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

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

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

Key Information

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Table: Niseko Ski Resorts

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

Table: Hakuba Valley Ski Resorts

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Things to Do

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!

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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

JR Pass for Whole Japan

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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A Guide To Winter in Japan

Winter in Japan is a white wonderland in Asia.

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

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

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

1- Japan is beautiful in winter

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

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

Also read: 50 Incredible Things To Do In Japan

Winter in Japan 

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

What is Japan Like In The Winter?

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

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

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

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

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

There are many activities for non-skiers too.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

For more about Japan, read:

• 20 Incredible Landmarks in Japan
• 20 Best Beaches In Japan

25 Things To Do In Tokyo At Night

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

20 Things To Do In Sendai

20 things to do in saitama.

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

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

Is Winter A Good Time To Visit Japan?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bindings, boards, boots and baths.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Shiga Kogen is in Nagano Prefecture. 

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

How Cold is Japan in Winter?

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

The coldest cities are:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Recommended tour: Kyoto: Top Highlights Full Day Trip

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

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

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

Recommended tour: Osaka: Deep Backstreets Exploration

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Recommended tour: Nagoya: UNESCO Tour to Shiragawago & Takayama

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

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

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

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

My favourites are always the open-air ones.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 1 – Tokyo

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

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

Day 2 – Hakone

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

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

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

Day 3 – Osaka

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

Day 4 – Kyoto

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

Day 5 – Tokyo

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

Japan video edited by InVideo .

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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.

• Do I Need a Visa to Visit Japan?

4 Top Japan-in-Winter Experiences

• Top 2 Winter Itineraries in Japan

Tips for Winter Travel in Japan

Winter weather in japan.

• How Much Does It Cost?

Do I Need a Visa to Go to Japan?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Suggested reading: How Long Should I Spend in Japan

2) Ski with Your Kids in Hokkaido/Nagano

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

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

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

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

3) See Charming Winter Lighting in Shirakawa-go

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

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

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

4) Watch Snow Monkeys Soak in Onsens in Nagano

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

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

Winter Itineraries in Japan: The Top 2 Options

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

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

• Tokyo–Hakone–Kyoto–Osaka

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

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

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

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

Suggested reading: 10 Days in Japan >>>

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How Much Does a Japan Winter Trip Cost?

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

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

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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 : Kyoto has some gorgeous hotels like the Six Senses and four seasons. The charm of these places is amazing, and worth making it one of your trip splurges!

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(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.)

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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 🙂

Japan Winter Itinerary – Activities, Destinations, and Trip Ideas!

If you’re wondering whether winter is the best time to visit Japan, then worry not! Japan has four distinct seasons, each with its own unique set of seasonal activities, places to visit, and different cuisines, making it a wonderful time of year to travel. Personally, I prefer the Japan winter season to the summer months, which are stiflingly hot and humid, making any kind of outdoor activity unbearable.

Winter in Japan has plenty to offer visitors, from the snow monkeys of Nagano to ice sculptures in Hokkaido. Japan’s mountainous landscapes mean its snowy peaks are heaven for winter sports enthusiasts, whilst illumination events around the country are popular with families and couples. Read on to discover what to do in Japan in winter using this 14 day Japan winter itinerary!

Have you been to Japan during the winter? What was your favorite activity? Let me know in the comments!

Are you planning a trip to Japan soon?

Check out my 4-day Tokyo itinerary, 5-day Tokyo itinerary , and 3-day Kyoto itinerary for first-time visitors. Also, don’t forget to download your free Kyoto Bucket List for 2024 .

Recommended 2 Weeks Japan Winter Itinerary

This is a sample of an ideal 2-week winter itinerary in Japan, but if you are visiting for a shorter period, you could also just select a couple of areas to travel to based on your interests. I’ve also included some ideas at the end for top winter destinations and activities for longer itineraries or if you want to switch out some of the suggested destinations below.

Domestic travel in Japan is super easy with an excellent public transport system and rail network, plenty of cheap domestic flights, and even night buses offering transport options to suit any budget.

• Days 1–2 Tokyo
• Days 3-4 Hakone/Mt Fuji
• Days 5-7 Hokkaido
• Days 8-10 Japanese Alps
• Days 11-12 Kyoto
• Days 13-14 Tokyo

This page contains affiliate links. If you choose to purchase after clicking a link, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you .

