{"id":83015,"date":"2023-10-02T23:47:29","date_gmt":"2023-10-02T23:47:29","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/nohurrytogethome.com\/?p=83015"},"modified":"2023-11-26T00:30:38","modified_gmt":"2023-11-26T00:30:38","slug":"japan-winter-itinerary","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/nohurrytogethome.com\/japan-winter-itinerary\/","title":{"rendered":"Japan Winter Itinerary: Unforgettable Experiences and Must-Visit Spots"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
Searching for the perfect Japan winter itinerary? Here’s the ultimate guide to planning your trip!<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n Japan is a country that is known for its unique culture, stunning landscapes, and delicious cuisine. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The winter season in Japan is particularly special, as it transforms the country into a winter wonderland. <\/p>\n\n\n\n From snow-capped mountains to hot springs, there is no shortage of winter activities to enjoy in Japan. <\/p>\n\n\n\n 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Visiting Japan in winter offers you a unique experience that is entirely different from other seasons. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The snowy landscapes, winter festivals, and delicious seasonal cuisine make it a perfect time to explore the country.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Snowy landscapes:<\/strong> The picturesque snow-covered sceneries in many parts of Japan, including Hokkaido, Nagano, and Niigata, are truly breathtaking. <\/p>\n\n\n\n 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Winter festivals:<\/strong> Japan is known for its numerous winter festivals, which are an excellent opportunity to experience the country’s rich culture and traditions. <\/p>\n\n\n\n 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Seasonal cuisine:<\/strong> Winter is the perfect time to enjoy Japanese winter food<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Onsen (hot springs):<\/strong> Soaking in a hot spring amidst the cold weather is one of the best ways to enjoy winter in Japan. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The natural hot springs, known as onsens, can be found all over the country, and they’re especially lovely when surrounded by snow. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Plus, they’re fantastic for relaxing your muscles after a day of skiing or snowboarding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 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:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Kanazawa is a historic city famous for its well-preserved Edo-period architecture. <\/p>\n\n\n\n In winter, you can enjoy the snow-covered Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan’s top three gardens. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Don’t miss the Kanazawa Castle and the charming Higashi Chaya district as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Nikko in winter is a dreamy destination with snow-covered temples and shrines. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Visit the Toshogu Shrine and Rinnoji Temple, then warm up with a hot spring bath in nearby Yumoto Onsen.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Shirakawa-go is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses. <\/p>\n\n\n\n These thatched-roof houses look stunning covered in snow, and the whole village comes to life with warm lights during winter evenings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Otaru is a picturesque harbor town with a nostalgic atmosphere. <\/p>\n\n\n\n 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Yunishigawa is a secluded hot spring resort in Tochigi prefecture. <\/p>\n\n\n\n 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Hokkaido’s capital city, Sapporo, is a must-visit during winter for its famous Sapporo Snow Festival. <\/p>\n\n\n\n See the amazing snow and ice sculptures, then head to the iconic Sapporo Beer Museum for a tasty experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Home to the scenic Oirase River, Oirase Gorge is breathtaking during winter with its snow-covered landscape and frozen waterfalls. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Don’t forget to visit the nearby Lake Towada, a stunning crater lake perfect for a winter day trip.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Zao Onsen is a popular ski resort known for its frost-covered trees, called “snow monsters.” <\/p>\n\n\n\n Ski or snowboard down the snowy slopes, then relax in one of the area’s many natural hot-spring baths.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Takayama is a charming city in the Japanese Alps, known for its preserved old town. <\/p>\n\n\n\n During winter, you’ll find snow-covered streets lined with traditional wooden houses, perfect for a winter stroll. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Don’t miss the nearby Hida Folk Village, where you can experience traditional Japanese life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Hakuba is an internationally known ski resort located in the Japanese Alps. <\/p>\n\n\n\n With 10 ski resorts to choose from and a diverse range of terrains, Hakuba is perfect for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Biei is a small town in Hokkaido, known for its picturesque landscapes. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Visit the Blue Pond, where the frozen waters create a magical winter scene, surrounded by snow-covered trees. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Karuizawa is a popular mountain resort known for its beautiful nature and European-style architecture. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Winter activities include skiing, ice-skating, and taking a leisurely walk in the snow at Karuizawa Prince Snow Resort.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Ginzan Onsen is a secluded hot-spring town with a romantic, retro atmosphere. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The picturesque streets are lined with wooden inns and gas lamps, all capped with a blanket of snow, perfect for a winter getaway.<\/p>\n\n\n\n During your Japan winter itinerary, you definitely should not miss the most famous snow festival of the country, the Sapporo Snow Festival. <\/p>\n\n\n\n This annual event, held in early February, features magnificent snow and ice sculptures created by both professional artists and local residents. <\/p>\n\n\n\n You’ll be amazed by the gigantic masterpieces and detailed carvings illuminated in breathtaking light displays.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Another remarkable event to include in your winter trip to Japan is the Yokote Kamakura Festival. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Held annually in mid-February in Akita Prefecture, this unique festival features hundreds of small snow huts, known as kamakura<\/em>, scattered across the city. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Stepping into these igloo-like structures, you’ll find that inside each one, there is an altar with offerings dedicated to the water deity. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The warm glow of candles within the kamakura creates a magical atmosphere as you wander through the snow-covered landscape.<\/p>\n\n\n\n During the Yokote Kamakura Festival, you can also experience traditional Japanese customs, such as eating mochi<\/em> (rice cake) or trying amazake<\/em> (sweet, non-alcoholic sake). <\/p>\n\n\n\n Additionally, there are several larger kamakura with sitting areas, where you can interact with local people and learn more about their customs and traditions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you’re a winter sports enthusiast, skiing and snowboarding are must-dos in your Japan autumn itinerary. <\/p>\n\n\n\n With plenty of powdery snow and famous ski resorts across the country, you are sure to have a thrilling time. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Especially, Hokkaido and Nagano are popular destinations for these activities. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Remember to prepare the right gear and plan your trip around the snow season, which typically starts around mid-December.