best places to visit in japan in winter

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

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

Get us in your inbox

Sign up to our newsletter for the latest and greatest from your city and beyond

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

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

12 most beautiful winter destinations in Japan

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

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

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

Japan's winter wonderlands

Zao snow monsters, yamagata.

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

Shirakawa-go, Gifu

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

Kamakura Snow Hut Village, Nagano

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

Yunishigawa Onsen, Tochigi

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

Jigokudani Monkey Park, Nagano

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

Nabana no Sato Illuminations, Mie

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

Sapporo Snow Festival, Hokkaido

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

Otaru, Hokkaido

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

Kenrokuen, Ishikawa

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

Ginzan Onsen, Yamagata

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

Misotsuchi Icicles, Saitama

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

Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, Toyama

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

More from Time Out Tokyo

The most beautiful places in japan.

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

6 best onsen destinations in Japan

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

The best national parks in Japan

• Things to do

[image] [title]

Discover Time Out original video

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

Time Out Tokyo

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

Time Out products

• Time Out Worldwide

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

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

Why should you visit Japan in winter?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tips for an exciting winter adventure!

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

• Category Winter

Share this article.

Recommended places for you

Jukuseiniku-to Namamottsuarera Nikubaru Italian Nikutaria Sannomiya

Kobe, Sannomiya, Kitano

Kamesushi Sohonten

Umeda, Osaka Station, Kitashinchi

Yoshida Gennojo-Roho Kyoto Buddhist Altars

Nijo Castle, Kyoto Imperial Palace

Rukku and Uohei

Sapporo / Chitose

ISHIDAYA Hanare

Nezu Shrine

Japan’s Top Chefs Gather! New Cuisine Showcasing the Charms of Fukushima, a Treasure Trove of Produce

Feel the Spirit of Northern Japan at the Tohoku Kizuna Festival

by: Alexander Litz

Iwate Prefecture Guide: Explore Rugged Coastlines, Towering Mountains, and Historic Towns in Northeastern Japan

by: Hiroko Ariga

Enjoy the Beauty of the Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival in Aomori, Japan

10 Breathtaking Places in Yamagata to See the Cherry Blossoms

Traditional Japanese Colors and Kimono Textures Inspire the Latest Watches from Seiko Presage

Sightseeing Highlights: Experience the Appeal of Kyoto Geisha Culture

Cleansing with Fire: Spiritual Bonfires during Japanese New Year‬‬‬‬‬‬!

Manga Time! What Kind of Clothes Should You Wear in Tokyo’s Winter? (Dec-Feb)

5 Must-Visit Nara Temples and Shrines: Discover the Timeless Beauty of Japan's Ancient Capital

by: WESTPLAN

Must-See! 10 Fun Things to Do in Sapporo in Winter

Brighten Up Your Winter: 13 of the Best Tokyo Illuminations (2023-2024)

by: Naho Jishikyu

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

Best Destinations for Snow in Japan (Our Top 10 Picks)

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases

It’s the most wonderful time of the year!

The snow season in Japan is epic. I’m talking about deep powdery snow, beautiful mountain scenes, and world-class skiing and snowboarding.

Take in the very best of the Japanese winter in this roundup of the 10 best destinations for snow in Japan!

Table of Contents

10 Best Destinations for Snow in Japan

Plan your winter adventure in Japan in any of these beautifully snowy Japanese resorts.

Enjoy powdery snow and white mountain vistas with the best Alpine atmosphere outside of Europe at these 10 amazing snow destinations:

10. Niseko, Hokkaido

View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Luxe Nomad (@theluxenomad)

The ski resort of Niseko is one of Japan’s most exclusive and international ski resorts. The town is located in Hokkaido in the foothills of Mt. Niseko-Annupuri.

The town has hot springs, great cuisine, and a fantastic off-piste atmosphere. Check out amazing accommodation options for Niseko in my article: 5 Best Hotels In Niseko .

9. Shiga Kogen, Yamanouchi

View this post on Instagram A post shared by SHIGA KOGEN – 志賀高原 (@shigakogen.jpn)

Shiga Kogen in the Jōshin’etsu-kōgen National Park is the largest skiable area in Japan! Its 18 ski resorts offer varied terrain with skiing for all abilities.

The Marulike Snowland snow play area and Yakebitaiyama Family Snow Park are great for youngsters. 

8. Aomori, Aomori Prefecture

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Brice Li (@brice.li.12)

The world’s snowiest city has the world’s warmest welcome. Despite getting up to 26 feet of snow per year, this city keeps running all year round.

Traveling to Aomori in winter is an amazing adventure. Take a look at amazing Aomori hotels in the post: 5 Best Hotels In Aomori .

7. Nagano, Nagano Prefecture

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Japanalytic (@japanalytic)

Nagano in the Japanese Alps hosted the 1998 Winter Olympics.

This heartland of Japan’s snow country is a snow lover’s paradise, with lots to do and ski lifts that give amazing access. 

6. Sapporo, Hokkaido

View this post on Instagram A post shared by FOLLOWMEJAPAN@SG (@primefmj)

Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido in northern Japan is a snow paradise, with the annual Sapporo Snow Festival that attracts 2 million visitors each year.

The amazing snow sculptures, beer, and skiing are amazing!  You’ll also find ski hills and jumps from the 1972 Sapporo Winter Olympics across the city.

Here are some great Sapporo hotels to book your winter break: 5 Best Hotels In Sapporo .

5. Hakuba, Nagano Prefecture

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Japan Grabs (@japangrabs)

Hakuba in the Japanese Alps is a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts.

You’ll find many resorts that are great for snowboarding, and the Hakuba Ski Jumping Stadium from the 1998 games is still operating. There’s a great international vibe with plenty of hot springs for your apres-ski.

4. Mount Fuji, Shizuoka Prefecture

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Unofficial Networks (@unofficialnetworks)

Where better to ski than the famous Fuji-san?

I didn’t know you could actually ski the slopes of this iconic volcano, but there are actually two ski resorts called Fujiten and Snowtown Yeti. However, you won’t be slalom skiing near the peak, both resorts are near Fuji’s base. 

3. Appi Kogen, Iwate Prefecture

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Japan Activities & Tours (@activityjapan)

Iwate also gets great snow and Appi Kogen in Tohoku is the region’s largest ski resort with 21 courses and terrain for all abilities.

You’ll find deep powdery snowfall, well-maintained trails, and a relaxed apres-ski scene. 

2. Myoko Kogen, Niigata Prefecture

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Myoko Kogen (@myoko_kogen)

Myoko Kogen comprises nine ski resorts that surround the Akakura village, just an hour and a half by Shinkansen out of Tokyo.

The Akakura Kanko Hotel offers the best resort accommodation, in the European style, with a majestic location on the Akakura ski hill and fabulous onsen.

1. Rusutsu, Hokkaido

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Rusutsu Snow Report Ski POW (@rusutsu20_20)

This is another Hokkaido gem that is popular with Japanese winter sports enthusiasts because of its plenteous, powder snow.

It has great terrain and trails that are beginner and intermediate-friendly. Advanced skiers have plenty of backcountry and untouched trails. There are shuttles between Sapporo and the resort for hassle-free access.

Best Destinations for Snow in Japan FAQs

Is japan worth visiting during winter.

Yes. Japan has distinct seasons meaning that by visiting in winter you get to experience real snow. There are lots of things to do during the winter months including skiing and snowboarding, visiting onsen, eating delicious nabe cuisine, enjoying festivals, and participating in the massive New Year celebrations.

Where is the snowiest part of Japan?

Aomori, the capital of Aomori Prefecture in northern Japan, is considered the snowiest part of Japan. Its impressive 8 meters of snowfall often makes it the snowiest place on earth. Learn more about Aomori in my article: Aomori In Japan – The World’s Snowiest City .

Which Japanese resort gets the most snow?

Myoko Kogen in Myoko, Niigata Prefecture in the West of Japan, gets at least 15 meters of snow every year. This powderhead’s haven also has a high average snow depth and a percentage of slopes that are covered with snow-making. Heavy snowfalls in the region often take the snow depth past the four-meter mark.

What month is best for snow in Japan?

February is Japan’s snowiest month; the peak of the snow season. The heaviest snowfall is in the north of Japan. Locations like Aomori, the northernmost city in Honshu, can have over two meters of snow by February. 

Does it snow in Tokyo?

There is very little snow in Tokyo. At most, there are a couple of days of light showers. Tokyo’s average snowfall is less than 3 inches per year. 

Does Osaka get any snow?

Yes, Osaka gets on average 16 days of snow each year, with the heaviest snowfall between January and February.

Where is the best skiing in Japan?

Niseko in Hokkaido is widely considered the best place for skiing in Japan and even the world. Its four connected ski resorts offer perfect power quality, with well-groomed terrain that accommodates the full range of skiing abilities. Plus the off-piste vibe is amazing with English widely spoken by an international crowd. 

Is skiing expensive in Japan?

Skiing in Japan has comparable costs to resorts in Europe and the Americas. Famous resorts like Niseko, and Rusutsu Resort are going to cost more but the typical cost of a one-day ski pass in Japan is 4000 to 5000 yen ($35). 

Which ski resort is the largest in Japan?

Japan’s largest ski resort is Shiga Kogen . It comprises 18 individual ski areas with an overall size of  425 hectares. It also has the highest elevation of any ski resort in Japan with a 2307-meter chair-lifted ski run at Yokoteyama.

Where is the best place to snowboard in Japan?

The Hakuba Valley, just outside Nagano is considered by many advanced and professional snowboarders to be Japan’s best destination for snowboarding. This Northern Japan Alps location has great powder. There is also beginner-friendly terrain with experienced guides and instructors at the Hakuba Snow Sports School.

Rounding Up

Japan’s varied seasons and spectacular natural beauty is the perfect setting for a snowy adventure.

These stunning resorts are the perfect destination for a Japanese winter break. Be sure to pack your Uniqlo thermals, Montbell jacket, and drink plenty of warm Amazake. 

Organize the Japanese ski holiday of a lifetime with access to Japan’s best chalets, ryokans, and resort hotels for an amazing ski season. Book flights , car rental , and comprehensive travel insurance for a hassle-free trip.

About the author

Renee Christian

Renée Christian is a writer and long-standing travel enthusiast who enjoys learning about other countries, cultures, and foods! When she’s not perfecting a ramen bowl or tempura recipe in the kitchen, you’ll find her in her permaculture garden or trekking the nearest coastal path!

Latest Posts

10 Amazing Facts About Schools in Japan: Unique Traditions and Educational Practices

Japan’s schools are known for their unique approach to education. We’ll explore some amazing facts about Japanese schools that set them apart from other countries. These facts show how Japan’s education system shapes its students and society. Japanese schools focus on more than just academics. They teach important life skills and values too. We’ll look…

Where can you see snow monkeys in Japan: Best locations and viewing tips

Snow monkeys are one of Japan’s most fascinating wildlife attractions. These unique creatures draw visitors from around the world to see them bathing in hot springs surrounded by snow. You can see snow monkeys at several locations across Japan, with the most famous being Jigokudani Monkey Park in Nagano Prefecture. We’ve explored the best spots…

Are Shinkansen Trains Still the Fastest: Comparing Global High-Speed Rail Systems

Shinkansen trains, Japan’s iconic bullet trains, have long been synonymous with high-speed rail travel. These sleek marvels of engineering have captivated the world since their introduction in 1964, setting the standard for fast, efficient transportation. While Shinkansen trains remain among the fastest in regular commercial service, they are no longer the absolute fastest in the…

• 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!

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

When Is Winter in Japan?

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

How Cold Does Japan Get In Winter?

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

The Best Things to Do in Winter in Japan

1. hit the powdery slopes.