Days 1-2 Discover Tokyo

Begin your Japan Winter Wonderland extravaganza with a short break in Japan’s capital city. Tokyo is so magical during the wintertime and has many beautiful Christmas displays, illuminations, and markets as well as all of the classic sights to try and squeeze in!

Tokyo Winter Itinerary – Day One

Spend your first day in Tokyo with some sightseeing, taking in the classic landmarks such as the Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa, one of Tokyo’s most famous temples and the oldest too. If you have time, take a guided rickshaw tour before you leave!

After visiting the temple, walk over to Tokyo Skytree where you can visit their annual Christmas market which usually runs from mid-November until December 25. Fill up on festive treats, see the tower light up, then go up to the top of the tower for epic views across the city!

Be sure to also check out Meiji Shrine and enjoy the peaceful gardens and ponds whilst strolling around. Unlike Senso-ji which is a Buddhist temple, this is a well-known Shinto shrine. Shinto is Japan’s ancient religion, so I think it’s interesting to visit both. Meiji Shrine is really close to Harajuku, Shibuya, and Omotesando which have plenty of attractions to occupy you for the rest of the day!

Shibuya also has a gorgeous winter light display, the Blue Cave illuminations, which sees around 800 meters of trees illuminated with approximately 600,000 lights to create a magical atmosphere. Over in nearby swanky Omotesando, the famous tree-lined shopping avenue is also covered with 900,000 golden lights to create a stunning display.

A little bit further afield but still worth the visit are the illuminations at Yomiuriland , a theme park in Tokyo whose attractions are decorated with millions of LED lights.

Tokyo Winter Itinerary – Day 2

Continue exploring Tokyo at your own pace and take in some special winter activities whilst you’re here like enjoying a Japanese winter dining experience, shopping for lucky bags, or experiencing a traditional new year.

Enjoy Japan’s Unique Winter Dishes

Much of Japan’s cuisine changes with the seasons and the arrival of winter marks the appearance of heart-warming dishes such as  nabe ,  oden , and  nikujaga . Nabe is a kind of Japanese hotpot usually filled with vegetables and meat or fish.

Eating nabe   is a fun and social dining experience where friends gather to make the dish around a portable stove or meet in nabe restaurants. If you’re in Tokyo, you must try out a nabe   party for yourself!

Oden can be purchased throughout Japan and is often sold in convenience stores during the winter, it consists of a light broth containing items including fishcakes, daikon radish, and boiled eggs. Nikujaga is a filling dish often cooked at home and is a kind of beef and potato stew, the perfect comfort food on a cold day.

Enhance your winter dining experience even further by getting cozy under a Japanese kotatsu, a low table with a built-in heater, covered by thick blankets that are impossible to leave once you’re under! Google ‘kotatsu dining Tokyo’ for a list of restaurants where you can have your own kotatsu experience!

Go Crazy for Japan’s Lucky Bags

Every winter in early January, people line up to buy  fukubukuro,  Japanese lucky bags. The idea is that you go to your favorite stores and buy a mystery bag that contains items that are heavily discounted. The only catch is that you can’t see what is inside the bag, so there is an element of luck involved as to whether you will like what’s inside. These kinds of bags are extremely popular, with many selling out within minutes of going on sale. If you are visiting Japan during this time, it’s a fun shopping experience to try. Whilst clothing brands sell some of the most popular lucky bags, other companies such as Starbucks also sell bags featuring items such as coffee beans, drinks vouchers, and mugs. 

Experience a Japanese New Year

New Year in Japan is different from western countries, it is a time for families to get together and visit the local temple, eat traditional food known as osechi, and stay up to watch the first sunrise of the year.

It’s a time of reflection not partying, although you can still find western-style countdown parties in Tokyo too. One of the best places to spend New Year’s Eve near Tokyo is around Narita in Chiba , close to Tokyo’s Narita airport. This small town is buzzing on New Year’s Eve with lively restaurants and bars, whilst food stalls line the streets surrounding the Naritasan Shinsho-ji temple.

Days 3 & 4 Hakone Hot Springs and Majestic Mount Fuji

What could feel cozier than viewing Mt Fuji’s snow-capped peak from a traditional Japanese onsen (hot spring) on a crisp winter’s day? Depart Tokyo and head to Hakone for a couple of nights, an area famous for its abundance of hot springs, nature, and views of majestic Fuji-san.

