Best Things to do in Japan During Winter

During Winter, Japan is very cold and snowy in the nothern areas. However, the weather will not prevent you from doing your activities and visiting many places. You still can enjoy the beautiful winter going to the famous Sapporo Snow Festivel, strolling trhough a christmas market, or event doing some skiing, eating seasonal Japanese foods, and seeing the christmas illuminations.
Also, there's the possibility to enjoy the Hatsumōde, celebrating New Year like a local in a shinto shrine.

Here's a small list of some of the best things you can do when you visit Japan during the winter. Please keep these in mind when planning your trip.

Jigokudani Monkey Park

Wild Japanese macaque monkeys searching for warmth soak in an “onsen” in a valley covered with deep snow. The park is popular as many people from around the world visit after seeing the famous pictures of the monkeys sitting in the hot springs.

Myoko Highland

Myoko Highland is famous for its 8 unique ski resorts. Spreading out at the foot of Mount Myoko is a resort area that can be enjoyed throughout the four seasons. You can also enjoy soaking in the hot springs and hiking in the summertime.

Manza Onsen

This is Japan’s highest hot springs at 1800m and the water quality has the country’s highest concentration of sulfur. This double impact that Japan’s No. 1 Manza Onsen has, is great in the summer as a relaxing resort and in the winter as a snowboarding resort.

Sapporo Snow Festival

One of the largest events in Hokkaido for which more than 2 million people visit annually. Plenty of events where you can encounter huge snow and ice sculptures only to be found in an environment rich in snow.

Niseko Village Ski Resort

The super popular ski resort will satisfy even the most advanced of skiers. The high-quality powder snow is the selling point. In 2014, a shopping area reminiscent of an old Japanese town was also opened.