best japanese cities to visit in winter

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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

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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!

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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.

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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 🙂

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

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The Best Places to Visit in Japan During Winter

The Best Places to Visit in Japan During Winter – Many travellers plan their trip to Japan to coincide with the cherry blossom season in Spring to be able to witness the blooming flowers as the weather warms up. Little did they know they’re missing out on heaps of excitement that takes place only in winter, and only in Japan! Winter in Japan is nothing short of magical. With snow-covered slopes and trees that mimics that of a fairytale, to winter illuminations, there’s no doubt one will be awestruck by these amazing sights.

Japan celebrates its winter like no other, and despite the freezing cold and piled snow, comes the ice sculptures and winter events. While onsens, bathing outdoors in natural hot springs, are popular all year round amongst locals and foreigners alike, the experience is even more spectacular and enhanced during winter as the pool is surrounded by snow and ice, yet you’re all roasty toasty in the bath. Don’t even mention the mountains and resorts to ski and snowboard on!

If these doesn’t make you want to venture Japan in winter, here is a list of places in Japan that are breathtaking during the winter, and a must-visit for all!

Table of Contents

Abashiri Drift Ice

Credits: Ludwine Probst / Flickr

Found up north of Japan is Hokkaido, the coldest city in all of Japan! Because of that, Hokkaido experiences all kinds of spectacular phenomenons in winter, and one of them is the drift ice. The Sea of Okhotsk along Abashiri City is known to be the southernmost point to witness the drift ice, just like in the Arctic. There is also a sightseeing ship that allows you to watch the dynamic drift ice in close proximity, but only during a limited time of the year.

The Blue Pond

The pond contains traces of chemicals which turn its waters a rainbow of different blue hues throughout the year, and during winter the scenery is so magical as the blue pond is accompanied by the whitened tree branches.

Sapporo Snow Festival

Winter in Hokkaido is really cold, but instead of being down in the slumps because of the weather, the capital city, Sapporo, hosts the world’s famous Sapporo Snow Festival for a week long that turns the whole city into the dreamy winter wonderland, covering three major sites — the Odori, the Susukino and the Tsu Dome. With ice sculptures and illuminations, over two million visitors, local Japanese and travellers, attend the event every season!

Credits: David McKelvey / Flickr

Each sites cover a different thing: the Odori hosts the most spectacular and biggest sculptures, and you’ll be able to get a great view of them from the Sapporo TV Tower; Susukino has the smaller ice sculptures that are distributed between the karaoke bars and other entertainment establishments; The Tsu Dome offers loads of snow-related activities for both adults and children!

Ginzan Onsen

Japan is famously known for their onsens , a public natural hot springs. Bathing in them is an enjoyable way of relaxing, and locals and foreigners often take the time out to go to them as it also has health benefits. In winter, the surrounding of the onsen is filled with snow and ice, and the air is chilly. Yet, as you dip into the onsen, you’re warm and toasted amidst the cold winter.

Credits: Jojje Olson / Flickr

Ginzan onsen is one of the most picturesque places to go for a winter onsen. Located in the Yamagata prefecture, the small mountain town is full of historical ryokans and traditional onsen inn lined along the banks of the Ginzan River. Stay overnight at one of these, and even consider one with a private onsen, to enjoy the full experience. Public onsens are also available for those not looking to spend the night. If you’re not feeling up for the full immersion, a public foot spa is also available.

Kamakura Festival

Credits: Chee_hian / Flickr

Kamakura is not only linked to the city that is known for its famous and huge Buddha statue, but also referred to the dome-shaped snow sculpture that is a traditional winter item in Japan.   Held in the northern part of the country, the Yunishigawa Kamakura Festivals takes place at the Yunishigawa Onsen Town in Tochigi Prefecture, where hundreds of dome sculptures in all sizes line up, lighting up the dark night sky with orange glows.

The event runs for about a month from February to March, and even though the Kamakura domes are the main attraction, there are also other several fun snow activities offered in the vicinity.

The Icicles of Misotsuchi

Most of the places that experience a winter phenomena are usually found in the colder regions of Japan, like Hokkaido. This one is more accessible from Tokyo , and it is the Icicles of Misotsuchi. They are gigantic icicles created by the flowing water over the cliffs upstream from the waterfall in Chichibu area in Saitama prefecture, located right next to Tokyo.

Not only is this an extremely beautiful natural sight on its own, during the peak season, there will be special light-up events held that lightens up the icicles in a blue-ish hue, giving them a mystical feel.

Credits: Anthony Coronado / Flickr

For some, winter is a cruel, cold season that they want to avoid. But winter is most often times bring out the most spectacular nature sights. One of them is the winter phenomena that is at a popular ski resort in Northern Japan, at the Zao Ski Resort. Hundreds of Zao’s ice trees, also known as Juhyo, covered the slopes of the ski resort. These unique and amazing snow monsters are a work of art made by nature.

Visitors of the ski resort can even ski and snowboard around and by the trees. In the evening, the snow monsters are lit up and puts on a mystical winter scenery.

Jigokudani Monkey Park

It might not be the most obvious of places for some, but take some time out of your winter days to visit the wild Japanese macaques up in Nagano. They inhabit the Jigokudani mountainsides and roam the extensive terrains freely. Part of their territory is a thermal spa in the Yokoyu River valley where they go to bathe during the extreme cold seasons, so you’re bound to see lots of them in winter!

Credits: Douglas Sprott / Flickr

Unfortunately, the park is only reachable by walking a mile-long track through the dense forest. It doesn’t sound so appealing especially during winter, but it’s all worth it as visitors are able to get within touching distance of these wild macaques, even when they’re in the water. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience that shouldn’t be missed!

Winter Travel via JR Tadami Line

Credits: Masahiro IIZUKA / Flickr

Who would’ve thought that a train ride would be a place to visit and do during winter? Yet the JR Tadami Line makes the cut. This rail service runs for over eighty miles through the most spectacular parts of Fukushima and Niigata prefectures, and can you imagine these landscapes covered in snow?

It’s extremely beautiful and jaw-dropping, it’s no doubt that this train ride will quite literally take your breath away. The best part of it all, although it might seem like a drag on other days, is that the train isn’t those express, fast ones. So you’re in for a plentiful time of admiring the scenic vistas through the carriage window.

Read also > JR Pass – Your Ultimate Guide

Shirakawago Village

A designated UNESCO World Heritage Site , the Shirakawago villages have conserved the unique architecture of the houses, some having steeply sloping roofs constructed without nails that enables them to cope structurally with the heavy wind snowfalls.

The area begins turning into a Japanese winter wonderland in mid-December, when snowfalls begin and the Gassho-zukuri farmhouses take on a snow-covered picture-perfect look. The most popular village, Ogimachi, has the biggest and most number of traditional farmhouses dated back over two hundred years ago.

Credits: Trey Ratcliff / Flickr

On top of extremely unique architecture, Shirakawago also has winter illuminations worth staying for. Several lighting-up events happen during the season, and as of 2019, visitors have to make a reservation to attend them. With limited seating and placement, it’s best to make prior reservation.

Read also > Shirakawago Travel Guide

Winter can be cold and sometimes depressing, but each season always has something to offer. Japan is especially best in winter, providing a mix of tradition and modern events, natural and man-made sights, and activities that can be enjoyed by all. From resort activities like skiing and snowboarding near the Zao monster trees, dipping in the hot water of the natural hot springs in Ginzan, to getting a picturesque train ride across parts of beautiful Japan, there is no reason to not enjoy the cold and snow in this amazing country.

You can also join our  Facebook Group and share your Japan with us! Last but least, follow us on  Instagram , Facebook , and Pinterest  and don’t miss any blog post.

Azra Syakirah

Usually tucked away in a cafe anywhere she goes, Azra Syakirah is a fashion designer and entrepreneur living in Tokyo, Japan. Born and bred in Singapore, her heart belongs to the world. Also a language enthusiast, she virtually scribbles her thoughts on a blog as well as freelances as a writer. She is experimental and versatile with her writing genre and content creation, seeking to put her passion in linguistics and hunger for creativity into practice.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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What are the Best Places to Visit in Japan in Winter?

Is Japan on your travel horizon this winter? There’s never a bad time to visit our country, and even though a chill sets in and the nights grow longer, there are still countless incredible things to see and do here.

Of course, winter arrives in different ways across the country. You will find the most frigid conditions in Hokkaido, where the temperature typically drops below freezing. In contrast, places like Shikoku and Kansai are comparatively balmy!

But where exactly should you go? What are the best places to visit in Japan in winter?

Pack a warm winter coat, put on some layers, and join us on a virtual tour through some of our favorite spots in Japan in winter. At Pinpoint Traveler, our Japan Tours are rich in authentic, local experiences, so we know where to find the magic of the season.

If any questions come to mind as we go, please feel free to get in touch .

Visit Tokyo for Winter Illuminations, Sales, and Lucky Bags

Tokyo, the vibrant heart of Japan, takes on a mesmerizing aura in winter. As the city prepares for festivities, winter illuminations transform streets and landmarks into breathtaking displays of light and color. Places like Tokyo Disneyland, Oi Racecourse’s Tokyo Mega Illumination, Omotesandō, and Roppongi Hills are just the tip of the winter illuminations iceberg. Each spot creates a fairy-tale atmosphere with its own unique display of dazzling lights.

But there’s plenty more to enjoy under the lights too! Dive into the world of winter sales at popular districts like Ginza and Shibuya, where discounted fashion, technology, and traditional crafts await bargain hunters. And why not embrace the tradition of fukubukuro , or Lucky Bags? As you may have already guessed, stores offer these mystery bags filled with goodies at slashed prices. 

All of this is just an extra winter layer on the wild and wonderful things you can find on our Tokyo Tours throughout the year, from Shinjuku and Shibuya to mouthwatering food and drink.

If our capital city is a must-visit destination on your visit to Japan, we think you’ll love reading our picks for the ten things you should do in Tokyo .

Head to Hakone for Awe-Inspiring Views of Mount Fuji

There aren’t too many more iconic sights in Japan than the snow-capped Mount Fuji on a clear, crisp winter day. Take the train from Tokyo to Hakone and you can marvel at this view for yourself.

While the incredible vistas of Mount Fuji are one of the main draws, Hakone is a popular mountain resort area, so you can stay overnight if you don’t want to head there and back on the same day. This gives you more time to enjoy the mountain views, try Owakudani’s famous black eggs, ride the Hakone Ropeway, and so much more.

Winter is one of the best times of the year for viewing Mount Fuji as there is typically less cloud cover compared with autumn and spring — although, of course, you can never guarantee anything when it comes to the weather!

If you think you will prefer to visit Japan in the autumn, or it’s simply the only time you can come, you may want to read our blog What is the Best Place to Visit in Japan During Autumn?

Immerse Yourself in Kyoto’s Serene Winter Beauty and Plum Blossoms

Step into the historical city of Kyoto during winter, where time seems to slow down, revealing a serene beauty amidst smaller crowds. Explore historic temples and shrines like Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) and Fushimi Inari Taisha in a more tranquil ambiance. 

Spring and the world-famous cherry blossoms may be some months off in midwinter, but Kyoto comes alive with color around mid-January thanks to the delicate white and pink blooms of ume (plum) flowers. Find out for yourself why these striking blossoms have inspired works of art down the years.

Like all of our excursions, our Kyoto Tours are led by local experts, making them ideal for anyone looking to understand this fascinating city of history and tradition on a deeper level.

Discover even more before your arrival by reading about some of the cultural highlights of Kyoto .

See Nagano’s Monkeys and Hit the Slopes for Snowy Adventures

Nagano beckons with its unique blend of winter experiences. Venture into Jigokudani Monkey Park, where adorable snow monkeys soak in natural hot springs, creating an endearing spectacle against the wintry landscape. 

For adventure seekers, Nagano boasts top-notch skiing destinations like Hakuba Valley and Nozawa Onsen, promising exhilarating slopes and powder-covered landscapes.

Soak Up Osaka’s Winter Illuminations and Festive Delights

Winter transforms Osaka into a wonderland of lights and festive cheer. Osaka Castle becomes a beacon of mesmerizing illuminations, casting a spellbinding glow across the surrounding park. This shimmering installation takes you on a journey through the history of Japan via an array of illuminated miniature treasures.

Meanwhile, Universal Studios Japan dazzles visitors with its spectacular winter-themed attractions and shows. Expect impressive illuminations throughout the park and daily Christmas performances.

As our Osaka Tours showcase, this is already a city renowned for energy, color, a vibrant food culture, and numerous local idiosyncracies — winter just adds a new angle to it all! Sound tempting? Take a deeper dive into this one-of-a-kind city with our picks for the best Osaka walking tour sights .

Step into Hokkaido’s Winter Extravaganza

Hokkaido, Japan’s northern gem, captivates with a winter wonderland unlike any other. The Sapporo Snow Festival stands as a testament to the region’s winter charm, featuring stunning snow sculptures that draw visitors from around the globe. 

More or less in the center of the island, near the village of Biei, you can explore the enchanting Shirogane Blue Pond. Here, the winter landscape, unnatural blue water, and serene surroundings combine to create an otherworldly scene. However, this is quite an isolated spot off the beaten track.

For ski enthusiasts, Hokkaido boasts premier skiing and snowboarding resorts like Niseko and Furano, offering pristine slopes and a paradise for winter sports lovers. And when you’ve tired yourself out, sink into the soothing embrace of Hokkaido’s famous onsen .

Admire the Kobe Luminarie and Other Winter Joys

Kobe shines brightly during winter with its enchanting Luminarie, a stunning light festival of hope and resilience. These illuminations have shone every December since 1995 in commemoration of the Great Hanshin Earthquake victims.

For a quintessential Japanese experience, visit Arima Onsen, one of Japan’s oldest hot spring towns, and rejuvenate your senses amidst its therapeutic waters. Located behind Mount Rokkō, this onsen is still somewhat of a hidden treasure and attracts tranquility-seeking locals from towns and cities in the surrounding area, including Osaka.

If you want a more adrenaline-fuelled adventure, Rokkō Snow Park offers thrilling winter activities against a backdrop of scenic vistas.

