So you’re thinking of visiting Japan in the winter? Great choice!
The country becomes a quiet winter wonderland for several months, with its own unique draws for visitors, from seasonal foods to festivals to pretty much having hot springs to yourself.
Don’t forget to bring an iRoamly Japan travel eSIM to stay connected, even in remote snowy towns and hot spring retreats.
Winter in Japan
1. Timing
Winter tends to come to Japan in December and hang around until February, although in and around the northern island of Hokkaido, it can last from November through to the beginning of March.
2. Weather
Winter weather can vary greatly in Japan. Hokkaido and other northerly regions receive regular snowfalls, making for a winter sports paradise.
In contrast, cities such as Tokyo or Kyoto might barely get cold, or at most an occasional dusting of snow.
3. Is Visiting Japan in Winter a Good Idea?
Definitely. Visiting Japan in winter can offer the best of all worlds – stunning snowy landscapes, the optimal season to enjoy hot springs, and without the crowds that descend during the more popular spring and fall months.
Winter Tourist Attractions in Japan
Japan's Winter Wonderland is a showcase of breathtaking sights to behold, from Hokkaido's frozen expanses to the more temperate areas of Honshu.
We highlight our top five places to head to this season, with all the key info you need to plan your visit.
1. Sapporo Snow Festival, Hokkaido
Reasons for Recommendation: The ginormous ice sculptures and snow statues at this annual world-renowned festival lure millions each year.
Also expect concerts, light displays and even snow sculpture contests - it's a vibrant blend of art, culture and entertainment.
Address: Odori Park, Naka 7 Jonishi, Chuo Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-0042, Japan
Entry: Admission to the festival itself is free, although some festival events may have costs associated with them
2. Shirakawa-go Illumination, Gifu
Reasons for Recommendation: The traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses of Shirakawa-go are a beautiful sight, especially when they're lit up against a snowy backdrop.
Illuminations run on select days in January and February, giving the village a fairy tale night view.
Address: Shirakawa Village, Ono District, Gifu Prefecture, Japan
Entry: There is no fee to view the illuminations, but keep in mind transport and tours may cost
3. Jigokudani Monkey Park, Nagano
Reasons for Recommendation: The onsen-loving wild snow monkeys here are one-of-a-kind.
Here visitors get the chance to see the creatures in their natural habitat, doing what we all love to do on a cold day: lounging in steaming hot water. It’s also a great place to encounter some of the fascinating animals in Japan up close, showcasing the country’s diverse wildlife.
Address: 6845 Hirao, Yamanouchi, Shimotakai District, Nagano Prefecture 381-0401, Japan
Entry: Yes, admittance to the park is charged: Adults ¥800, Children ¥400
Japan’s Coziest Winter Eats
1. Nabe
The ultimate Japanese winter warmer, nabe is a hot pot dish featuring an array of ingredients – from seafood to meat to vegetables – simmered in a rich broth. More than just a meal, nabe is a social experience, with families and friends often gathering around the pot to cook and eat together.
2. Ramen
Recommended because: What more could you want on a cold day than a warming bowl of ramen? The flavorsome broth, satisfying noodles, and customisable toppings, such as chashu pork and green onions, are sure to sate anyone’s hunger.
3. Oden
Oden is a hearty comfort food, typically filled with ingredients like boiled eggs, daikon radish, konnyaku, and fish cakes stewed in a mile, soy and dashi-flavored broth (the kind found in miso soup).
It is widely available in Japan, from convenience stores to specialist oden shops, and is a simple, comforting choice for a cold day.
Top Winter Festivals in Japan
Winter isn’t just snow-covered fields and comfort food in Japan, it’s also the stage for some major celebrations.
Every winter matsuri (festival) has woven itself deeply into Japan’s cultural fabric, blending spectacle, history, and community spirit for unforgettable events.
Here, we highlight three of Japan’s top winter festivals to beat those winter blues.
1. Sapporo Snow Festival
The biggest and best-known of the winter festivals, the Sapporo Snow Festival dates back to 1950, and now attracts millions to gaze at the gigantic, exquisitely-carved ice sculptures that the festival is famous for.
Dates: The festival runs in the first week of February, and covers downtown Sapporo in a wonderland of frost and ice.
Location: The main festival events take place in downtown Sapporo’s Odori Park, but visiting the various festival sites scattered around the city is also a must.
