Winter is the perfect time to travel to Japan. Winter in Japan is a wonderland of beauty and is a must-see.
Even if you’re not a big fan of winter, Japan can convince you to change your mind. Do you need a bit more convincing? What you should know about Japan during the winter
What is the winter season in Japan?
Winter in Japan is one of the most beautiful scenes you’ll ever see. Between December and February you can enjoy luscious snowfall and fun winter activities.
In December, temperatures in Japan can reach up to 12oC in the late afternoon. They drop down to 5oC in the early mornings and evenings. In January, you should expect temperatures to be around 11oC in the afternoon (50degF), while temperatures at night and morning will drop down to 3oC.
There are 11 reasons why you should visit Japan during the winter.
1. There are fewer crowds
No matter the season, Japan will always be crowded. Japan is crowded, especially the big cities of Tokyo and Kyoto. With over 70% of Japan being mountainous (and the rest of the population living in the remaining 30%), the country has a lot of people. In the winter, there are far less people in Japan than any other season. You might find yourself alone in some places.
2. Snow Sports
As we’ve said before, Japan has a lot of mountains. This makes it a great place for Snowsports. You can choose to ski in the world-class Niseko, on Hokkaido Island. Or, you can swoosh along ex-Olympic slopes at Hakuba. There’s nothing better than relaxing in a warm spring after a day of skiing.
3. Snow monkeys
You’ve likely heard about these cute residents, the adorable snow monkeys at Jigokudani Park near Yudanaka Onsen. The macaques are well-advised and know that the hot springs in this park will help them to stay warm in winter. They welcome visitors.
4. Warm Sake
Have you ever tried warm sake instead of mulled wine or cider? This quintessential Japanese drink may not be to everyone’s liking, but we enjoy it. If you are planning to visit Japan during the winter, make sure that you have a glass of this mulled wine.
5. Onsen hot spring baths
The hot springscan be enjoyed at any season of the year, but a winter soak is a special treat. The perfect way to end any day is by shuffle in the snow, then sink into the hot water with snowflakes falling around you. Before you visit, make sure you know all the onsen rules.
6. Kotatsu
Have you heard about kotatsus? You’ll wonder why no one has one once you try it. A Kotatsu , or low table with thick blankets and a heater beneath it is a . You can sit cross-legged and drape the quilt across your legs to keep your feet warm or you can lie beside it to enjoy a warm, cozy nap. In winter, some Japanese bars provide you with a kotatsu to sit out and stay warm. Delightful.
7. Sapporo Snow Festival
It would be criminal to not visit the Yuki matsuri, also known as the Sapporo Snow Festival, if you are visiting Japan during the winter months, especially February. The festival takes place in Sapporo, on the northerly Hokkaido Island. It is marked by the construction of giant sculptures made of snow and ice. There are also games, food, drinks, and ice sculptures. Have you ever wanted to see the Great Pyramids re-created in ice and snow? You can now.
8. Red-crowned cranes
The mating dance by the red-crowned Cranes at Tsurui in Hokkaido is one of Japan’s best-kept secrets. Red-crowned Cranes in Japan were thought to have disappeared, but they perform their amazing, choreographed, mating rituals every winter.
9. Illuminations
Japan is the only country that does illuminations as bright and colorful in winter. After Halloween, trees, buildings, shops and parks are all decorated with millions of twinkling bulbs in every color. Tokyo Midtown, the Sagamiko Resort, Pleasure Forest in Kanagawa and Nabana no Sato, Winter Illumination, near Nagoya, are three of the best.
10. Shirakawago
The Japanese Alps are home to this beautiful village that looks like a chocolate box. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. And it is even more stunning when covered in snow. With steeply-pitched farmhouses that look just like the Gingerbread House from Hansel and Gretel, the winter is a must see.
11. Mount Fuji is actually visible
The cool crisp air of winter will allow you to see the beautiful Mt Fuji (one of the world’s most popular volcanic mountains). Most of the time, the mountain is hidden behind thick clouds, but with the cooler, fresher winter air, there are fewer cloudy days and more chances of catching a glimpse.