Our blog Is Kobe Worth Visiting? takes a closer look at the many merits of this fantastic city.

Discover Japan’s Wonders Year-Round with Pinpoint Traveler

So, what are the best places to visit in Japan in Winter? That’s for you to decide now! We hope this blog has inspired you to start planning your trip. But if you want more local insights and recommendations, browse our range of Japan Tours !

If you have any questions, please get in touch .

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GUIDE Winter in Japan Cold weather and warm spirits

• Stories & Guides

Cold weather and warm spirits

As winter approaches, a frigid chill engulfs the whole of Japan, and while it rarely snows in most of the country's metropolitan areas, the surrounding mountains and northern regions are regularly covered by fresh blankets of powder.

Pack plenty of warm clothes, then bundle up and head outside to enjoy snow festivals, skiing, and snowboarding, and relaxing onsen resorts.

• While the harshness of winter varies by location, a warm winter jacket is a necessity regardless of where you're traveling
• During the New Year's holidays, most restaurants and attractions shut down. Consider planning ahead to avoid any disappointments
• Enjoy the seasonal cuisine that winter brings, indulging in extravagant nabe hot pots, delicious ramen broths, and other soothing dishes

Where to ski in Japan

As a densely mountainous country, Japan boasts numerous peaks ideal for winter snow sports. Regardless of where you're traveling within Japan, the winter brings ample powder to the nearby mountains, and with it many ski and snowboard enthusiasts.

Visit a temple or shrine on New Years

Winter festivals

Cold weather brings people closer together. Despite the cold air, many traditional festivals and events take place in the winter, transforming the harsh winter days and dark winter nights into a fun and warm celebration.

Warm up in an onsen hot spring

Get out of the biting cold and indulge in a relaxing bath, taking a soak in the mineral-rich waters of Japan's many natural hot springs. With fresh, pure water bubbling out from the volcanic earth below, many towns and villages have sourced this soothing water for hundreds of years, developing a rich culture around public bathing and relaxation. Take a day or two to escape the city and relax. Some locations have outdoor baths, and enjoying the hot water with snow all around is magical.

* The information on this page may be subject to change due to COVID-19.

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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!

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"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 🌈

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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.

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4 Top Japan-in-Winter Experiences

• Top 2 Winter Itineraries in Japan

Tips for Winter Travel in Japan

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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.

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The Best Places to Visit in Japan During Winter

Secret ski fields, incredible seafood, and even sakura blossoms – winter may not be the most popular time to visit Japan, but it’s well worth considering. The country is full of diverse winter landscapes and novel events; here are some of the best places to visit in Japan during winter.

In recent years, the nation has garnered a reputation for being a hot ski hangout, which is well and truly justified. However, thanks to the incredible diversity of its landscape and passionate championing of traditional culture, a winter trip to Japan is quite unlike anywhere else in the world.

Shirakawa-go, Gifu

Looking like an idyllic painting come to life, Shirakawa-go is a small traditional village in the heart of Gifu that is stunning year-round. Nonetheless, winter is when it’s at its most beautiful. The area is best known for being the home of Japan’s unique ‘gasshou’ houses, a style of old-world traditional Japanese architecture. Some of the houses here are over 250 years old. The name ‘gasshou’ translates to ‘praying hands’ in English. It was so named because their sharply steep roofs clasped together resemble the two hands of the Buddha in prayer.

Abashiri Drift Ice, Hokkaido

Head right up north to the Sea of Okhotsk along the coast of Hokkaido , and you’d be forgiven for thinking that you’re in fact in the middle of the Antarctic. Here massive plates of drift ice known as ryuhyo float atop the ocean surface.

Drift ice season may not be Japan’s most well-known winter vacation opportunity, but it’s definitely one of the country’s more unique experiences. Emerging in around mid-January and gone by March, there is a little time to check it out if you do want to see it in action.

Occasionally from land you can spot drift ice floating along the coast, but to really explore the area at its peak, it’s recommended you hop aboard one of the Aurora Sightseeing Boats . The tour boats depart from Abashiri Port in Hokkaido’s northeastern corner a couple of times daily, and a tour costs around 3,000 yen (£20) per person.

Sapporo Snow Festival, Hokkaido

One of the country’s most popular winter attractions is the Sapporo Snow Festival , which attracts around two million visitors annually. The snow festival first began in the 1950s when some of the city’s younger members started building impressive ice statues in the city’s Odori Park. Since then, the event has snowballed into a must-see festival experience.

A week-long celebration that runs from early to mid-February, the festival features parades, parties and pop-up events. But the centrepiece of the celebrations are the ginormous snow sculptures that practically invade the city. The festival takes place over three main points in Sapporo: the Susukino Site, home to around 100 sculptures; the Tsu Dome Site, a hub of family-friendly attractions; and the Odori Park site, where the most impressive snow sculptures are exhibited. If you do plan on visiting, it’s best you book far in advance to avoid the manic winter rush.

Kobe City, Hyogo

For Japanese city dwellers, the wintery Christmas season means it’s time to brave the cold and get out there to enjoy the seasonal illuminations. With an over-the-top spectacular show of fairy lights, LEDs, and projection mapping, Tokyo is home to some incredible light shows, but nobody does it quite like the city of Kobe.

Located less than an hour from Osaka , the port city of Kobe is well worth a day trip in you’re in the area, especially if you’re around in December. The Kobe Luminarie is the city’s annual celebration of the festival season, but it’s also a dedication to the memory of the thousands who perished during the Great Hanshin Earthquake of 1995.

The lights for the display were donated by the Italian government and designed by Italian artistic director Valerio Festi. Following the earthquake, electricity in Kobe was cut to many houses for an extended period of time, and the lights are said to symbolise hope, renewal and recovery.

Akita City, Akita

For a snow adventure that’s still a relatively well-kept secret from the hordes of powder hungry skiers, book a trip to Akita city. Located in the picturesque pocket of Tohoku, Akita is probably most well known for its adorable Akita Inu , but the area has so much more to offer.

Unlike the more well-known ski destinations of Niseko and Hakuba, what’s exciting about Akita is that culturally it has remained relatively untouched while still being very tourist-friendly. For a real taste of authentic Japan, plan a few days in eastern Akita Nyuto Onsen village. This quaint and untouched snow-carpeted town is famous for its milky white, healing hot spring waters, which is the perfect soothing cure for these tired ski-sore muscles.

Kawazu City, Shizuoka

If you’re serious about seeing cherry blossoms ( sakura ) and don’t want to do battle with the swarms of other sakura- hungry tourists, beat the crowd by booking a winter excursion to Kawazu City. Located in Shizuoka Prefecture not too far from Tokyo, the area is home to some of Japan’s earliest blooming trees.

Here, peak cherry blossom season runs between mid-February to early March, and to celebrate the eagerly awaited arrival, the Kawazu sakura matsuri (festival) kicks off in conjunction with the first signs of blooming. From Tokyo you can get to the city of Kawazu in about three hours by train, making it an easy day-trip destination (if you plan well) and a perfect way to escape the still rather chilly inner city.

Tottori City, Tottori

Tottori is Japan’s least densely populated prefecture, making it the perfect destination for those seeking a little respite from the country’s crowded major cities. It’s also home to some incredible natural sites. Mount Daisen is Tottori’s pride and joy, often referred to the ‘Mount Fuji of the west’ and is best admired in its snow-capped glory during the colder months.

One of Tottori’s most famous tourist attractions is the Tottori Sand Dunes , the naturally crafted oceanside desert, which stretches from the coast to the northern corners of the Tottori city centre. In the warmer months, the area is rather crowded with sandboarders and camel riders taking charge. In winter, it’s practically deserted, giving it an eerie but fascinating and almost apocalyptic feel.

Sakaiminato Port in west Tottori is another reason to visit in winter, home to some of the most incredible seafood in the country. Matsuba-gani – known in English as snow crab – is the city’s most famous dish and is most available (and most delicious) during the peak winter months of November through March.

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Winter in Japan: 20 Best Things to Do in Japan’s Cold Season

• Joshua Furr
• Steve Csorgo

Winter in Japan is an exciting time filled with unique activities and breathtaking landscapes. Whether it’s skiing down powdery slopes, soaking in hot springs, or dining on snow crabs, winter has no shortage of things to do, see, and eat. If you remember to pack the proper attire, and don’t mind a bit of adventure, this list of 20 things to do in Japan in winter is your ticket to a cool time indeed!

This post may contain affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

When Is Winter in Japan?

Winter in Japan typically lasts from December until February, and reaches its peak in January. However, as Japan runs long from north to south, the winter climate differs greatly between regions. For example, in Japan's northernmost island of Hokkaido , wintery weather can start as early as October, while Japan’s southernmost Okinawa barely has a winter at all. That’s why it’s important to plan your itinerary before packing clothes and gear.

How Cold Does Japan Get In Winter?

Tokyo in winter is chilly but relatively mild and sunny, with the temperature averaging 0-8°C, and snowfall a rarity. Sapporo , the capital of Hokkaido, regularly drops below 0°C between December and March, and snow is a given. The Hokuriku and Tohoku regions are also notorious for their snow, including Niigata , Yamagata , Akita, Aomori, and Toyama , where accumulated snowfall is often measured in meters in particularly snowy spots!

The Best Things to Do in Winter in Japan

1. hit the powdery slopes.

One of the top reasons to visit Japan in winter is skiing and snowboarding. Ski resorts can be found in much of Japan, including the well-established Niseko in Hokkaido, which sits in the shadow of Mt. Yotei. Niseko’s powder snow is light and dry, and there are loads of resorts suiting all skill levels.

Closer to Tokyo is the valley town of Hakuba , Nagano Prefecture , which hosted the 1998 Winter Olympics, and boasts 10 fantastic slopes frequented by a vibrant community. Just over an hour from Tokyo is also the highly accessible Echigo-Yuzawa , home to 12 ski resorts including GALA Yuzawa, which has its very own bullet train station!

Recommended Accommodation in Niseko: Annupuri Lodge at Niseko

2. Warm Up Inside a Kamakura Snow Hut

Like the Inuits of Canada, winter in Japan comes with its own frozen domiciles called “kamakura.” These hollowed-out snowdomes were originally built as shrines to the God of Water, and continue to be a beloved winter tradition providing a surprisingly snug nook against the frigid climate.

Several areas throughout Japan hold kamakura festivals, such as Yunishigawa Onsen in Nikko , which is famous for both large-scale snowdomes that you can sit in, along with rows of adorable mini-kamakura illuminating the night. Further north, the annual Yokote Snow Festival is held in Yokote, Akita Prefecture, on February 15 and 16. It features more than 80 kamakura, including those set up at the foot of the magnificent Yokote Castle.

3. Admire the Architecture of Shirakawa-go

Situated at the foot of the sacred Mt. Haku in Gifu Prefecture , the old homesteads in the UNESCO World Heritage site Shirakawa-go appear even more spectacular during winter in Japan. These structures, some of which are around 300 years old, were built with triangular thatched roofs in a traditional style called “gassho-zukuri” to keep the heavy snowfall that regularly hits the region from building up.

In addition to viewing these impressive dwellings, Shirakawa-go also holds several festivals throughout winter, like the Silkworm Festival and the Katteko Snow Fireworks, both in February.

Recommended Accommodation in Shirakawa-go: Onyado Yuinosho

4. Relish Japanese Winter Delicacies

Winter in Japan wouldn’t be complete without enjoying the bounties of the season. Seafood delicacies are particularly plentiful between December through February, with Japanese crab being the staple. There are several crab varieties to sample in winter, such as king crab in Hokkaido, and snow crab in the Hokuriku region, which includes Echizen crab in Fukui Prefecture and Matsuba crab in Tottori Prefecture .

Other winter must-tries include fresh “fugu” (pufferfish) in Shimonoseki, plump salty oysters from Hiroshima , firm and succulent monkfish in the fishing village of Kazamaura, and “buri” yellowtail from Toyama Bay.

Our Top Tips

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Explore Japan in the most convenient and economical way with a Japan Rail Pass! It is valid for the majority of railways and local buses operated by JR. 

5. Thaw Out in an Onsen Hot Spring

Whether you’ve spent the day on the slopes, or a night out at a winter festival, nothing beats a soak in one of the many “ onsen ” hot springs that dot Japan. There are loads of remarkable resort towns to choose from, like the evocative Ginzan Onsen with its charming retro gas lamps and wooden inns, or Kusatsu Onsen , famous for its picturesque Yubatake hot water field.

If you feel squeamish about bathing nude with strangers, here are 12 Japanese onsen hot springs you can visit with swimsuits.

6. Sapporo Snow Festival

The Sapporo Snow Festival started back in 1950 with just a few snow sculptures, but has since exploded into a massive spectacle drawing in over a million visitors each year.

The attractions are spread out across three distinct venues: the central Odori, where many of the biggest and best snow sculptures are exhibited; the nightlife district of Susukino, which is decorated by glimmering ice sculptures; and Tsudome, an interactive venue with snow slides and more. A skating rink and a plethora of food stalls add to the fun, while after-dark light-ups bathe the scene in an enchanting glow.

Sapporo is also near many renowned hot springs, like Jozankei Onsen, and is the birthplace of miso ramen, giving you plenty of warmth and nourishment to fight against the cold.

Recommended Accommodation in Sapporo: Hotel Resol Trinity Sapporo

7. Bask in Stunning Illuminations

Although night comes early during winter in Japan, magnificent “ illumination ” displays stave off the darkness to cheer up locals and attract visitors during these otherwise dreary months.

Yomiuriland, one of Tokyo’s largest amusement parks, hosts the Jewellumination, where magical jewel-colored LED lights transform the grounds into a radiant wonderland. Closer to Tokyo Station is the Marunouchi Illumination, which sees over a million golden bulbs on hundreds of trees make the already bright Tokyo streetscape even more dazzling.

Winter in Osaka likewise has its central Namba area lit-up with a festive kaleidoscope of a million lights, while Osaka Castle is adorned by illuminated artworks. Most cities in Japan also have their own renditions, so be sure to check them out while visiting!

