Japan Winter Itinerary: Unforgettable Experiences and Must-Visit Spots

Searching for the perfect Japan winter itinerary? Here’s the ultimate guide to planning your trip!

Japan is a country that is known for its unique culture, stunning landscapes, and delicious cuisine.

The winter season in Japan is particularly special, as it transforms the country into a winter wonderland.

From snow-capped mountains to hot springs, there is no shortage of winter activities to enjoy in Japan.

In this post, we will take you through a comprehensive Japan winter itinerary that will help you make the most of your trip to Japan during the winter.

Reasons to Visit Japan in Winter

Visiting Japan in winter offers you a unique experience that is entirely different from other seasons.

The snowy landscapes, winter festivals, and delicious seasonal cuisine make it a perfect time to explore the country.

Snowy landscapes: The picturesque snow-covered sceneries in many parts of Japan, including Hokkaido, Nagano, and Niigata, are truly breathtaking.

If you’re a winter sports enthusiasts, you can take advantage of the powdery snow at various ski resorts, while photographers can capture stunning winter wonderland images.

Winter festivals: Japan is known for its numerous winter festivals, which are an excellent opportunity to experience the country’s rich culture and traditions.

For example, the Sapporo Snow Festival in Hokkaido showcases gigantic snow sculptures, while the Yokote Kamakura Festival in Akita features igloo-like snow huts with candles inside, creating a magical atmosphere.

Seasonal cuisine: Winter is the perfect time to enjoy Japanese winter food.

Warm and hearty dishes like nabe (hot pot), oden (a type of Japanese stew), and ramen made with rich, flavorful broth can all be found at various restaurants, cafes, and street food stalls.

Onsen (hot springs): Soaking in a hot spring amidst the cold weather is one of the best ways to enjoy winter in Japan.

The natural hot springs, known as onsens, can be found all over the country, and they’re especially lovely when surrounded by snow.

Plus, they’re fantastic for relaxing your muscles after a day of skiing or snowboarding.

You may also like:

• Japan Autumn Itinerary

Destinations to include on your Japan Winter itinerary

Pretty much any destination in Japan looks absolutely stunning this time of the year, but here are a few you should definitely consider including on your Japan winter itinerary:

1. Kanazawa, Ishikawa

Kanazawa is a historic city famous for its well-preserved Edo-period architecture.

In winter, you can enjoy the snow-covered Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan’s top three gardens.

Don’t miss the Kanazawa Castle and the charming Higashi Chaya district as well.

2. Nikko, Tochigi

Nikko in winter is a dreamy destination with snow-covered temples and shrines.

Visit the Toshogu Shrine and Rinnoji Temple, then warm up with a hot spring bath in nearby Yumoto Onsen.

3. Shirakawa-go, Gifu

Shirakawa-go is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses.

These thatched-roof houses look stunning covered in snow, and the whole village comes to life with warm lights during winter evenings.

4. Otaru, Hokkaido

Otaru is a picturesque harbor town with a nostalgic atmosphere.

Enjoy a stroll along the Otaru Canal lined with gas lamps and stone warehouses, then warm up in one of the cozy glass-blowing workshops in the town.

5. Yunishigawa, Tochigi

Yunishigawa is a secluded hot spring resort in Tochigi prefecture.

Visit in winter to see the thatched-roof houses covered in snow and attend the Yunishigawa Kamakura Festival, where snow huts illuminated by candles make the village look magical.

6. Sapporo, Hokkaido

Hokkaido’s capital city, Sapporo, is a must-visit during winter for its famous Sapporo Snow Festival.

See the amazing snow and ice sculptures, then head to the iconic Sapporo Beer Museum for a tasty experience.

7. Oirase Gorge, Aomori

Home to the scenic Oirase River, Oirase Gorge is breathtaking during winter with its snow-covered landscape and frozen waterfalls.

Don’t forget to visit the nearby Lake Towada, a stunning crater lake perfect for a winter day trip.

8. Zao Onsen, Yamagata

Zao Onsen is a popular ski resort known for its frost-covered trees, called “snow monsters.”

Ski or snowboard down the snowy slopes, then relax in one of the area’s many natural hot-spring baths.

