If you are planning a winter trip to Japan, you will discover that the colder months offer some of the country’s most memorable experiences. Snowy towns, warm hot springs, and seasonal festivals create a different kind of charm that many travelers end up loving more than spring or fall.
This list walks you through 13 places worth adding to your itinerary if you want a winter trip filled with nature, culture, and good food.
1. Zao Snow Monsters, Yamagata
Zao is known for its snow monsters, which are actually evergreen trees coated in layers of frozen snow. When the weather aligns, they take on unique shapes along the mountainside and create a winter landscape you cannot see elsewhere. A ropeway ride gets you close to the formations, which look even more dramatic at sunset.
The resort town below gives you places to relax after exploring the mountain. You can ski, walk around the village, or enjoy a warm meal before heading back to your hotel. Wearing a lightweight thermal top helps you stay comfortable in the colder temperatures from the mountaintop to the base town.
2. Shirakawa-go, Gifu
Shirakawa-go is a village known for its steep thatched-roof farmhouses built to withstand heavy snow. When winter arrives, the rooftops turn white and the entire village feels like a storybook setting. Some houses operate as museums and give you a closer look at traditional life in this region.
You can also stay overnight in one of the farmhouses for a quiet winter escape. The village becomes even more peaceful once day-trip crowds leave, so spending a full day lets you enjoy it at your own pace. Many travelers also come for the winter illuminations, which make the houses glow against the snow.
3. Yokote, Akita
Yokote receives some of the heaviest snowfall in northern Japan and becomes lively each February during the Yokote Kamakura Festival. The event features glowing snow huts that line neighborhoods throughout the city. Larger kamakura are open for visitors to enter, where locals serve amazake and warm mochi.
The festival also extends to Yokote Castle, which gets decorated with special lighting for the season. Walking through the illuminated streets gives you a simple but memorable winter experience. Since temperatures drop quickly at night, it helps to bring a warm scarf or extra layer.
4. Jigokudani Monkey Park, Nagano
Jigokudani is best known for the snow monkeys that soak in natural hot springs. The macaques bathe year-round, but winter is the most iconic time to see them surrounded by snow. The walk to the hot spring area is part of the experience and takes you through a forested path.
Because the trail gets icy, good footwear is important for the hike. January and February offer the highest chance of seeing the monkeys in the steaming onsen. For extra warmth and better traction, consider insulated winter trekking boots.
5. Kamakura Snow Hut Village, Nagano
In Iiyama, a seasonal snow hut village appears each winter and serves as a one-of-a-kind restaurant. About 20 igloo-style domes are set up along a snowy field, each with seating inside for a cozy dining experience. Visitors enjoy a local hot pot called noroshi nabe, which is a hearty dish perfect for cold weather.
The setting gives you a peaceful view of the Japanese Alps as you eat inside your own snow hut. Each dome has enough space for small groups, making it a great choice for families or couples. The village opens only for a short period, so making reservations early is recommended.
6. Nabana no Sato Illuminations, Mie
Nabana no Sato transforms into one of Japan’s biggest winter illumination shows. The gardens light up with millions of LEDs arranged into tunnels, waterfalls and glowing landscapes. Visitors often stay for hours because each section feels different from the last.
Since the illumination runs until May, you can visit even if your winter trip falls after the holidays. The light tunnel is a favorite for many travelers because of its serene glow. Comfortable shoes can make the walk more enjoyable since the park covers a large area.
7. Yunishigawa Onsen, Tochigi
Yunishigawa Onsen is a peaceful hot spring town that becomes magical during its winter kamakura festival. Hundreds of small snow huts line the riverbed and illuminate the night once candles are lit inside. The quiet atmosphere makes it ideal for travelers who want something slower and more intimate than large city festivals.
You can also enjoy the town’s ryokan, many of which offer riverside views and outdoor baths. Soaking in a hot spring surrounded by snow is one of the highlights of visiting this area. The festival typically runs from late January to early March, giving you plenty of time to plan a stop.
8. Sapporo Snow Festival, Hokkaido
The Sapporo Snow Festival is one of Japan’s most famous winter events. For one week in February, massive snow sculptures fill Odori Park and the Susukino district. Some sculptures are as large as buildings and feature detailed designs that draw visitors from around the world.
The event also includes food stalls, ice slides and special nighttime illuminations. Families, couples and groups all find something to enjoy because the festival covers several city blocks. Warmer nights often get crowded, so visiting on a weekday can give you more space to explore.
9. Otaru, Hokkaido
Otaru hosts the Snow Light Path Festival, which gives the port city a warm glow despite the cold weather. The main canal becomes the centerpiece as floating candles drift along the water. Snow lanterns line the pathways and create a quiet mood that contrasts with larger festivals.
The city’s historic warehouse district looks especially beautiful during the event. You can walk through smaller lantern paths spread around town, each with its own display. Many visitors also enjoy stopping into nearby cafes for warm drinks after exploring the canal area.
10. Kenrokuen, Ishikawa
Kenrokuen is considered one of Japan’s great gardens and is known for its seasonal beauty. In winter, the garden gets covered in snow and becomes a calm, reflective space for visitors. The iconic rope supports on the pine trees protect branches from breaking under the weight of snow and make the landscape instantly recognizable.
Evenings sometimes feature light-up events that highlight the garden’s ponds, bridges and trees. Small winter concerts are held occasionally at the teahouse, giving visitors a cultural experience while staying warm. Walking paths are well maintained, making it easy to see the garden even after a light snowfall.
11. Ginzan Onsen, Yamagata
Ginzan Onsen is a historic hot spring town lined with traditional ryokan. When snow falls, the wooden buildings and bridges look especially charming. The riverside path is pedestrian-only, which makes exploring more pleasant and safe.
Many travelers come specifically for the nighttime views when the old-style lamps reflect off the river. Staying overnight lets you enjoy the town before daytime visitors arrive. A packable down jacket is useful here since the evenings can get cold.
12. Shiretoko National Park, Hokkaido
Shiretoko offers one of Japan’s most unique winter experiences through drift ice viewing. The drift ice travels south from Russia and brings with it seabirds and other wildlife. Joining an ice cruise lets you see the landscape from the water and gives you a different perspective of the region.
Guided tours allow you to walk on the ice when conditions are safe. The park feels remote in winter, which is appealing if you prefer nature-focused trips. Since winter can be unpredictable, checking weather updates before heading out helps you plan better.
13. Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, Toyama
The Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route is famous for its snow corridor, even though it opens in spring. The snow walls can reach impressive heights, sometimes up to 20 meters depending on the year. Walking through the corridor almost feels like stepping into a frozen canyon.
The rest of the route offers views of mountains, lakes and valleys that change throughout the season. Visitors enjoy taking photos along the walkway because the snow contrasts sharply with the bright sky. If you enjoy scenic routes, this one gives you a view that stands out from other mountain areas in Japan.
Final Thoughts
Winter in Japan gives you access to experiences that feel completely different from other seasons. Whether you enjoy festivals, hot springs, snowy landscapes or quiet small towns, you will find something memorable in every region. With the right layers, a flexible schedule and a curiosity for exploring, your winter itinerary can be one of your most enjoyable trips.