8. Ring in the New Year With Hatsumode

Hatsumode is a Japanese New Year’s tradition dating back to the Heian Period (794-1185). It is the custom of visiting a shrine or temple during the first week or so of the New Year to make an offering and pray for the coming year.

However, there’s more to hatsumode than just praying. As the entire community is involved, it has a festive mood complete with food stalls and activities. You can scoop up decorative “omamori” good-luck amulets, and have your fortune told via “omikuji” paper slips. For those unfamiliar with how to pray the Japanese way, we suggest checking out this article , too.

Popular hatsumode spots include Tokyo’s Meiji Jingu Shrine and Senso-ji Temple, Tsurugaoka Hachimangu in Kamakura , Fushimi Inari Taisha in Kyoto , and Izumo Taisha in Shimane . Keep in mind that crowds will be massive, so be prepared to wait in line.

9. Hunt For Bargains With Fukubukuro

Those who love a good deal will do well to visit Japan in winter! Japanese lucky bags, called “fukubukuro” are packed with a bunch of goodies sold all together at a discount, often with the contents inside kept secret until opening!

The process is simple: visit a store of your choice between January 1-3 (or even afterwards) and try to get your hands on one of these fleeting fukubukuro. While they can be found easily enough, some popular stores may require a reservation months in advance!

Why the appeal? Mystery may have something to do with it, especially since fukubukuro are a way for stores to unload old inventory, and could be filled with anything. Check out our guide to fukubukuro to learn how to secure your own.

10. Mingle With the Snow Monkeys

While Japanese macaques can be found throughout the nation, none are more entertaining than the “ snow monkeys ” that live at Jigokudani Monkey Park in mountainous northern Nagano Prefecture. Here, visitors can walk amongst dozens of these playful primates as they freely run, roam, and even bathe in nearby hot springs.

Due to the area’s high volcanic activity, natural hot springs abound, and the snow monkeys adorably take to the onsen much like we humans do, visibly enjoying the steaming water as snow falls around them. Thanks to their tame nature, it’s easy to snap great photos, but don’t get too close to them.

11. Engage In Alternative Snow Activities

If skiing and snowboarding isn’t your thing, there are plenty of alternatives to make the most of winter in Japan. For a more relaxed experience, join a snowshoeing tour, which are available with both modern snowshoes or traditional “kanjiki” Japanese-style snowshoes. If you’re seeking speed, then a thrilling snowmobile ride through forest trails would be right up your alley.

For younger visitors and those young at heart, airboarding down a slippery slope, ice-skating at one of the many rinks set up during the season, or just making some good old-fashioned snow angels is sure to leave you with unforgettable winter in Japan memories!

12. Cruise Through the Okhotsk Drift Ice

Every January, ice chunks from the mouth of Russia’s Amur River drift down the Okhotsk Sea into northeastern Hokkaido, forming drift ice famous in places like Mombetsu, Abashiri, and Shiretoko. These wide sheets of ice are around 50 cm thick, and can only be broken up by special icebreakers that also double as passenger cruise ships.

We recommend setting sail on the powerful Aurora, which departs from Abashiri Port, or the equally tough dual-drill Garinko, departing from Mombetsu Port. For an even more up-close encounter, there are also “ice walk” tours available , where you’ll be able to walk across the drift ice to feel the intensity of winter in Japan for yourself.

13. Go Ice Fishing For “Wakasagi” Smelt

As mentioned, winter in Japan comes with an array of delicious seafood, but like the adage goes: Teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime. That being said, ice fishing for “wakasagi” smelt is not just a practical pastime, but an enjoyable and (if you catch something) satisfying experience. In January, Lake Akan and Lake Abashiri in Hokkaido are ideal as they are the first to freeze, but Nagano’s Lake Matsubara and Fukushima’s Lake Hibara are also popular haunts for ice fishers.

This primitive method of fishing requires warm clothing, proper equipment, and, above all, patience. While pros will often set themselves up, ice fishing facilities and tours with tents, holes, and gear all provided can be found at several frozen lakes in Japan.

14. Survive the Snow Monsters of Zao

Around January, the Zao Mountain Range in Yamagata Prefecture is blasted by Siberian winds smothering its fir trees in layers of distorted ice giving the impression of monstrous beasts! Dubbed the “Snow Monsters of Zao,” these surreal natural creations can be viewed from above aboard the Zao Ropeway, and then examined up close at the Jizo Sancho Station Summit Terrace.

After absorbing the 360-degree view of the frozen world below (and heating up in the station’s restaurant), pop on your skis or snowboard and race down the mountainside slopes of the Zao Onsen Ski Resort. While a pleasure to behold in the day, the Snow Monsters become even more photogenic during the Zao Juhyo Festival, when they are illuminated by colorful lights at night.

Read more about Zao Onsen and 14 other places to visit in Yamagata Prefecture.

15. Uncover Frozen Waterfalls

The freezing temperatures during winter in Japan affect all elements of nature, and even powerful waterfalls cannot escape its grasp. The majestic wintery sheen and long glass-like icicles of these “icefalls” is perhaps the most stark demonstration of winter’s boundless might.

In Kamikawa, Hokkaido, visitors can join the annual Sounkyo Onsen Ice Waterfall Festival, which not only features the iced-over Ryusei and Ginga Waterfalls, but also a breathtaking winter fireworks show. Closer to Tokyo, the Chichibu region of Saitama Prefecture  hosts the Otaki Ice Festival in January, where the magnificent Misotsuchi Icicles hang from the rocks above. Within the deep forests of western Tokyo, the 23.3-meter Hossawa Falls is another beautiful frozen wonder only a 20-minute walk from the Hinohara Village Office.

16. Catch the Early Plum Blossoms at the Atami Plum Garden

The Atami Plum Garden, in the coastal resort city of Atami , was established in 1886 and is filled with over 450 plum trees of 60 varieties, some around 100 years old. The first wave of delicate buds blossom as early as mid-November, making them some of the earliest in Japan. This is followed up by staggered middle and late-blooming plum trees, letting visitors enjoy their flowers all throughout the winter.

17. Capture Photos at the Kasayama Camellia Groves

Winter in Japan is also the season of the radiant camellia flowers that flourish in Toragasaki at the northern tip of Mt. Kasa, Yamaguchi Prefecture. Here, 25,000 camellias grow across 10 hectares, dotting the pastoral landscape with vibrant flourishes of red and yellow.

To celebrate, the Hagi and Camellia Festival is held every year from mid-February to March, coinciding with the flowers’ peak blooming period. Visitors can enjoy activities and events while strolling along a promenade under the luxuriant canopy.

18. Spot the Yukitsuri Trees at Kenroku-en

While winter in Japan is an exciting time for travelers, the harsh elements can harm nature. For example, Kenroku-en, one of Japan's premier ancient gardens , is known for its Karasaki pine and other beautifully manicured trees whose delicate aging branches can crack under the weight of winter snow.

Therefore, in order to protect them, the groundskeepers perform “yukitsuri” between November and mid-December. Using ladders, this process involves painstakingly setting up a tent-like structure of straw ropes and bamboo poles over the trees to support their branches and prevent damage.

While most famous at Kenroku-en, the tradition of yukitsuri can be seen all throughout the snowy regions of Japan, and is often said to be one of the first signs of winter. Witnessing this kind act truly drives home just how important gardens like Kenroku-en are to Japanese people.

Recommended Accommodation Near Kenroku-en Garden: House Hotel Kenrokuzaka

19. Climb the Snowy Steps of Kifune Shrine

Kyoto doesn’t typically get a lot of snow, which is why when winter weather does grace the ancient capital, it’s a truly special occasion best appreciated at a few select spots.

One of these is Kifune Shrine, whose stone stairs lined with vermillion-colored lanterns form a striking contrast when blanketed in pristine white snow. From early January to late February, the path is lit up at night, casting a warm winter glow over the spectacle. This special illumination only happens when it's snowy, so if you choose to visit, pray for fresh white powder.

20. Follow the Path of Light at Miyajidake Shrine

Just like the Arctic reveals its Northern Lights, a rare luminous phenomenon also exists during winter in Japan. The 1,700-year-old Miyajidake Shrine is located in the seaside town of Fukutsu, Fukuoka Prefecture , and is reputable for many aspects, but mostly for its transient “Path of Light” every February and October.

The shrine sits above the city, facing west towards the Genkai Sea, and a straight road runs uninterrupted from its entrance to the coast, giving the impression of a path. Twice a year in late February and late October, the setting sun blazes a perfect golden trail from the sea all the way up to Miyajidake Shrine. To celebrate, the Path of Light festival is held for a week, culminating in its namesake phenomenon.

Brighten Up Your Winter in Japan With Fun Activities!

With boundless fun and frivolity, it’s well worth braving the freezing temperatures to experience winter in Japan. In general, snowy northern regions like Hokkaido, Tohoku, and Hokuriku have the best winter scenery and activities, so we recommend starting your seasonal sojourn there. Whether it’s staples like skiing and snowboarding, or more unique activities like walking on drift ice or meeting the snow monkeys, you’ll be glad you picked winter to visit Japan. So, use this article as a jumping off point and start planning your ultimate winter Japan holiday!

Thumbnail: PIXTA

The information in this article is accurate at the time of publication.

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The Best Places to Visit in Japan During Winter [Japan Winter Destinations]

If you’re planning to have an aesthetic and wonderful winter experience, you should go to Japan . Japan has some of the best winter locations you could find.

Japan is one of those countries that you can visit any time of the year since every season in this country offers different experiences for tourists. Aside from the cherry blossom season during spring, and the Fireworks festival during summer, the winter season in Japan offers the same excitement and lovable experience. And for that reason, we created an article that would give you an idea of what to do and visit during the cold season. So if you’re planning to visit Japan during winter, expect to have a unique experience!

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Table of Contents

Winter Locations in Japan that You Must Visit

1. shirakawa-go, gifu.

The Shirakawa-go Village in Gifu is a must-visit in Japan, especially during the winter season. It is a  charming small village that literally looks like a painting that came to life. Listed in the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Shirakawa-go Village has Japan’s unique “gasshou-zukuri” structured houses. Some of these houses are more than 250 years old. During the winter season, the snow covers the whole village that makes it really picturesque. There are also special light-up events held during this time of the year.

Suggested Tour: Takayama and Shirakawa-go Day Trip from Nagoya

2. Abashiri Drift Ice, Hokkaido

It is not new to most of us that Hokkaido is the coldest city in Japan. And what can be seen in this city aside from snow during the winter season? That’s the drift ice (‘Ryhuhyo’ in Japanese) that float atop the ocean surface on the Sea of Okhotsk in Abashiri City. This phenomenon occurs around mid-January until March, but only a limited time to really see it in action. To witness this, you can take one of the Aurora sightseeing ships that depart from Abashiri Port.

Suggested Tour: Hokkaido Enjoy Pass

3. Sapporo Snow Festival, Hokkaido

One of the popular cities in Hokkaido, Sapporo is another place in Japan that you should visit during the winter season. The ever-popular Sapporo Snow Festival happens in 2 weeks, from early to mid-February and it makes the whole city looks like a winter dreamy wonderland. This event attracts more than 2 million visitors every year (both local and foreign tourists). Seeing magnificent ice and snow sculptures is one of the things you shouldn’t miss while you’re in Japan during the winter season.

4. Ginzan Onsen, Yamagata

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by VOYAGED by 9GAG (@voyaged) on Feb 23, 2020 at 1:41am PST

‘Onsen’ or hot spring bath is one of the best things someone could visit during the cold season. And Ginzan Onsen in Yamagata Prefecture is absolutely the best winter locations in Japan that you could go to. This onsen in Yamagata is one of the most historical and beautiful Onsen towns in Japan. This town was founded 600 years ago and offers an amazing preserved townscape from the 19th century. If you’re familiar with the world-famous animated movie “Spirited Away”, Ginzan Onsen was the inspiration of the movie’s mythical town.

Suggested Tour: Ginzan Onsen Experience with Hojuzan Risshaku Temple Visit

5. Kobe City, Hyogo

If you want to enjoy spectacular seasonal illumination, Kobe City is the answer. The Kobe Luminarie is the city’s yearly celebration of the festival season. Yes, Tokyo is indeed the home of out of this world LEDs, projection mapping, and fairy lights illumination but the one in Kobe is not to miss as it is also dedicated to the lives of thousands who died during the Great Hanshin Earthquake in 1995. These lights are believed to symbolize hope, renewal, and recovery.

Suggested Tour: Naruto Whirlpool, England Hill, and Kobe Full Day Tour from Osaka

6. Jigokudani Monkey Park, Nagano

If you’re not aware, Japan’s one of the most visited and unique scenery is the Snow Monkeys. These wild monkeys bathing in natural hot springs at the base of Mt. Fuji surrounded by white snow can be seen in Jigokudani Monkey Park in Nagano Prefecture. You can actually visit them all year round as they literally live in the park. However, to capture their best moments, you should go here during the winter season.

Suggested Tour: Nagano Snow Monkey Park and Zenko-ji Temple Day Tour with Sake Tasting

7. Nabana no Sato, Mie

Plenty of illumination events are held in Japan every year. And it attracts millions of tourists. One of those beautiful illuminations is held at Nabana no Sato in Mie Prefecture. Nabana no Sato is an amusement Park and a Botanical Garden in Mie. About 8 million LED lights are lit up to create amazing arts of lights. When you go here, don’t miss the chance to walk through the popular display of the “Tunnel of Lights.”

Suggested Tour: Nabana no Sato: Spectacular Winter Illumination Ticket in Kuwana with JPY1000 Coupon

8. Kifune Shrine, Kyoto

Another winter location in Japan that is surely not to miss. Kifune Shrine in Kyoto is one of the best-hidden gems of the said city. The shrine can be enjoyed all throughout the year but winter is the best time to visit. At night and only when it’s snowing, a light-up event is held on the Shrine and turns everything so dreamy.