If you’re planning to spend a couple of days exploring the area, then consider purchasing the Hakone free pass, a 2-day discounted pass which allows unlimited travel on eight different types of transportation in Hakone, including the sightseeing cruise and ropeway.

You’ll find an abundance of hot springs in the Hakone area, so be sure to take some time to do a bit of hot spring hopping in between your sightseeing! Even better, if the travel budget allows, stay in a Hakone ryokan with a private onsen so that you can really take some time to relax in your own exclusive space.

Ryokan Hakone Ginyu is a peaceful ryokan where every guest room features an outdoor hot spring bath with views over the Hakone mountains. The Hotel Green Plaza Hakone is close to attractions like the Hakone ropeway and features rooms with private open-air baths and Mount Fuji views.

Days 5-7 Explore Hokkaido, Japan’s Winter Wonderland

Head back to Tokyo and hop on a short flight to Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island and a haven for winter sports and activities.

Without a doubt, one of the best places to enjoy Japan in the winter is on the northernmost island of Hokkaido , which transforms into a stunning winter wonderland around December time as the snow starts to fall. The island offers something for everyone. If you’re looking for a city break, head to Sapporo and Hakodate to discover their Christmas markets and illuminations. The charming coastal city of Otaru is also a delight to experience during its annual festival in February, which sees thousands of candles light up the city and along the canal. Fans of winter sports can, go ice walking across Hokkaido’s famous partially frozen Lake Shikotsu or head to the slopes of Niseko, whilst nature fans can enjoy smelt fishing, canoeing, and snowshoe trekking through the Kushiro marshlands in a one-day winter tour .

Probably the most famous winter festival in Japan, the Sapporo Snow Festival is held every February for a week where visitors can admire jaw-droppingly impressive snow and ice sculptures among the many attractions.

Ice Hotel and Village

For something extra during your Hokkaido visit, check out the Hoshino Resort Tomamu which features a stunning ice village from mid-January to the end of February that you can visit with an ice bar, ice restaurant, and ice onsen!

Days 8-10 Explore the Japanese Alps

After your trip to Hokkaido, head back to Tokyo via a short domestic flight and explore the Japanese Alps in Nagano Prefecture or Gifu Prefectures. Jump on the bullet train in Tokyo and arrive at Nagano Station just 80 minutes later ready to continue your Japanese winter adventure!

Nagano: Hot Springs, Snow Monkeys, and Ski Resorts

From Nagano train station, travel for 45 minutes by JR trains to Yudanaka Onsen, the gateway to the Yamanouchi region, a popular tourist destination famous for its snow monkeys and the largest ski resort in Japan, Shiga Kogen which played host to the 1998 Nagano Winter Olympics.

Spend the night in a traditional ryokan and take a soak in the peaceful thermal baths whilst admiring the mountain views. After spending time with the snow monkeys or hitting the ski slopes, return to Nagoya Station.

Gifu Prefecture: Takayama and Shirakawa-go

Around a 4-hour train journey from Nagano Station, Takayama is a beautifully preserved traditional Japanese town nestled within the Hida Mountains which is ideal for an overnight stay and as a base to explore the area. Aside from exploring the old town, popular attractions here include the Hida Folk Village and the Shinhotaka Ropeway which transports visitors 2,200 meters above sea level to admire stunning mountain vistas via cable car all year round.

A popular side-trip from Takayama is a 50-minute bus journey to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Shirakawa-go , an area famous for its thatched roof farmhouses which turn into a picture-perfect winter postcard scene each year, particularly during the village’s light-up events when the farmhouses are illuminated at night-time. The farmhouses have been preserved for hundreds of years and their sloped roofs are designed to cope with heavy snowfall.

Whilst most people visit Shirakawa-go as a day trip, it is possible to stay overnight in a minshuku – family-run guesthouses. For the overnight stay or visits during the illumination period, you should book in advance via a tour company to guarantee access. You can also t ake a trip to Shirakawa-go by bus from Nagano.

