Have a white holiday with these best winter things to do in Japan!
Japan is a beautiful country to visit year-round, but winter is an extraordinary time. The snow-capped mountains, sparkling city lights, and festive atmosphere make it a magical place to experience the holiday season. ❄️☃️
Some say skiing in Japan is even better than in the Alps of Europe. Why’s that? Well, some perks include extras only the Japanese would think of (heated toilet seats, anyone?) and fresh, powdery snow guaranteed for five months, from November to March.
Want to have the ultimate ski trip in Japan? Read our ski guide right here:
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1. Step back in time at Shirakawa-go
Photo Credit: @m0na_travel
Turn back time and discover traditional Japanese life as it would have been 300 years ago at Shirakawa-go. Explore the charming streets and the beauty of their traditional gassho-style farmhouses with their distinctive thatched roof. You’ll immediately understand why this small village was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Take a slow walk to the Ogimachi Castle Observation Deck which is up a hill and offers the iconic view of Shirakawa-go and its farmhouses. It is especially charming in winter when the entire village is blanketed in heavy snow. On selected days during the wintertime, special illumination events are organized by the village where many of the houses in Ogimachi are lit up during the evening from 5:30pm to 7:30pm.
In 2024, there will only be 6 light-up events, and can only attend if you have an admission ticket booked in advance on the Shirakawa-go Tourist Association website. Alternatively, you can also book a day tour that comes complete with transport.
Major #KlookTip: Book your Shirakawago Winter Light-Up 2024 slots ASAP before they run out! To avoid overcrowding in the village, only visitors with reservations are allowed in. Here are some of the tours you can book right away:
🗓️ Shirakawa-go Light Up Event Dates:
- 14, 21, 28 January 2024
- 4, 12, 18 February 2024
2. Visit the Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park
Visit the Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park for the ultimate dose of cuteness! Credit: Jonathan Forage via Unsplash
Some of Japan’s most curious residents call Nagano home, with more than 200 snow monkeys (real name: the Japanese macaque) living in the Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park. Nagano is just two hours from Tokyo on the Shinkansen bullet train, making it an easy day trip from Tokyo if you’re short on time.
At Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park, you can watch these unusual creatures bathe and frolic, unfazed by the freezing cold. In spring, the adult monkeys show off their new babies, so if you’re visiting Nagano towards the end of the ski season, you may even catch a glimpse of some new arrivals!
The snow monkeys are used to human visitors admiring their playful ways, and tourists are rarely disappointed by the large number of monkeys going about their daily lives in and around the hot springs.
With the Nagano Snow Monkey Park and Zenko-ji Temple Tour, one day is all you need to check out these exquisite animals and visit Zenko-ji Temple — one of the oldest, largest, and most important Buddhist temples in all of Japan.
Zenko-ji Temple is significant to Nagano as the city was built for the temple, not the other way around. It is home to the first-ever Buddhist statue brought into Japan, which arrived in the 6th century. While the original figure remains hidden, the public can view a replica for a few weeks every six years. The last public viewing was in 2021, so the next one may be in 2027.
3. Hit the slopes at a ski resort
Japan is one of the best destinations for skiing and snowboarding in the world, with world-class ski resorts that offer a variety of terrain for all skill levels. There are also ski and snowboarding lessons available for those looking to learn, and you'll be shredding the slopes in no time! ⛷️ No matter which part of Japan you're planning to visit, you won't be too far away from a ski resort to enjoy a day or two out in the snow!
Yuzawa, Niigata
Yuzawa, which is located at the foot of the Echigo Mountains, is a popular winter sports destination an 80-minute train ride away from Tokyo. The area is known for its excellent ski resorts and abundant snowfall. One of these ski resorts is Gala Yuzawa, which is a great place to learn to ski, as it offers a variety of beginner-friendly slopes and ski schools.
You can book a private ski or snowboard lesson and learn from a professional instructor. For more advanced learners, the instructors are also qualified to teach you specific skills, like freestyle, race coaching, backcountry guiding, and even split boarding.
Hakuba, Nagano
Located in the heart of the Japanese Alps, Hakuba Ski Resort is a world-class ski resort that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. It is best known for its abundant snowfall, receiving an average of 11m of snowfall each year, which means you'll get to enjoy plenty of powder snow during your stay. This makes it a perfect spot to learn snowboarding with a private instructor.
Getting to Hakuba from Tokyo is easy by direct shuttle bus. There are several departures from Tokyo Station, Narita Airport, and Haneda Airport daily. It'll connect you directly to major Hakuba ski resorts including Hakuba Goryu Snow Resort, Hakuba 47 Winter Sports Park, and Hakuba Happo-One Snow Resort. The bus ride takes approximately 6 hours.