9. Zao Ski Resort, Yamagata

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by JAPAN PRIVATE TOUR Co., Ltd. (@japanprivatetour) on Nov 26, 2017 at 7:56pm PST

One of the best winter locations in Japan that you should visit is the Zao Ski Resort in Yamagata Prefecture. Its unique natural phenomenon called “Juhyo”, which means snow monsters are its main attraction. Hundreds of snow monsters cover the slope at Zao Ski Resort, these “monsters” are actually trees covered in snow and it gives them a ghostly image. Aside from admiring these snow monsters, you can also enjoy skiing and snowboarding passing by these trees.

10. Tokyo’s Winter Illuminations

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Tori Yamashita (@toriyamashita) on Jan 10, 2020 at 7:22pm PST

As mentioned earlier, Tokyo is the home of spectacular illuminations. During the winter season, Japan’s capital holds numerous winter illumination displays. Some of the most popular are the ones at Marunouchi and Tokyo Station. These places brighten up that feels so dreamy that only Japan’s innovation can produce.

This is our list of the best winter locations in Japan that would make your next winter experience extra special. If you’ve been to any of these places or if you’re thinking of going here, share with us what you think!

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The best Japanese winter scenery 日本の冬の景色

• Published on : 16/10/2022
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©Michael Sum, unsplash

Scenes of snowy Japan

In Japan, winter is a season as beautiful as spring, summer or autumn. Under low temperatures and with a bit of luck, under the snow, discover the traditional places to visit during the winter season!

Mount Fuji , the ancestral symbol of Japan, is a place to visit at least once during your stay in Japan. Popularized by media such as magazines and documentaries, but also by art through paintings and prints, the beauty of this mountain is fascinating. 

3776 meters high, Mount Fuji is composed of 3 active volcanoes which could wake up one day. Its beauty would almost make us forget this detail. 

Mount Fuji is also the most climbed mountain in the world! Although the official climbing season lasts only a little more than two months, Mount Fuji welcomes nearly 300,000 climbers every year. This figure is much higher than that of Mount Monadnock in the United States, the second most climbed mountain with about 125,000 people per year. The possibility to climb it in half a day explains in part this success.

Located between Yamanashi and Shizuoka, and close to Tokyo, this Japanese mountain has inspired many artists for centuries, including the master of the print Hokusa i. 

Read also: Mount Fuji in history, culture, and art

©1209 pixabay, canva

Le village de Shirakawago

Located in Gifu prefecture (50 minutes from Takayama), the traditional village of Shirakawago , surrounded by mountains, is classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1995. 

The success of this village lies in the appearance of its houses, which are built according to the gassho-zukuri style, specific to the region. It can be recognized by its ancient houses with thatched roofs, which help to resist the heavy snowfalls during the winter.

The houses are arranged throughout the village, separated by rice fields and connected by elevated paths. It is in winter that many locals and tourists wish to visit the place when the snow covers the village and the houses are illuminated.

The view of the shimmering rice fields and the old houses from the top of the hill gives a unique view of Japan. 

Stay in one of our traditional rental houses in Takayama

©mantaphoto Getty Images, canva

©Sean Pavone Getty Images, Canva

Kenroku-en garden

The Kenroku-en garden located in Kanazawa is one of the three most famous gardens in Japan, together with the Kairaku-en in Mito and the Kôraku-en in Okayama. 

With nearly 8,200 trees in 10 hectares of land, it is a natural area worth visiting. After the autumn season, the garden is even more remarkable when the winter season takes over.

The garden is world-famous for the care taken with the plants, the pruning of the pruned trees and the beauty of the snow-covered yukitsuri.

From the beginning of November, the Karasaki Matsu pines are adorned with yukitsuri, ropes that protect these ancient trees before the onset of winter, in anticipation of the damage that the heavy snowfall of the Nihonkai might cause.

At nightfall, the garden is illuminated and the yukitsuri are also illuminated until the end of winter.

Stay in one of our Kanazawa houses rentals

©annintofu, flickr

Ginzan Onsen

Onsen, or hot springs, are a real institution in Japan. These hot baths, whose water comes from volcanic springs, have been known for centuries to have a certain therapeutic value.

In Yamagata prefecture, a former silver mine has become one of the most popular spas for onsen lovers in winter: Ginzan Onsen (ginzan = silver mine). 

We have to admit that the very special atmosphere of this village of Tohoku region is very pleasant! The city is composed of only one street, lined with ryokan and traditional wooden buildings dating from Taisho era (1912 - 1926) and Shôwa era (1926-1989).

Each ryokan allows access to its onsen without the obligation to rent a room. In this case, count between 300 and 1,500 yen (between 2 and 12 € approximately). 

Two public baths, with an entrance fee of 300 to 500 yen (between 2 and 4 €), are open in the center of the city, as well as a free foot bath. 

At nightfall, gas lamps light up to shed a beautiful light on the freshly fallen snow. 

• See also: Five onsen for the winter

Jigokudani Yaen koen

Jigokudani Monkey Park is located in the Yokoyugawa Valley in Nagano . At Jigokudani Onsen, it is possible to observe wild monkeys (Japanese macaques) basking in the water of a natural hot spring. At 850 meters above sea level, it is cold, -10°, and the snow covers everything, up to one meter thick to make this picture a classic of Japan in winter.

This park was created in 1964 when monkeys from the mountain came down to the villages because of deforestation. One day, a small monkey comes to bathe in the outdoor onsen of a ryokan, then his whole family. To promote good cohabitation with humans, a special bath was arranged for them, and for the happiness of all.

Kinkaku-ji Temple

The Golden Pavilion Temple, Kinkakuji , whose real name is Rokuon-ji, is undoubtedly the flagship temple among all those in Kyoto. 

Entirely covered with gold leaf (except for the first floor), it shines brightly.

If you are lucky enough to go there just after a snowfall, the fine contrast of the gold with the immaculate white and green of nature reflecting in the water will be memorable! 

Kinkaku-ji has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1994 as an iconic historical monument of ancient Kyoto.

Kinkaku-ji in Kyoto in winter

Winter in Japan

For further reading :

• The most beautiful snowy Japanese landscapes
• Japanese winter foods
• The best snow festivals in Japan
• 5 reasons to go to Japan in winter
• The five best onsen for the winter
• Skiing in Japan

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10 Best Places to Visit in Japan in Winter

Winter in Japan is the envy of the world. The country is home to some world-class snowfall and has hosted several Winter Olympic Games . As well as many great locations for winter sports, Japan has many unique artistic and cultural events centered around winter. 

Winter in Japan, especially in the north, can be quite harsh and long, so many traditions have grown to help people get through the cold part of the year.

Where to travel in Japan in winter? There are in fact so many options for different tastes and preferences, but these winter destinations of Japan shown below are good ones for a lot of reasons.

If you plan on visiting Japan in winter but don’t know where to go for the best winter experiences, be prepared to witness some amazing areas that can fulfill your lifelong dreams.

1. Niseko, Hokkaido

The most famous ski resort in Japan, the powder at Niseko is incredible. There is also plenty of backcountry skiing and snowboarding facilities available, offering something for everyone.

The resort is a favorite for English-speaking tourists, especially Australians, so it’s a great option for those who do not speak Japanese.

There are kilometers of ski runs at Niseko. Besides the trails, you can also enjoy some the facilities to enjoy during and after your day on the slopes.

There are three major resorts in Niseko that cover most of the area: Grand Hirafu, Niseko Village, and Annupuri . You can access all three with a Niseko All Mountain Pass, Just take the shuttle bus between the resorts.

If Niseko sounds an expensive area for a ski holiday, then find some other alternatives here .

Nagano hosted the 1998 Winter Olympic Games . The town still retains a lot of the Olympic facilities, which is part of what makes sit such a great winter experience. Nagano is great in any season, but in winter it is something special.

There are places to enjoy a variety of winter sports but you can also visit some of Nagano’s unique cultural treasures, including a ninja museum as well as temples and shrines.

In winter, you can visit the famous snow monkeys of Jigokudani that bathe in hot springs to keep warm not far from town.

If you are in Nagano on January 15, you can attend the Nozawa Onsen Fire Festival , one of the three great fire festivals in Japan. Nagano is a great winter destination for the whole family.

3. Sapporo, Hokkaido

The premier winter event in Sapporo is the Sapporo Snow Festival . The festival features hundreds of ice sculptures, ranging from small to truly massive, and is one of the most popular events in Japan. For a more relaxing experience, soak in a hot spring.

Athletes can enjoy nearby ski resorts. Enjoy sledding or even book a snowmobile tour!

Travelers can stay a week in Sapporo and then take a number of day trips from the city to Otaru, Asahikawa, Jozankei , Ebetsu, and Lake Shikotsu for a number of amazing outdoor activities and discoveries.

Please note Otaru Snow Light Path Festival is one of the most popular winter festivals in Hokkaido along with Sapporo Snow Festival, Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival, and Asahikawa Winter Festival .

4. Zao Onsen, Yamagata

This magnificent tourist village sits 800 meters above sea level, surrounded by forests and mountains.

The village was founded around hot springs, so be sure to enjoy a traditional onsen bath while visiting. Three cable cars will take you up the mountainside.

In winter, the area hosts a ski resort and features “ snow monsters ”, trees engulfed in ice and snow, sometimes rendered completely unrecognizable.

The sight is beautiful and surreal. When you return from visiting these frozen wonders, enjoy some of the excellent shopping and eating found in the village. It is worth booking several nights at one of the many hotels .

5. Shirakawa-go, Gifu

Shirakawa-go experiences heavy winter with a thick snowfall. It is considered one of the best places to visit in Gifu Prefecture in winter for its stunning scenery.

This (Ogimachi) lovely tourist traditional gassho village features many traditional buildings as well as a ski resort.

Numerous winter festivals are celebrated throughout the season, including a harukoma dance on New Year’s Day and the Silkworm Festival in February.

The triangular gassho buildings have a special charm in winter, gaining a covering of snow and gathering icicles. This village is worth the effort it takes to reach it in the fierce winter weather.

6. Abashiri, Hokkaido

Inland Japan is amazing in winter, but at sea, you can also enjoy the incredible sight of drift ice. Abashiri sits at 44 degrees north latitude and is one of the northernmost inhabited locations in Japan. It was previously a prison-town and today the old prison is a museum.

Icebreaker ships will take tourists safely and smoothly out to the ice. The icebreakers run from January to early April. The sight of the frozen sea is amazing, a plane of white almost as far as you can see. You may get lucky enough to see seals resting on the ice.

Seabirds are also often seen, including the impressive Stellar’s sea eagle . If you want to see something you won’t find anywhere else in Japan, bundle up and head to Abashiri in winter.

7. Akita, Tohoku

Akita is one of the most popular winter getaways in Japan. It offers something for everyone, including a ski resort, hot spring baths and amazing festivals all year long.

Enjoy the traditional paper balloons at the Kamihinokinai Paper Balloon Festival in February, or watch the town of Kariwano as it engages in a 500-year old ceremony based on a massive, town-sized round of tug-of-war with a 10-ton rope.

February also hosts many local snow festivals and the unique Namahage Sedo Matsuri . Eating mochi and drinking amazake inside a kamakura is a tradition of more than 400 years. This can be done during the Yokote Kamakura Snow Festival . Visit Akita to get to know Japanese culture !

Tokyo offers a big city winter like no other. The chilly weather means you’ll have to wear warm clothing, but it also means that the air gets clearer and you can sometimes see Mt. Fuji from the Tokyo Skytree .

You can also visit Lake Kawaguchi for a majestic view of Mt. Fuji from its shores. This lake makes a great day trip from Tokyo City.

Lake Kawaguchi Winter Fireworks Festival is an annual event that takes places from January to February. The best place to view the fireworks display is from Oike Park .

An overnight stay in the area does not only offer you to see this fascinating winter event but also you can relax at one of the hot spring resorts located around the lake. Stay at this onsen hotel , which is a 5-minute drive from Kawaguchiko Station.

The many traditional food offerings of Japan change with the seasons, and in winter in Tokyo, you’ll find plenty of hot foods to keep the chill off, like spicy “Kimchi nabe”, rich “ motsunabe ”, and many wonderful stews you can get on the street.

A trip to Tokyo is always magical and many travelers dreams of celebrating New Year’s Eve in the city. You can spend your time at Shibuya Crossing, Tokyo Sky Tree, Tokyo Disney, and Tokyo Tower to celebrate New Year’s Eve.

For Hatsumode , either Asakusa temple or Zojoji temple is a perfect choice. Many locals also head over to Meiji Jingu !

There are more light shows than you can count in Tokyo’s malls and gardens as well as numerous festivals to attend. Winter in Tokyo has a flavor, in every sense, all its own.

Kyoto in winter has just as much character as Tokyo. The snow that coats every building transforms the city’s many shrines into something out of an ancient painting. Kifune Shrine , in particular, is a wonderful sight to see.

Looking like a postcard, the shrine’s vivid colors stand out in the thick blanket of snow.

The area gets very cold, so be sure to dress warm, but it will be a bit less crowded than usual thanks to the cold.

Kurama Onsen , the best onsen in Kyoto offers both indoor and outdoor bahts. If you want to explore a hot spring town in Kyoto, we highly recommend you to visit Kurama Onsen.

In late winter, plum blossom (ume in Japanese) can be seen on the grounds of many temples and shrines.

Even though they look similar to iconic cherry blossoms, they are quite different. Read this post to identify some differences between ume and sakura.

10. Aomori, Tohoku

Aomori is a spectacular area. In winter, much of the focus is on the Hakkoda ski resort , an excellent set of ski runs, lifts, and more that offers a challenge for skiers from around the world.

You can rent snow shoes and trek through the wilderness, enjoying the amazing views and snow-clad trees.

Besides athletics, Aomori is home to many winter festivals that have long helped locals manage the cold and dark winters, including the 800-year-old Hachinohe Enburi festival , a cultural treasure. Aomori is one of the most uniquely Japanese winter destinations in the country.

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Hot spring bath with great views of Mt. Fuji!!!!

Winter in Japan: Best Destinations During the Winter Season

Japan is said to be a land beautiful in all four seasons, but winter holds a special place in our hearts. Winter in Japan is a short season that lasts from December to February, although in the more northern prefectures it can be quite a bit longer.