9. Takayama, Gifu

Takayama is a charming city in the Japanese Alps, known for its preserved old town.

During winter, you’ll find snow-covered streets lined with traditional wooden houses, perfect for a winter stroll.

Don’t miss the nearby Hida Folk Village, where you can experience traditional Japanese life.

10. Hakuba, Nagano

Hakuba is an internationally known ski resort located in the Japanese Alps.

With 10 ski resorts to choose from and a diverse range of terrains, Hakuba is perfect for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels.

11. Biei, Hokkaido

Biei is a small town in Hokkaido, known for its picturesque landscapes.

Visit the Blue Pond, where the frozen waters create a magical winter scene, surrounded by snow-covered trees.

12. Karuizawa, Nagano

Karuizawa is a popular mountain resort known for its beautiful nature and European-style architecture.

Winter activities include skiing, ice-skating, and taking a leisurely walk in the snow at Karuizawa Prince Snow Resort.

13. Ginzan Onsen, Yamagata

Ginzan Onsen is a secluded hot-spring town with a romantic, retro atmosphere.

The picturesque streets are lined with wooden inns and gas lamps, all capped with a blanket of snow, perfect for a winter getaway.

Snow Festivals to Include on Your Japan Autumn Itinerary

Sapporo Snow Festival

During your Japan winter itinerary, you definitely should not miss the most famous snow festival of the country, the Sapporo Snow Festival.

This annual event, held in early February, features magnificent snow and ice sculptures created by both professional artists and local residents.

You’ll be amazed by the gigantic masterpieces and detailed carvings illuminated in breathtaking light displays.

As you explore the festival, you’ll come across various zones, such as the Odori Site, where most of the large-scale sculptures and stages for events are located, and the Susukino Site, which showcases intricate ice art.

Yokote Kamakura Festival

Another remarkable event to include in your winter trip to Japan is the Yokote Kamakura Festival.

Held annually in mid-February in Akita Prefecture, this unique festival features hundreds of small snow huts, known as kamakura, scattered across the city.

Stepping into these igloo-like structures, you’ll find that inside each one, there is an altar with offerings dedicated to the water deity.

The warm glow of candles within the kamakura creates a magical atmosphere as you wander through the snow-covered landscape.

During the Yokote Kamakura Festival, you can also experience traditional Japanese customs, such as eating mochi (rice cake) or trying amazake (sweet, non-alcoholic sake).

Additionally, there are several larger kamakura with sitting areas, where you can interact with local people and learn more about their customs and traditions.

Unique Things to Do in Your Japan Autumn Itinerary

Skiing and Snowboarding

If you’re a winter sports enthusiast, skiing and snowboarding are must-dos in your Japan autumn itinerary.

With plenty of powdery snow and famous ski resorts across the country, you are sure to have a thrilling time.

Especially, Hokkaido and Nagano are popular destinations for these activities.

Remember to prepare the right gear and plan your trip around the snow season, which typically starts around mid-December.

Onsens

A trip to Japan isn’t complete without soaking in a traditional Japanese hot spring, known as onsen.

Autumn is the perfect time to visit these soothing baths, as the cool weather complements the warm waters.

You can find onsens all over Japan, but some of the most notable ones include Hakone, Beppu, and Kusatsu.

When visiting an onsen, be sure to follow the etiquette rules such as washing before entering the bath and not wearing clothes or swimsuits in the water.

After the relaxing soak, take time to enjoy local delicacies and beautiful surrounding sceneries.

Must-Try Winter Foods in Japan

During your winter trip to Japan, indulging in warm and comforting dishes is an absolute must.

Be sure to treat yourself to these popular Japanese winter foods as they will make your cold-weather adventure even more memorable.

Oden is a beloved winter dish found at cozy izakayas, street stalls, and even convenience stores.

It features an assortment of ingredients, such as boiled eggs, daikon radish, and fishcakes, simmered in a flavorful broth.

Each item soaks up the broth’s umami-rich goodness, making every bite a warming delight.

Another hearty dish is nabe, a traditional Japanese hot pot.

Various ingredients like meat, seafood, and vegetables are cooked in a simmering broth at your table.

