There’s something very special about Japan in winter. The flurry of snow on ancient temple rooftops. The babble of snow monkeys in steaming hot springs. The wonder of snow festivals, ice sculptures and colourful illuminations in the night sky. Japan in winter offers a quieter, more magical and more authentic cultural experience than in busier seasons like spring and autumn. Scroll down for our favourite winter encounters – those we feel really capture the mood and magic of Japan at this time of year.
Snow and festivals
The most famous of all snow festivals, Sapporo is a main event in Japan’s winter calendar. Huge ice sculptures, some as big as houses and illuminated by candles and coloured lights, create a fairytale winter scene.
Monkeys and hot springs
There can be fewer more iconic winter images than Japanese snow monkeys snoozing, swimming and playing in steaming hot springs. Japanese macaques live wild in Jigokudani Monkey Park, without fences or restrictions to keep them in.
Onsen and ryokans
Spending a night in a traditional Japanese ryokan complete with steaming onsen bath is the perfect way to experience Japanese culture, cuisine and hospitality. Leave your shoes at the door, slip into a kimono, and relax.
Neon lights and illuminations
Cities like Tokyo light up even brighter with winter illuminations. The warm glow of lights twinkling against a futuristic, neon-lit skyline perfectly captures Japan’s juxtaposition of old and new.
High speed journeys
Bullet trains in winter are less busy but no less quick, passing snow-covered fields, mountains and majestic Mount Fuji at speeds of nearly 200mph.
Ramen and nabe
Winter in Japan brings its own seasonal specialities, like a bowl of chilli hot ramen or a dish of nabe – simmering broth cooked at the table and flavoured with seasonal vegetables or tofu.
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