Where to Go in Japan During Winter
Sure, spring and fall are popular and beautiful. But, Japan in the winter is special. There’s much to do indoors and outdoors and this mountainous country shines.
Japan is gaining popularity with international visitors for skiing and snowboarding. Hot springs can be visited all year, but in winter, the chill of the outside with the heat and minerals of the springs warms the body and soul.
Hokkaido has been getting consistent snow this month. Japan’s northern region is a big winter spot because of the snow festival in Sapporo and ski spots like Niseko. In parts of Hokkaido, you can observe the Northern Lights.
For more snow, you can visit the Japanese Alps. A range of mountains in Central Japan is organized into Northern, Central, and Southern Alps and includes the prefectures of Nagano, Niigata, and Gifu. These mountains have some of the best hot springs in Japan.
If you’d prefer a milder winter, you can head south and spend time in the regions of Shikoku or Kyushu. Both have off-the-beaten-path places to relax, enjoy local foods, and soak in hot springs. You can visit Beppu in Oita for hot springs and food, and Kochi in Shikoku for seasonal citrus fruits including yuzu and udon.
If a subtropical climate is more your style, I’d suggest the Southern Islands of Japan like Okinawa or Amami. Temperatures here don’t go below the mid-50s in winter months.
From December, illuminations, or lights go up in many Japanese cities. There are even light shows that use both ice and lights.
Japan’s culinary scene is driven heavily by seasonal produce and ingredients. Winter is when the dish oden is available and is perfect for warming up. Mochi pounding happens for the New Year’s holiday, so warm mochi is perfect for the winter. You also have numerous soups, noodles with broths, and a hot pot or nabe to stay warm.
Shrines and temples can be visited all year. There are many wonderful museums to visit, historical castles to see, and other cultural and historical sights.
Winter, apart from the largest cities, and ski towns, will have less crowds and is an ideal time to travel in Japan.