As you enjoy the meal with your friends or family, the bubbling pot brings warmth and togetherness on chilly nights.

Don’t miss out on trying sukiyaki, a classic Japanese dish made with thinly sliced beef, tofu, vegetables, and noodles.

They’re all cooked together in a sweet and savory soy sauce-based broth.

To fully savor sukiyaki, dip the cooked ingredients into a beaten raw egg before eating.

To satisfy your sweet tooth, look for shiruko or red bean soup.

This thick and sweet dessert has a base of smooth azuki bean paste and is often served with mochi rice cakes.

Shiruko will leave you feeling satisfied and warmed up from the inside.

Lastly, consider grabbing some yakiimo, roasted sweet potatoes.

These simple yet delicious treats are often sold by street vendors and boast a natural sweetness that’s perfect for snacking on during winter strolls.

Japan Winter Itinerary Samples

To make planning easier, we put together several Japan winter itinerary samples for various trip lengths.

Click here to skip:

• 5-Day Japan Winter Itinerary
• 6-Day Japan Winter Itinerary
• 8-Day Japan Winter Itinerary
• 10-Day Japan Winter Itinerary
• Two Week Japan Winter Itinerary

5 Day Japan Winter Itinerary

Day 1: Tokyo – Nikko

• Explore Nikko, including the Nikko Toshogu Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and other temples and sites with this tour.

or:

• Explore the beautiful natural scenery of Nikko National Park with this tour.
• Stay overnight in Nikko

Tip: This tour takes care of everything for your stay in Nikko, including transport from Tokyo.

Day 2: Nikko – Yunishigawa

• Visit the Yunishigawa Onsen, a hot spring resort in Tochigi
• Enjoy a relaxing day at the hot springs
• Stay overnight in Yunishigawa

Day 3: Yunishigawa – Kanazawa

• Visit the Kenroku-en Garden, one of Japan’s most beautiful gardens
• Explore the old samurai district of Nagamachi
• Stay overnight in Kanazawa

Tip: This tour will have you covered when exploring Kanazawa so you don’t have to worry about a thing! Check it out here.

Day 4: Kanazawa – Shirakawa-go

• Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Shirakawa-go, famous for its traditional thatched-roof houses
• Enjoy the beautiful winter scenery of the village
• Stay overnight in Shirakawa-go or if you prefer to stay in Kanazawa instead, you can book this tour that includes transport to and back.

Tip: If you prefer to not move around as much and spend two nights in Kanazawa, you can also choose this private tour of Shrikawa-Go instead. It starts and ends in Kanazawa.

Day 5: Shirakawa-go – Tokyo

• Return to Tokyo and explore the city’s winter attractions, such as the illuminations in Roppongi Hills or the Tokyo Skytree
• End the trip with a visit to a local izakaya for a warm meal and drink.

Tip: If you want to cover as much ground in Tokyo as possible in one day, this tour is a wonderful way to do it.

6 Day Japan Winter Itinerary

Day 1: Tokyo – Nikko

• Explore Nikko, including the Nikko Toshogu Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and other temples and sites with this tour.

or:

• Explore the beautiful natural scenery of Nikko National Park with this tour.
• Stay overnight in Nikko

Tip: This tour takes care of everything for your stay in Nikko, including transport from Tokyo.

Day 2: Nikko – Yunishigawa

• Visit the Yunishigawa Onsen, a hot spring resort in Tochigi
  • Enjoy a relaxing day at the hot springs
• Stay overnight in Yunishigawa

Day 3: Yunishigawa – Kanazawa

• Visit the Kenroku-en Garden, one of Japan’s most beautiful gardens
• Explore the old samurai district of Nagamachi
• Stay overnight in Kanazawa

Tip: This tour will have you covered when exploring Kanazawa so you don’t have to worry about a thing! Check it out here.

