Winter (December–February) Travel Guide: Enjoying Winter Sports and the Season in Japan

Japan’s winter is a charming season filled with snowy landscapes, hot springs, and winter sports. Hokkaido and Nagano are particularly famous worldwide as top destinations for skiing and snowboarding.

Winter Highlights

Skiing and snowboarding are popular in Hokkaido and the Japanese Alps (Nagano, Niigata, etc.)
Temperatures are generally low nationwide, and even cities can drop below freezing in the mornings and evenings
Enjoy warming experiences like hot pot dishes and relaxing in hot springs

Top Winter Sports Destinations

Hokkaido: Niseko, Furano, Rusutsu
Nagano: Hakuba, Nozawa Onsen, Shiga Kogen
Niigata: Naeba, Echigo Yuzawa

These destinations are known for excellent snow quality and attract many international tourists.

Clothing and Essentials

🧥 Essential Winter Gear

Thick coat or down jacket
Gloves, scarf, knit hat
Insulating inner layers

👢 Footwear Tips

Bring non-slip shoes or waterproof boots for snowy paths

Winter Activities

Relax in hot springs while enjoying snowy views
Warm up with hot pot dishes or oden
Visit winter illuminations or attend snow festivals

Summary

Winter (December–February) in Japan offers winter sports, hot springs, and seasonal cuisine. Prepare with proper winter clothing to fully enjoy a unique snowy Japanese experience.

❄️ Tip: Even in cities, temperatures can be cold, so always carry a thick coat.

📌 References