Winter is one of the best times to see Japan: skies are often clear, the cities are quieter outside the New Year week, and the north and the mountains are deep in snow. The best 7-day winter itinerary combines a few days in Tokyo with snow country — either the Japan Alps around Nagano, with its snow monkeys and hot springs, or Hokkaido — and at least one night in an onsen inn.
The Japan Alps version (by train)
- Days 1–2: Tokyo. The city in winter is crisp and bright, with illuminations in many districts. On a clear day, Mt Fuji is visible from high viewpoints.
- Day 3: Nagano and the snow monkeys. Take the shinkansen to Nagano, around 1 hour 30 minutes, and continue to the Jigokudani Monkey Park, where wild macaques bathe in the hot springs.
- Day 4: Onsen town. Stay in a nearby hot-spring town such as Shibu Onsen, with its wooden inns and public baths.
- Day 5: Snow or castle. Ski or snowshoe at a nearby resort, or visit Matsumoto and its black castle.
- Days 6–7: Back to Tokyo, or on to Kyoto. Kyoto in winter is at its quietest, and a light snowfall on its temples is a rare sight.
The Hokkaido version (with one flight)
- Days 1–2: Tokyo.
- Day 3: Fly to Sapporo, around 1 hour 30 minutes. In early February, the Sapporo Snow Festival fills the city with snow and ice sculptures.
- Day 4: Otaru, a canal town under an hour away by train.
- Days 5–6: Onsen or ski. Stay at a hot-spring resort such as Noboribetsu, or ski at Niseko, famous for its powder snow.
- Day 7: Fly home, from Sapporo or via Tokyo.
Our winter festivals guide has more on the season's events.
What to pack
Winter in Tokyo and Kyoto is cold but rarely snowy; in the Alps and Hokkaido it is properly cold. Bring a warm, windproof jacket, layers you can take off in heated trains and buildings, gloves and a hat, and waterproof shoes with good grip for snow and ice.
Booking tips
The New Year holidays, from about 28 December to 3 January, and the February weeks around the Sapporo Snow Festival are the busiest of the winter. Ski resorts fill early for Christmas and the January school holidays in many countries. Book onsen inns and ski accommodation well ahead, and allow a flexible day in case snow delays transport. The best time to visit Japan guide compares winter with the other seasons, and the Japan travel guide links every planning page.
FAQ
Is winter a good time to visit Japan? Yes. Skies are often clear, the cities are quieter outside the New Year week, and the north and mountains offer snow, skiing and hot springs.
Where can I see snow in Japan in winter? Hokkaido, the Japan Alps around Nagano, and northern Japan, usually from December to March. Tokyo and Kyoto see snow only occasionally.
When can I see the snow monkeys? They visit the hot springs at the Jigokudani Monkey Park all year, but winter, when they bathe surrounded by snow, is the classic time.
When is the Sapporo Snow Festival? It is usually held in early February. Check the official dates each year and book hotels well in advance.
Planning a winter trip to Japan for yourself, your family or your clients? Write to b2b@explera.jp or message us on WhatsApp at +66 93 656 8090 with your dates and group size, and we will reply within 24 hours. Explera is a destination management company for Japan — IATA TIDS 96215733, ASTA member 900408341.