Niseko, Hokkaido
Niseko is a world-renowned ski resort in Hokkaido, known for its abundant powder snow, stunning scenary, and excellent cuisine. The resort offers a variety of skiing and snowboarding terrain suitable for different skill levels, including beginners looking to learn the sport. It is also only a couple of hours away from Sapporo by bus, making it a great day trip option.
One of the most popular resorts there is Niseko Grand Hirafu Ski Resort that offers ski slopes against a pictresque Mount Yotei. Experieced skiiers can also look forward to a dynamic course with a maximum slope of 30 degrees! ⛷️
Niseko offers a variety of other unique winter activities including snowmobiling, snowshoeing, dog sledding, ice skating, snow rafting, and even onsens. This makes Niseko worthy of a longer stay, and suitable for families! Niseko White Villas is a good base for your Niseko adventure with family villas big enough for groups of at least 4 pax.
Furano, Hokkaido
Furano is another popular winter spot in Hokkaido, known for its wide-open slopes and variety of winter activities. In addition to skiing and snowboarding, Furano offers ice fishing, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, dog sledding, hot air ballooning, and also onsens.
#KlookTip: Plenty of tour packages come inclusive of snow shoes, snowboard, ski pole, ski sled, ski clothes, and more! So you don't have to worry about packing, and all you have to do is show up and have a great day out!
4. Go paragliding above the Hakuba Alps
Enjoy the sights of the Hakuba Alps from up in the air!
If skiing isn't your cup of tea, take to the skies! See the Hakuba Alps in all its beauty through this paragliding experience! Try out the “Winter Tandem Flight” from December to April as you fly with a certified flight instructor who will ensure a safe and memorable experience. Whether you choose a morning or afternoon flight, get ready to be astonished by the incredible sights of the snow-covered mountain range in Nagano.
Undoubtedly, this activity would be top on the list of thrill-seekers looking to spend their winter in Japan.
5. Go on a snowmobile tour
Embark on a snowy adventure with your family at Sapporo Snowmobile Land in Hokkaido! Choose between a 60-minute or 90-minute tour, whereby a professional guide will bring you through the snowy lands of Sapporo, all while you drive your own snowmobile! Those traveling with kids can also opt to pair up with a companion for the ride.
"Fun activity to do at Hokkaido. They will do a few practice rounds before guiding you up in the mountain. Though it's a group activity, there will be a guide for every 2-3 pax. Very enjoyable activity. Highly recommended especially for those who love rides like ATV. Would like to give our thanks to Mr Takeshi Hattori, professional and friendly guide!"
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ review by Siti Nur Asilah on Klook
6. Go banana boating on snow
If you can’t decide on just one winter activity, Bibai Snow Land offers several! You can go on a snowmobile tour around the park's seven ponds, snowshoeing, snow rafting, and much more. Those who enjoy games and competitions can even have a snowball fight or play soccer! The possibilities are endless here at this park, so take advantage of it during winter in Japan!
"We were the only ones (me and my mom) who visited on our scheduled date and time. We were treated like a VIP! Big thanks to Ma-chan and Harada-chan for assisting us all the way. They were very kind and hospitable. The activities were so much fun, since Hokkaido has powdery snow. I enjoyed the snow mobile and buggy. All worth it!! Very much recommended!!"
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ review by Kym Gretl on Klook
Hoshino Resort Tomamu Ski Resort is another great place for families to create lasting winter memories. Besides having 29 different ski courses, it also offers a variety of winter activities and family-friendly amenities like banana boat rides. There is bound to be an activity for everyone!
7. Walk on sea ice & dip in the freezing sea
If you're looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, look no further. This Ryuhyo Ice Walking tour is a truly unique and unforgettable experience that will take you over the frozen waters of the Okhotsk Sea.
Ryuhyo, or drift ice, is formed when sea ice breaks off from the coast and is carried by currents to the shores of Hokkaido. And this is only available from January to March, when the ice is thickest and safest to walk on.
As you walk across the ice, you will be surrounded by stunning scenery and the sound of the ice creaking and popping beneath your feet. You may even have the opportunity to see seals and other marine life playing in the water nearby.
8. Zipline over Lotte Arai Resort
Not for the faint of heart, this 1,500-metre zipline is the longest in Asia and sends you soaring over Niigata's Lotte Arai Resort and its wondrous ski course. Situated 160 metres above the ground and travelling a distance of 240 metres, on your three-minute journey from the top, you will have an unfettered view of the Takada plains and the Hokushin’Etsu mountains. It’s one of the best things to do in Japan in winter, as it’s hard to forget the stunning views and the adrenaline rush!