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

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

Recommended Accommodation in Niseko: Annupuri Lodge at Niseko

2. Warm Up Inside a Kamakura Snow Hut

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

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

3. Admire the Architecture of Shirakawa-go

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

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

Recommended Accommodation in Shirakawa-go: Onyado Yuinosho

4. Relish Japanese Winter Delicacies

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

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

Our Top Tips

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.

tsunagu Japan Newsletter

Subscribe to our free newsletter and we'll show you the best Japan has to offer!

• illuminations
• sea of okhotsk
• snow festival

About the author

Related Articles

Related interests.

• Factory tours
• Instagrammable photo spots
• Exhibitions
• Skyline & Observatories
• Beauty salons
• Hair salons

Restaurant Search

Subscribe to the tsunagu Japan Newsletter

Sign up to our free newsletter to discover the best Japan has to offer.

Connect with Japan through tsunagu Japan

Let us introduce you to the best of Japan through our free newsletter: sightseeing spots, delicious food, deep culture, best places to stay, and more!

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.

I’ve traveled to Japan five times in various seasons, but I have to say, the winter is a hit. Combining low season ease with beautiful snow was a win to me!

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!

We Can Get You Perks and Upgrades at Luxury Hotels!

We’re part of a luxury travel agency and can help you get the best rates, free room upgrades, $100 resort credits, free breakfast, and late checkout! Click here to tell us your trip desires!

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

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

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

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

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

Day 5: Sanmachi and Hida no Sato folk village

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

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

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

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

– Read More –

Traveling in Japan with a Baby

Day 6: Shinotaka ropeway or Gero onsen

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

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

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

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

Shirakawa-go

Day 7: UNESCO site Shirakawa-go

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

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

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

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

Day 8: Journey to Mt. Fuji

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

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

Kawaguchiko

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

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

Day 9: Chureito Pagoda

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

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

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

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

Day 10: Soak and stare at Fuji

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

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

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

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

Day 11: Fuji ropeway and Asama shrine

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

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

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

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

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

Day 12: TeamLab and Harajuku

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

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

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

Day 13: Nakano, Shibuya crossing, and ramen

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Getting Around

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

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

To Rail Pass or not to Rail Pass?

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

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

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

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

Language and other notes

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

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

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

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

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

About Kristin Addis

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

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

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

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

 subscribe to our newsletter

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

06/21/2023 at 11:50 am

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

Kristin says

07/01/2023 at 10:40 am

This was end of January into February 🙂

10+ Best Places to Visit in Japan in the Winter

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

Table of Contents

Check out our traveler gift guide.

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

When is Winter in Japan?

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

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

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

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

Also see our Packing list for Japan in Winter.

Get Bookish Travel Inspo right in your Inbox

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

You have successfully joined our subscriber list.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Japan in Winter?

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

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

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

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

What to do in Japan in Winter

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

New Year Celebrations

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

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

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

Winter Illuminations

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

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

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

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

Winter Scenery

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

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

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

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

Winter Sports

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hot Springs

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

Best Places to Visit in Winter in Japan

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

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

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

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

Okhotsk Sea

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

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

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

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

The Kamakura Festival

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

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

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

Ginzan Onsen

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

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

Juhyo Ice Trees

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

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

Jigokudani Monkey Park. 

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

Book Tickets Here.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Misotsuchi Icicles. 

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

Tokyo Disney Resort

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

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

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

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

Tokyo SkyTree

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

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

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

Shirakawago Village 

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

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

Check out this tour of the village.

Japanese Winter Food

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

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

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

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

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

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

Check out one of these Restaurants:

Or take a Food tour of Tokyo.

Japanese Winter Fashion

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

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

Buy on Amazon

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

Are you ready for Japan?

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

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

Similar Posts

The Best Online Bookish Stores for Literary Merch

If you’re a book lover or an avid reader, chances are you’ve wished for a way to express your love for literature beyond just reading books. Luckily, there’s a whole world of bookish stores out there that specialize in literary merchandise. From t-shirts featuring iconic book quotes to cozy blankets inspired by beloved novels, these…

2022 Starbucks Japan Cherry Blossom Merchandise and Drinks

Starbucks Japan will be releasing their new Sakura merchandise collection and spring-limited beverage in February 2022! Many companies in Japan love to release limited-edition merchandise and drinks and Starbucks is no different. Starbucks Japan releases limited-edition merchandise collections several times a year with seasonal themes including New Year, Summer, and Christmas. And while I’ve collected…

Complete Packing List for Japan in Winter

Being one of the most developed countries in the world, Japan offers a clean and comfortable place to travel. Winter is one of the most beautiful times to travel to Japan. From snow-covered mountains to picturesque hot springs, there are endless opportunities to explore and embrace the beauty of this season in Japan. However, packing…

A Very Basic Guide to Japanese

If you’re heading to Japan it’s really important to learn at least a little of the language.  Not only will it help you better interact with people, but it’ll be easier to navigate your way around the world.  While Tokyo usually has important signs in both Japanese and English, many smaller towns and cities are…

Best Cherry Blossom Treats in Japan

Japanese cherry blossoms can be enjoyed not only by viewing but in various ways. Every year, numbers of Japanese brands, shops, and restaurants release cherry blossom-themed products for a limited time before or during the cherry blossom season. Especially cherry blossom-flavored food and drinks are highly popular in Japan, including Starbucks Japan’s spring Frappuccino and Sakura flavor Pocky….

Solid Toiletries for Travel

Are you looking to travel carry-on only? Do you want to find a way around TSA liquid rules? Then you need to try out some solid toiletries for travel.  It’s such a pain to need to take out so many bottles, have spills in your bag, or find bottles small enough to be legal.  This might mean…

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

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

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

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 the 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.

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

1) Relax in an 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 planning 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: Major Highlights and the Ryokan Experience

• Tokyo–Hakone–Kyoto–Osaka

This itinerary covers the top highlights of Japan: experience kid-favored 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

• 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.

More Articles on Planning a Trip to Japan

• How to Plan a First Trip to Japan
• How to Plan a Family Ski Holiday to Japan
• How Much is a Trip to Japan

Get Inspired with Some Popular Itineraries

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

More Travel Ideas and Inspiration

Sign up to our newsletter.

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

Why Asia Highlights

Where can we take you today.

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

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

Boutique Japan

Top 8 Reasons to Visit Japan in Winter

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

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

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

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

Is Winter a Good Time to Visit Japan?

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

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

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

The answer is a resounding yes!

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

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

When are the Winter Months in Japan?

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

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

Japan in December

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

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

Japan in January

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

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

Japan in February

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

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

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

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

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

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

1. Fresh Sushi and Seafood

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

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

2. Japanese Wintertime Comfort Foods

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

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

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

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

3. Cozy Bars, Izakayas , and Cafes

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

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

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

4. Luxury Ryokans and Onsen

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

6. Japan’s Snow Monkeys Love Winter

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

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

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

7. New Year’s Celebrations in Japan

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

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

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

8. Enjoy Fewer Crowds in Winter

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

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

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

When to Begin Planning Your Winter Trip to Japan

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

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

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

More Great Posts

Is Japan Expensive?

One of the most common myths about Japan is that it’s incredibly pricey — but how expensive is Japan really?…

Japan’s Best Boutique and Luxury Hotels & Ryokans

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

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

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

Plan Your Japan Trip

Learn more and contact us to discuss your unique trip.

Get Started

• The Process
• Testimonials

• Media & Industry
• Meetings & Events
• Select Language 简体中文 繁體中文（香港） 繁體中文（臺灣） India (English) Bahasa Indonesia 한국어 ภาษาไทย Tiếng Việt Singapore (English) Philippines (English) Malaysia (English) Australia/New Zealand (English) Français Deutsch Italiano Español United Kingdom (English) Nordic countries（English） Canada (English) Canada (Français) United States (English) Mexico (español) Português العربية Japan(日本語) Global (English)
• India (English)
• Bahasa Indonesia
• Singapore (English)
• Philippines (English)
• Malaysia (English)
• Australia/New Zealand (English)
• United Kingdom (English)
• Nordic countries（English）
• Canada (English)
• Canada (Français)
• United States (English)
• Mexico (español)
• Global (English)
• Fujiyoshida
• Shimonoseki
• Ishigaki Island
• Miyako Island
• Kerama Island
• Tokyo Island
• Koka & Shigaraki
• Hida Takayama
• Ginza, Nihonbashi
• Beppu & Yufuin (Onsen)
• Ginzan Onsen
• Nagasaki Islands

• Kumano Kodo
• Shikoku Karst
• Amami Oshima
• Hachimantai
• Omihachiman
• Aizuwakamatsu

• Diving in Japan
• Skiing in Japan
• Seasonal Flowers in Japan
• Sustainable Outdoors
• Off the Beaten Track in Japan
• Scenic Spots
• World Heritage
• Home Stays & Farm Stays

• Japanese Gardens
• Japanese Crafts
• Temple Stays
• Heritage Stays
• Festivals and Events
• Theater in Japan
• Japanese Tea Ceremony
• Cultural Experiences in Japan
• Culture in Japan

• Local Cuisine Eastern Japan
• Local Cuisine Western Japan
• Local Street Food
• Japan's Local Ekiben
• Japanese Whisky
• Vegetarian and Vegan Guide
• Sushi in Japan Guide
• Japanese Sake Breweries

• Art Museums
• Architecture
• Performing Arts
• Art Festivals
• Japanese Anime and Comics
• Japanese Ceramics
• Local Crafts

• Scenic Night Views
• Natural Wonders
• Theme Parks
• Samurai & Ninja
• Iconic Architecture

• Wellness Travel in Japan
• Japanese Ryokan Guide
• A Guide to Stargazing in Japan
• Relaxation in Japan
• Forest Bathing (Shinrin-yoku)

• Experiences in Japan
• Enjoy my Japan
• National Parks
• Japan's Local Treasures
• Japan Heritage
• Snow Like No Other
• Wonder Around Japan

• Visa Information
• Getting to Japan
• Airport Access
• COVID-19: Practical Information for Traveling to Japan
• Anime Tourism
• Countryside Stays
• Accessible Tourism
• Hokkaido Great Outdoors
• Scenic World Heritage in Tohoku
• Shikoku’s Nature and Traditions
• Southern Kyushu by Rail

• Traveling by Rail
• How to Travel by Train and Bus
• JR Rail Passes
• Scenic Railways
• Renting a Car
• Sustainable Travel in Japan
• Travel Brochures
• Useful Apps
• Online Reservation Sites
• Eco-friendly Accommodation
• Luxury Accommodations
• Traveling With a Disability
• Hands-free Travel
• How to Book a Certified Tour Guide
• Volunteer Guides
• Tourist Information Center

• Japanese Manners
• Spring in Japan
• Summer in Japan
• Autumn in Japan
• Winter in Japan
• Cherry Blossom Forecast
• Autumn Leaves Forecast

• Japan Visitor Hotline
• Travel Insurance in Japan
• Japan Safe Travel Information
• Accessibility in Japan
• Vegetarian Guide
• Muslim Travelers
• Safety Tips

• JAPAN Monthly Web Magazine
• Arts & Cultures
• Nature & Outdoor
• Festivals & Events
• Insider Blog
• Things to do
• Local Guides
• Food & drink
• Traditional
• Hokuriku Shinetsu

My Favorites

${v.desc | trunc(25)}

Planning a Trip to Japan?

Share your travel photos with us by hashtagging your images with #visitjapanjp

GUIDE 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.

Did this information help you?

out of found this information helpful.

Thank you for your feedback.

Recommended for you.

Popular Events

Please Choose Your Language

Browse the JNTO site in one of multiple languages

10 Best Places to Visit in Japan in Winter 2024-2025

Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Japan during Winter

Planning a trip to Japan? Are you wondering which season to visit??

Visiting Japan in winter is one of the greatest options as you can enjoy numbers of seasonal attractions and activities only this time of the year!

From snow events to winter illuminations, the winter in Japan offers some of the most spectacular scenery that you may wanna see once in your lifetime!

