What to do in Japan during the winter: a snowy adventure awaits

Japan might be known for cherry blossoms, sushi and neon cityscapes, but winter in Japan? That’s a whole different kind of magic. Think steaming hot springs surrounded by snow, lantern-lit festivals, mountain adventures, and comfort food that warms the soul.

Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, culture lover or just in need of a proper winter break, Japan has something for everyone when the temperature drops. So, grab your thermals and let’s dive into what makes winter in Japan so unforgettable, with plenty of fun activities and unique experiences to keep you busy.

Skiing or snowboarding in Hakuba

Let’s kick things off with one of the main reasons people flock to Japan in winter: the snow. Japan is blessed with some of the fluffiest powder snow in the world, and Hakuba in Nagano Prefecture is one of the top destinations for skiing and snowboarding.

Located in the Japanese Alps, Hakuba is home to a cluster of ski resorts that cater to all levels, from beginners finding their feet to seasoned riders hunting for off-piste action. The scenery is stunning, with majestic peaks and tree-lined runs that make every descent feel a bit like a postcard.

And after a full day on the slopes? There’s nothing better than warming up in your private lodge, so why not stay in a Hakuba ski chalet? It’s the perfect way to enjoy the mountains in comfort and style, some even come with outdoor onsens, fire pits and jaw-dropping mountain views. 

Warm up in a traditional onsen

There’s something truly magical about sitting in a hot spring while snow falls around you. Japan is packed with onsen towns, traditional hot spring resorts, and they’re particularly popular in the colder months.

One of the most famous is Kusatsu Onsen in Gunma, known for its strong sulphuric waters and beautiful streets lined with ryokans (traditional inns). Another top pick is Yufuin, nestled in the mountains of Kyushu, which offers a relaxing and picturesque experience.

Some onsens are mixed-gender, while others are separate, and yes, you do need to bathe naked. Embrace the culture, it’s all part of the experience!

Visit the snow monkeys of Jigokudani

Ever seen monkeys bathing in a hot spring? You can in Japan. Head to Jigokudani Monkey Park in Nagano to see the famous Japanese macaques, also known as snow monkeys, soaking in the warm waters surrounded by snow. It’s both adorable and surreal, like something out of a nature documentary, but you’re actually there.

The walk to the park takes around 30 minutes through a forest trail, and it’s worth every step. The monkeys are wild but used to humans, so you can get quite close (just don’t try to feed them, they’re not that friendly!).

Enjoy a winter festival

Japanese festivals, or matsuri, don’t stop just because it’s cold. In fact, some of the most spectacular take place in winter. Top of the list is the Sapporo Snow Festival in Hokkaido. Held every February, it features gigantic snow and ice sculptures, some several storeys high, with dazzling light displays and live events. It draws visitors from around the world and turns the city into a snowy wonderland.

Another favourite is the Yokote Kamakura Festival in Akita Prefecture, where locals build small snow huts (kamakura) and light candles inside them at night. It’s cosy, charming and feels like something out of a fairytale.

Eat all the winter comfort food

Japanese cuisine is incredible year-round, but winter brings out the heavy hitters,dishes designed to warm you up from the inside out.

Try nabe, a hot pot dish usually shared with friends or family. It comes in many varieties, sukiyaki, shabu-shabu, and kimchi nabe, to name a few, and is often cooked right at your table. Cosy and delicious.

Then there’s oden, a broth-based dish with ingredients like daikon radish, boiled eggs and tofu, often found at convenience stores during the winter season. It might not look fancy, but it hits the spot after a cold day exploring. Don’t forget to treat yourself to yakiimo (roasted sweet potatoes) from street vendors and some hot sake or green tea to keep your hands (and heart) warm.

Explore Tokyo in a new light

If you think Tokyo is buzzing in summer, wait until you see it in winter. The air is crisp, the skies are often clear, and the whole city gets dressed up with winter illuminations. Head to Shibuya or Roppongi Hills to see stunning light displays, or explore Tokyo Disneyland’s Christmas and New Year events for a dose of winter cheer.

Shopping is also at its peak during winter sales, and don’t worry. There's always a warm bowl of ramen or a quirky café waiting around the corner to give your feet a rest.

See Mount Fuji in all its glory

Winter is hands down the best time to see Mount Fuji. The air is cleaner and drier, which means visibility is at its best, no more hiding behind clouds like in summer!

Visit Lake Kawaguchi or Hakone for some of the best Fuji views, complete with snow-capped peaks and peaceful surroundings. Hakone also offers hot springs, traditional inns and an open-air museum that’s well worth a visit.

Fancy something a bit different? Try the Mount Fuji Ice Cave or Wind Cave, two natural underground lava tubes located near the base of the mountain, where temperatures stay chilly even in summer (but are especially impressive in winter).

Winter in Japan is like nowhere else

Japan in winter is a mix of natural beauty, cultural richness and outdoor fun that’s hard to match. Whether you’re carving down the slopes in Hakuba, bathing in a mountain onsen or marvelling at snow festivals, there's something almost magical about the way Japan embraces the cold season.

So pack your warmest layers, grab your camera, and don’t forget to stay in a Hakuba ski chalet for the full winter mountain experience. Japan in winter? It's more than just a trip: it's a memory waiting to be made.