The UNESCO World Heritage site of Shirakawa-go in Gifu prefecture is one of Japan’s loveliest winter spots thanks to the region’s unique style of thatched farmhouses which have been preserved for hundreds of years. The building’s sloped roofs are designed to cope with heavy snowfall, making them a picturesque spot to visit for a day or stay overnight. Some of the villages in the area also hold winter illumination events where the houses are lit up at night.

Kanazawa Castle City

After a couple of days in Takayama and Shirakawa-go, you could spend also spend a night in Kanazawa – which can be accessed directly by bus in just over two hours. Kanazawa is an ancient castle city situated in the neighboring Ishikawa Prefecture. During the wintertime, Kanazawa becomes a picturesque snow-covered wonderland, with winter illuminations lighting up much of the city and its gardens. Kanazawa is also home to a historic geisha district that holds regular performances and the Nagamachi district which houses traditional buildings was once home to powerful samurai. Kanazawa is also the center of Japan’s gold leaf production and you can participate in your own gold leaf pasting experience too.

Days 11-12 Visit Kyoto, Japan’s Cultural Capital

Following your Japanese Alps adventure, from Kanazawa, you can take a train directly to Kyoto with a journey time of just over two hours, or alternatively, it’s about a half-day train journey from Nagano.

Kyoto is a must-visit destination in Japan any time of year, as one of Japan’s best-preserved and most beautiful cities. There’s so much to see and do in Kyoto, that a 2-night stay should be the very minimum amount of time that you spend there. Here are my top recommendations for how to spend 2 days in Kyoto:

Day 1 – Explore Kyoto’s Temples & Shrines

It would be impossible to see all the wonderful temples and shrines that Kyoto has to offer in a single day so my advice would be to research and just pick a few that appeal to you the most and spend a whole day temple hopping. Oh, and remember to pack good walking shoes!

My top recommendations for first-time visitors would be to check out some of the following sights:

Kinkaku-ji – Kyoto’s striking golden temple is always worth a visit and for minimal crowds, I recommend arriving right at 9 am when it opens and after you have finished taking photos, stop by the cute tea garden for some green tea.

Ginkaku-Ji and Nanzen-Ji via the Philosopher’s Path – the Philosopher’s path is a lovely scenic canal-side walk that passes by several shrines. The route only takes around 30 minutes to complete but you’ll also find a temple at both ends of the path, Ginkaku-ji and Nanzen-ji that are definitely worth a visit.

Heian Shrine – this is one of Japan’s most important Shinto shrines and features a huge Torii gate and extensive gardens, which were featured in the movie Lost in Translation.

Fushimi Inari – you’ve probably already seen photos of the famous torii gates at Fushimi Inari shrine, and as one of Japan’s most popular tourist attractions, the earlier you can arrive there, the better. As admission is free and it’s technically open all the time, you can get there as early as you like to avoid the crowds and get those perfect photos.

Gion – the Gion district of Kyoto is a treasure trove of hidden delights waiting to be discovered and is also the city’s geisha district. During the evening you may be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of a geiko or maiko (geisha in training) on her way to an engagement.

Kiyomizu-dera – this famous temple located in the east of Kyoto is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its large wooden terrace which offers visitors incredible views of the city.

Day 2 – One Day in Arashiyama

I always think it’s worth spending a whole day in Kyoto’s Arashiyama district, it has lots of things to see and do all within walking distance, rather than having to rely on crowded buses to get around like in downtown Kyoto.

Arashiyama is just a short train ride from downtown Kyoto and there are also plenty of hotels and traditional Japanese ryokan in the area if you want to experience an overnight stay here.

These are my top 5 recommendations for how to spend one day in Arashiyama:

Visit the monkey park – Iwatayama Monkey Park is home to around 120 Japanese Macaque monkeys and although it’s around a 20-minute uphill walk, the rewards include scenic views from the observation deck and the chance to observe the monkeys roaming freely. You can also purchase snacks such as peanuts and bananas to give to the monkeys!

Hire a boat – on your way back into Arashiyama town, you’ll cross a river where you can rent rowboats by the hour. This is a great activity to do if the weather is nice, and a chance to enjoy the scenery.

Stroll through the Bamboo Grove – be sure to take a walk through the famous Bamboo Grove, one of Kyoto’s most magical spots. The towering bamboo creates a sense of tranquility and calmness against the crowds of tourists.