We love Japan’s winter months when the air is crisp and there’s snow on the ground. It’s the perfect time to soak in the thermal waters of an onsen or get our snowboards out of storage and head for the nearest slopes for some winter fun. Many cities have amazing festivals during winter in Japan too. Yes, you need to wrap up warm when you go, but they’re so magical you’ll soon forget the cold.

Why Visit Japan During the Winter Season?

• Sapporo (Hokkaido prefecture)
• Jigokudani Monkey Park (Nagano prefecture)
• Kanazawa (Ishikawa prefecture)
• Ginzan Onsen (Yamagata prefecture)
• Shirakawa-go Village (Gifu prefecture)
• Mt Zao (Yamagata prefecture)
• Otaru (Hokkaido prefecture)

There are so many wonderful places to go to in Japan in winter that we could write a book about them. That’s not to mention all of the things to do in Japan in the winter season. Winter is one of the best seasons to enjoy local Japanese cuisine, especially in the seaside cities. Fresh seafood, including fugu (blowfish) and crab are a must-try during winter. Winter is also synonymous with warm onsen hot springs, which are perfect to warm up after a day of sightseeing. It’s also the best way to end a day after enjoying winter sports at one of Japan’s many ski resorts. Japan has some amazing mountains, with beautiful snow fall for ski and snowboard lovers. 

Besides all of the amazing things to do in Japan during winter, it’s also a great chance to visit the country without the same crowds you might experience in the spring and fall seasons. As long as you avoid the Christmas and New Years holidays, you can expect less crowds while exploring Japan. You may also find accommodations in major cities can be less taxing on your wallets during the winter season.

One of the best things to do in Japan in winter is to visit Sapporo, a city located in the northernmost prefecture, Hokkaido . The Sapporo Snow Festival takes place every year at the beginning of February and is one of the biggest celebrations held during Japan’s winter months, drawing both international and local Japanese tourists each year.

Many people liken Sapporo to a winter wonderland when the snow festival is on. Believe us, that’s an understatement. For the seven days of the festival, Sapporo becomes a fantasy world of enormous snow and ice sculptures that defy description. The festival is spread over three main sites, the Odori Site, the Susukino Site and the Tsudome Site. The first two are dedicated to the amazing works created by the snow and ice sculptors and the third is where everyone goes to let off steam on the snow slides and have fun.  There are also an unbelievable number of outdoor festival stalls with delicious food, so be sure to bundle up and brave the icy temperatures to get your fill of the Sapporo Snow Festival!

Jigokudani Monkey Park

People are not the only ones who enjoy onsen during winter in Japan. The macaque monkeys of the Joshinetsu Kogen National Park do too! And they have a very special place where they go to soak in steaming waters – the Jigokudani Monkey Park, or Snow Monkey Park, which is part of the national park and a natural habitat for the macaques. Photos of the monkeys enjoying a dip in the warm waters has become an iconic image of winter in Japan, recognizable around the world.

While the monkeys are there all year round, the best time to see them is January or February when there’s snow and the monkeys take a dip to keep warm. This iconic scene of winter is a must see if you are traveling to Japan during the winter season. If you get cold, don’t be jealous of the monkeys taking a dip! You too can enjoy onsen, although not in the park. Head over to Shibu or Yudanaka,  popular onsen towns nearby, for your own relaxing dip in the hot springs.

There’s one place in Japan we always recommend as it really does have everything and that’s Kanazawa. Well, it has everything apart from snow monkeys, they’re unique to Jigokudani, but the rest of its attributes more than make up for that. Kanazawa is a popular place for locals to visit during Japan’s winter months as you can combine sightseeing with winter sports, enjoy onsen hot springs, and sample some of the best seafood in Japan.

There is so much to see and do in Kanazawa that you won’t think about the cold for a moment even when you’re outside. The reconstruction of the Kanazawa Castle is truly impressive and is a must-visit during your Japan travels for all of the history buffs out there. Combine a visit to Kanazawa Castle with nearby Kenrokuen Garden, one of the 3 most beautiful gardens in all of Japan . This landscaped garden has a very special ambience when the trees and plants are dusted with a covering of snow. Kenrokuen Garden is beautiful in any season, but truly comes alive in the winter. During the winter in Japan, Kenrokuen is decorated with yukitsuri , bamboo poles and ropes that form structures around the pine trees all around the extensive grounds. Yukitsuri is not just for show, and is an important support system that keeps the heavy snow from harming the pine trees. The sight of yukitsuri in Kenrokuen Garden is so iconic, it has become one of the symbols of Kanazawa City.

See our recommended accommodations in Kanazawa : MACHIYA RESIDENCE INN KANAZAWA

Ginzan Onsen

Ginzan Onsen in the Yamagata prefecture is the place to go to experience old-world Japan charm at its best during the winter season. No vehicles are allowed in the center of this sleepy mountain town so it has a special atmosphere that transports you back in time. In Ginzan Onsen, the streets and river that runs through its heart are lined with ryokan, traditional onsen inns built from wood. When the roofs of the ryokan are laden with snow they really do make a perfect picture postcard scene, contributing to it’s status as one of the best places to visit during winter in Japan.

In Ginzan Onsen you can enjoy the onsen outdoors under the stars or stop off to take a free foot bath while exploring the charming town. It’s definitely worth exploring, because if you do you’ll find a stunning waterfall. Keep walking , and if the path isn’t blocked by snow, you’ll come across a cavern left over from the silver mining days that you can enter. You’ll experience and touch history while enjoying old-Japan charm at this sleepy yet picturesque onsen town while visiting Japan in winter.

Shirakawa-go Village

Shirakawa-go Village has gained popularity as a tourist destination in recent years, and the winter season is one of the best times to visit – especially if you’re staying in Hida Takayama . If you’re going skiing or snowboarding at one of the resorts in Gifu prefecture, then we also recommend you take a day off from the slopes just to go and see this unique rural village.

Shirakawa-go Village is a hamlet where many of the farmhouses are built in the gassho-zukuri style with steeply angled roofs covered in thatch. The roofs were built that way so they don’t collapse under the weight of the snow that falls in this region in winter. Some of the houses, which are still inhabited, are over two centuries old and are so special they have been made a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can find accommodation nearby, but we recommend staying at Takayama City and taking a day trip out to Shirakawa-go.

See our recommended accommodation in Takayama : THE MACHIYA HOTEL TAKAYAMA

Skiers and snowboarders who take to the slopes of Mount Zao are able to get a super close up look at the mysterious juhyo that appear on the mountainside in winter. The juhyo, or snow monsters, are trees that have accumulated a thick covering of ice and snow which, when it’s blown into strange shapes by the Siberian winds, look like petrified ice monsters. The view of the mountains covered in these snow monsters make Mt Zao one of the most unique and beautiful destinations for your Japan travels in winter.

Even if you’re not a skier you can still get to see the juhyo as there’s a ropeway running from the Zao Ski Resort to where they are. If you feel as frozen as the trees once you’ve seen them you’ll enjoy thawing out in one of the many onsen in the Zao area. It’s famous for them, and some of the hot springs are said to have been discovered and used as early as 110AD! The Zao Ski Resorts are said to have some of the best snow fall in all of Japan, so if you’re an avid winter sports lover, be sure to make the time to hit the slopes here!

While it isn’t Venice, Otaru City in Hokkaido prefecture has a very attractive canal. The century-old canal was historically used by ships carrying cargo into the city, but now the warehouses that line it have been converted into restaurants and even a museum. The canal side pathway is a popular spot for evening strolls, even in the Japan winter months, as the romantic gas lantern that light up the area make the atmosphere beautiful and mysterious.

Its canal is not the only thing about this Hokkaido port city that attracts visitors either. The Otaru Snow Light Path Festival  is an enchanting event that takes place in the city every February. Thousands of candles are lit all around the city and hundreds of lanterns are floated on the canal. It’s an absolutely mesmerizing sight that everyone should see at least once in their lifetime.

Top Destinations to Visit During Winter in Japan

We hope that you’ll love the places we’ve chosen as the best winter destinations in Japan as much as we do. Attending a snow festival, taking a warm bath in an onsen hot spring, and hitting the mountains for skiing and snowboarding are just a few of the things to enjoy during winter in Japan. For the best chances of having snow during your Japan travels, try to time your trip in February.

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Incredible Places To Visit In Japan During Winter

There are so many reasons why you should go to Japan in the winter. Firstly, because the weather is cold, it is less crowded and you can explore in leisure.

Secondly, there are many winter activities visitors can participate in during this season such as skiing, ice skating, soaking in hot spring, etc.

However, do you know where the best places to enjoy these activities are? If not, keep reading this article to learn the top 12 places to visit in winter in Japan.

Top 12 Places To Visit On Your Japan Winter Holiday

1. shirakawa-go, gifu.

Shirakawa-go is a stunning year-round village in the center of Gifu. People know Shirakawa-go as an area of “gasshou” houses – an ancient traditional architecture.

“Gasshou” means “praying hands” in English. People here believe that the traditional style of sharply steep roofs resembles the two hands of Budda gathered when praying.

Winter in this village is said to be the most beautiful as it is the most massive snow area in Japan. Nearly 96 percent of this area is untouched forest, so it is quite hard to reach.

However, you should still make an effort to arrive in Shirakawa-go, it will bring you the most authentic feeling of Japanese remote life.

2. Takayama, Gifu

If you come to Japan in winter, you can choose to go to Takayama, which is known as the Little Kyoto with ancient sites and buildings.

This area is famous for its specialties such as sansai, wasakana, Hida beef, soba noodles, sake, and so on.

It is said that Takayama is one of the best cities to take photos in Japan in winter with red lacquered bridges, kimono-clad women, stunning-looking Kura houses, etc.

Kura houses are fire-resistant buildings for citizens to store their valuable things. Nowadays, they are used as cafes, sake locales, or boutiques.

Search for the best places to stay in Takayama  here .

Book these amazing tours for your trip NOW!

3. Shinhotaka Ropeway (Gifu)

Shinhotaka Ropeway is the place where Oku-Hotakedake – the third highest mountain in Japan – is located. Here, you can enjoy the panoramic beauty of Okuhida Mountains and valleys.

If you are active and love risky activities, you can try snowshoeing in this region.

4. Gero (Gifu)

Gero sits on rich underground thermal water currents, so it is considered the best place to warm up in Japan during the winter.

If you are brave enough, you can undress, soak into the hot water pools, and relax. Many artistic rocks are displayed in this area to create the perfect scenery for visitors.

Therefore, you can enjoy the beauty of nature while relaxing in a hot water pool.

Find the best accommodations in Gero here .

5. Kobe City (Hyogo)

Kobe city is the place where Japanese people and foreign travelers can experience seasonal illuminations with many fairy lights, projection mapping, and LEDs.

Besides, you should also take time to visit Kobe port, especially if you arrive in Japan in November.

Here, the Kobe Luminarie is celebrated yearly to honor thousands of people who passed away in the 1995 Great Hanshin Earthquake.

After the earthquake, electricity was cut in this area for a quite long period, so they turned on the lights to symbolize hope, recovery, and renewal.

6. Kinosaki Hot Spring (Hyogo)

This is a charming old town with many onsens on the Sea of Japan.

In the 8th century, many hot springs were discovered in this area. The local people built bathhouses over the hot spring to serve daily life.

Later, when this place became famous all over the world, these works still remain and create Kinosaki a majestic ancient beauty.

7. Takeda Castle Ruins (Hyogo)

The Takeda Castle was built in 1441. However, the buildings were damaged and only the foundations remained. Nowadays, it has become a very famous destination for travelers.

In the morning, Takeda castle ruins look like they are floating on the clouds.

Therefore, when you have a chance to visit Japan , do not forget to arrive in Hyogo to admire this mysterious scenery.

8. First Tadami River Bridge (Fukushima)

The bridge crossing Tadamigawa River is 174 meters in length and is considered one of the most fabulous destinations in Fukushima.

During the winter, it is a picturesque place to take photos. It is also fascinating if you can go across the bridge on a train.

9. Ueno Park (Tokyo)

If you have quite a little time to stay in Japan, why don’t you go to Ueno Park?

Within this single place, visitors will have a chance to sample the unique charms of many countries all over the world.

From this park, you can go shopping in  Ameya Yokocho  – a famous ancient black market in Japan.

Last but not least, you can get to nearby Yanaka, which provides you with an authentic view of Tokyo’s culture and history. This is one of a few that survived after World War II.

Check out our itinerary of  things to do in Tokyo if you have 2 days .

Nagano is considered as the city of freedom and longevity. It locates in the center of Japan and attracts a large number of tourists every year.

In Nagano, visitors can experience the most putative beauty without fighting against the crowds thanks to the remoteness.

Apart from the natural beauty, Nagano is said to be the home of hidden gems. From Nagano, you can get to Kogen ski resort and Matsumoto city.

In Kogen ski resort, you will see onsen-bathing monkeys of Jigokudani; while in Matsumoto city, you will have an opportunity to explore the  Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route  and snow walls.

11. Onuma Quasi National Park (Hokkaido)

This park is in the south of Hokkaido and is a picturesque area with rivers, lakes, and hills.

Onuma Quasi National Park is well-known for its Mount Komagatake, an active volcano covered by snow and majestic beauty.

Here, visitors can participate in hiking, cycling, fishing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and especially looking at the beauty of Japanese landscapes in winter.

Your visit to Onuma Quasi National Park will be of the most meaningful if you come in December.

12. Mount Fuji

Mount Fuji is the highest mountain in Japan and the symbol of this country. Three small cities are sitting around  Mount Fuji  which include Gotemba, Fujiyoshida, and Fujinomiya.

This mountain is famous for its year-round scenery, especially in the winter.

From the middle to the end of winter, especially from January to March, the sky is clear so you can take photos with Mount Fuji covered by snow.

You can even take a shot of its shade in the evening. Chiba port and Mizugatsuka Park are the best places near Mount Fuji for you to take photos.

If you would rather get up close and see the details in all of the beauty in person, there are several places for the  best close-up views of Mount Fuji  that you can get to quite easily.

Even on a cloudy day, going closer to the mountain will ensure you get a chance to see it in all of it’s glory!