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A trip to Japan isn’t complete without soaking in a traditional Japanese hot spring, known as onsen. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Autumn is the perfect time to visit these soothing baths, as the cool weather complements the warm waters. <\/p>\n\n\n\n You can find onsens all over Japan, but some of the most notable ones include Hakone, Beppu, and Kusatsu. <\/p>\n\n\n\n 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. <\/p>\n\n\n\n After the relaxing soak, take time to enjoy local delicacies and beautiful surrounding sceneries.<\/p>\n\n\n\n During your winter trip to Japan, indulging in warm and comforting dishes is an absolute must. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Be sure to treat yourself to these popular Japanese winter foods as they will make your cold-weather adventure even more memorable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Oden<\/strong> is a beloved winter dish found at cozy izakayas, street stalls, and even convenience stores. <\/p>\n\n\n\n It features an assortment of ingredients, such as boiled eggs, daikon radish, and fishcakes, simmered in a flavorful broth. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Each item soaks up the broth’s umami-rich goodness, making every bite a warming delight.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Another hearty dish is nabe<\/strong>, a traditional Japanese hot pot.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Various ingredients like meat, seafood, and vegetables are cooked in a simmering broth at your table. <\/p>\n\n\n\n As you enjoy the meal with your friends or family, the bubbling pot brings warmth and togetherness on chilly nights.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Don’t miss out on trying sukiyaki<\/strong>, a classic Japanese dish made with thinly sliced beef, tofu, vegetables, and noodles. <\/p>\n\n\n\n They’re all cooked together in a sweet and savory soy sauce-based broth. <\/p>\n\n\n\n To fully savor sukiyaki, dip the cooked ingredients into a beaten raw egg before eating.<\/p>\n\n\n\n To satisfy your sweet tooth, look for shiruko<\/strong> or red bean soup. <\/p>\n\n\n\n This thick and sweet dessert has a base of smooth azuki bean paste and is often served with mochi rice cakes. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Shiruko will leave you feeling satisfied and warmed up from the inside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Lastly, consider grabbing some yakiimo<\/strong>, roasted sweet potatoes. <\/p>\n\n\n\n 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n To make planning easier, we put together several Japan winter itinerary samples for various trip lengths. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Click here to skip:<\/p>\n\n\n\n or:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Tip:<\/strong> This tour<\/a><\/strong> takes care of everything for your stay in Nikko, including transport from Tokyo.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Tip:<\/strong> This tour<\/strong><\/a> will have you covered when exploring Kanazawa so you don’t have to worry about a thing! Check it out here.<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Tip: <\/strong>If you prefer to not move around as much and spend two nights in Kanazawa, you can also choose this private tour<\/a><\/strong> of Shrikawa-Go instead. It starts and ends in Kanazawa.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Tip: <\/strong>If you want to cover as much ground in Tokyo as possible in one day, this tour is a wonderful way to do it.<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n or:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Tip:<\/strong> This tour<\/a><\/strong> takes care of everything for your stay in Nikko, including transport from Tokyo.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Tip:<\/strong> This tour<\/strong><\/a> will have you covered when exploring Kanazawa so you don’t have to worry about a thing! Check it out here.<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
Reasons to Visit Japan in Winter<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Destinations to include on your Japan Winter itinerary<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
1. Kanazawa, Ishikawa<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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2. Nikko, Tochigi<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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3. Shirakawa-go, Gifu<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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4. Otaru, Hokkaido<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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5. Yunishigawa, Tochigi<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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6. Sapporo, Hokkaido<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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7. Oirase Gorge, Aomori<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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8. Zao Onsen, Yamagata<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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9. Takayama, Gifu<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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10. Hakuba, Nagano<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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11. Biei, Hokkaido<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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12. Karuizawa, Nagano<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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13. Ginzan Onsen, Yamagata<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Snow Festivals to Include on Your Japan Autumn Itinerary<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Sapporo Snow Festival<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Yokote Kamakura Festival<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Unique Things to Do in Your Japan Autumn Itinerary<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Skiing and Snowboarding<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Onsens<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Must-Try Winter Foods in Japan<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Japan Winter Itinerary Samples<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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5 Day Japan Winter Itinerary<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Day 1: Tokyo – Nikko<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
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Day 2: Nikko – Yunishigawa<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
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Day 3: Yunishigawa – Kanazawa<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
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Day 4: Kanazawa – Shirakawa-go<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
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Day 5: Shirakawa-go – Tokyo<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
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6 Day Japan Winter Itinerary<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Day 1: Tokyo – Nikko<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
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Day 2: Nikko – Yunishigawa<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
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Day 3: Yunishigawa – Kanazawa<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
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Day 4: Kanazawa – Oirase Gorge<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
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Day 5: Aomori – Zao Onsen<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
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Day 6: Zao Onsen – Tokyo<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
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8 Day Japan Winter Itinerary<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Days 1-4: Same as 6 Day Itinerary<\/h4>\n\n\n\n