Check out my picks of the 10 best places to visit in Japan during winter 2023-2024 and find where to go in Japan in winter!

1. Abashiri Drift Ice

Hokkaido is the coldest city in Japan, and various kinds of spectacular winter phenomena and scenery can be captured in this northernmost land during the cold season. The drift ice is one of them (Ryuhyo in Japanese). The Sea of Okhotsk along Abashiri City, Hokkaido is known as the southernmost point see drifting sea ice just like in the Arctic.

Visitors can take the ice breaker sightseeing ship and watch the dynamic drift ice in close for the limited time of the year.

Related link: https://ms-aurora.com/abashiri/en/

2. Sapporo Snow Festival

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

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

More info: Sapporo Snow Festival

3. Ginzan Onsen

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

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

More info: Ginzan Onsen: Nostalgic Hot Spring Town from 19th Century

Winter phenomena can be captured in Japan, not only in Hokkaido, and one of them can be seen at a popular ski resort in northern Japan. Zao’s ice trees (Juhyo) is one of the most unique and spectacular snow arts made by nature.

Hundreds of snow monsters covered the slope at Zao Ski Resort, and visitors can actually enjoy skiing and snowboarding passing by the trees. At night, the snow monsters are lit up and displays mystical winter scenery.

More info: Zao Onsen: Meet the Snow Monsters

5. Kamakura Festival

Besides Sapporo Snow Festival, numbers of snow events are held in the northern part of Japan during winter. Kamakura is one of the traditional winter items in Japan which is a dome shaped snow sculpture in various sizes. Yunishigawa Kamakura Festivals is held annually at Yunishigawa Onsen Town in Tochigi Prefecture.

The event features countless small Kamakura domes lightened up dreamy during the night. The event runs for a month from February to March and offers several fun snow activities to visitors.

More info: Yunishigawa Onsen Kamakura Festival

6. The Icicles of Misotsuchi

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

More info: The Icicles of Misotsuchi: Take a Winter Day Trip from Tokyo

7. Jigokudani Monkey Park

Besides Mount Fuji and Cherry Blossoms, one of the most iconic and unique scenery of Japan is the Snow Monkeys. The sight of wild monkey bathing in hot bath surrounded by white snow can be captured at Jigokudani Monkey Park in Nagano Prefecture.

The snow monkeys literally live around the park so you can meet them through the year, but the best season to visit is definitely winter. It’s located in Yamanouchi Town, in the Shiga Kogen Highland on the Japanese Alps.

More info: Meet the Snow Monkeys at Jigokudani Monkey Park

8. Nabana no Sato

Numbers of illumination events are held across the country through winter, and it’s now a top tourist attraction in Japan among locals and tourists. One of the most spectacular and popular winter illuminations is held at Nabana no Sato, the amusement park in Mie Prefecture.

Approx 8 million LED lights are used to create the stunning arts of lights at the vast park including the famous the “Tunnel of Lights”. The illumination event runs from mid autumn till early spring annually.

More info: Nabana no Sato: Spectacular Winter Illumination

9. Shirakawago

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

In winter, the snow covers the whole village and creates a wonderful view. The special light-up events are held several times during winter.

More info: Shirakawago: the Best Time to Visit

10. Kifune Shrine

Kyoto is the top tourist destination in Japan through the year, and there are hundreds of historic sites to visit. Kifune Shrine is one of the best hidden gems in Kyoto. The shrine can be enjoyed all year around but winter could be the best time to visit. The light-up event is held at night during January and February only when it snows.

More info: Kifune Shrine: New Travel Destination in Kyoto

How did you enjoy the list? For more beautiful places in Japan in other seasons, please check out listed articles!

▽Related Articles▽

▼Editor’s Picks▼

"The world is my oyster" A globetrotter 🌎 and hammock lover 🌞 who loves taking adventures to fuel wanderlust. I was born and raised in Japan, and have lived in several countries and explored many. As a resident of Japan and based on my travel experience, I'd love to share my knowledge and tips for travelling Japan with my readers. I hope my stories help you plan your trip and have a great time in Japan 🌈

• Things to Do

17 Fascinating Things To Do In Japan In Winter 2024

brace the magic of winter in Japan, a season of snow-draped temples, exhilarating ski slopes, and steaming onsen baths.

From the glistening Sapporo Snow Festival to the serene beauty of Kyoto's gardens in snow, discover a variety of activities that celebrate the chilly charm of Japanese winters.

Things to Do in Japan During Winter

The world famous sapporo snow festival.

It takes place once a year in Hokkaido's capital city, the best-known winter attraction in Japan.

Each year, thousands of people come to witness this celebration. It is a multi-day event that takes place for over seven days in early February.

You will see multiple snow sculptures that cover up more than 1.5 km of the downtown parkway.

The number of statues is around 400 in total. You may get tired of watching them one by one.

But, it will be worth seeing something unique while roaming around the whole area.

Also, you can enjoy snow activities like sliding on the ice.

The main sites of the festival are Odori Park, Susukino, and Tsudome.

Personally, I like the view from the observation deck of the Sapporo TV Tower.

Soon after the dark, the festival lights are turned on, and you will find many international food stalls that offer some delicious meals.

As it’s an extremely popular event, hotel rooms in Hokkaido tend to sell out during this season.

Asahikawa Winter Festival

The Asahikawa winter festival is the second large snow feast in Hokkaido.

Many visitors attend both Sapporo and Asahikawa celebrations as they are held around the same time (early February), and these two cities are about 130 Km apart from each other.

During the feast, several ice statues and sculptures of different sizes and designs are displayed.

In my opinion, the main attraction comes at night with the beautiful illumination of these ice figures.

They also show fireworks and many special events are held too.

Watching Giant Zao Snow Monster

I think one of the thrilling winter adventure activities in Japan is watching the Zao Snow Monsters.

Zao is a famous hot spring and ski resort situated in Yamagata Prefecture. It is best known as “Juhyo” (ice trees).

The Zao Snow Monster Festival is held from late December to late February.

The trees on the Zao mountain slope are covered up with ice and make them look like monsters.

Maybe you will get reminded of Marshmallow, the snowman from the animated movie Frozen.

You will find the best view of these Zao by taking the ropeway and watching them from above.

During this festival, several special events occur, such as lighting up at night that illuminates the hill with the hundreds of snow monsters (Juhyo).

Be informed that these ice monsters come to their full glory in February.

Traditional Festival in Kamakura

In Kamakura, two festivals occur.

One is called Yokote Kamakura Festival, which takes place in Yokote city, Akita Prefecture.

This celebration features countless Kamakura huts and lanterns that are decorated throughout the city.

With hundreds of lanterns laid on the snow, you will feel like walking through the fireflies!!

You can also spend a romantic moment with your lover inside the snow made little houses there.

Inside the large Kamakura huts, you may enjoy traditional food like Mochi (soft rice cake) and other delicious drinks.

Another exciting celebration takes place in the Kanto region, and it is known as the Yunishigawa Onsen Kamakura feast.

This event lasts for a month, from late January.

Unlike the other one, it features hundreds of small and large Kamakura statues.

Attending Various Winter Illumination Event

One of the fascinating winter attractions in Japan is the light-up events held across the whole country.

Some of the events end after Christmas, but most of them continue throughout the whole winter season.

To name a few illuminations outside the capital city are Sapporo White Enoshima, Sagamiko, Ashikaga Flower Park, and Nabana no Sato.

Suppose you are not willing to leave the capital city and are only looking for winter things to do in Tokyo.

In that case, you can go to SHIBUYA Blue Cave, Midtown Hibiya, Odaiba, Yomiuriland Jewellumination, Roppongi Hills Christmas, and Marunouchi illuminations.

Watch A Mountain Burn in Nara Prefecture

In the Kansai region of Nara, there is a festival that happens annually called Wakakusa Yamayaki.

During the ceremony, the grass on the hillside of Mount Wakakusayama is set on fire. When it’s fully alight, the fires burning the mountain can be seen from anywhere in the city.

This firework usually takes place on the 4th Saturday of January but can be delayed later if the weather turns bad.

January Activities:

Enjoyable Things to Do in Japan in January

Shrine & temples like Todaiji Temple, Kofukuji Temple, and Kasuga Shrine are involved with this feast.

Though its precise origins are still unclear, one theory claims that burning the mountainside started in the time of boundary conflicts between Nara’s temples.

While another belief is the fires were used to chase away wild boars.

Story aside, the main feast begins at noon, and you can enjoy various minor events here.

From 12.30 to 15.00, a rice cracker (sembei) throwing competition takes place.

Around 17.00, people involved in lighting up the hill start a procession from the Tobino area of Kasuga Taisha and make a stop at the Mizuya Shrine to light the torches.

Near 17.30, the procession arrives at the base of Wakakusayama and lit up a large bonfire.

Attend The Otaru Snow Light Path Festival

I couldn't deprive you of knowing about one of my favorite celebrations known as the Otaru Snow Light Path Festival.

This fair is held every February in Otaru and lasts for ten days.

You will find lots of glittering lanterns decorated on the snow creating a pleasant atmosphere.

There are mainly two areas in the city, Unga Kaijo and Temiyasen Kaijo, where the light-up events happen.

As these two areas are within fifteen minutes of walking distance, you can easily explore both of them at once.

The Icicles of Misotsuchi

At the Chichinu area in the western Saitama Prefecture, a light-up event occurs after sunset.

The best time to see the icicles is between January and February, when they get bigger in size.

During the feast, colorful lights illuminate the icicles and turn them into fantastic art of nature.

Anyway, not only can you experience Japanese festivals, but you also can visit some beautiful places.

Shirakawago Village: One of Japan’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Although I don’t know what heaven looks like, the night view of Shirakawago village can make you feel like living in one.

The houses of this village have a unique style of architecture, known as gassho-zukuri. And, these traditionally thatched houses are the reason that foreign visitors admire this place so much.

The whole village covers up in snow in the winter season, making it look like a dreamland.

Shirakawago village is situated in Gifu Prefecture.

At nighttime, when the lights are turned on in each villa, the stunning beauty of this town will indeed make you fall in love with the view.

However, Shirakawago is one of UNESCO’s world heritage sites , and hundreds of tourists come to Japan to have a glance at its elegance.

You May Read:

20 Best Things to Do in Japan in Spring

Meet The Snow Monkeys at Jigokudani

One of Japan's unique places is Jigokudani Monkey Park, where you will find monkeys taking a bath in the hot springs just like a human!!

Although you can go to this park during summer, the place is much more photogenic and spectacular during winter, as you can capture the monkeys in white snow.

Jigokudani Monkey Park is situated in Nagano Prefecture.

The best period of time to pay a visit to this place is in January and February when the snow gets heavier.

Since monkeys are wild animals and the park tries to keep the surroundings as natural as possible, visitors are requested to follow some rules.

I recommend you to visit this site and check out the guideline.

Go on a day trip to Blue Pond, Shirahige Falls Light-up, and Asahiyama Zoo(Hokkaido)

This heavenly-looking pond is one of Japan's unique places and has a mesmerizing aura to make you intoxicated.

Especially at night, the pond looks unreal with illuminated spotlights, and the color of the water reflects on the snow.

You know what, I can’t describe the beauty of this lake in words, and you will agree with me after exploring it in person.

On top of the blue pond, you will also witness the Shirahige Falls light up.

Another attraction of Hokkaido is Asahiyama Zoo, which allows visitors to get as close as possible to the animals.

One of the exciting things about this zoo is yo u can meet the cutie penguins here!!

18 Fun Things to Do in Japan In Fall

Early View of Cherry Blossom at Kawazu City

As cherry blossoms usually flourish in March or April, many people assume that they can’t see them during winter.

The truth is the first cherry blossom of the year is seen at Kawazu City, Shizuoka Prefecture, in early February.

After knowing about this fact, I think you can finally relax as visiting Japan in winter won’t deprive you of watching these pretty flowers.

