Experience a Magical Winter in Japan!
When it’s time for winter in Japan, the entire country undergoes an enchanting transformation, with snow covering every inch of the land and creating a breathtaking snowy wonderland. ⛄Locals bundle up in colorful scarves and coats, twinkling illuminations and festive decorations bring cities to life, and the aromas of seasonal delicacies like nabe hot pots and roasted sweet potatoes fill the air. ❄
Whether you're exploring the snowy slopes of Hokkaido's majestic mountains or immersing yourself in the lively ice festivals of Sapporo, Japan offers a plethora of opportunities to indulge in the magic of winter. 🌟 If you're planning a snowy Japan itinerary, include these top eight experiences on the list to fully embrace this magnificent season's beauty.
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Superb Stays in Sapporo:
1. Sapporo’s Dazzling Annual Snow Festival
Source: Sapporo’s Snow Festival
At the beginning of February, head to Sapporo on the northern island of Hokkaido for the city’s epic annual Snow Festival. 🧊 Sprawling through sites like Odori Park, you’ll find hundreds of towering frozen sculptures and artistic ice creations illuminated in dazzling colors at night. Local vendors sell piping hot snacks like grilled corn 🌽 and cake-baked potatoes as you explore this lively attraction during winter in Japan.
2. Historic Canals and Herring Mansions of Otaru
Source: Otaru Tourism Association Website
Just north of Sapporo, the port town of Otaru is a must-visit for its charming cobblestoned canal lined with late 19th and early 20th century buildings. 🏯 Walk along the picturesque canal, taking in views of the Otaru Bridge. As part of your Japan itinerary, peruse the many glassblowing workshops and music box stores 🎶 along Sakaimachi Street's historic herring merchant district.
3. Breathtaking Scenery Around Lake Toya
At the picturesque Lake Toya in southwestern Hokkaido, marvel at the stunning natural landscapes during winter in Japan. 💦 Take the Usuzan Ropeway up Mount Usu for sweeping vistas of the scenic volcanic crater lake, or soak in the open-air Toya Sunpalace Onsen bath with lake views. At night, see Nakajima Island glow with ethereal illuminations. 🌅
4. Hot Spring Therapy in Noboribetsu Onsen
Source: Visit Hokkaido Website
In the volcanic region of Noboribetsu, south of Sapporo, this hot spring town boasts some of Japan's best onsen. ♨ Relieve fatigue and immerse yourself in the relaxing mineral waters that average around 40.5°C year-round, including the popular Shōrai no Yu open-air bath. 😌 The smell of sulfur-releasing toxins hangs in the air as snow blankets the surrounding forests and hills during winter in Japan!
5. Panoramic City Views from Mt. Hakodate
Source: Japan National Tourism Organization Website
Looking for breathtaking views of the city surrounded by sea and mountains? 🌄 We also have the ideal Japan itinerary for you. Take the scenic 3-minute cable car ride up Mt. Hakodate in southern Hokkaido. 🚋 Once at the summit, you can look across Hakodate Bay and the Motomachi historic district from several viewing platforms during the day and sparkling with lights at night.
Klook tip: Come in the late afternoon to catch the sunset and stay for dinner at one of the peak's restaurants.
6. Iconic Winter Scenery in Biei and Furano
Some of Japan's most idyllic winter vistas await in the countryside towns of Biei and Furano. 🌾 Snap iconic shots of puffy white fields, the Blue Pond reflecting snow-dusted trees, the curving Patchwork Road framed with white, and dramatic blowing drifts. Visit on a sunny day after fresh snowfall for the most spectacular scenery of winter in Japan. 🤩
7. Epic Ice Sculptures at Asahikawa Winter Festival
Source: Japan National Tourism Organization Website
Every February in Hokkaido’s Asahikawa, wander through a glittering world of ice artworks and illuminations at the Asahikawa Winter Festival. 🎇 See massive carved ice sculptures, fantasy castles and caves, reindeer sleigh rides, frozen works by international artists, and more at this vibrant cold-weather celebration. 🌬️Experiencing winter in Japan is truly awe-inspiring!
8. Relaxing Snow Country Onsen along the Tokachi River
Source: Tokachigawa Onsen Tourist Association Website
If you skipped the Noboribetsu Onsen, you can still experience this soothing activity during winter in Japan. 🥶 After outdoor adventures, rest and rejuvenate body and mind amidst pristine snowy scenery, soaking in the natural hot springs along southern Hokkaido's Tokachi River. Choose from over a dozen riverside Onsen resorts and hotels with scenic baths to unwind in wintry bliss. 🧘🏻♂️
Written by: Zarah Isibelle Faderon