Why Visit Japan In Winter?

1. avoid the crowds.

In spring and autumn, Japan attracts millions of tourists as they are the seasons of Sakura and Koyo.

Summer is the holiday time in many countries, and Japan is not an exception. During the summer, many families have time to travel; it means that every tourist attraction picks up thousands of travelers.

Therefore, the best time to visit Japan is in winter, when it is less crowded, and you can explore the whole beauty of this beautiful country.

2. Soak In Hot Spring (Onsen)

Soaking in hot spring is one of the most famous and exciting things every visitor should do when going to Japan and winter is the only time for you to do this legendary activity.

For the Japanese, this is the best way to relax and re-energize the body. Not only Japanese people but many tourists also say that this was one of the most beautiful things they had done in Japan.

So, if you leave in this country without trying  onsen , it is a big mistake.

3. Enjoy Japanese Winter Specialties

Like many other countries in Asia, Japan is well-known for its seasonal specialties.

In winter, when the temperature drops, tourists will have chances to enjoy the hot and healthy snacks made by local people.

This will be a special occasion for people who love tofu, meat, and soy-braised vegetables.

4. See Winter Wildlife

In winter, you can see many red-faced monkeys, which are soaking their bodies in onsens in the Snow Monkey Park and red-crowned cranes in the Tsurui-Ito Tancho Sanctuary in Hokkaido.

5. Participate In The Snow Festival

The snow festival, with a large number of snow sculptures, in Japan attracts more than two millions of tourists annually.

In this occasion, many artists from all over the work gather together, create, and complete large works from ice and snow.

Besides, there are some events such as skating, games, illuminations, and so on.

Tips For Visiting Japan In Winter The Cheapest Way

• Travel Off-Peak : Peak season also means high rates of hotel, plane tickets, souvenir, and so on. Therefore, traveling off-season will save you a lot. We usually find the  best deals on places to stay  with a little bit of online research in advance.
• Seek Discounted Air Tickets : We like to Compare prices on flights for the cheapest options.
• Transport By Bus : Never take a taxi. Choose to go by buses as they are always available at a low price. Also, look for combination tickets to lower the cost.
• Walk : Some people wonder why Japan has high average longevity. It is because they walk a lot. Also, walking brings you a chance to look at all the small things on the Japanese streets. Some of them will be useful to you later.
• Choose Free Guide Services : In many cities in Japan, you can find free private tour guides. They are very friendly and only want to improve their English, so you do not have to pay for anything. A small lunch for them is excellent. Alternatively, there are budget friendly walking tours available like  this one in Kyoto .

Above is all useful information about the reasons and places to visit in Japan in winter. We also provide you with some tips for a cheap holiday in Japan.

If you have ever been to this city, please share with us your experience by commenting under this article. Thanks for reading!

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Taiss Nowrouzi

Hi! I’m just a California girl addicted to travel and adventure with a passion for art and dance on the side. Born in Iran, but I consider myself a citizen of Earth, adhering to the belief that “The world is but one country and mankind its citizen.” I strive to make a positive impact on everyone I meet and learn as much as possible from them. My degree out of college is in Marketing. However, I entered the hospitality business at an early age and worked my way up to hotel management. After about 13 years in that industry (5 of which I was a hotel assistant manager), I made the decision to move to Thailand and leave the 9 to 5 grind behind. My husband and I set off for a life of living abroad and hopes to continue traveling the world, just 3 months after our wedding. It all started with the two of us, along with our cat, together in Thailand. Can’t wait to see where life takes us next!

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Tokyo in winter: what to see, do and eat

Nov 28, 2017 • 5 min read

Winter is a great time of year for getting top views of Mt Fuji © shigemi okano/Shutterstock

Tokyo's winter charms are one of the city's best-kept secrets. This means that as well as a festive atmosphere and crisp, clear days perfect for soaking in hot springs and spotting Mt Fuji, visitors get to enjoy all that Tokyo has to offer with far fewer crowds.

Just keep in mind that many attractions close for some or all of the first week of January, for the New Year holiday.

See Mt Fuji

Winter is the best time of year for spotting Mt Fuji on the horizon. Draped in snow, the volcano's cone is extra picturesque this time of year. Top viewing spots in the city include the observatories at Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building , Tokyo Tower , Tokyo Sky Tree and Roppongi Hills' Tokyo City View . Even better: make the brisk climb to the summit of Takao-san, on the western edge of Tokyo, or a trip down to the lake, Ashi-no-ko, in Hakone for spectacular views of Japan's iconic peak.

Like this? Try this:   How to spend a perfect weekend in Tokyo

Visit a shrine on New Year's Day

Tokyoites may not be a pious bunch but nearly everyone turns up for hatsumōde , the ritual first shrine visit of the New Year. The most popular spot is far and away Meiji-jingū – which gets millions of visitors over the first few days of January (expect long lines!) – but any of Tokyo's larger shrines attract visitors shortly after midnight. It's tradition to buy new omamori (charms) and omikuji (fortunes written on strips of paper) and to turn in your old ones, which will be ritually burned.

Like this? Try this:  Temples, mountains and hot springs: Tokyo's best day trips

Toss beans for luck

Setsubun , a centuries-old observance, takes place every year on 3 February (the day before the first day of spring on the old lunar calendar). It's a sort of spring-cleaning of the spiritual kind: people gather at shrines and temples to toss toasted soybeans while shouting, 'Oni wa soto! Fuku wa uchi!' ('Devils out! Luck in!'). Then, to double down on luck, it is customary to eat one's age in soybeans. Tokyo neighbourhood Shimo-Kitazawa takes the festivities up a notch with its Tengū Matsuri. In addition to the requisite bean throwing, there is a parade of locals carrying the giant, red head of a teng ū – a long-nosed demon, who is equal parts protective deity and fearsome troublemaker.  In 2020 the festival runs from 03 to 04 Februar.

Soak in hot springs

The winter chill is just one more reason to seek out an onsen (hot spring) bath. Make a day out of it at one of the city's spa complexes. These include Ōedo Onsen Monogatari , which bills itself as an onsen amusement park, and Spa LaQua , which has over a dozen baths and saunas to choose from. You can also go ultra local by taking a dip in a sentō , a community bathhouse. Some favourites include Rokuryū Kōsen , Jakotsu-yu and Komparu-yu . (Note that spas usually deny entry to guests with tattoos, but sentō usually have an open policy; the policy will typically be posted on the front door.)

Stroll under the plum blossoms

The first sign of spring in Japan isn't sakura (cherry) blossoms; it's ume (plum) blossoms, which appear in the capital in late February. Like sakura , the photogenic flowers come in myriad shades of pink (though they're a little bigger and hardier). And while ume don't draw the party crowds that sakura does, they do occasion a visit to one of the sites that is famous for them, such as Koishikawa Kōrakuen or Yushima Tenjin .

Like this? Try this:   Best places to see cherry blossoms in Japan

Admire Tokyo's Christmas lights

Christmas in Japan is a largely secular holiday and one of the most important date nights of the year. (Think of Christmas and New Year as being opposite what they are in the west; here New Year is for families and Christmas is for couples.) Tokyo's commercial districts go all out with illuminations that last the whole month of December. One particularly magical spot is Keyaki-zaka on the edge of Roppongi Hills .

Like this? Try this:  Only in Tokyo: a tour of Japan’s pop-culture experiences

Catch some sumo

The first grand sumo tournament of the year kicks off at Tokyo's Ryōgoku Kokugikan in January. The tournament lasts two weeks, with matches going on all morning and afternoon each day; the most coveted tickets are for the last days of the tournament (when the stakes are highest), so book those early. The tournament runs from 12 to 26 January in 2020 (tickets on sale from 07 December 2019).

Warm up with Tokyo's winter dishes

The classic dish of winter is nabe , which is any possible combination of meat, seafood, vegetables and tofu simmered in broth in a big earthen pot set on the table. It's invariably a social dish, as one pot serves several. Lots of izakaya (Japanese-style pubs) have it on the menu in winter. Try chanko nabe – the protein-rich stew on which sumo wrestlers feast in order to gain weight and strength – at Kappō Yoshiba .

Like this? Try this:  Tokyo restaurant etiquette: the ultimate guide to dining in Japan’s capital

Hit the slopes near Tokyo

Tokyo's closest ski and snowboarding spot is Gala Yuzawa , just a 75-minute ride away on the shinkansen (bullet train). The train deposits you at the resort: the gondola leaves from the same station. Full gear rental (including snow attire) is available, meaning you can show up empty-handed. Gala Yuzawa gets consistently good snow (the adjacent hot spring town, Echigo-Yuzawa Onsen was, after all, the setting for Kawabata Yasunari's novel Snow Country ). Take advantage of the JR Tokyo Wide train pass (adult/child ¥10,000/5000), which covers three consecutive days of return travel on the shinkansen to Gala Yuzawa, plus limited express trains to and from Nikkō , the Izu Peninsula and Narita Airport.

Grab a lucky bag

Just as shrines have hatsumode , shops have hatsuuri – the first sale of the year, which happens just after the New Year (and sometimes on New Year's Day). For this occasion, many shops (and especially department stores) prepare fukubukuro , or lucky bags, containing an unknown quantity of mystery merchandise at a steep discount. Devotees of a particular shop will queue for hours for a coveted fukubukuro ; sold in limited quantities they often sell out on the first day.

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Things to love about a Japanese winter

April 16, 2024

A country that charms in any season, you’ll find winter delights aplenty in this wonderland

Japan really is a country for all seasons. Tourists have already cottoned onto the renowned beauty of sakura (cherry blossoms) in spring and the rich foliage of autumn, but winter brings a crisp, festive prettiness.

Think snow-capped trees, serene temples and quaint villages blanketed in fresh snow, cities twinkling with a magical charm thanks to endless light displays. This mountainous country’s winter landscapes promise to delight, with familiar icons and landmarks made even more alluring with a dusting of powder.

Here, all the reasons we love to travel to Japan in winter (and you will, too).

Quality skiing

Japan’s winter sports scene is world-renowned, thanks to its reliable snowfall, quality powder snow and epic runs. From the Winter Olympics cities of Nagano (1998) and Sapporo (1972) to popular resorts like Niseko, there are loads of options for skiers and snowboarders. Snowshoe trekking is a relatively slow-paced way to savour the crisp air and pristine snowscapes. Plus, in a country that knows how to unwind, the après scene is top-notch— sake, anyone?

...and ice skating

Ice skating enjoys a long history in Japan and you’ll find numerous ice rinks dotted throughout the country to partake in this popular sport, along with year-round indoor ice rinks as far south as tropical Okinawa. 

Enjoying the treasured tradition of onsen

What’s better than partaking in the age-old ritual of onsen, a much-loved part of Japanese culture? Sinking into a steaming hot onsen in the misty open air, of course. To beat the winter chill in the best way possible, rotenburo (an outdoor hot spring bath) is a magical experience. It’s the perfect way to relax after a long day on the slopes. 

It’s a twinkling winter wonderland

Winter is Japan at its sparkly best. There are light-up displays and illuminations everywhere, especially in big cities. The capital’s landmark Tokyo Tower lit up makes for a whimsical sight, or visit the German village in Chiba Prefecture, with more than two and a half million LED lights, a rainbow tunnel and 3D illuminations. Dazzling. 

There’s a festive vibe

Japan is known for its seasonal matsuri (festivals) and winter hosts some of the best. The Sapporo Snow Festival , Japan’s largest winter festival, transforms the city’s streets and open spaces into a winter wonderland. Visitors can wander the three main sites around the city and marvel at the snowy creations. At Susukino, teams from around the world compete to create winning snow and ice sculptures – these creations are legendary. 

Lake Shikaribetsu’s man-made ice village, part of its annual winter festival held on the frozen lake, features igloo houses, an ice bar and an open-air onsen. In southeastern Akita Prefecture, the Yokote Kamakura Festival features igloo-like snow houses dotted around the city. 

Even monkeys love to onsen

In the mountains of Nagano Prefecture, the small onsen town of Yudanaka plays host to an adorable sight. At Jigokudani Monkey Park, you’ll find snow monkeys bathing in steaming hot springs during the cold winter months. 

Witness the natural phenomenon of drift ice 

On the northeastern coast of Hokkaido, the city of Abashiri is known for its rhuhyo ice—masses of drift ice in the Okhotsk Sea. The best way to see this spectacle and admire the brilliant whiteness of the ice is on a short cruise aboard an icebreaker.

The comfort food

In Japan, it’s not just about warming up with hot sake or amazake (a sweet, low-alcohol or non-alcoholic version of sake). They’re also experts in warming winter cuisine. From a steaming hot bowl of ramen to nourishing nabe (hot pot) dishes like sukiyaki and the much-loved oden, it’s the season for comfort food. Shabu-shabu is the ideal dish for sharing, with ingredients sliced paper-thin and cooked tableside during the meal, similar to fondue. There are regional versions of hot pot throughout the country, each with their own combinations of flavours and ingredients. 

Eating is even better with your legs curled up under the kotatsu— a traditional heater-and-futon table with a blanket draped over to keep the heat in. Genius. 

Ice fishing

Ever fished for wakasagi (Japanese pond smelt)? Didn’t think so. In Kushiro, a port city in eastern Hokkaido, you can drop a line through a hole in the ice sheet with the help of your guide. Even better if you can learn how to cook the day’s catch tempura-style!

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The Best Winter Activities in Japan

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Japan is beautiful all year round. It is hard for me to decide which Japan I like the most.

I had the chance to see Japan in all seasons, but I think that it is most beautiful during the winter months.

There are lots of things to do in Japan during the winter.

If you wish to find out the best winter activities in Japan, read on.

Table of Contents

1. Skiing and Snowboarding

Japan is home to a bunch of amazing mountains where people from all over the country and abroad go skiing and snowboarding.

