enjoy the seasonal festivals!

On April 27, Omagari District in Akita Prefecture will kick off the festivals with its Omagari no Hanabi fireworks celebration. The event will have a display of no less than 8,000 fireworks to light up the spring night sky. The city is famous for its fireworks and this 90-minute display is the first of the year, so don’t worry if you can’t make this one.

Another festival to add to your list is Sendai City’s Sendai Aoba Matsuri on May 18 and 19. Since 1655, the festival has been known as one of the three largest in Sendai City. Expect around 4,000 dancers to perform a traditional Suzume Odori (sparrow dance) in the city center and an impressive procession of armored samurai accompanied by mikoshi and mounts through Sendai’s streets.

Sendai Aoba Matsuri (Photo courtesy of City of Sendai)

A week later, Soma Nomaoi in Fukushima Prefecture’s Soma area will run from May 25 to 27. Here 400 samurai cavaliers in traditional attire will descend on horseback. The traditional ambiance will be like stepping into an ancient picture scroll. Local legend says the festival began more than 1,000 years ago when Lord Taira Masakado conducted a military exercise in the area.

Soma Nomaoi (Photo courtesy of Soma no Umaoi Executive Committee)

The warmer temperatures mean it’s time to get out and enjoy the spring flowers and the festivals. Don’t miss out!

Omagari no Hanabi (Fireworks) (Spring Session)

Location: At the bank of the Omonogawa River, Omagari, Daisen City, Akita Prefecture

Hours: April 27, 7 – 8:30 p.m.

Tel: 0187-88-8073

Sendai Aoba Matsuri (Festival) 2024

Location: Kotodai Park, Sendai City, Miyagi Prefecture

Period: May 18 and 19

Tel: 022-223-8441

Soma Nomaoi

Location: Soma and Minami-Soma Cities, Fukushima Prefecture (check the festival sites on the official website)

Period: May 25, 26 and 27

Tel: 0244-22-3064

related stories

• Towada City Spring Festival in Aomori April 6 - May 5
• Because Tokyo is too crowded: 15 cherry blossom spots in Tohoku, northern Japan
• Lake Towada Winter Story near Misawa AB features snow activities, fireworks, food and more

The best stories from the Pacific, in your inbox

Sign up for our weekly newsletter of articles from Japan, Korea, Guam, and Okinawa with travel tips, restaurant reviews, recipes, community and event news, and more.

Sign Up Now