Visit Gio-Ji – one of Kyoto’s lesser visited temples, this serene spot has beautiful moss-covered gardens and is the perfect place to stop and have a quiet moment.

Stop by Saganoyu Café – one of my favorite lunch spots in Arashiyama, this former bathhouse has been converted into an elegant café serving everything from pasta to stacks of pancakes!

Days 13-14 Return to Tokyo

Take the bullet train back to Tokyo and spend your last night in Japan enjoying the best the city has to offer! For a final night out to remember, choose your own adventure from one of the following activities:

Izakaya and Karaoke – if you want to experience a classic Tokyo night out like a local, find a cozy izakaya for drinks and food before ending the evening in your own private karaoke booth! One of my favorite izakaya is a cheap and cheerful chain called Hanbey, whose walls are adorned with Showa-era posters and advertisements. Top karaoke rooms in Shinjuku include Karaoke no Tetsujin (one of the more reasonably priced places), Karaoke Kan, and Karaoke Uta Hiroba, whose prices also include free soft drinks.

Classic Cocktails at the Park Hyatt – i t’s pricey but if you are looking for somewhere romantic and special to spend your last night then you can’t really go wrong at Park Hyatt’s New York Bar. They have a cover charge in the evenings when live bands perform and drinks are what you would expect to pay in a 5-star hotel, but you can’t beat the views, service, and atmosphere!

Dinner at Gonpachi – Gonpachi in Roppongi is the restaurant that inspired the famous fight scene in the movie Kill Bill, and the menu is typical of what you would expect to find in a Japanese izakaya, from charcoal-grilled meat skewers to sushi, and they are also known for their soba noodles.

Tokyo Bay Cruise – go for dinner onboard one of the traditional yakatabune boats for a memorable evening. Cruise Tokyo Bay in houseboats decorated with hanging paper lanterns and tatami floors and feast on delicious sushi and tempura dishes.

Get Lost in Tokyo’s Yokocho – yokocho are alleyways packed full of tiny restaurants and bars and are so much fun to explore you’ll feel a little like Alice falling down the rabbit hole! The best ones include Omoide Yokocho in Shinjuku, Ameya Yokocho in Ueno, and Harmonica Yokocho in Kichijoji.

Additional Japan Winter Trip Ideas for Longer Itineraries

If you have longer than 14 days to spend in Japan, then you could also check out some of the following winter destinations and attractions:

Get Spirited Away with Snow Monsters

The famous snow monsters in Yamagata Prefecture are snow-covered trees in the ski resort of Zao Onsen, whose sinister monster-like shapes are on show throughout winter with nighttime illuminations open to the public. In addition to the ski resort, there are plenty of natural hot springs and ryokans to experience in the area.

After you have found the snow monsters, head an hour north Ginzan Onsen, a traditional and secluded hot spring town in the mountains that looks like it came straight out of the Studio Ghibli movie Spirited Away with its wooden buildings and gas lamps.

Nabano no Sato Illuminations

The Nabano no Sato flower garden on the outskirts of Nagoya is famous in Japan for its spectacular winter illuminations with nearly 6 million LED lights brightening up the park with popular attractions like the tunnel of lights. The illuminations run from October to May each year with cherry blossom light-ups running from late February.

Cherry Blossom Viewing

Whilst cherry blossom season typically runs from mid-March through to early April, if you visit Japan in February there are a few early bloom spots you may be able to see cherry blossoms, such as Kawazu Town in Shizuoka Prefecture whose blossoms usually appear in early February due to the warm climate. Another spot for early blossoms is Matsuda Herb Garden in Kanagawa whose cherry blossom festival is held from early February to early March each year.

Try Some Winter Sports 

Japan’s abundance of mountains makes it the ideal destination to try out some winter sports, and there are more than 500 ski resorts around the country to choose from. Japan’s ski season usually lasts from December to March although dates can vary depending on the weather conditions. Some of the most popular areas for winter sports include the resorts of Niseko, Rusutsu, Tomamu, and Furano in Hokkaido, and Hakuba Valley near Nagano which played host to the Winter Olympics in 1998. Just one hour on the bullet train from Tokyo you’ll also find Karuizawa, an upscale resort with skiing and ice skating.

Have any questions about your Japan itinerary or Japan winter travel? Join my Facebook group and ask me anything!

