Winter in Japan 2025: Weather & Trip Ideas

Does Japan have winter? Of course. Winter in Japan makes it on many people’s bucket lists. From early December through January and into the last week of February, Japan experiences roughly three winter months and becomes a real paradise of snow.

There are a myriad of things to do in Japan in winter -- you can go skiing in Hokkaido, immerse yourself in a traditional Japanese onsen while snowflakes are falling, and join fantastic snow festivals and New Year events with a festive twist.

Winter in Japan is the best time to enjoy snow activities and see the dazzling festival lights, yet, how to plan a winter trip to Japan? In this post, discover everything to know, from the best places to go with top attractions, to Japan's winter weather and clothes to wear. Also, get inspired by our expert-designed Japan winter itineraries.

Why Visit Japan in Winter?

Is it worth visiting Japan in winter? Definitely. Winter in Japan is a rarely-seen magical world of snow landscapes, onsens, and festive atmosphere. Whether you're a skiing enthusiast, a family with children, or a traveler seeking tranquility in nature or unique Japanese cultural experiences, visit Japan in winter in Japan.

1. World-class ski resorts: The ski resorts in Hokkaido and Nagano are powder snow paradises, perfect for beginners, intermediate, and advanced skiers.

2. The ultimate winter hot spring experience: Feeling cold? Soak in an open-air onsen covered in snow — it's warm, romantic, and unique.

3. Winter Cultural Experience: Do you want to experience the traditional New Year atmosphere of Japan? Make sure you have the New Year shrine visits and attend temple fair prayer ceremonies. Japan's unique winter festivals include the Sapporo Snow Festival and the Otaru Snow Light Path, among others.

4. Picturesque snowy landscapes: Zao Onsen Snow Monsters, Hokkaido snowfields, and the snowy night illumination at Shirakawa-go Gassho-zukuri Village...

When is Winter in Japan?

What months are winter in Japan? If you ask a local, they will say that the winter in Japan lasts from early December to late February. However, there are significant regional differences.

In Hokkaido and the Tohoku region, snow begins to fall in late November, marking an early onset of winter. In central Honshu, such as Tokyo and Kyoto, winter typically begins in mid-December with a noticeable drop in temperature. In southern regions like Kyushu and Okinawa, winters are milder with little to no snowfall; sometimes, you feel that it is still late autumn. The average temperature from December to February is above 15°C, and one might even say there is no winter.

Which Areas in Japan Get Snow in Winter?

If you want to visit Japan during winter to enjoy the snow, you can go to the areas along the Sea of Japan (such as Niigata, Kanazawa, and Fukui), Hokkaido, Nagano, and the inland areas of Tohoku. If you prefer a warmer place, you can head to the areas on the Pacific side and in the southern regions.

Average Temperatures in Major Cities

Have a general idea of how cold it is in Japan’s popular winter destinations.

Japan Winter Wear Advice

For your Japan winter travel, we suggest that you wear layers. Prepare yourself and your children with the clothes, including thermal underwear, fleece jackets, sweaters, or lightweight down jackets, down coats, or waterproof jackets. What's more to pack? Waterproof, slip-resistant winter boots and thick wool socks or thermal socks are also essential. Additionally, you will need a hat, ear muffs, gloves, a scarf, and a mask when walking or exercising outdoors. Of course, in southern regions like Okinawa, where winter temperatures are around 15°C, a lightweight jacket or windbreaker is sufficient.

Top Places to Visit in Japan During Winter

From the ice and snow fairyland of Hokkaido to the snow-covered ancient temples in Kyoto, from the bustling winter festivals to the neon-lit, fashionable streets in Tokyo, here are the six best places to go in Japan during the winter season.

Hokkaido: Japan's Ultimate Winter Wonderland

Undoubtedly, Hokkaido is one of the top destinations for winter travel in Japan. The Sapporo Snow Festival, held every February, features large-scale ice and snow sculpture exhibitions showcasing magnificent ice and snow artworks from around the world.