9. Snowshoe across fluffy snow
If you're visiting Sapporo this winter, don't miss out on a picturesque experience snowshoeing around Moerenuma Park. This casual snowshoeing experience is perfect for all ages and no experience is necessary. Your experienced guide will provide you with all the necessary snowshoeing equipment and instructions, and lead you through the serene beauty of a snowy landscape!
10. Recharge in an onsen
After spending your holiday skiing and exploring winter in Japan, nothing beats relaxing for a few days in an onsen town to rest your tired muscles before the flight home. With Japan's many volcanos, several onsens are available to warm you up.
Onsens are beneficial due to the water's low acidity and ability to promote blood circulation. Nagano Prefecture contains a wealth of hot springs, with some of the freshest water in Japan flowing down from the highest peaks.
Try out the Shirahone Onsen’s milky white onsens
Shirahone Onsen in Nagano is a small but well-known town, famous for its milky white onsens flourishing with calcium and magnesium sediments.
11. Visit the Sapporo Snow Festival
Dive into the world of icy enchantment at the Sapporo Snow Festival, better known as Sapporo Yuki Matsuri in Japanese. The festival showcases a mesmerizing array of intricate ice sculptures, ranging from historical figures to famous landmarks. The creativity and craftsmanship on display are nothing short of spectacular.
The Sapporo Snow Festival is held annually in February, usually starting in the first week of the month and lasting for one week. Sapporo Snow Festival 2024 will be held from 4 to 11 February 2024. Don't miss it!
12. Be in awe at the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival
Every winter, the Chitose Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival transforms the idyllic scenery of Lake Shikotsu into a winter wonderland of ice and snow. Held in the Shikotsu-Toya National Park, about 50 minutes by bus from Sapporo, the festival showcases a wide range of ice sculptures, snow creations, and winter activities suitable for one and all.
The centerpiece of the festival is the illuminated ice sculpture park, where visitors can marvel at giant sculptures carved from the crystal-clear ice of Lake Shikotsu. You can also look forward to an ice skating rink, snow sledding runs, and even fireworks shows.
The Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival is held every year from early February. Don't worry about missing out, book a festival tour ahead of time to ensure you've got your tickets and bus transfers from Sapporo all settled!
13. Embark on an Icebreaker voyage
Go on an adventure to see drift ice while on board an icebreaker ship in Hokkaido. These powerful ships are designed to break through thick ice, allowing you to explore the sea of drift ice.
The best time to experience an icebreaker ship ride is from January to March, when the drift ice is at its thickest. Marvel at the towering ice floes and the diverse marine life that inhabits the region. Seals, seabirds, and even the occasional whale can be spotted swimming among the ice.
14. Marvel at Winter Illuminations
Japan’s winter illuminations are a feast for the eyes, with cities and parks transforming into dazzling displays of lights. The Nabana no Sato illumination in Mie Prefecture is one of the most spectacular. Known for its stunning displays of flowers and plants made of lights, this festival also features a variety of other attractions, such as an ice skating rink and a snow sledding run.
Over in Sapporo, see how the Biei Winter Blue Pond & Shirasuga Falls transform into a fantasy world with "Aoike Illumination". The famous Blue Pond will be covered with snow and illuminated by lights of different colors and angles, making it a beautiful dreamy moment worthy of the 'gram.
15. Visit Zao's Snow Monsters
Zao Snow Monster Festival is a natural phenomenon of thousands of snow monsters in the making. Built by layers of snowfall and preserved under icy temperatures, the Juhyo trees of Zao in Yamagata turn into ghostly silhouettes of monsters straight out of bedtime nightmares. Or can they be considered snowmen? ⛄️
While you're in Yamagata, don't miss out on spending a night at Ginzan Onsen, a famous hot spring resort with a nostalgic landscape and a Taisho romanticism that is said to be the inspiration for "Spirited Away".
16. Make a Snow Lantern
Snow lantern festivals are a popular winter tradition in Japan. These festivals feature hundreds or even thousands of snow lanterns, which are lit up at night to create a magical winter wonderland.
One of the most popular snow lantern festivals in Japan is held in Miyama, a village known for its traditional thatched-roof houses. The Miyama Snow Lantern Festival is held annually in February and features over 1,000 snow lanterns displayed throughout the village.
Iiyama Kamakura Village
Another popular snow lantern festival is held in Yokote, a city in Akita Prefecture. The Yokote Kamakura Festival is also held annually in February and features over 100 giant snow igloos known as kamakura.
Looking for more skiing tips? Check out our ultimate guide on skiing in Japan:
Don't miss these winter activities for your Japan itinerary! 🗻
Activities
✨ Hokkaido
✨ Gifu
Shirakawago Light-up Event only happens 6 days in a year, so be sure to book early!
✨ Mt. Fuji
🚌 Ski Resort Transfers⛷️