If you’re planning a trip to Japan be sure to download my 101 insider travel tips below, based on my experiences of living and traveling extensively in Japan for 4 years and interviews with local experts and tour guides.

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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 .

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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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Japan Travel & Culture Guide

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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Hello there, looking to plan your next Japan adventure? You’re in the right place! We’re your go-to source for all things travel-related, especially when it comes to exploring Hokkaido. We share Hokkaido travel tips and free itineraries to make your trip truly memorable. Read our guides and for further inquiries, feel free to contact us!

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

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GUIDE Japan in December

• Stories & Guides
• Japan in December

The silver season arrives

The end of the calendar year sees such seasonal highlights as wide-spread winter illuminations, the start of the ski season and often the first snowfall. Weather ranges from autumnal cool to proper winter cold. Japan's oshogatsu holiday season comes at the end of the month with Christmas being more of a token event. Crisp, clear winter skies make mountain vistas pop against azure backgrounds with everything seeming that little bit extra special at year's end.

Know Before You Go

• Early season skiing is possible from mid to late December at some resorts
• The new year's period is a busy and expensive time to travel with some businesses closing for a few days
• The Oshogatsu holiday period typically runs from December 29 to January 3 depending on how the days fall
• Many shrines hold New Year's Eve events on December 31

Snow-capped Mt. Fuji seen from Lake Ashinoko

Turn of the season, turn of the year

The chic, sophisticated Marunouchi district

New Year's Eve and the first few days of the new year are the more important holiday for Japanese. While most visitors don't get to experience it in a family setting, you can visit shrines to see the new year in like a local. Many hold events and prepare warm sake, toshikoshi soba (buckwheat noodles), and pork soup for visitors.

Lighting up the night

As with fireworks, Japan excels at making lavish light displays in the wintertime. Many start in mid-November and continue through the winter adding a certain frisson to chilly city nights.

You'll find major displays all over Tokyo and, if you have time, you can even take the Yamanote Line around the city to see a few of them. A short walk from Shimbashi Station, visitors can see the Caretta Illumination. The Midtown Christmas event near Roppongi Station has a shorter run, until December 25.

One of the light displays at the Kobe Luminarie

Ringing in the ski season

Most popular ski resorts are up and running by mid- to late December. When snowfall is scarce early in the season, resorts use artificial snow to compensate. Hokkaido's big resorts may open as early as the end of November.

Two birds, one stone

Many of Japan's ski resorts double as hot spring resorts, or at least have a selection of onsen bathing spots nearby. Worth a visit for the baths in their own right, they offer pleasurable post-ski relaxation or a viable alternative to skiing and snowboarding.

Nozawa Onsen seen from the slopes

December events

The Nankinmachi Lantern Festival is a colorful affair

A namahage in action

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

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Best of Hokkaido in Winter

The above itinerary is somewhat fast-paced. Tourists preferring a slow pace of travel should consider spending more time at some of the destinations along the way.

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Winter Sightseeing in Japan: Best 7 Things to Do in Tokyo in Winter

Unbeknownst to many, the winter season can be one of the most exciting times to visit Tokyo! There are many things to do in Tokyo in winter . With an average temperature of about 5°C in January, winter weather in Tokyo can be chilly but, thanks to the vast majority of sunny days, it’s quite enjoyable. From traditional Japanese New Year’s celebrations and illuminations to hot springs and holiday shopping, Tokyo has a winter activity for just about anyone! Find out what the city has to offer during this special season .

1. See Tokyo’s Winter Illuminations

2. experience the christmas markets in december in tokyo, 3. unwind with a hot bath in a sento or hot springs near tokyo, 4. visit shrines and temples for new year's eve, 5. eat popular japanese winter food: nabe or nabemono, 6. test your luck and buy a “fukubukuro”, 7. explore japanese winter holiday traditions, recommended winter tours.

Winter in Tokyo may be cold, but beautiful illuminations will warm your heart as they light up the city. If ever there was an urban landscape that was made for illuminations, Tokyo is it. Thousands of lights illuminate locations across the city, in a variety of ways. From champagne-colored bulbs that cover tree-lined streets to creative, modern-styled designs, Tokyo's winter is the best time of year to enjoy a bright and merry winter wonderland! Stroll around streets and parks , or at one of the many shopping centers featuring brilliant illuminations.