During the Otaru Snow Light Path Festival (also in February), the canal banks are illuminated with candles, creating a magical night atmosphere in the cold winter. Niseko Ski Resort and other world-renowned powder snow ski resorts in Hokkaido are perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and snow activities. Of course, famous Hokkaido hot springs like Noboribetsu and Jozankei will let you soak in the onsen while enjoying the snow.

If you're traveling with your partner, why not visit Shiroi Koibito Park (also known as White Lover Park) during Valentine's Day to make cookies for each other?

Recommended Hokkaido Winter Tour:
★ 9-Day Hokkaido Winter Highlights Tour

Kyoto in Winter: Rare Timeless Serenity

In winter in Kyoto, the ancient shrines and temples are even more solemn and peaceful in the snow, exuding a sense of Zen. Don't miss the opportunity to capture the snow-covered historical buildings of Kiyomizu-dera, Tenryu-ji, and Kinkaku-ji. The temples of Toudouji, Koudouji, and Kaminari-jinja are illuminated during the winter nights. If you're interested, stroll in a kimono through the winter in Kyoto and then enjoy local winter traditional Japanese cuisine, such as crab dishes and Kyoto-style stews.

Tokyo Winter Vibes: Festivals, Fashion & Fun

For those planning to spend Christmas and New Year in Japan, Tokyo is one of the top cities to visit. Besides the Tokyo Disney Christmas & New Year Parade and fireworks, there are also the Winter Illuminations in Shibuya, Harajuku, and Tokyo Midtown.

Moreover, the Nakamise Market in Sensoji Temple will have a traditional New Year handicrafts market in December, with a wide variety of goods. And in Shibuya and Harajuku, you can explore Japanese pop culture and winter fashion trends on the streets.

Shirakawa-go: Japan’s Fairytale Snow Village

Here is another must-visit place in Japan in winter. A UNESCO-protected cultural village, Shirakawa-go in Gifu Prefecture, central Japan, is renowned for its traditional gassho-zukuri thatched houses and heavy snowfall. The thatched roofs, sloping at a 60-degree angle, when covered in snow, resemble a gingerbread village.

From January to February, the nighttime illumination events are held with perfect opportunities for winter photography. In addition to experiencing the serene Japanese winter countryside, make sure you also savor local cuisine such as Hida beef and mountain vegetable dishes.

Mt. Fuji in Winter: Snow-Capped Views

Mount Fuji, covered in thick white snow during winter, creates an iconic image of Japan for many photography enthusiasts and tourists. The best viewing spots? At Lake Kawaguchi, Oishi Park, Lake Yamanaka, and Shinra-san Sengen Park, you can not only admire the perfect blend of the mountain and snowy landscape but also capture the famous “inverted Fuji” reflection.

It is recommended to visit on a clear, crisp day to capture the morning and evening light on Mount Fuji. It is best to avoid January 1–3, as the mountain is crowded with climbers during the New Year.

Recommended Japan Tour with Mt Fuji:
★ 9-Day Japan Highlights Tour: Tokyo, Mt. Fuji, Kyoto, Osaka

Other Great Winter Destinations

Nikko: Best of all, the ancient sites of Toshogu Shrine and Ryonoshoji Temple, listed as World Heritage Sites, take on a more solemn appearance against the backdrop of snow. In the O-Nikko area, one can admire the frozen lakes and waterfalls, such as the Huayan Waterfall.

Nara: The red deer are freely roaming in the peaceful and fresh air of winter. At this time, there are relatively few tourists, allowing you to visit historical sites such as Todaiji Temple and Kasuga Taisha Shrine in a tranquil manner.

Nagano: Another popular destination in Japan for winter skiing and hot springs, Nagano boasts well-equipped ski resorts such as Hamakura and Shiga Plateau. The Snow Monkey Park in Hell Valley offers a unique hot spring experience for the macaques.