Day 4: Kanazawa – Oirase Gorge

• Visit the Oirase Gorge in Aomori, famous for its beautiful winter scenery and frozen waterfalls. This tour is the best way to visit the gorge.
• Stay overnight in Aomori or return to Kanazawa

Day 5: Aomori – Zao Onsen

• Visit the Zao Onsen ski resort in Yamagata, famous for its “snow monsters”
• Enjoy skiing or snowboarding on the slopes
• For non-skiers: Join a Buddhist ceremony at a Zenpoji Temple. Book here.
• Stay overnight in Zao Onsen

Day 6: Zao Onsen – Tokyo

• Return to Tokyo and explore the city’s winter attractions
• End the trip with a visit to a local izakaya for a warm meal and drink
• You can also book this full-day Tokyo tour so you can see as much as possible on your last day.

8 Day Japan Winter Itinerary

Days 1-4: Same as 6 Day Itinerary

Day 5: Zao Onsen – Takayama

• Visit the old town of Takayama, famous for its traditional architecture and winter festivals. We recommend booking this tour so you can see as much as possible during your day here.
• Stay overnight in Takayama

Day 6: Takayama – Hakuba

• Visit the ski resort town of Hakuba in Nagano
• Enjoy skiing or snowboarding on the slopes. If you’re a beginner, don’t worry – you can book a lesson!
• If you’re a snowboarding buff, you can also book this 2-day snowboarding tour and they’ll take care of everything (in this case, skip Day 7 as you’ll be staying two days here).
• Stay overnight in Hakuba

Day 7: Hakuba – Karuizawa

• Visit the resort town of Karuizawa in Nagano, known for its winter sports and hot springs.
• Enjoy a relaxing day at the hot springs
• Stay overnight in Karuizawa

Day 8: Karuizawa – Tokyo

• Return to Tokyo and explore the city’s winter attractions
• End the trip with a visit to a local izakaya for a warm meal and drink

10 Day Japan Winter Itinerary

Days 1-5: Same as 8 Day Itinerary

Day 6: Karuizawa – Biei

• Visit the picturesque town of Biei in Hokkaido, famous for its winter landscapes and snow-covered hills. This tour is a wonderful option if you want to cover as much ground as possible.
• Stay overnight in Biei

Day 7: Biei – Otaru

• Visit the port town of Otaru in Hokkaido, known for its winter illuminations and seafood. This tour is a great option.
• Stay overnight in Otaru

Day 8: Otaru – Sapporo

• Visit the city of Sapporo in Hokkaido, known for its winter festivals and snow sculptures
• Alternatively, you can opt for this tour where you’ll be exploring the outskirts of Sapporo which feel like a winter wonderland (frozen lakes, waterfalls, and more).
• Stay overnight in Sapporo

Day 9 and 10: Sapporo – Tokyo

• Return to Tokyo and explore the city’s winter attractions
• End the trip with a visit to a local izakaya for a warm meal and drink

Tip: If you want to cover as much ground in Tokyo as possible in one day, this tour is a wonderful way to do it.

Two Week Japan Winter Itinerary

Days 1-6: Same as 10 Day Itinerary

Day 7: Sapporo – Kyoto

• Fly to Kyoto

Day 8: Kyoto

Spend the day exploring Kyoto. Must-see attractions include Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion), Fushimi Inari Taisha, Kiyomizu-dera, Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Gion District, Nijo Castle, Ryoan-ji Temple, and the Philosopher’s Path.

Tip: This tour is a wonderful way to explore as much of Kyoto as possible in one day.

Day 9: Kyoto – Osaka

• Make your way to Osaka
• Stay overnight in Osaka

Day 10: OSAKA and nara

• Spend the day seeing the highlights of Osaka like Osaka Castle, Dotonbori district, Universal Studios Japan, Shitennoji Temple, Tsutenkaku Tower, and the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan.
• Visit the famous deer in Nara
• Return to Kyoto and spend the night

Tip: This tour is excellent as it includes round-trip transport from Kyoto to Osaka. You’ll get the chance to see the highlights of Osaka and visit the deer in Nara.

Day 11: Kyoto – TOKYO

• Make your way to Tokyo
• Spend the night in Tokyo

Day 12 – 14: tokyo

• Spend your last two day exploring Japan’s capital!
• This tour is a great way to tick off the main highlights in one day. Because it’s private, you can also customize it to your needs.