Highlights: Besides the sculptures, there are concerts, snow-based activities, and a world ice sculpture contest to keep visitors entertained.
Entry: Admission to the main festival areas is free, though some events and attractions may have a modest fee.
Tips: Wrap up warm – Sapporo is cold in February, regularly dropping well below zero. Sensible warm and waterproof clothing is a must.
2. Nozawa Fire Festival
One of the three great fire festivals in Japan, the Nozawa Fire Festival is an awe-inspiring night of energy and fire, with a party atmosphere alongside the traditional rituals and fiery performances.
Dates: January 15th sees the event unfolding in the middle of the snowy night in Nozawa Onsen village.
Location: The festival is staged in the charming village of Nozawa Onsen, in Nagano Prefecture.
Highlights: Local men in traditional attire fight and play with flaming embers, build a towering structure, and then set it on fire in a dazzling blaze.
Entry: It’s open for anyone to enjoy, with no cost for entry.
Tips: Due to the large crowds and the close proximity to active flames, exercising caution during the festival is advised.
3. Chichibu Night Festival: Lanterns and Fireworks
Overview: With lantern-laden floats and a spectacular fireworks display, the Chichibu Night Festival is a true celebration, and attracts crowds from all over Japan.
Dates: It’s held on December 2 and 3 every year.
Location: The festival takes place at the Chichibu Shrine, based in Saitama Prefecture’s Chichibu City, just a few hours outside Tokyo.
Highlights: Feast your eyes on the towering floats, richly festooned with lanterns, musical festivities, and a thrilling fireworks finale.
Entry: It’s free to attend, meaning no barriers to anyone!
Tips: It can get very chilly, and good viewing spots for the parades and fireworks can fill fast, so wrap up warm and plan your visit.
With all of these, not only do they bring a bit of excitement to the colder winter months, but they also give you a taste of Japanese culture, making them a hit with anyone in Japan over the season.
Winter Tourist Activities in Japan
For those who can brave the chill, Japan has a wealth of activities whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or perhaps a bit of both! Here’s a look at the top spots for ski resorts and onsens, and why they’re worth the trip!
1. Ski Resorts
For skiing in Japan, the country is a veritable utopia, with copious amounts of powdery snow and well-kept runs to enjoy. Niseko in Hokkaido is often touted for its dependable snow cover, plus a stunning view of Mount Yotei – often dubbed ‘the Mt. Fuji of Hokkaido’!
There’s skiing for all skill levels to enjoy. Hakuba Valley in Nagano hosted events for the 1998 Winter Olympics, and its multiple resorts offer runs for skiers of every level. Meanwhile, Nozawa Onsen has fantastic slopes, plus the opportunity to relax in a traditional Japanese hot spring!
2. Hot Springs (Onsen)
Of course, if you’re after some relaxation, you can’t beat Japan’s myriad hot springs towns. Beppu in Oita is easily one of the country’s most famous onsen centers, featuring baths ranging from steam to sand – and all said to have restorative properties.
Kusatsu Onsen in Gunma is famed for its sulfur springs, among the largest in Japan, and a soothing soak in the waters await amongst a quaint setting.
Hakone, conveniently close to Tokyo, is ideal for a spa break, with a wealth of onsen experiences and a view of Mt. Fuji to behold – it’s a perfect moment to unwind while surrounded by natural beauty.
These activities all offer a chance to witness the beauty of Japan and will be fond, cherished memories that encapsulate the essence of a Japanese winter.
FAQs
1. What should I pack for winter in Japan?
Layers, and a waterproof outer layer in snowy areas.
2. Is Japan difficult to travel around in winter?
Public transport is very reliable, though areas more cut off by snow exist, especially more remotely.
3. What souvenirs should I buy in winter?
Local crafts, sake, and regional food and sweets – I recommend Yatsuhashi from Kyoto.
4. Will I see cherry blossoms in winter?
Cherry blossoms are all in spring, but you may see plum blossoms towards late winter.
5. Is traveling to Japan in winter more expensive?
Prices vary by location and activities, but while skiing can be expensive, there are plenty of low-cost winter experiences.
Summary
Japan is a beautiful country year-round, but winter is perhaps its most elegant season, and offers the chance for the biggest adventures or warmest relaxation of all.
Whichever activity suits you best, be it careening down virgin snow or melting your cares away in an onsen, do try to visit Japan in winter. It’s a heaping helping of magic.