Here are the best 5 skiing and snowboarding destinations in Japan:

• Kagura . Located in the town of Yuzawa, Japan, this is one of the most accessible resorts, especially if you are coming from Tokyo because it is only an hour’s ride away to Echigo Yuzawa station followed by a 15-minute bus ride to the actual mountain.
• Hakuba . Located in the Nagano prefecture and about an hour’s drive away from Nagano station, Hakuba is definitely one of the most famous ski destinations in Japan. There are many different terrains that are great for beginners and advanced skiers and snowboarders.
• Nozawa Onsen. This is an all-year-round destination located in the Yamabiko area. This destination offers plenty of good runs for beginners and for immediate-level riders as well. Also, this place is not so much crowded, which is always a plus.
• Niseko . Located in Hokkaido, this place is comprised of multiple resorts including Hanazono, Grand Hirafu, Niseko Village, and Annupuri. All four of these resorts are connected at the top of the mountain, and if you get the all-mountain pass, you can cross between all the resorts.
• Rusutsu . Located just 30 minutes drive away from Niseko, this area has the softest snow in all of Japan, combined with amazing runs for beginners and advanced riders. Rusutsu has some of the best tree runs where you can pretty much ride down any part of the mountain and end up back on the groomed paths again.

Read Next – 5 Best Hotels Near Rusutsu Amusement Park

2. Soaking in Hot Springs (Onsen)

Onsen, which is another word for hot springs, is very popular in Japan. In fact, Japan has around 3,000 onsens (hot springs) establishments scattered across the country.

The Onsen are natural pools that use hot water which comes from underground sources of geothermal heat.

Because the temperature of the water coming from Earth’s lower mantle is so high, the Onsens are available all year round.

The Onsen offers calming effects and they are known to improve circulation, relieve muscle tension, and promote a feeling of relaxation (which is something we all need!).

With a wide range of Onsens throughout Japan, I have a list of the top 10 that are the best in my opinion:

• Hakone Onsen – It is located near Tokyo and offers views of Mount Fuji. This is probably one of the best hot springs in Japan.
• Beppu Onsen – Situated on the southern island of Kyushu, has great sand baths.
• Kusatsu Onsen – Located up in the mountains of Gunma Prefecture. Provides stunning views of the mountains.
• Noboribetsu Onsen – Can be found on the northern island of Hokkaido. Very nice and easily accessible.
• Gero Onsen – Situated in the Gifu Prefecture, has amazingly clear water and colorless hot springs.
• Kurokawa Onsen – Located in the Kumamoto Prefecture, offers amazing outdoor views.
• Yufin Onsen – Located in the Oita Prefecture with amazing views of Mount Yufu.
• Atami Onsen – Another hot spring located near Tokyo.
• Arima Onsen – Situated near Kobe, rich in history and traditional Japanese architecture.
• Ibusuki Onsen – Located on the southern island of Kyushu, offers great coastal views.

Read Next 📖

• Why Are Tattoos Not Allowed in Onsen?
• Female Onsen Etiquette Explained
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3. Winter Illuminations

If you think that Japan is beautiful during the summer with all the Cherry trees blooming, wait until winter gets there.

There are a lot of destinations in Japan that offer winter illuminations that will blow your mind.

In fact, these illuminations are exceptional and on a huge scale and are only getting bigger and bigger each year.

If you enjoy the winter spirit with streets glowing in different lights, here are some places you must visit:

• Yokohama Milight. This is Yokohama’s largest illumination where they color the Minato Mirai area of Yokohama and all the way to the Yokohama station. The city of Minato Mirai is surrounded by lights with over 1.5 kilometers (1 mile) and approximately 500 000 LED lights that glow in blue, gold, and white color.
• Sea Paradise Night Aquarium. This is also in Yokohama and it’s an aquarium wrapped in a mysterious world of lights with illumination. While this destination can be enjoyed all year round, there is some special charm when you visit it in the winter.
• Higashi-Totsuka Music Light. Located in Kanagawa, outside of the Totska station, about 100 000 LED light bulbs are lit from around 5 pm to 11 pm. There are different shows with sound, lights, and videos for about 15 minutes every single hour.
• Sagamiko Illumination. It is the biggest illumination in the Kanto region. This area covers a huge area with a festival of lights that color the forest of Lake Sagami. This destination is just one hour away from the city center of Tokyo.
• Matsuda Kirakira Festa . Mount Matsura is surrounded by dazzling lights and invites you to fairy tales during the festival. The park is located on the summit of Mount Matsura where you can enjoy beautiful night views as well as illuminations.
• Tokyo German Village Winter Illumination. This illumination occurs each year, and this year will be its 18th year. with over 3 million light bulbs shining in the area, the theme park makes you feel like you have entered a dream.

Also Read 📖

• Japanese Theme Park Rules You Should Follow
• 5 Best Hotels for Country Farm Tokyo German Village
• 38 Japanese Theme Parks

4. Snowshoeing

If you are a fan of hiking, you should definitely try snowshoeing.

For those who don’t know, snowshoeing is a winter sport that basically involves walking over a thick layer of snow with the help of special footwear called snowshoes.

Let’s drop the fancy words. You put on shoes that look like tennis rackets and they distribute your weight over a larger area so you don’t fall in the snow.

It is the same as hiking but instead of having green surroundings, everything is white!

There are lots of places for snowshoeing in Japan, but here is a list of my favorites:

• Oze National Park. It is located in the mountains of Gunma, Fukushima, Niigata, and Tochigi Prefectures. This park is very famous for its snowshoeing trails.
• Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park. It is located in the Nagano Prefecture and has snowshoeing trails and lots of hot springs.
• Shiga Kogen. Located in the Nagano Prefecture, has lots of snowshoeing trails with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
• Mount Daisen . Situated in the Tottori Prefecture, this mountain has snowshoeing trails for both beginners and more advanced persons.
• Mount Hachimantai. It is located between Iwate and Akita Prefectures and has some of the best snowshoeing trails.
• Mount Yotei. Located in Hokkaido, this mountain offers pretty challenging snowshoeing trails and is more for those who have better stamina.
• Does it snow in Japan?
• 6 best snow monkey destinations in Japan

5. Winter Festivals

One of the most famous events in Japan during the winter months is the Winter Festivals. These annual events are known for outdoor concerts, beautiful parades, a wide range of food stalls, and lots of snow sculptures.

Most of these festivals are held in the northern regions where they have heavy snowfall each year. Thanks to the freezing temperatures, many of these festivals have ice sculptures high up to 60 feet.

In some places, due to warmer temperatures, the locals are only able to entertain the crowds with parades and food stands.

While there are many winter festivals, here are some that you must visit:

• Sapporo Snow Festival. Held in Sapporo, this is one of the largest festivals in Japan. Here, you can see massive snow sculptures, ice slides, and lots of winter activities.
• Otaru Snow Light Path Festival. It is held in Otaru, with lots of snow lanterns and light displays in the streets.
• Hirosaki Castle Snow Lantern Festival. Held in Aomori Prefecture, has hundreds of snow lanterns around the Hirosaki Castle.
• Yokote Kamakura Festival. Situated in Akita Prefecture, this winter festival has hundreds of igloo-like snow huts also known as Kamakura.
• Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival. It is held near Sapporo on the frozen surface of Lake Shikotsu.
• Iwate Snow Festival. Situated in the Iwate Prefecture and offers lots of activities for visitors.
• Shirakawa-go Winter Light-Up. Held in the Gifu Prefecture with traditional thatched-roof houses with LED lights.
• Onbashira Festival. This festival is held every six years in the Nagano Prefecture and is definitely worth seeing.
• Hida Furukawa Winter Festival. This annually held festival is located in Gify Prefecture and has tons of snow lanterns and light displays.

Read Next – 5 Best Hotels in Otaru

In Conclusion

Japan is out of this world.

Visiting Japan during the winter months includes lots of skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and visiting their famous winter festivals and winter illuminations, but what I like the most is soaking in the hot springs.

Regardless of what you like, in Japan, you will definitely find something that you will enjoy.

About the author

I love traveling, meeting new people, and trying out different cuisines. Over the last decade, I have visited 30 countries and I never plan on stopping exploring the world.

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12 of the best places to visit in Japan

From Tokyo to Yokohama, these are the Japanese destinations to tick off your bucket list

There's plenty to see and do in Japan - from staring at the bright lights of Tokyo to finding peace in the scenic Japanese Alps . Many will agree that one of the best times to explore Japan is during the cherry blossom season . Its spectacular spring-time displays can be enjoyed around the country and are celebrated with picnics in the parks and seasonal parties.

While Tokyo and Kyoto are two of the most popular places to visit Japan (and rightly so as they are also some of the most beautiful destinations), there are many places beyond these hotspots, whether it's Japan's cities, islands or mountains you want to explore.

A cruise to Japan is an excellent way to visit multiple regions on one trip and can take you to some undiscovered places. If you're planning ahead for Japan's sell-out cruises, you'll want to check out Good Housekeeping's incredible spring 2025 sailing during the cherry blossom season . It's perfect for getting to know the lesser-known, underrated places, such as Niigata and Toyama.

For any traveller who has always dreamed of visiting Japan, now is the time to get planning and to help inspire your next trip, we've rounded up the best places to visit in Japan in 2024 and beyond.

Check out our favourite Japanese destinations below and visit the Japan National Tourism Organization website for more ideas on places to go.

The first stop for many foreign tourists is Japan's vibrant capital and it's not hard to see why. The world’s most populous metropolis, Tokyo offers tradition and innovation, and unlimited opportunities to eat, shop and explore.

Located on Tokyo Bay in the Kanto region of Honshu, Tokyo is known for its fashion and shopping, from the trendy shopping districts of Harajuku and Shibuya, to the luxury flagships of Ginza. Want to know where to go? Shinjuku is a thriving business district; a mix of gleaming skyscrapers and atmospheric back streets with tiny bars. Asakusa is the heart of Tokyo’s downtown, with ancient temples and traditional stores.

Tokyo is a foodie's paradise too, with more Michelin-starred restaurants than any other city in the world, along with hundreds of cheap and delicious ramen shops. You'll want to explore Tokyo's dizzying array of restaurant and dining options, from themed cafés to haute cuisine.

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Japan’s second largest metropolitan area after Tokyo, Osaka is renowned as one of the most multicultural and cosmopolitan cities in the country. It's only a short shinkansen ride from Tokyo, making it a great place to visit in Japan if the capital city is your base. Visitors can step off the bullet train and into a bright and enticing city. Osaka Castle is a must-visit and home to beautiful grounds you can wander through, especially during the cherry blossom season when the spectacular blooms appear.

You'll want to explore other areas in the city too, including the neon lights of Dotombori Bridge and Osaka’s Minami area. Foodies can indulge in the famous culinary delights found in neighbourhoods such as Tenma and Ura Namba. Okonomiyaki, a savoury pancake made with shredded cabbage, flour, egg and dashi is either cooked at the table for diners or left for you to cook yourself.

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The capital of Kanagawa prefecture, Yokohama grew from a small fishing village during the Edo Period into Japan’s second largest city. A popular city among expats, Yokohama is also home to one of the world’s largest Chinatowns, and preserves some former Western residences in the Yamate district. While here, you must visit one of the city’s traditional and serene Japanese landscape gardens, Sankeien Garden, where you'll find winding trails set among historic buildings.

Another highlight is the bustling new city centre, Minato Mirai, which sits along the water. There's something for everyone here, from shopping centres and an amusement park to museums and relaxing hot spring baths.

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Japanese Alps

The Japanese Alps are a series of spectacular mountain ranges in central Honshu, which are perfect for those who wish to escape the buzz of the country's most popular cities. Think thick pine forests, snow-tipped peaks and teal rivers. Only two hours from Tokyo, this natural paradise offers an excellent place to explore rural Japan.

The Alps are just the place for climbers, skiers, hikers and nature fans. Yamanaka Onsen is set in the mountainous area of Kaga Onsen, situated along a beautiful gorge. The hot spring resort is not only a top-spot for wellness but for traditional crafts – it's Yamanaka lacquerware has a 400-year history in the region. You can discover the contemplative heart of Zen Buddhism's Soto sect at Eiheiji (pictured), a massive temple complex just outside the city of Fukui. Built by the Buddhist monk Dogen (1200-1253), it has over 70 buildings set amid cedars in the mountains.

Meanwhile, the city of Kanazawa offers rich cultural heritage and a history of artistic innovation and excellence. One of the most important centres for culture and art during the Edo period, it remains a superb place for art lovers and culture enthusiasts.

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See the stunning Japanese Alps on a Good Housekeeping tour from Tokyo to Osaka in 2024 or 2025.

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Ancient temples, traditional teahouses and peaceful gardens: Kyoto is all about exploring historic Japan. A city of nearly 2,000 temples and shrines, it's Japan's spiritual heart and a true embodiment of Old Japan. Beyond the futuristic Kyoto Station, modern shopping complexes and sleek luxury hotels lies a city with celebrated centuries-old wonders, breathtaking temples and serene Zen gardens.

Kyoto effortlessly blends the past and present and is a must-see destination for history buffs, art lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

While here, you'll want to visit the grand temples, shrines, palaces and gardens in and around the city. Be sure to dine on delicious multi-course kaiseki cuisine and stay in a traditional ryokan (Japanese inn), too.

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The vibrant city of Hiroshima has a complicated history, great food and friendly locals. While it's probably most famous for being devastated by a nuclear attack during World War II, Hiroshima as a city promotes peace and understanding.

Every year on 6 August, a memorial service is held to commemorate the victims of the 1945 attack. Thousands write messages of peace on paper lanterns that are lit at sunset to float down the river past the iconic remains of the Atomic Bomb Dome.

During a visit, be sure to check out the Peace Park and Atomic Bomb Dome. You should also taste Hiroshima's version of okomiyaki, a local delicacy. Another highlight is going to nearby Miyajima to see its deer and picturesque floating shrine.

Explore Hiroshima during a 2025 spring-time cruise to Japan, where you'll have time to visit the war memorials, shrines and temples.

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Japan's Tohoku region is home to unspoiled rural landscapes and historical treasures. This northeastern wilderness is a huge region encompassing six rural prefectures that boast custom and heritage. The devastating earthquake and tsunami that struck in 2011 brought out the resilient nature of Tohoku's people, and local passion and pride are putting the area back on its feet.