Another notable thing is that these cherry blossoms last longer than most of the others in Japan, even for about a month.

Sumo January Grand Tournament

If you’re in Japan in winter of January 2024, make sure you check out the sumo match in Ryogoku Kokugikan National Sumo Stadium in Tokyo.

The match goes on for about 3 days. It’s a huge sensation in Japan and is something that has been celebrated in Japan for centuries. It’s one of Japan's oldest and traditional sports. 

Best Ski Resorts in Hokkaido Japan

Have Fun with Ice Skating

It’s okay if you don’t want to go snowboarding and skiing as you can still have fun inside the town.

Tokyo has plenty of outdoor ice skating rinks open during winter. The good thing is they are in the central areas, so you don’t need to move far away from the city.

Some popular ice skating places in Tokyo are Urban Dock Lalaport Toyosu, Akasaka Sacas, TOKYO SKYTREE TOWN ICE SKATING PARK, Futako Tamagawa Rise, and Tokyo Midtown.

Train Ride Via The JR Tadami Line

The JR Tadami Line is a railway service that runs for over eighty miles through the Fukushima and Niigata prefectures.

When the Japanese countryside gets covered up with thick snow, the view from the train will literally take your breath away.

This rail service connects Aizuwakamatsu and Uonuma city and travels through mountain valleys that are covered with pine forests, rivers, and bridges.

As the train moves slowly, you will have enough time to capture the outer beauty with your camera through the window.

One of the top sights on Tadami Line is Mishima, a small town famous for its handicrafts and Tadami River Bridge Viewpoint.

This viewpoint is one of the most photogenic sights on the journey, so don’t miss capturing the scene too.

Warm Yourself with Nabe (Hot Pot): Sukiyaki

Nabemono (shortly nabe) is a traditional Japanese hot pot dish that is especially consumed during the cold season.

Local people like to eat them in a group sitting around a table when the dish cooks on a gas burner.

One of the most famous hot pot dishes is Sukiyaki.

Usually, it is prepared by cooking beef, tofu, onion, and other ingredients in a soy sauce-based soup.

The ingredients of this dish may differ according to the various regions of the country.

By any chance, if you search Sukiyaki on the internet, a song by Japanese singer Kyu Sakamoto may pop in the result.

Don’t blame me if for a moment you think I may suggest you eat a song!!

Winter BBQ in Japan

When the temperature is minus degrees Celsius, how can you not eat some BBQ?

I frequently eat beef BBQ while watching the snowy sky, and I think you should try to do so.

Either you can arrange a BBQ party outdoor or grab them from a restaurant, whatever you want.

In Tokyo, some trendy BBQ spots are 10th story Shibuya Sakuragaoka, CAFE; HAUS GARDEN BBQ, Hatsushima Island, and WILD MAGIC The Rainbow Farm.

Besides all my mentioned dishes, there are other foods that you can try in Japan, such as mochi (rice cake), Yudofu, Nikujaga, Shabu Shabu, Okayu / Zosui, etc.

Now, traveling to Japan in Winter needs some preparation. You should have knowledge about the weather and what things to pack before heading toward your destination.

Winter Temperature in Japan

During this season, the weather usually remains clear and pleasant. As Japan is a collection of many islands , the temperature varies depending on the region.

Big cities like Tokyo and Osaka don’t have a lot of snowfall.

In Tokyo, the temperature in winter is around 2 to 12 degrees Celsius.

Okinawa (Naha) is the warmest place in Japan in winter, with an average temperature between 15 to 20 degrees Celsius.

In the mountain area and the Northern part of Japan, the average temperature is around 0 degrees.

As the snowfall is heavier, the streets look like a white carpet.

In Hokkaido, the temperature drops below 0 degrees Celsius, and it is one of the coldest regions in Japan.

Costs and Crowds in Japan During Winter

Costs and crowds in Japan during winter can vary depending on the specific location and timing of your visit. Here are some general factors to consider:

• Accommodation: Winter is considered the peak season in popular winter destinations, so accommodation prices can be higher compared to other times of the year. It's advisable to book in advance to secure better rates.
• Transportation: While transportation costs in Japan remain relatively consistent throughout the year, the expenses for traveling to and within winter destinations may vary. For example, flights to Hokkaido or other northern regions may be more expensive during peak winter months.
• Activities: Costs for winter activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing can add up. Ski resort fees, equipment rentals, and lessons should be factored into your budget.
• Popular Destinations: Japan's popular winter destinations, such as Hokkaido and major ski resorts, can experience increased crowds during peak winter months. This is especially true during holidays and weekends. It's advisable to plan your visit during weekdays or consider less crowded alternatives if you prefer a quieter experience.
• Timing: The level of crowds can also vary depending on when you visit during the winter season. Early or late winter months might be less crowded compared to the peak of winter, which typically falls around December and January.

Things You Need to Pack For Japan In Winter

To make your trip warm and cozy, you need to pack carefully while leaving out unnecessary things.

It is wise to layer your clothes. If you wear multiple layers of clothes, you can always take off something when it gets too hot.

Now, I will mention some goods that are worth buying before your tour to Japan.

In Japanese, heating pads are also known as Kairo. It can warm up your hands and feet from the frizziness.

You can purchase them from any convenience store or supermarket in Japan.

Also, you can take them from your own country. But, I think it’s inconvenient to carry them all the way.

Yet, if you want, you can purchase them beforehand.

• Winter Jackets & Innerwear

It’s okay if you take leather jackets, but I suggest you pack at least one insulated coat as they are more effective against the cold.

Whether you stay in the capital city or go to the Northern parts, a well-padded jacket will ensure that you do not catch a cold and can enjoy traveling to the fullest.

Don’t forget to take one or two sets of innerwear too.

• Hand Gloves & Socks

You can take either full or fingerless gloves according to your preference.

However, fingerless gloves are convenient when you need to snap a photo with your phone or camera.

You can even hold a cup with much ease and enjoy your coffee, which is a must to reduce the chill.

Also, take some warm socks as you need to take your shoes off often in Japan.

There is a Japanese tradition of taking the shoes off before entering someones’ house, also in temples and shrines.

So, be sure not to forget about packing socks.

Sunscreen in winter!!

You may think I am out of my mind!! Right?

Well, even on cold days, your skin can be damaged by the ray of the sun.

Especially when you will ski, your face will be exposed to harmful UV rays.

So, I would like you to take good care of your precious and beautiful face!!

• Boots Or Sneakers

If possible, take both high boots and casual sneakers. High boots are more reliable while walking on snow.

On the other hand, you can wear sneakers while sightseeing around cities.

By now, I hope you have fixed which things to do in Japan in winter.

Whatever you end up doing, only a wide smile will remain on your face while leaving this country.

And, my job is to make your trip happy and memorable each time you visit Japan.

Things To do In Japan In Winter: FAQs

Is it worth visiting Japan in winter?

It’s absolutely worth visiting Japan during the winter season. Even if you don’t like skiing or snowboarding, you can enjoy several festivals and activities here.

You can walk through snow-covered forests, slurp hot soup and soak in a hot outdoor bath.

As Japan is relatively less crowded in winter, you will have a great time exploring the beauty of this country.

But, remember that winter holidays in Japan usually start from 29th December and end on 3rd January, and during this time tourist spots may be crowded by local people.

What is special about winter in Japan?

The winter season represents a time of celebration and fun in many places of the world. And Japan is not an exception.

Several cities of this country are covered up in white snow and bring out the true beauty of winter.

You will see lights hanging up throughout the city streets in December, and many festivals are held during this time that leaves an unforgettable memory in your mind.

Is it cheaper to go to Japan in the winter?

Since fewer people visit Japan during wintertime, the prices of hotel rooms slightly drop compared to other seasons.

Hence, if you are eager to spend less money on this expensive destination, you should visit Japan during this season.

And, of course, you won’t miss watching the famous Sapporo Snow Festival, which occurs only during this period of the year.

Which part of Japan is best for winter?

Hokkaido, Tohoku, Nagano, and Gifu are the best parts of Japan for winter. They offer stunning winter landscapes, ski

More articles

Japan truly.

The Online Japanese Store. Feels like shopping in Japan!

Product Review

Contact information.

[email protected]

Quick links

123 John Doe Street Your Town, YT 12345

Store Hours Sun: Closed Mon-Fri: 9:00 - 17:00 Sat: 10:00 - 13:00

What to expect at pickup

Closing at 5pm

Closing at 1pm

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.

Share this:

• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on X (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window)

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Follow us on Facebook

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

The Best Places to Visit in Japan During Winter

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

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

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

Table of Contents

Abashiri Drift Ice

Credits: Ludwine Probst / Flickr

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

The Blue Pond

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

Sapporo Snow Festival

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

Credits: David McKelvey / Flickr

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

Ginzan Onsen

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

Credits: Jojje Olson / Flickr

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

Kamakura Festival

Credits: Chee_hian / Flickr

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

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

The Icicles of Misotsuchi

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

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

Credits: Anthony Coronado / Flickr

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

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

Jigokudani Monkey Park

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

Credits: Douglas Sprott / Flickr

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

Winter Travel via JR Tadami Line

Credits: Masahiro IIZUKA / Flickr

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

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

Read also > JR Pass – Your Ultimate Guide

Shirakawago Village

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

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

Credits: Trey Ratcliff / Flickr

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

Read also > Shirakawago Travel Guide

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

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

Azra Syakirah

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

Related Posts

• The Best Places To Visit...

The Best Places to Visit in Japan During Winter

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

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

Shirakawa-go, Gifu

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

Nestled in the mountain crevasses that spread from the Gifu to Toyama Prefectures, Shirakawa-go is one of the country’s most heavily snow-covered villages. Around 96% of the area is still untouched forest. It may not be the easiest area to reach during the harsher winter months, but if you can get there, it’s worth the effort. Many of the ‘gasshou’ in the town now double as accommodations, so for a truly authentic, remote Japanese winter country stay it’s worth checking out.

Abashiri Drift Ice, Hokkaido

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

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

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

Become a Culture Tripper!

Sign up to our newsletter to save up to $1,200 on our unique trips..

See privacy policy .

Sapporo Snow Festival, Hokkaido

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

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

Kobe City, Hyogo

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

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

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

Akita City, Akita

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

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

Kawazu City, Shizuoka

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

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

Tottori City, Tottori

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

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

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

Guides & Tips

Tomamu: a secret skiing spot in the heart of hokkaido.

Rediscover Japan with its Borders Fully Open

Introducing Culture Trip's Rail Trips

The Best Rail Trips to Book this Year

How modern art revitalised the city of Towada, Japan

How Much Does a Trip to Japan Cost?

The Best Solo Trips to Take in Your 30s

See & Do

The best places to visit with culture trip this autumn.

Film & TV

The best japanese movies to watch on the bullet train.

How to Experience Off-the-Beaten-Track Japan by Bullet Train

Top Tips for Travelling in Japan

The Ultimate Guide to Getting around Japan

Culture Trip Summer Sale

Save up to $1,200 on our unique small-group trips! Limited spots.

• Post ID: 1000473100
• Sponsored? No
• View Payload

Incredible Places To Visit In Japan During Winter

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

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

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

Top 12 Places To Visit On Your Japan Winter Holiday

1. shirakawa-go, gifu.

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

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

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

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

2. Takayama, Gifu

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

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

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

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

Search for the best places to stay in Takayama  here .

Book these amazing tours for your trip NOW!

3. Shinhotaka Ropeway (Gifu)

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

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

4. Gero (Gifu)

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

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

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

Find the best accommodations in Gero here .

5. Kobe City (Hyogo)

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

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

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

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

6. Kinosaki Hot Spring (Hyogo)

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

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

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

7. Takeda Castle Ruins (Hyogo)

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

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

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

8. First Tadami River Bridge (Fukushima)

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

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

9. Ueno Park (Tokyo)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

11. Onuma Quasi National Park (Hokkaido)

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

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

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

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

12. Mount Fuji

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

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

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

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

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

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

Why Visit Japan In Winter?