Recommended Japan Tour to Nagano:
★ 12-Day Japan Winter Tour with Snow Monkeys

Osaka: Although it rarely snows heavily in Osaka during winter, it still has its own unique charm: the Christmas and winter light shows at Universal Studios Japan, various winter delicacies...

Best Things to Do in Japan in Winter

Enjoy Snow Festivals

Want to know what to do in Japan during the winter season? One of the activities that shouldn't be missed is the snow festivals held in various places. People of all ages will enjoy them. The most famous one is the Sapporo Snow Festival in Hokkaido, known for its magnificent ice sculptures. It attracts millions of tourists every year.

Also in Hokkaido, the Asahikawa Winter Festival features the world's largest snow maze and an enjoyable ice fishing experience. And the Sakurajima Snow Lantern Trail also creates a romantic atmosphere in winter, allowing you to experience the unique Japanese festival culture in the midst of the snow scenery.

If you go to Akita, you can experience the 400-year-old tradition of the "Kusano Snow House Festival" – enter the miniature snow house and enjoy sweet rice wine.

Hit the Slopes: Winter Sports in Japan

Niseko and Furano in Hokkaido, as well as Hakuba in Honshu, are popular destinations for skiing and snowboarding around the world. If you are a beginner, no worries, you can find ski schools that offer multilingual and international services. Many ski resorts are located near onsen resorts, allowing you to relax and unwind after a day of exercise.

Soak in an Onsen with Snow Views

When traveling to Japan in winter, don't miss the unique experience of soaking in a traditional Japanese onsen while snow falls. At Jigokudani Monkey Park in Nagano, you can see adorable snow monkeys soaking in hot springs. On a clear day in Hakone, you can see Mount Fuji covered in snow while soaking in a hot spring. And onsen resorts such as Kusatsu and Noboribetsu offer Japanese-style inns (ryokan) with open-air hot springs for the ultimate in relaxation.

Recommended Japan Onsen Tour:
★ 10-Day Highlights of Japan Onsen Tour

Experience a Japanese Winter Illumination

Want to see Japan lit up by dazzling lights at night? From November to February, Tokyo's Marunouchi Light Show, Kobe's Luminarie Light Art Festival, and Mie Prefecture's Kuwana Nabana no Sato Light Exhibition are all visually stunning and sure to delight couples and children alike.

Explore Japan’s Winter Cuisine

Hot pot dishes are a favorite in Japan during winter, from sukiyaki to hot pot and miso pot, all of which are warm and delicious. There are also specialty street foods such as oden, which is simmered with radish, eggs, fish cakes, and other ingredients. From November to March, winter seafood in Hokkaido and the Hokuriku region, such as king crab and winter yellowtail, are also seasonal delicacies that are not to be missed.

Celebrate a Traditional Japanese New Year

Travel to Japan between late December and early January to experience the happy and unique New Year atmosphere. On New Year's Eve (December 31), temples (such as Zojoji Temple in Tokyo and Chion-in Temple in Kyoto) ring bells 108 times, while locals eat New Year's soba noodles, symbolizing longevity. During the New Year holiday, there are also special New Year events and traditional foods in various places - definitely an excellent opportunity to experience Japanese culture.

Inspiring 7-day Japan Winter Itinerary: Best Cities, Snowy Scene & Onsen Experience

Japan Winter Travel Tips

1. Before traveling, check the weather and temperature, arrange your itinerary reasonably, and prepare appropriate clothing.
2. Purchase railway passes such as the JR Pass to save transportation costs.
3. Download JapanTravel by NAVITIME to receive alerts about JR delays or suspensions due to heavy snow.
4. It is prohibited to enter the hot spring pool in swimming suits.
5. When skiing, choose a snow slope suitable for your level, wear snow goggles, and safety gear.
6. Winter, especially during Christmas and New Year, is one of the peak tourist seasons in Japan. Accommodation and transportation prices will rise. You should book as early as possible.

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