There's a lot to be proud of, too – dramatic landscapes, history-rich sites, craft sake and a host of outdoor activities like rafting, hiking and skiing.

During a trip to the region, you can enjoy the explosive sound, colour and drama of the Aomori Nebuta Festival in summer. Or wander the temples, gardens and archeological sites of World Heritage-listed Hiraizumi in Iwate.

Don't miss an adventure along Hachinohe's section of the Michinoku Coastal Trail and foodies will want to taste the sweet cherries of Yamagata and the juicy peaches of Fukushima.

TOHOKU HOTELS

Shikoku might be the smallest of Japan's four main islands, but there are plenty of natural and culture sites to explore. Traditionally remote, Shikoku is now easy to access from Honshu.

The island offers picturesque coastline on the glittering Seto Inland Sea, legendary udon noodles and picture-perfect onsen. Its stunning Iya Valley, Pacific coastline and free-flowing rivers are best explored on hiking, kayaking and surfboarding adventures.

While here, you can sample the famous udon noodles of Kagawa, take the first steps of the 88 Temple Pilgrimage at temple number one, Ryozenji, in Tokushima, and relax in the hot waters of Dogo Onsen.

SHIKOKU HOTELS

The island of Hokkaido is a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding in winter, thanks to top resorts like Niseko, Rusutsu and Furano. Sapporo, its main city, is also famous for beer, ramen and the annual Sapporo Snow Festival. It's not all about winter fun here, though.

Hokkaido’s mild summers also provide relief from Japan’s humidity, and offer ideal conditions for hiking and exploring the many national parks. Much of Hokkaido is wild and unspoiled, with hot springs and volcanic lakes, so you're never too far from nature.

While here, explore the culture and traditions of the indigenous Ainu people at Lake Akan, and journey to the Shiretoko Peninsula to see free-roaming brown bears, foxes and deer. Visiting in the summer? Everyone will be dazzled by the rolling hills of Furano's lavender farms, while foodies will love dining on fresh seafood including succulent crab, salmon and fresh sushi in Hokkaido, too.

Get to know Hokkaido on Good Housekeeping's 2025 cruise, which stops in the city of Hakodate, which is overlooked by the 334-metre Mount Hakodate.

HOKKAIDO HOTELS

We love the distinct seasons in the Toyama region. It lies around two hours north of Tokyo, blanketed by snow in winter and blooming with cherry blossoms in spring. While Toyoma City is renowned for its fresh seafood, the wider region is particularly lovely. Perhaps unsurprisingly, given it's surrounded by rushing rivers and lush mountains.

This beautiful pocket of Japanese countryside is home to the UNESCO-listed area of Gokayama, which comprises the two villages of Ainokura and Suganuma, known for their carefully preserved thatched buildings called gassho-zukuri . The roofs are designed to resemble the hands of Buddhist monks’ pressed together in prayer. In winter, the snow-covered gassho-zukurie take on the look of a magical, fairy tale scene.

Join a Japanese cruise departing in spring 2025, and you’ll call at Toyama as the cherry blossom emerges. On an excursion, you can make the scenic hour-long journey from the cruise terminal to Gokayama, passing through the Nanto area of Toyama, where the Shogawa River and Oyabegawa rapids flow.

VISIT TOYAMA ON A 2025 JAPAN CRUISE

A 2024 extension to Japan's bullet train network makes access to a beautiful region deep in the mountains of the Fukui Prefecture much more accessible for visitors. It offers the chance to visit locations where you can join in with traditional rituals and learn more about Japanese culture in more remote pockets of the country.

The new train journey whisks visitors to locations like Eiheiji, where you’ll find one of the main temples of Zen Buddhism, founded in 1244. It’s a spiritual place amid mountainous scenery and ancient woodland, and guests are invited to join the practice. On departure, guests are presented with a goshuin , a traditional document written in exquisite Japanese calligraphy to certify their visit.

Next to the temple is the Zen Village, where you'll find the beautiful Hakujukan hotel, a sustainably built ryokan. As part of their stay, guests can partake in Zen meditation, known as zazen , before soaking in an open-air bath.

Koyasan, also known as Mount Koya, is thought by many as the most sacred place in all of Japan. Home to the centre of Shingon Buddhism, a sect that was brought to Japan in 805 by Kobo Daishi, one of the country's most prominent Buddhist monks, this mountain settlement comprises over 100 monasteries and temples.

The Shingon headquarters sit within the Kongobuji temple, which is open to visitors. Here you can learn about how Daishi founded the settlement and visit peaceful Banryutei Rock Garden, Japan’s largest rock garden.

Thanks to its verdant peaks and winding valleys, Koyasan is a popular place for hiking and is the starting point for the Shikoku Pilgrimage, a holy route that stretches roughly 750 miles and takes in 88 temples.

Koyasan is easy to access from Osaka via train for a day trip, but stay the night in shukubo (traditional temple lodgings) and you can enjoy a more immersive experience, interacting with monks and sampling their vegetarian cooking.

Visit serene Kōyasan part of Good Housekeeping's 13-day Japan tour.

EXPLORE KOYASAN ON A JAPAN TOUR

KOYASAN HOTELS

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The Best Cities to Visit in Japan

I f you’re planning a trip to Japan, chances are you’re already thinking about visiting Tokyo. With its futuristic vibes, historical sites, staggering number of Michelin-starred restaurants, and deep bench of hotel options , it’s difficult to pass up.

But you can’t really experience a country by seeing just one city—even a city as cool as Tokyo. If you’re already heading overseas, why not make your view of Japan as expansive as possible? From relaxing in hot springs to exploring historical venues and sampling great eats, there's so much to see and do outside the capital. Time to start building your itinerary: These are the best cities to visit in Japan beyond Tokyo.

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The 10 Best Cities to Visit in Japan

Yokohama is just a quick train ride from Tokyo, making it the perfect day trip if you’re short on time. Start at the Cup Noodles Museum , which offers visitors the novel experience of crafting their own Cup Noodles. In the process, you’ll end up accidentally learning a lot about the nature of innovation and market building. For an unexpected cultural experience, visit Yokohama’s Chinatown—the largest Chinatown in Asia—and go for a cultural triple play by getting a Vietnamese egg coffee and banh mi at Café Giáng . 

Yes, Kyoto gets plenty of tourism traffic, but that’s because it’s the perfect place to continue your post-Tokyo explorations. From the Gion district, where geisha are often spotted escorting their clients, to the vermillion-colored torii gates, Japan’s ancient capital is the perfect place to engage with the nation’s history. Ditch the crowds at Arashiyama and instead grab a cup of tea for a much more zen stroll at the nearby  Okochi Sanso Garden . Or go all in and hike up the hill to visit Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama , home to some of Japan’s cutest primates. Sure, you can grab a snack at Nishiki Market (just be sure to buy something if you block a stand to grab a photo), but real insiders head to Engine Ramen : The restaurant serves a bowl of the classic Japanese noodle soup so good, visitors will line up before it opens (4:30 p.m.) to grab gluten-free, vegetarian, and meat-filled options.

Osaka’s nickname is “The Kitchen of Japan.” After you’ve walked through Dotonbori and posed like the Glico Man (a massive neon sign that looms above Dotonbori bridge), or spent some time appreciating the city’s picture-perfect castle (take your photos from the plum grove area), it’s time to eat. Hit up a kushikatsu for the ultimate deep-fried snack experience. Grab takoyaki from a street vendor—yes, they’re filled with octopus, but you’re in for a light, potato-like bite. Slurp kitsune udon , a soup filled with fried tofu that’s said to be the favorite food of foxes. Slice into okonomiyaki , savory pancakes that can be filled with meat, seafood, and veggies. Finally, if you have room (and who doesn’t have room for dessert), we have two words for you: jiggly cheesecake .

Telling a Japanese local that you’re going to Mie Prefecture might evoke surprise—but that’s all the more reason to visit this underrepresented region. Located about two hours outside of Kyoto, the Misugi area (officially part of the city of Tsu) is packed with just as much history and culture as urban alternatives. Sample emerald-colored adzuki bean sweets made by fourth-generation candy makers at Azumaya. Try your hand at weaving straw, or throw your whole body into forest bathing (a.k.a. a guided walk that combines meditation with sightseeing in the area’s stunning woods). Due to the traditional nature of the village, many businesses don’t have a regular web presence, but activities can always be scheduled via the local  tourism board .

Given its proximity to Kyoto, visitors often see Nara on a day trip, but staying overnight changes the experience dramatically. The city’s centerpiece,  Nara Park  (and its eponymous deer), is free to enter. However, because we’re dealing with wild animals, you’re not always guaranteed to see them in large numbers during a daytime visit. For your best odds of seeing the deer en masse, getting to the park before sunrise is crucial. Not only will you have the premises largely to yourself, but you might even catch the morning chant, delivered by a monk to welcome the deer to the park each morning. If you feel the need to get even more up close and personal with the residents of the park, a ¥200 bundle of shika senbei “deer crackers” will do the trick. Just remember that they’re wild animals, and they can be very assertive when presented with a snack.

Located just two hours outside Tokyo, Minakami is the ideal location for a quick hit of stunning Japanese countryside. Go canyoning during the summer (a beginner-friendly combination of walking, scrambling, swimming, and crawling over boulders), or ski in the winter at one of the area’s nine resorts. It’s also a geothermal hot spot, so sink into a pool at the Minakami Onsen or Takaragawa Onsen  (pictured) after a busy day of exploration for some relaxation and gorgeous views.

Located just 45 minutes outside of Kyoto, Himeji is home to one of Japan’s most stunning historical sites—the Himeji Castle . This architectural gem from 1333 is so well preserved, it’s worth making a special visit. (You might recognize it from its appearance in the James Bond film You Only Live Twice .) Rumors of its formidable fortifications kept it from being attacked, a fun fact you’ll experience firsthand as you climb the steep hill and pass through increasingly smaller entryways to access the castle. Slip off your shoes to explore the many wonders inside, including a pillar made of now nearly extinct Japanese Cypress and intimidating guardian roof statues.

After recovering from the devastation of World War II, Hiroshima has become a monument to peace. You can still see the Genbaku Dome (above), a ruined building that stands as a memorial to those killed in the atomic bombing of 1945. It’s buffered by Peace Memorial Park , a location filled with tributes to nonviolence, folded paper cranes, and—during the spring—a stunning display of cherry blossoms . Couple your visit to the city with a trip out to Itsukushima , home to an iconic, water-bound torii gate. Once you work up an appetite, try Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, a savory pancake piled high with noodles.

Anime fans, take note: Ghibli Park recently opened in Nagoya. (Just make sure to book ahead—reservations fill up fast.) But you don’t have to be obsessed with Howl’s Moving Castle to enjoy Japan’s fourth-largest city. The city is home to Toyota, and gearheads should definitely check out the Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology , while engineering minds of any age will find something to like at Legoland . 

Eastern Hokkaido is an area so packed with national parks that it requires its own entry on this list. Although most tourists don’t venture off Honshu, Japan’s main island, Hokkaido (the country’s most northern island) is quickly gaining a reputation as a place for adventure seekers. Bike alongside world-class athletes in training along Kanayama Lake ’s postcard-worthy views (see above). Get your Lord of the Rings cosplay on at Asahidake , where you can hike alongside an active volcano; it's also a renowned backcountry ski destination . Or just relax and take in jaw-dropping views on the region’s many cable car routes. Added bonus: Hokkaido is one of the biggest dairy producing regions in the country, so you’re never far from Japan’s ubiquitous soft-serve ice cream.

Boston Marathon 2024: All results and times - complete list

Discover the leading times from the Boston Marathon 2024 on Monday, 15 April, a World Marathon Major.

Ethiopia's Sisay Lemma and Hellen Obiri of Kenya won the men’s and women’s Boston Marathon 2024 on Monday (15 April).

Below are the top times. Find the full results here .

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Boston Marathon 2024: Men's results

• Sisay Lemma (ETH) 2:016:17
• Mohamed Esa (ETH) 2:06:58
• Evans Chebet (KEN) 2:07:22
• John Korir (KEN) 2:07:40
• Albert Korir (KEN) 2:07:47
• Isaac Mpofu (ZIM) 2:08:17
• C.J. Albertson (USA) 2:09:53
• Yuma Morii (JPN) 2:09:59
• Cybrian Kotut (KEN) 2:10:29
• Zouhair Talbi (MOR) 2:10:45

Boston Marathon 2024: Women's results

• Hellen Obiri (KEN) 2:22:37
• Sharon Lokedi (KEN) 2:22:45
• Edna Kiplagat (KEN) 2:23:21
• Buze Diriba (ETH) 2:24:04
• Senbere Teferi (ETH) 2:24:04
• Mary Ngugi-Cooper (KEN) 2:24:24
• Woknenesh Edesa (ETH) 2:24:47
• Fatima Gardadi (MOR) 2:24:53
• Tiruye Mesfin (ETH) 2:24:58
• Dera Dida (ETH) 2:25:16

Boston Marathon 2024: Men's wheelchair results

• Marcel Hug (SUI) 1:15:33
• Daniel Romanchuk (USA) 1:20:37
• David Weir (GBR) 1:22:12
• Sho Watanabe (JPN) 1:26:10
• Joshua Casidy (CAN) 1:26:15
• Kota Hokinoue (JPN) 1:26:19
• Aaron Pike (USA) 1:28:35
• Simon Lawson (GBR) 1:28:49
• Jake Lappin (AUS) 1:29:25
• Rafael Botello Jimenez (ESP) 1:29:34

Boston Marathon 2024: Women's wheelchair results

• Eden Rainbow-Cooper (GBR) 1:35:11
• Manuela Schar (SUI) 1:36:41
• Madison de Rozario (AUS) 1:39:20
• Patricia Eachus (SUI) 1:40:22
• Aline Dos Santos Rocha (BRA) 1:41:47
• Vanessa de Souza (BRA) 1:43:22
• Marie Emmanuelle Anias Alphonse (MRI) 1:45:09
• Michelle Wheeler (USA) 1:45:09
• Jenna Fesemyer (USA) 1:46:21
• Hoda Elshorgbagy (EGY) 1:47:32

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