1. avoid the crowds.

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

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

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

2. Soak In Hot Spring (Onsen)

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

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

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

3. Enjoy Japanese Winter Specialties

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

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

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

4. See Winter Wildlife

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

5. Participate In The Snow Festival

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

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

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

Tips For Visiting Japan In Winter The Cheapest Way

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

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

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

• Our  Travel Insurance Recommendation
• What we  use to book hotels
• Travel  Gear and Products  You Might Need
• The Best  Tours and Experiences

Taiss Nowrouzi

Taiss Nowrouzi is a writer, photographer, and social media influencer with a passion for dance on the side. Taiss has a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing from San Diego State University. After over a decade in the hotel business, including five years in the management, she left the corporate world to pursue a life of a digital nomad.

Family Travel Planning Resources

✈️  Peace of Mind on Your Adventures  

We never leave home without SafetyWing travel insurance. It’s comprehensive, affordable, and a total lifesaver for unexpected situations!

🏨  Scoring the Best Deals  

We’re all about comparing prices on Booking.com or Agoda.com (when traveling to Asia). That way, we always snag the perfect hotel or vacation rental for our crew, without breaking the bank!

🌍  Activities for Everyone  

Viator is our go-to for discovering awesome activities everyone will love. They have something for every interest and age, so no one’s left out!

🎒  Our Must-Have Travel Essentials  

Check out our Amazon Influencer Store for our tried-and-true travel essentials. These are the goodies we always bring along to make our trips comfy and enjoyable.

💰  Managing Finances While Globetrotting  

Wise is our secret weapon for easy currency exchange and international transfers. It’s super convenient, secure, and always has great rates!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

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

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

Hi! We’re Rob and Taiss. We set off to live a life in as many places as possible. To actually live in locations around the world long enough to get to know the locals, the culture, and the food, not just a taste of it.

Latest Posts

Croatia With Kids: Our Favorite Beaches And Itinerary 2024

What To Do In San Francisco In One Day: Itinerary By A Local

Sunrise In Yosemite: Top 5 Spots To Catch It With Photo Tips

7 Stunning Yosemite Sunset Locations

2 Days In Edinburgh Itinerary: A Perfect Weekend In Scotland

The Ultimate Guide To Playa del Carmen For Families In 2024

Top 10 Things to See and Do in Japan in Winter

Many travelers plan their visit to Japan to coincide with the flowering of the cherry blossom in springtime. Yes, the season is beautiful and the flowers impressive, but they’re missing out big time because winter in Japan is even more spectacular.

The Japanese enjoy their snowfall to the max and hold annual ice and snow festival the likes of which you won’t see anywhere else in the world. The festivals are one of the best things to do in Japan in the winter and attract millions of visitors to view the displays of elaborate sculptures and illuminations.

Onsen, bathing outdoors in natural hot springs, is a popular year-round activity in Japan, but doing it during the winter months when the pools are surrounded by snow and ice adds another incredible dimension to the experience. Japan also has amazing winter sports resorts for skiing and snowboarding, and they’re all in unbelievably stunning landscapes.

Do you need any more reasons to start planning a trip to Japan in winter?

Winter Months in Japan

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

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

Stay in southern Japan or in the Pacific Ocean coastal areas and because of the milder climate there, you might not see one snowflake fall all winter and the days can often be gray, damp and overcast.

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

Outdoor Onsen during winter at a Ryokan of Zao Hot Spring, Yamagata, Japan

What is the Best Time to Visit Japan in Winter?

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

January to March is one of the best times to visit Japan as it is considered to be the low season, there are fewer crowds and accommodation is generally more economical. Though it has to be said, forget the days leading up to and after New Year. The same as Oban in August and Golden Week in late April, New Year is one of the main celebratory periods and can be absolute chaos for transportation. Hotel reservations are also hard to come by as everything is booked well in advance and many businesses, shops, and restaurants close for the holidays.

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

So once you’re there, what are the top ten places to visit in Japan in winter?

Japan countryside landscape in winter. Biei, Hokkaido

10. The Blue Pond, Biei, Hokkaido

The Blue Pond is a beautiful patch of sky-blue colored water hidden by dense forest near the town of Biei in the Japanese prefecture of Hokkaido. The lagoon-like pond was created when excavations were made to prevent mudslides from eruptions of Mount Tokachi reaching the town and the hollow left behind from the digs filled with water.

When man tampers with nature the end result can often be disastrous. For once, that’s not the case where the Blue Pond is concerned. What makes the pond special is it contains traces of chemicals which turn its waters a rainbow of different blue hues depending on the season.

The best time to see the Blue Pond is during the winter when it’s surrounded by snow and the blue of the water strikes a strong contrast with the pristine white. The pond is even more impressive after five at night when its illuminated with spotlights and the color of the water is reflected onto the snow.

Interesting Fact: The Blue Pond in winter was a featured wallpaper image for the Apple Inc release of the macbook Mountain Lion OS X .

The Blue Pond, Biei, Hokkaido, Japan

The Blue Pond in winter

The Blue Pond during winter at night.

Other Places to Visit in Biei in Winter

Biei is a quiet town and the area around the Blue Pond is not touristically developed, but there are still things to do there. In winter Biei is surrounded by very Instagrammable snow-covered landscapes, and volcanic Mount Tokachi is only half an hours drive from the town.

Just three minutes outside of Biei is the Biei Shirogane Onsen hot springs and hotel where you can stay overnight to enjoy some therapeutic bathing in the spa’s thermal waters.

Close by the Shirogane Onsen, and one of the area’s main attractions, is the stunning Shirahige Waterfalls . The multi-cascade falls are a hundred feet high and look magical when lit with their wintertime illuminations.

Shirahige Waterfalls during winter, Biei, Hokkaido, Japan

9. Yuzawa Ski Resorts

The Yuzawa Ski Resorts are some of Japan’s top winter sports destination. Yuzawa, in the Japanese Alps, is world-renowned for its fabulous hot springs, snowboarding, and ski trails. Because of its geographical location, the town receives an excellent snowfall and has a prolonged winter season.

Yuzawa is just an eighty-minute train ride away from Tokyo which makes it easily accessible. Traveling on from Yuzawa to any of the resorts is not a problem either as there’s a good public transport network. There is even one resort, the Gala Yuzawa , which is conveniently connected to a Shinkansen station. If you’re staying in Tokyo and want to make a one-day skiing trip, you can.

Winter in Yuzawa, Japan

Ski Resorts in Yuzawa

There are a total of twelve ski resorts in and around Yuzawa offering skiing and snow-related sports for all level of participant. If you just want to make some snowballs and play in the snow, well, you can do that in Yuzawa too.

Gala Yuzawa is the only ski resort worldwide with a Shinkansen station, so it’s the simplest resort to access. The cable car gondolas up to the Gala resort ski slopes also leave from the Shinkansen station where there is also equipment rental available.

The Naeba Ski Resort in Yuzawa is one of the biggest ski resorts in Japan. As well as having ski trails for novice, intermediate and advanced skiers and snowboarders, the resort offers snow-related activities for non-skiers in their Family Snowland. To just take in the beauty of the snow-clad scenery between Naeba and Kagura, go on a twenty-five-minute Dragondola cable car ride. The views are beyond awesome.

Yuzawa Hot Springs

Yuzawa first became a popular place in Japan to visit in winter because of its numerous hot springs some of which have histories dating back almost nine hundred years. There are five in Yuzawa town itself one of which, the Kaido no Yu, is outdoor and has breathtaking views of the surrounding snow-capped mountains from its pools.

Cable cars in Gala Yuzawa near Tokyo, Japan

Girl playing with snow at Gala Yuzawa in Japan

8. Ginzan Onsen, Yamagata

Bathing in hot springs or onsen is an enjoyable way of relaxing in Japan. In winter, when there’s snow on the ground and a chill in the air, taking onsen outdoors becomes an even more pleasurable experience.

One of the most picturesque places to take a winter onsen in Japan is the town of Ginzan in the Yamagata prefecture. The small mountain town was founded over six hundred years ago and is full of historical, wooden-fronted ryokans, the traditional onsen inns, around the streets of its pedestrianized center and along the banks of the Ginzan River which intersects it.

There are two onsen public baths, Shiroganeyu and Omokageyu , right in the center of Ginzan plus a free of charge Warashiyu public foot spa if you don’t want to get fully immersed. Ginzan is such a beautifully tranquil town that after taking onsen many people choose to spend the night there and as the majority of ryokans don’t permit children, a peaceful night is guaranteed. Enjoy the natural spa treatment to the max by taking a room at a ryokan, like Ginzano , with a private onsen which has both indoor baths and outdoor baths as well as superb scenic views.

Interesting Fact : The famous Oscar-winning animation, Spirited Away , was inspired by the incredible scenery of Ginzan. The town was also used for location shoots in the NHK’s TV series, Oshin .

Historic ryokan lined up along the Ginzan River, Ginza Onsen, Japan

Night View of Ginzan Onsen, Obanazawa, Yamagata, Japan

Snowy Ginzan Onsen at night

One of Japan’s prettiest Onsen towns – Ginzan Onsen

7. Fuji-Q Highland, Fujiyoshida

While you may think winter is not quite the right time to visit an amusement park or even Japan the right country to do it in, you’d be wrong. Fuji-Q Highland is a theme park at the base of Mount Fuji with some of the most thrilling adrenaline rides in the world. With its close proximity to Tokyo, the park draws the city’s thrill-seeking crowds and waiting times for rides can often be two to three hours long. Visit Fuji-Q in winter and your time spent queueing will be shortened to around sixty minutes.

The park has four mega, Guinness World Record holding, roller coasters which will force a scream from even the most stoic rider. They are the fastest, the highest and the steepest and totally unbelievable. Don’t miss getting on Dododonpa , Takabisha , Eejanaika , and Fujiyama ; you’ll have the roller coaster rides of your life. If you’ve no head for heights but still want a thrill then head into the Labyrinth of Fear . The house of horrors is almost one kilometer long and full of one nightmarish room after another from which there is no quick escape.

Eejanaika Roller coster at Fuji-Q Highland in Japan

Fuji-Q opens an ice-skating rink from late autumn onwards which has magnificent views of Mount Fuji and if you’ve never skated before, no worries, the park has designed special double-bladed skates with more stability to give novice skaters confidence on the ice. There are also delightful night time festive illuminations in the Gaspard et Lisa park in Fuji-Q’s free admission area by the main entrance.

NB: Fuji-Q Highland is open all year, but if the weather conditions are severe, some attractions may be closed for safety reasons. Notice of temporary closures of rides are posted on the theme park’s website, so if you’re planning on visiting Fuji-Q in winter check what’s open and what’s not on the park’s website here before you go.

Pro Tip : To travel from Tokyo to Fuji-Q, it’s more economical to purchase a combination ticket which includes the park entrance fee than buying the bus and park admission separately.

Pro Tip: To be one of the first at the gates in the morning, stay somewhere close by the park. The Onsen Hotel Highland Resor t is a great choice but if you’re on a budget, take a look at the capsule hotel, the Cabin & Lounge Highland Station Inn , it’s a lot easier on the pocket.

Ice Skating Rink at the Fuji-Q Highland amusement park in Japan

Winterscape of the Fuji-Q Highland in Japan

Giant Swing at the Fuji-Q theme park in Japan

People ice skating at the Fuji-Q Highland

6. Winter Travel Via JR Tadami Line

The JR Tadami Line is a rail service which runs for over eighty miles through the most spectacular parts of the Fukushima and Niigata prefectures. While the Japanese countryside in winter, when it’s blanketed with a thick covering of snow, is incredibly beautiful everywhere the views on this train ride will literally take your breath away.

The service connects the cities of Aizuwakamatsu and Uonuma traveling through mountain valleys covered with pine forests following the winding course of rivers spanned by awe-inspiring bridges. It’s a slow and ponderous journey which gives you time to sit back and admire the scenic vistas through the carriage window.