It may come as a surprise, but Tokyo has some impressive European-style Christmas markets! Each December in Tokyo, Tokyoites flock to one of several seasonal markets for shopping, workshops, and food. Gorgeous decorations and traditional Christmas music set a charming and magical atmosphere. The markets feature stalls and booths featuring crafts, ornaments, and plenty of delicious food. While shopping and sipping on mulled wine, you’ll think you’ve been transported to a German village ! It's one of the most fun things to do in Tokyo in winter .

Communal bathing has long been a part of traditional Japanese culture. Public baths called “ sento ” were the common place to wash up during the times when many people did not have a bath in their own residence. Lending to Japan’s fascination with baths is that the country, located within the “Ring of Fire,” is home to thousands of natural hot springs called “ onsen .” Even in modern-day Japan, visiting onsen and sento is a pastime that continues to be enjoyed by young and old alike, especially during the cold winter months. Whether visiting a small local sento or taking a trip to luxurious hot spring spas , enjoying a traditional Japanese bath is an activity we recommend every Japan visitor experience at least once. It's also one of the most traditional things to do in Tokyo in winter ! Travelers to Tokyo have plenty of options, both within the city, and a bit further out, where you can find many resorts that are perfect for a convenient getaway from the urban jungle.

Shogatusu (the New Year) is one of the most important holidays of the year in Japan, and the most traditional way to ring in the New Year is with a visit to a shrine or temple . This first visit of the year, known as “hatsumode,” is a time for both prayer and celebration. The shrines can become quite crowded, but the lively atmosphere is worth the visit. Visitors wait patiently in long lines to ring the bell and say a prayer. The celebration isn’t just limited to New Year’s Eve; Tokyo shrines and temples are visited by thousands of people within the first few days. If you’re looking to experience one of the most authentic Japanese things to do in Tokyo in winter , there is no better occasion than this.

One tried and true method of keeping warm in any country is with a piping hot meal. Japan is no exception and has winter specialty dishes that keep hungry people asking for “okawari!” (extra helpings) – ” Nabe " or "Nabemono,” otherwise known as a Japanese-style hot pot . Enjoyed at home or in a restaurant, nabe is one of Japan’s favorite meals to eat during the colder months. Nabe can contain a variety of ingredients including, seafood , meat, vegetables, and tofu , boiled together in a pot, before being dipped in “ponzu,” a thin, citrusy sauce made from vinegar and rice wine. For people spending winter in Japan, nabe is a must-eat menu item!

In addition to highly traditional New Year’s activities, Japan also has some customs that fall more in line with modern culture. One such tradition is buying a “fukubukuro,” also known as a “lucky bag.” At the start of the New Year, Japanese department stores and other shops offer a mystery grab bag filled with various goods. The collection of the goods inside the bag is typically worth a lot more than the actual price. The only catch is that you might not know exactly what you’re getting–but for many, the fun is in the gamble! For serious shoppers, however, some stores have taken to revealing some, or all of the contents of their lucky bags beforehand, to further entice customers. Whether you love Japanese gadgets, fashion, or otaku goods, you are sure to find a lucky bag for you!

Christmas and New Year’s aren’t the only winter holidays celebrated in Japan; there are quite a few other celebrations to be had. Not long after New Year’s hatsumode shrine visits have finished, comes another major holiday: Seijin no Hi, otherwise known as Japan’s Coming of Age Day. Other holidays that are related to the new year are Kagamibiraki, the cutting of New Year’s rice cakes on the 11th of January, as well as Koshogatsu on the 15th of January, which literally means, “Little New Year,” which is then followed by Setsubun on February 3rd. One uniquely Japanese winter holiday is Setsubun, which occurs on February 3rd, Hinamatsuri or Japanese Doll Festival on March 3rd and so on. This celebration, during which children throw beans at a family member or other acquaintance wearing an ‘oni’ (Japanese demon) mask, while shouting “Oni out! Luck in!” as a traditional means of purification. This soybean throwing is called mame-maki and also done at temples and shrines by priests and shrine maidens. Discover more about Japan’s vivid New Year’s and winter traditions and festivals below!

If you are lucky enough to be in Japan during the winter season , why not try some (or all) of these Japanese winter traditions!

• Category Winter
• How To: Sightseeing

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