Depending on how much you managed to see already and when your flight is, you can spend days 13 and 14 either exploring more of Tokyo or:

• Take a day trip to Hakone
• Visit Tokyo Disneyland

Packing Tips for Japan in Winter

Packing for a winter trip to Japan might be a bit overwhelming, but don’t worry!

Here’s a guide to help you prepare for your visit:

1. Layering: Start with lightweight layers and work your way up to heavier ones. You’ll want to pack:

• Long sleeve shirts
• Sweaters or cardigans
• A down jacket or warm coat

2. Bottoms: Opt for warmer, sturdier choices like:

• Jeans or thick cotton pants
• Thermal leggings or up-to-date tights under skirts or pants

3. Waterproof shoes: In snowy regions, water-resistant shoes are essential, preferably with comfortable, thick socks.

4. Accessories: Keep yourself cozy with some useful items like these:

• Scarf
• Beanie
• Gloves
• A small folded umbrella for surprise rain or snow

Travel Tips for Visiting Japan in Winter

Here are a few travel tips to help you make them most out of your Japan winter itinerary:

1. Layering is key: It’s important to dress appropriately. Winter temperatures in Japan can range from freezing to chilly depending on where you go. Pack layers like thermal tops, sweaters, and a good quality, waterproof jacket. For bottom, warmers, winter pants, and waterproof boots provide a cozy experience.
2. Heating packs: Buy disposable heating packs (also called “kairo”) from convenience stores or drugstores throughout Japan. They are perfect for keeping your hands and feet warm during cold winter days.
3. Stay updated on weather: Keep an eye on the local weather forecast. Snowstorms and icy conditions can affect transportation. Download a local weather app on your phone or check the weather website to stay updated.
4. Plan transportation: Winter is a great time to explore the sites without the crowds. However, some destinations may be closed due to winter weather conditions. Make sure you check the operation hours of attractions you plan to visit. Also, while Japan’s public transportation system is fantastic, it’s still a good idea to research your routes in advance, especially during the weekends and holidays.
5. Winter foods: Don’t forget to enjoy the delicious winter dishes Japan has to offer. Some must-tries include hotpot (nabe), roasted sweet potatoes (yaki-imo), and ramen.

Travel Insurance for Your Winter Trip to Japan

Don’t forget to add travel insurance to your Japan winter itinerary!

From flight cancellations to medical emergencies, travel insurance can help protect you from financial losses and give you peace of mind during your trip.

We recommend using Safety Wing for travel insurance. They offer comprehensive coverage for medical expenses, emergency medical evacuation, trip cancellations, and more for a very affordable price. Check them out here.

What is the Best Time to Plan a Japan Winter Itinerary?

When you’re considering a winter trip to Japan, the best time to plan your itinerary largely depends on what activities you’d like to experience.

Generally, December through February offers the most winter charm and a variety of attractions.

December is an excellent month to visit if you’re looking to enjoy Christmas festivities and vibrant light displays.

This time of year, you’ll also find enchanting illumination events, such as the famous Kobe Luminarie and Tokyo’s Caretta Shiodome.

For those who want to witness the beauty of snow, January is the ideal time to travel.

During this month, you’ll find many snow festivals and events, like the Sapporo Snow Festival, which features incredible ice sculptures.

Additionally, this is prime time for skiing and snowboarding in popular destinations like Niseko and Hakuba.

Please note that the weather may be quite harsh during this period, so be prepared with heavy winter clothing.

If you’re interested in outdoor winter sports, February is a fantastic choice.

The snow is in its peak condition, and ski slopes like Nozawa Onsen and Appi Kogen offer excellent terrain for skiing and snowboarding.

This month also boasts scenic beauty, with attractions like the Otaru Snow Light Path Festival and Jigokudani Monkey Park.

What is the recommended length for a Japan winter itinerary?

To make the most out of your trip, try dedicating at least 7 to 10 days to your winter trip to Japan.

This will give you enough time to explore major cities, experience some winter activities, and immerse yourself in Japanese culture.

Japan Winter Itinerary: Conclusion

Japan is a spectacular destination to visit during the winter season.

With so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming to plan a Japan winter itinerary on your own.

Whether you’re interested in skiing, soaking in hot springs, or exploring traditional Japanese culture, there’s something for everyone in Japan during the winter season.