Top Sights on the Tadami Line

Break the journey at the small town of Mishima , famous for its handicrafts and soba, to visit the Tadami River Bridge Viewpoint. It’s one of the top sights on the Tadami Line and probably the most photogenic spot in all Japan. From the viewpoint , accessible from the Ozekaido Mishima Juku Roadside Station via a stepped pathway, there’s a panoramic view of the Tadami River Bridge. The lilac-colored, six-hundred-foot long iron suspension bridge spans the river, and when the conditions are right, its image is perfectly reflected in the waters below.

Don’t miss trying the naturally carbonated mineral water from the well in the town of Kaneyama. The water is so good, most visitors take a bottle with them and take some home. Read about more things to do on the Tadami Line in this informative and downloadable pamphlet .

Spectacular view of the JR Tadami Line during winter

A local train of JR Tadami railway line goes through the snowy mountainside

Winter view of Tadami Railway Line, Mishima Machi, Fukushima, Japan

View from Tadami River Bridge Viewpoint

5. Japan Winter Sales

Japan in winter is retail therapy heaven. No matter what area of Japan you visit or which city you find yourself in, there will be sales stickers on just about everything and some fantastic bargains to be had.

The Best Time For Winter Sales

Winter sales in Japan start in December when fashion retailers begin to prepare for the spring season by selling off all their winter stock. December is also a great month for getting discounted home appliances too. January sees prices on everything drop even lower and the first three days after New Year often turn into a shopping frenzy plus the ‘lucky bags’ go on sale.

Fukubukuro or Lucky Bags

Fukubukuro or Lucky Bags are sold during the first few days after New Year. While the value of the contents is guaranteed to be worth much more than the asking price, what’s actually inside the bag is unknown until it’s purchased and opened. You could spend ten thousand yen and find you’ve bought something worth thirty and if it’s something you actually wanted, well, you’d be very lucky.

The Best Places for Winter Shopping

Winter sales in Japan are widespread with most retailers participating though many don’t advertise the details of their price reductions on their websites. Japan Shop Now is a useful website for finding store listings and other shopping-related information, but the only way to find out which stores have sales on is to check them out when you’re there.

Winter sales in Hankyu Department Store Osaka Umeda Main Store

The Ginza District, a place for high end retail shopping in Japan during winter sales

Japanese women shopping in Tokyo

4. Jigokudani Monkey Park

Wild Japanese macaques inhabit the Jigokudani mountainsides of the Nagano prefecture  roaming the extensive terrains freely. Part of their territory is a thermal spa in the Yokoyu River valley where they go to bathe during spells of extreme cold.

The monkey population in Jigokudani number in the hundreds, and although it’s not often you can get within touching distance of wild animals in their natural habitat, at the Jigokudani Monkey Park , it’s possible to do just that and while they’re in the water too. While the bathing macaques of Jigokudani are internet famous, the park doesn’t receive tremendous amounts of visitors as it is only reachable by walking a mile-long track through dense forest.

Snow Monkeys in hot springs of Jigokudani monkey park, Japan

The Best Time to Visit Jigokudani Monkey Park

Winter when there is snow on the ground, around December through to March, is a good time to visit Jigokudani Monkey Park, but the best months are January and February as the temperatures drop to to around minus ten degrees Celsius which is when the macaques prefer to bathe. Winter, when the spa waters are steaming and the monkeys have a dusting of snow on their fur, is also the best time for taking amazing photos.

Baby Snow Monkey in Jigokudani monkey park, Japan

Places to Stay in Jigokudani Monkey Park

The ryokan, Korakukan , is located in the same valley as the Jigokudani Monkey Park and while it’s not the most economical option, it does have an outdoor onsen which the macaques often use. It also has private indoor baths with no monkeys if bathing with wild primates isn’t on your want-to-do list. Hotels and inns easier on your vacation budget can be found in the nearby towns of Yudanaka and Shibu .

Interesting Fact: The snow monkeys of Jigokudani were made famous in the 1992 film, Baraka , where they’re seen bathing in the onsen. You can see the opening scenes here .

Korakukan Ryokan near Jigokudani Monkey Park, Yudanaka, Japan

Japanese Macaque on the snow. Jigokudani monkey park

Mom with baby in Jigokudani monkey park

3. Shirakawa-go Winter Villages

The Shirakawa-go region of Japan was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the mid-1990s to conserve the unique architecture of the houses. The Gassho-zukuri , or hands in prayer, farmhouses have steeply sloping roofs constructed without nails which enables them to cope structurally with the heavy winter snowfalls in the area.

Snowfalls begin around mid-December in Shirakawa-go turning it into a Japanese winter wonderland for the entire season, and the Gassho-zukuri farmhouses take on a snow-covered picture-perfect look. The most popular village to visit is Ogimachi which is the biggest and has several of the traditional farmhouses over two hundred years old.

Shirakawa-go Winter Illuminations

Shirakawa-go has several lighting-up events during the winter season, but from 2019 onward new regulations will be in place which require visitors to make a reservation to attend them. Places will be limited, so if you’re planning on going, register and make a prior reservation on the official website .

Alternative To Shirakawa-go

The villages of the Gokayama region, compared to Shirakawa-go, are relatively undeveloped touristically and still a little off the main track. Gokayama , Suganuma , and Ainokura are the best villages to visit in the Gokayama area.

Shirakawa-go winter village in Japan

Traditional houses in the Gassho Zukuri Style in Shirakawa-go winter village

Aerial View of The Historic Village Shirakawa-go in Japan in Winter

Gassho-zukuri house during winter in Shirakawa-go, Japan

Shirakawa-go Winter Light-Up

2. Sapporo Snow Festival

The Sapporo Snow Festival is the largest and most spectacular snow festival in Japan. As well as taking over the streets of the city with ice and snow sculptures in forms as diverse as Mickey Mouse to Donald Trump, the festival occupies three major sites – the Odori, the Susukino and the Tsu Dome.

The week-long winter celebration in Sapporo, the capital of the Hokkaido prefecture, takes place during one week in February and attracts over two million visitors every year. Accommodation is at a premium and expensive, so if you’re planning on going make sure to book well in advance.  Try arriving a few days before the festival starts and leaving after its finished and it could help save on airfares.

The Odori site hosts the most sculptures and the biggest – some are as large as buildings. You can get a great view of the  Odori ice sculptures from the Sapporo TV Towe r which is at the eastern end of Odori Park.

Susukino is an entertainment and red-light district where smaller ice sculptures are distributed between the karaoke bars and various other establishments.

The Tsu Dome is outside of Sapporo and offers visitors lots of snow-related activities for both adults and children.

Interesting Fact: The Sapporo Snow and Ice Festival began in the 1950s with just six snow statues built by students in Odori Park.

View over the Odori Park from Sapporo TV Tower. Probably the best way to see the Sapporo Snow Festival

The Best Time to Visit Sapporo Festival

Visit the festival at the beginning of the week as the sculptures begin to lose shape and get dirty quite quickly. Avoid the first day if you can as its the most crowded. For some smashing fun, join in the ice sculpture destruction session on the final day of the festival. Get there early, as by midday all that’s left are mounds and mounds of melting crushed ice.

Demolition of snow sculptures immediately after Sapporo Snow Festival

Other Winter Festivals In Japan

The Otaru Light Snow Path Festival usually takes place at the same time as Sapporo’s, and as it’s in a neighboring town, most visitors make the most of the opportunity and visit both festivals. If you can’t make it to Sapporo, try one of these other festivals instead. The Tokamachi Snow Festiva l or the Asahikawa Winter Festiva l. They’re all fantastic.

The snow statue of Daimaou Kosaka (aka Pikotaro in Sapporo Snow Festival

Illuminated snow sculptures during Sapporo Snow Festival with Sapporo TV tower in the background.

Sultan Abdul Samad Building sculpture made from snow

1. Winter Illuminations in Tokyo

There are winter illuminations all over Japan, with each district competing to be the one with the most impressive display, but the ones you shouldn’t miss are in the capital city, Tokyo. In the past, lighting up the city was done with LED lights, now it’s LED with digital choreography, projection mapping, and interaction that draws the crowds.

Tokyo positively glows during the festive season, but some areas of the city excel at illuminations more than others. The best winter illuminations in Tokyo are the Caretta Shiodome Illuminations , the Roppongi Hills Christmas Lights and the Tokyo Midtown Christmas Illuminations .

Caretta Shiodome Illuminations

The Caretta Shiodome Illuminations are undoubtedly the most impressive and longest running in the city. The yearly extravaganza begins in November and continues through to Mid-February. Two-thousand five hundred lights perform to music every fifteen minutes with an extra opening spectacular taking place at five every afternoon. There’s a lot to see, so find out where and what’s happening when on the illumination map and schedule .

Illuminations at Caretta Shiodome in Tokyo, Japan

Caretta Shiodome Illumination in Tokyo, Japan

Roppongi Hills Christmas Lights

The Roppongi Hills Christmas Lights draw mega crowds of over seven million people every year. There are five major illumination sites though the most popular are the illuminations on Keyakizaka Street where the trees are decked with almost a million multi-colored lights. It’s pure winter magic. While you’re there, don’t miss the German-style Christmas market in the Oyane Plaza. It’s Tokyo’s oldest and biggest Christmas market and has a fantastic festive atmosphere.

Keyakizaka Street illumination, Roppongi Hills Christmas, Tokyo, Japan

The most popular spot of Roppongi Hills Christmas Illumination – Keyakizaka Street

Tokyo Midtown Christmas Illuminations

Tokyo Midtown is an urban district nearby Roppongi Hills which literally goes all out on its winter illuminations. The Starlight Garden is a six and a half thousand square foot lawned square lit with countless lights representing the stars and planets of the universe and is the central focus of the Tokyo Midtown illuminations. It’s a romantic scenario made even more magical by the constant emissions from a gigantic bubble machine.

To ensure no-one misses any of the incredible lights, there’s a map to help you find your way around the Tokyo Midtown Christmas Illuminations. Tokyo Midtown also hosts a month-long Christmas Wine Festival in December showcasing over a hundred wines from all over the world.

Starlight Garden is the biggest highlight of Tokyo Midtown Christmas Illumination

The Best Time to Experience Winter Illuminations

Winter illuminations in Tokyo tend to begin around the end of November or the beginning of December though some start as early as October and can continue right through to Valentine’s Day in February or even until the start of spring. Lighting up time is mostly 5 pm to 11 pm daily.

The Best Things to Do and Amazing Spots in Osaka: Attractions and Activities

Osaka is Japan's second-largest metropolitan area after Tokyo, home to 7% of Japan's population and about 10% of the foreign residents in Japan.

Osaka has long been known as "the nation's kitchen," fostering a unique food culture. Dishes using thick sauces, such as takoyaki and okonomiyaki, are especially popular. The Osaka area is also home to many famous sake-producing regions, allowing visitors to enjoy delicious sake alongside delicious food.

Furthermore, with its numerous famous tourist spots, Osaka attracts many domestic and international tourists. The city center boasts high-rise buildings like Abeno Harukas and Umeda Sky Building, offering scenic views from upper floors and shopping experiences. Historical spots like Osaka Castle and Osaka Tenmangu Shrine are also famous, allowing visitors to enjoy both modern aspects and traditional Japan in Osaka.

In this article, we'll introduce must-visit places in Osaka by category, showcasing the city's diverse attractions for 2024 and beyond.

Three Must-Visit Places in Osaka: Top Osaka Attractions 2024

Universal studios japan (usj).

Source: Official website

Universal Studios Japan (USJ) is a popular theme park in Western Japan where visitors can enjoy the ambiance of various movies and character works.

