Winter in Japan offers a unique and unforgettable experience for travelers looking for a different kind of vacation. The country transforms into a winter wonderland, where visitors can enjoy breathtaking landscapes, hot springs, winter sports, and traditional festivals. Here are some of the best places to visit in Japan during the winter season.
Hokkaido
Hokkaido is the northernmost island in Japan and one of the best places to experience winter activities. It’s known for its world-class ski resorts like Niseko, Rusutsu, and Furano.
These resorts offer a variety of slopes suitable for all levels of skiers and snowboarders. Hokkaido is also famous for its hot springs or “onsen,” which are perfect for relaxing after a day on the slopes.
Things to do in Hokkaido
- Skiing and Snowboarding
- Visit Shiroi Koibito Park
- Visit Jozankei Onsen
- Go Ice Fishing
- Experience Sapporo Snow Festival
Nagano Prefecture
Nagano Prefecture is located in central Japan and is home to some of the country’s most popular ski resorts like Hakuba Valley, Nozawa Onsen, and Shiga Kogen. It hosted the Winter Olympics in 1998 and has since become a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts.
Things to do in Nagano Prefecture
- Skiing and Snowboarding
- Visit Zenkoji Temple in Nagano City
- Explore Matsumoto Castle
- See Japanese Macaques at Jigokudani Monkey Park
- Visit the Snow Monkeys in Yamanouchi
Yuzawa
Yuzawa is a small town located in Niigata Prefecture, known for its heavy snowfall, making it an ideal destination for skiing and snowboarding. The town is easily accessible from Tokyo by bullet train, making it a perfect day trip or weekend getaway.
Things to do in Yuzawa
- Skiing and Snowboarding
- Visit the Yuzawa Kogen Ropeway for stunning views of the town
- Visit the Gala Yuzawa Snow Resort, which has direct access to the bullet train station.
- Relax in an outdoor hot spring or “rotenburo”
Sapporo
Sapporo is the capital city of Hokkaido and hosts the annual Sapporo Snow Festival, one of Japan’s largest winter events. The festival attracts millions of visitors every year, who come to admire spectacular ice sculptures.
Things to do in Sapporo
- Experience Sapporo Snow Festival
- Taste Sapporo’s famous seafood like crab and salmon roe “ikura”
- Visit Odori Park for ice skating and sledding
- Shop at Tanukikoji Shopping Street
In conclusion, Japan offers a variety of destinations for travelers looking for an unforgettable winter vacation. From skiing and snowboarding to relaxing hot springs and traditional festivals, visitors can experience the unique beauty of Japan during the winter season.