Japan is a class apart. It has a unique culture and a unique way of celebrating each festival, that is different from all other countries in the world. Japan is a country with a predominantly mountainous terrain, which means that winters are harsh and cold while the summers are pleasant. There is a drastic difference between both the seasons in this country. If you happen spend a winter in Japan, we have compiled a whole guide enlisting the best things to do in Japan.
13 Best Things To Do In Winter In Japan
After research and analysis ranging on many parameters including that of age group, we have come up with a list which will apprise you about 13 exciting things to do in winter in Japan. We hope that this guide helps you have a great time in the country:
1. Indulge In Skiing
The majority of the landmass of Japan is covered with mountains and, hence, receives an abundance of snowfall. The western regions of Japan Nagano and Niigata Prefectures are great places to enjoy some of the best alpine sports in Asia. With steep slopes and peaks reaching up to 2,000 meters, the area is suitable for skiing. Once you’re done skiing, you can relax in the hot springs and eat at the many cafés nearby.
Also Read: Best Places To Visit In Japan
Looking To Book An International Holiday?
Book memorable holidays on TravelTriangle with 650+ verified travel agents for 65+ domestic and international destinations.
2. Sapporo Snow Festival
The Sapporo Snow Festival is the biggest in Japan and is considered one of the biggest in the world. Dating back to 1950, this festival includes giant snow sculptures made by artists. The sculptures range from Pikachu and Hatsune Miku to the Historical Samurai Figures and vast statues of Buddha. Shooting up to fame only recently, even teams from Western countries like the USA, Germany, and Canada come and participate in this festival.
3. View The First Sunrise Or Hatsuhinode
The First Sunrise refers to the first sunrise of the New Year, and it is so popular in Japan that there are designated spots for it. People from all across the world come to see the first sunrise from atop Mt. Fuji, which is considered the premier spot for the activity. Even though the winter is harsh, an enormous number of people come and see the event because it is considered auspicious to do, and the views of the sunrise in winter is always breathtaking.
Related Post: Japanese Dishes
4. Hokkaido
The Blue Pond, located in the small town of Biei, is an artificial lake. It was made after the mudflow of River Biegowa was stopped due to the building of a dam in the area in 1988. The Blue Pond became famous because it reflects a blue colour due to Hydrogen Peroxide in the Water. The lake was captured and turned into a wallpaper for the Mountain Lion processor of Apple MacBooks.
5. Explore Wildlife
Stroll through the Jigokudani Wild Monkey Park in Nagano to experience the wild Japanese macaques and enjoy themselves while they bathe in the Hot Springs inside the park. Winters in Japan can be very harsh, especially for animals like Macaques, which aren’t accustomed to subzero winter temperatures in Japan. This is an excellent place for these animals to get some much-needed warmth and survive these winters while enjoying the hot springs of Japan.
Related Post: Library Hostel In Japan
6. Eat The Famous Crab Cuisine
Around the world, December and January are considered crab season, which is a grave misconception. It is just a coincidence that the most shipped item from Hokkaido to countries on the other side of the Sea of Japan happens to be a crab. The most famous outlets in Japan that eat crabs are the Kani Douraku outlets, which originated in Osaka and are known for innovating with crabs.
Planning your holiday but confused about where to go? These travel stories help you find your best trip ever!
Real travel stories. Real stays. Handy tips to help you make the right choice.
7. Participate In The New Year’s Eve ritual
The ‘ringing bells’ ritual of Joyo na Kane is an important New Year’s Eve ritual for the Japanese. The ritual includes hitting a large bell at a Buddhist temple using a large wood log. The bell is struck 108 times, which is said to represent the number of all the human desires that exist in the world. After the bells run, you go inside the temple and pray to the deity to end the year on a good note.
Related Post: Spring Flower Cruise In Japan
8. Yokote
Every year in the mid-month of February, the Kamakura festival takes place for 2 days. Traditionally, children invite people to come and enjoy their self-made Kamakura’s and eat rice cakes and drink tea. These days, family and friends enjoy the festival by sitting together and chatting. Around 100 Kamakura’s are available for visitors to see during this festival. Don’t forget to pay your respects to the water deity.
9. Stroll Through Shirakawa Go
Make sure to visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site listed village: Shirakawa Go. This is a small village in the Gifu Prefecture of Japan. The village has 114 thatched thick roofed houses which may appear very different from those around Japan. This is because back then, it was isolated from the rest of Japan. The village looks especially beautiful during winter and is a popular tourist destination.
Related Post: Mosques In Japan
10. Attend The Candlelight Festival
Otaru is a small town on the Japanese Island of Hokkaido. In February, the town lights around 120,000 candles after 5 PM to mark the annual candlelight festival. During this time, the city looks like a place out of a fairytale book, and the view is considered one of the best during the winters in Japan. Make sure to attend this festival.
11. Go Skating
Fuji Q Highland is an amusement park on the foothills of Mt. Fuji in Fujiyoshida. This park boasts the largest skating rink in the country, which also serves as a swimming pool in the summer. Aside from the rink, the park has some amusement rides such as roller-coasters and Ferris wheels. The rink is well maintained, and the park gives one of the best views of the sacred Mt. Fuji. Skating is considered one of the top activities in Japan that can be indulged in during winter.
Related Post: Mountains In Japan
12. Visit Rokuon-ji Temple
The temple is a Zen Buddhist sanctuary which is located in Kinkaku-ji, Kyoto. It was established in 1397 AD and it used to feature a villa of an important statesman. A must-see place in Kyoto, the temple offers some of the most breathtaking views in Japan. Although winter in Japan is harsh, many people come and visit this place. Make sure you do too.
13. Takaragawa Onsen
Takaragawa Onsen was established in 1936 and offers a wide variety of hot spring options. The most popular choice is the outdoor natural hot spring due to the mesmerising views outside. The hot spring establishment has been known to provide world-class facilities and is especially popular among international tourists, who are ready to spend any amount of money to avail themselves of the services here.
You May Also Like To Read: Japan Travel Guide
Japan is a glorious country. Due to its mountainous terrain, it turns into a winter wonderland, especially during the months of December and January. With a welcoming society and some of the best cultural practices, you must book your trip to Japan if you would like to explore some of the unique places and indulge in exciting things in winter.
For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer, please click here.
Frequently Asked Questions About Winter In Japan
What are the winter months in Japan?
December to January are the winter months in Japan. One can plan a vacation during the time for the best experience.
What is the coldest month in Japan?
January is considered the coldest month in Japan. One can see snowfall and have the best time.
What months snow in Japan?
One can see snow in Japan from early December to January.
What are the best places to visit in Japan in winter?
Hokkaido (Sapporo, Niseko, Otaru), Nagano, and Kyoto are some of the best places to visit in Japan in winter.
What is the best thing to do in Japan?
In winter in Japan, one can see the 'Snow Monsters' at Zao Onsen, enjoy winter illuminations, witness winter festivals, and more
People Also Read:
Winter In Hallstatt Winter In Montenegro Winter In Germany
Looking To Book A Holiday Package?
Book memorable holidays on TravelTriangle with 650+ verified travel agents for 65+ domestic and international destinations.
Embrace the essence of surreal places around the world through perfect narratives with a touch of imagination. As a content writer, I weave my ideas and words together to create a vivid picture of alluring destinations. Embark on limitless adventures as you read thrilling travel stories.