The charm of USJ lies in its faithfully reproduced, attractive world settings for each work. USJ is divided into areas based on franchises like Mario, Harry Potter, and Jaws. Each area has a completely different atmosphere, making it exciting just to walk around. The level of reproduction within each area is very high, allowing visitors to feel as if they've stepped into the world of that particular work.

While thrilling rides are plentiful, there are also exciting cruises, water shows, and character-themed cafes, making it enjoyable for everyone. USJ is definitely one of the top Osaka attractions for 2024 and beyond.

In Osaka, you'll often see people wearing popular character-themed headbands from USJ or carrying USJ-exclusive shopping bags with character prints. Seeing them always makes me want to visit USJ again!

Location: 2-1-33 Sakurajima, Konohana-ku, Osaka Access: 6-minute walk from Universal City Station Opening Hours: Varies by day, please check the official website Closed: Open daily Phone: 0570-20-0606 Official Website: https://www.usj.co.jp/web/ja/jp Admission: Adults from 7,800 yen per person (Prices vary by day. Various ticket types are available, including 1.5-day passes, Fast Pass options, and annual passes. Please check the official website for details.)

Dotonbori is a lively and vibrant area that embodies the Osaka atmosphere, famous for its giant signboards. The sign of a marathon runner with raised arms, visible from the bridge, is particularly famous, and many people take photos mimicking the pose.

Known as a "food strolling town," Dotonbori offers numerous culinary delights. Takoyaki shops are especially numerous. Each shop has slightly different toppings or unique offerings, like takoyaki sandwiched between shrimp crackers. My recommended topping is green onions.

Moreover, in Dotonbori, you can find various items at prices lower than in surrounding areas. They're advertised with flashy pop signs, so if you're interested in something, you can get it here at a bargain. I always buy souvenirs in Dotonbori too.

<Basic Information> Access: Directly accessible from Exit 14 of Namba Station on the Midosuji, Yotsubashi, and Sennichimae Lines, Osaka Namba Station on the Hanshin and Kintetsu Lines Directly accessible from Exit 2 of Nipponbashi Station on the Sakaisuji and Sennichimae Lines About a 7-minute walk north from the north exit of Namba Station on the Nankai Electric Railway Opening Hours, Closed Days, Phone Number: Varies by store

To fully enjoy Dotonbori, join the "Osaka Bar Hopping Night Tour in Namba"!

Dotonbori has a vast number of restaurants, befitting its reputation as a food strolling town. While you'll want to eat at famous restaurants when visiting, it can be difficult for tourists to identify them. That's why I recommend the "Osaka Bar Hopping Night Tour in Namba" tour.

This tour first visits Hozenji Temple, then takes you to three izakayas in Dotonbori. The izakayas selected for this tour are chosen by locals who know Dotonbori well, so they're guaranteed to be delicious.

If you want to taste truly delicious Osaka specialties that aren't in guidebooks, please check the tour details and book from here. It's a great way to experience some of the best Osaka attractions in 2024.

Click here for more details（ https://www.magical-trip.com/product/a9a2ebd9-ced6-4793-a0cf-14488d92b03a?ref=city-available-cards）

Osaka Castle & Osaka Castle Park

Osaka Castle was built in 1583 by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, a famous Japanese warlord who achieved national unification. It has undergone repeated damage and restoration due to war and lightning strikes, with the current structure being the third iteration.

Originally a military stronghold, Osaka Castle now serves as a museum-like facility. It displays artifacts related to the Warring States period and Osaka Castle, as well as materials about the life of its first lord, Toyotomi Hideyoshi.

On the second floor of the main keep, you can try on and take photos wearing replicas of samurai helmets and kimonos for both men and women. It's a recommended experience that makes you feel like you've time-traveled to the Warring States period.

Osaka Castle Park spreads out just below Osaka Castle. This green park serves as an "urban oasis" and a relaxation spot for citizens. My recommended way to spend time here is to relax with family or friends while admiring the majestic Osaka Castle and the surrounding nature. It's also known as a cherry blossom viewing spot in spring.

<Basic Information> Location: 1-1 Osakajo, Chuo-ku, Osaka Access: Various stations nearby, including Tanimachi 4-chome Station, Morinomiya Station, and Osakajo-koen Station Opening Hours: 9:00-17:00 (Last entry 16:30) Closed: December 28 - January 1 Phone: 06-6941-3044 Official Website: https://www.osakacastle.net/ Admission: Adults 600 yen, Free for junior high school students and younger

Can't Miss These Either! Three Spots to Fully Enjoy Osaka's Cuisine and Sake

Shinsekai is a retro-style Japanese neighborhood with Tsutenkaku Tower as its landmark. It's also known as a gourmet town, being a dense area of restaurants.

The most famous dish in Shinsekai is "kushikatsu." Kushikatsu is a dish where meat and vegetables are skewered, battered, and deep-fried, then dipped in a thick sauce similar to oyster sauce. There are over 20 kushikatsu shops in Shinsekai, each with their own twist on the batter and sauce. It's fun to try a few skewers at different shops and compare the differences.

Besides kushikatsu, there are various other eateries serving oden, horumon (offal), sushi, takoyaki, and more. Many of the dishes you can eat in Shinsekai have strong flavors that pair well with alcohol. So, it's recommended to enjoy food-hopping while drinking.

<Basic Information> Access: 5-minute walk from JR Shin-Imamiya Station 7-minute walk from Shin-Imamiya Station or Imamiya-Ebisu Station on the Nankai Main Line 1-minute walk from Ebisucho Station on the Sakaisuji Subway Line 2-minute walk from Dobutsuen-mae Station on the Midosuji Subway Line 1-minute walk from Ebisucho Station on the Hankai Tramway Hankai Line

Official Website: https://shinsekaiofficial.com/

To enjoy both Dotonbori and Shinsekai, the "Osaka Local Foodie Tour in Dotonbori and Shinsekai" is recommended

For those who want to deeply enjoy both Dotonbori and Shinsekai, I recommend the "Osaka Local Foodie Tour in Dotonbori and Shinsekai" tour.

On this tour, you can eat Osaka specialties like kushikatsu, takoyaki, and okonomiyaki at local hidden gems known only to residents.

You can also learn about the history of the historic landscapes remaining in Dotonbori and Shinsekai while admiring them, with explanations from the guide. The guides speak English, so you can participate with peace of mind. Please check the tour details here.

Click here for more details（ https://www.magical-trip.com/product/763e12a9-ef93-4ae4-8e17-cf86eda92b3f）

Hozenji Yokocho

Hozenji Yokocho is a small alley about 80 meters long, lined on both sides with long-established Japanese restaurants, bars, okonomiyaki shops, and other eateries.

The charm of Hozenji Yokocho lies in its atmospheric ambiance. Originally developed from a temple precinct, it still retains a nostalgic atmosphere with stone pavements. It's especially beautiful at night, with orange lanterns gently illuminating the surroundings, creating a sense of nostalgia and melancholy. The sake you drink under these lights is exceptional.

While all the local famous restaurants gathered in Hozenji Yokocho are delicious, I especially recommend a shop called "Meoto Zenzai." Zenzai is a traditional Japanese sweet made by simmering azuki beans with sugar. At this shop, one serving of zenzai is divided into two bowls, and it's said that couples who eat it together will have a harmonious relationship.

<Basic Information> Location: Near 1 Chome Namba, Chuo-ku, Osaka Access: 5-minute walk from Namba Station on the Midosuji Line, Sennichimae Line, Kintetsu Line, or Nankai Line Opening Hours, Closed Days, Phone Number: Varies by store

Kuromon Market

Kuromon Market, known as "Osaka's kitchen," was once a market where fresh fish, meat, vegetables, and fruits were sold, catering to professional chefs. While still retaining this aspect, it's now also loved by many tourists and locals as an excellent food-strolling spot.

The grilled seafood skewers from fish shops, fresh juices from fruit shops, and matcha soft serve from tea shops are all exquisite, each leveraging the shop's strengths. I often visit Kuromon Market intending to have a light meal, but everything looks so delicious that I always end up eating until I'm full.

The specialties of Kuromon Market are said to be conger eel in summer and fugu (pufferfish) in winter. The dishes made with fresh, seasonal conger eel or fugu are rare delicacies, so please try them if you can.

<Basic Information> Location: 2-4-1 Nipponbashi, Chuo-ku, Osaka Access: 5-minute walk from Exit 10 of Nipponbashi Station on the Osaka Metro Opening Hours, Closed Days: Varies by store Phone: 06-6631-0007 Official Website: https://kuromon.com/jp/

The "Kuromon Market Walking Street Food Tour in Osaka" tour is also recommended to enjoy Kuromon Market with locals

To fully enjoy the intricate Kuromon Market, I also recommend the "Kuromon Market Walking Street Food Tour in Osaka" tour, where you can explore the market with locals. You'll tour Kuromon Market, eating small portions of local-recommended light meals from among the more than 130 shops.

You can also purchase cooking utensils, tableware, and kitchen items at Kuromon Market. These are all high-quality items used by professional chefs, making them perfect souvenirs for cooking enthusiasts.

After fully enjoying Kuromon Market, you'll go to Dotonbori to enjoy more Osaka specialties. Please check the tour details here.

Click here for more details（ https://www.magical-trip.com/product/7ed36da2-ba55-4267-8e8b-7f885ee6d901 )

Night Views Are Also Recommended! Three Facilities Offering Panoramic Views of Osaka

Umeda sky building floating garden observatory.

source: Jalan

The Umeda Sky Building, selected as one of the world's TOP 20 buildings, is an ultra-high-rise connected building also called the "Arc de Triomphe of the Future" for its beautiful appearance. Not only is the exterior attractive, but the Floating Garden Observatory on the rooftop of this 40-story building is also a must-see.

To reach the Floating Garden Observatory, you take an elevator to the 35th floor and then an escalator to the 39th floor. Both are transparent, allowing you to enjoy the view of the city gradually becoming smaller.

On the 40th floor, you can enjoy the majestic view through large windows, and on the rooftop, you can feel the pleasant breeze along with the panoramic view. Although it's called a "garden" observatory, there's actually no garden inside; the name implies that the cityscape and sky of Osaka look like a garden. As you look at the endless urban buildings and the Yodo River flowing gently between them, you'll naturally understand the meaning of this name.

At night, the scenery transforms, becoming a night view spot. The panorama of colorful neon lights spreading as far as the eye can see is a spectacular sight, so I highly recommend visiting once. It's one of the most impressive Osaka attractions for 2024.

<Basic Information> Location: 1-1-88 Oyodonaka, Kita-ku, Osaka, Umeda Sky Building Access: 7-minute walk from JR Osaka Station 9-minute walk from Hankyu Osaka-umeda Station 9-minute walk from Osaka Metro Umeda Station Opening Hours: 9:30-22:30 (Last entry 22:00) Closed: Open daily Phone: 06-6440-3855 Official Website: https://www.skybldg.co.jp/ Admission: Adults 2000 yen, Children (4 years old - elementary school) 500 yen

Abeno Harukas Harukas 300 (Observatory)

source: Official website

Abeno Harukas is Japan's tallest building with 60 floors above ground, exceeding 300 meters in height. It's a complex facility housing a department store, offices, an art museum, and a hotel, but the highlight of this building is the observatory "Harukas 300" located on the 59th and 60th floors.

To reach Harukas 300, you can purchase tickets on the 16th floor and then take a direct elevator to the 60th floor. The observatory is entirely glass-walled on all 360 degrees, offering a spectacular view as soon as you exit the elevator.

The height of 300 meters above ground is higher than most people imagine, feeling closer to the clouds than to the cityscape below. The view of the city from Harukas 300 looks like a diorama, allowing you to see the expanse of Osaka stretching as far as the eye can see.

The night view is also beautiful, with the straight, large roads and the lights of the buildings on both sides providing a stunning spectacle. It's certainly one of the most breathtaking Osaka attractions for 2024.

<Basic Information> Location: 1-1-43 Abenosuji, Abeno-ku, Osaka Access: Directly accessible from Osaka-Abenobashi Station (Kintetsu) Abeno exit About 2-minute walk from Exit 2 of Tennoji-ekimae Station Opening Hours: 9:00-22:00 (Last entry 21:30) Closed: Open daily Phone: 06-6621-0300 Official Website: https://www.abenoharukas-300.jp/observatory/index.html Admission: 18 years and older 2000 yen, 12-17 years old 1200 yen, 6-11 years old 700 yen, 4-5 years old 500 yen

Tempozan Giant Ferris Wheel

The Tempozan Giant Ferris Wheel, one of the world's largest, boasts a diameter of 100 meters, a height of 112.5 meters, and a 15-minute rotation time. From this Ferris wheel, you can enjoy views not only of Osaka City but also of Kansai International Airport, Universal Studios Japan, and even the natural landscapes of neighboring prefectures.

At night, you can experience Osaka's sparkling nightscape, and the Ferris wheel itself is beautifully illuminated. After enjoying the view from the sky, be sure to admire the Ferris wheel's radiant lights from the ground. For those who crave more excitement, the see-through gondolas are a must-try. These gondolas, made entirely of transparent materials, offer an exhilarating and thrilling experience as you float through the air with an unobstructed view of the surroundings.

The see-through gondolas are only 8 out of the 60 available, so there might be a wait, but the thrilling experience is well worth it.

<Basic Information> Location: 1-1-10 Kaigandori, Minato-ku, Osaka City Access: 5-minute walk from Exit 1 of Osaka Metro Chuo Line's Osaka Port Station, immediate access from Osaka City Bus "Tempozan Harbor Village," Nankai Bus "Kaiyukan (Tempozan)," Kansai International Airport Limousine Bus "Tempozan (Kaiyukan)," and the Captain Line Shuttle Boat "Kaiyukan Nishi Hato" Hours: Varies by day, check the official website for details Closed: Irregular holidays Phone: 06-6576-6222 Official Website: http://tempozan-kanransya.com/ Admission: ¥900 for ages 3 and up, free for children under 3

Experience Japan’s Tradition! Explore Three Historic Shrines and Temples in Osaka

Sumiyoshi taisha.

Sumiyoshi Taisha is a venerable shrine with a history spanning over 1,800 years, often considered one of Japan's oldest shrines. It enshrines deities associated with maritime safety and voyage protection.

During Japan's early interactions with China, it is said that people would pray at Sumiyoshi Taisha before setting sail from the nearby sea. You can even find a monument depicting the ships as they departed, so be sure to check it out.

My favorite spot within Sumiyoshi Taisha is the "Sorihashi" Bridge, also known as the "Taiko Bridge." When viewed from the side, the red railings of the bridge reflect on the water, creating a circular shape reminiscent of a drum. It’s a truly mystical and beautiful sight. Additionally, there’s a legend that simply crossing the bridge will dispel any evil spirits clinging to your body.

However, be careful as the bridge has a steep slope with a maximum incline of 48°, so watch your step while crossing.

<Basic Information> Location: 2-9-89 Sumiyoshi, Sumiyoshi-ku, Osaka City, Osaka Prefecture Access: A short walk from Sumiyoshi Torii-mae Station on the Hankai Tramway Hankai Line. 3-minute walk east from Sumiyoshi Taisha Station on the Nankai Main Line. 5-minute walk west from Sumiyoshi-Higashi Station on the Nankai Koya Line. Hours: April to September: 06:00 - 17:00 October to March: 06:30 - 17:00 Closed: Open year-round Phone: 06-6672-0753 Official Website: https://sumiyoshitaisha.jp/about/ Admission: Free

Shitennoji Temple

Shitennoji is a historic temple built over 1,600 years ago. Although it has been repeatedly destroyed by disasters and wars, it has been faithfully reconstructed each time, preserving the original architectural style to this day.

The expansive grounds of Shitennoji are home to many historical buildings. The scenery evokes a sense of stepping back in time, making even a simple walk through the temple grounds a delightful experience.

Within Shitennoji, my recommendation is the Five-Story Pagoda. This structure, with its five-tiered roof, is strikingly beautiful when viewed against the blue sky, with the contrast of the red roofs being particularly stunning. You can even enter the pagoda and climb to the upper levels.

<Basic Information> Location: 1-11-18 Shitennoji, Tennoji-ku, Osaka City, Osaka Prefecture Access: 12-minute walk north from Tennoji Station on the Osaka Loop Line. 12-minute walk north from Tennoji Station on the Osaka Metro Midosuji Line and Tanimachi Line. 5-minute walk south from Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka Station on the Osaka Metro Tanimachi Line. 14-minute walk north from Abenobashi Station on the Kintetsu Minami Osaka Line. Hours: April to September: 08:30 - 16:30 October to March: 08:30 - 16:00 *Note: Operating hours may vary on certain days, so please check the official website for details. Closed: Open year-round Phone: 06-6771-0066 Official Website: https://www.shitennoji.or.jp/admission.html Admission: Adults: 300 yen, High School & University Students: 200 yen, Elementary & Middle School Students: Free

Osaka Tenmangu

Osaka Tenmangu is a shrine founded over 1,000 years ago. Despite its location in the bustling center of Osaka near the main station, once you step onto the shrine grounds, you are greeted with a serene and peaceful atmosphere, distinct from the city's noise.

The grounds of Osaka Tenmangu house around 20 small and large shrines. The main shrine enshrines Sugawara no Michizane, revered as the "God of Learning." It is famous for bringing blessings for academic success and exam passing, attracting visitors from afar, especially during exam season. Be sure to pray for academic success during your visit.

Within Osaka Tenmangu, my recommendation is the "Hoshiai-Hashi" Bridge. This spot is known as a romantic power spot, where it is said that couples who meet here are destined to be together. It’s a charming place, so be sure to visit.

<Basic Information> Location: 2-1-8 Tenjinbashi, Kita-ku, Osaka City, Osaka Prefecture Access: 5-minute walk from Minami-Morimachi Station on the Osaka Metro Tanimachi Line and Sakaisuji Line. 5-minute walk from Osaka Tenmangu Station on the JR Tozai Line. Hours: 09:00 - 17:00 Closed: Open year-round Phone: 06-6353-0025 Official Website: https://osakatemmangu.or.jp/about Admission: Free

Popular with Foreign Visitors! Top 3 Family-Friendly Entertainment Spots in Osaka

Osaka aquarium kaiyukan.

Source: Rurubu

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan is one of the largest aquariums in the world, featuring around 30,000 marine creatures from approximately 620 species. Since its opening in 1990, it has remained a beloved attraction for both locals and visitors from around the globe.

One of the highlights of Kaiyukan is the "Pacific Ocean" tank. This massive tank spans from the 4th to the 6th floor, cutting through the center of the 8-story aquarium. The fascinating part is that even though it’s the same tank, the species of fish you see vary greatly depending on whether you’re viewing from the 4th floor near the ocean floor or the 6th floor closer to the surface. The star of this tank is the whale shark, a majestic creature over 5 meters long that swims gracefully through the enormous tank—a truly awe-inspiring sight.

Another great attraction is the interactive touch pool, which is a hit with children. Here, you can touch rays and small sharks, offering a unique and exciting tactile experience. The soft, rubbery texture is something you won’t find elsewhere, making it a must-try for families.

<Basic Information> Location: 1-1-10 Kaigandori, Minato-ku, Osaka City, Osaka Prefecture Access: Train: 5-minute walk from Exit 1 of Osaka Port Station on the Osaka Metro Chuo Line. Bus: Osaka City Bus: Get off at "Tempozan Harbor Village." Nankai Bus: Get off at "Kaiyukan (Tempozan)." Kansai International Airport Limousine Bus: Get off at "Tempozan (Kaiyukan)." Shuttle Boat: Get off at "Kaiyukan West Wharf" on the Captain Line. Hours: Varies by day, please check the official website for details. Closed: January 8th (Wed) and 9th (Thu), 2025 Phone: 06-6576-5501 Official Website: https://www.kaiyukan.com/ Admission: Adults: From 2,700 yen, Children: From 1,400 yen, Infants: From 700 yen (Prices vary by day, please check the official website for details.)

Legoland Discovery Center Osaka

Legoland Discovery Center is an indoor theme park where you can enjoy various attractions and experiences related to Lego bricks. Since it is an indoor facility, you can have fun regardless of the weather.

Inside Legoland, many creations are made from Lego bricks, including large models that you wouldn’t be able to build yourself. My favorite is the diorama of Osaka. It meticulously recreates popular Osaka attractions such as Tsutenkaku and Osaka Castle, making it fun to spot the places you’ve visited. The diorama even transitions between day and night, allowing you to enjoy the glowing nighttime scenery.

Additionally, there are several areas where you can build with Lego bricks yourself. I particularly recommend the car corner, where you can build your own car and then race it down a sloped track. Watching your creation speed down the track is a thrilling experience.

A theme park dedicated to a toy your child plays with regularly is sure to be a memorable experience. You can explore everything in about three hours, so be sure to visit.

<Basic Information> Location: 3rd Floor, Tempozan Marketplace, 1-1-10 Kaigandori, Minato-ku, Osaka City, Osaka Prefecture Access: Osaka Metro: 5-minute walk from Osaka Port Station. JR Yumesaki Line: Get off at Universal City Station, then take a shuttle boat for about 10 minutes. Osaka City Bus: Get off at "Tempozan Harbor Village." Hours: Varies by day, please check the official website for details. Closed: Irregular holidays (based on Tempozan Marketplace’s closure days) Phone: None (Email: [email protected] ) Official Website: https://www.legolanddiscoverycenter.com/osaka/ Admission: From 2,800 yen (Advance reservations recommended; prices vary depending on the day.)

Jankara Karaoke

Source: Wikipedia

Jankara is an extremely affordable karaoke venue offering all-you-can-drink beverages. You can sing globally famous J-pop songs, anime songs, as well as international music including Western hits and K-pop. I always use the “Scoring” mode, which calculates your singing score based on pitch and intonation. Striving for a high score keeps me coming back to karaoke frequently.

Karaoke is enjoyable for everyone, from adults to kids, making it a great option for families. The private rooms provide a relaxing space, making it an ideal spot to take a break during your travels.

Jankara is popular among Japanese people as well, so it’s not uncommon to find all the rooms fully booked. If you definitely want to enjoy karaoke, it’s recommended to make a reservation in advance. While some places require a phone reservation, Jankara has a convenient feature called "Sugu Kara" on their app, allowing you to easily reserve your preferred time and duration.

If your desired time is not available, they can even recommend nearby locations, making the process simple and convenient.

<Basic Information> Location: 1-4-1 Shibata, Kita-ku, Osaka, Osaka Prefecture Access: 4 minutes' walk from Chayamachi Exit, Hankyu Osaka Umeda Station Hours: Open 24 hours Holidays: Open year-round Phone Number: 080-6239-6103 Official Website: https://jankara.ne.jp/shop/199/ Admission: Varies depending on time, duration, and date of use. Please check the official website for details.

Key Points of the Article: Osaka offers a wide variety of local gourmet delights. The city is home to numerous tourist attractions. Osaka is a metropolis that still retains places where you can experience traditional Japanese culture. In this article, we’ve summarized different types of attractions in Osaka. Did you find places you’d like to visit? I've traveled to Osaka many times, and each visit reveals new spots I want to explore, making it a city rich in depth. Osaka is also an addictive city where you’ll always find yourself wanting to return. Be sure to find the places you want to visit and enjoy a fulfilling time in Osaka in 2024!

Subscribe to Magical Trip Media

Get the latest posts delivered right to your inbox

2024 Osaka Yakitori Restaurant: Introducing MICHELIN Restaurants

Osaka early morning guide: itinerary, cafes, breakfast plans, sanjusangendo temple in kyoto: 1,001 kannons there, kyoto through the seasons: a complete guide to enjoying japan's ancient capital.