Japan in Winter: 7 Things to Book in Advance
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Winter is one of the best times to visit Japan: clear skies in Tokyo, deep powder snow in the north, and steaming hot springs. But the most popular winter experiences have limited capacity, and some need reservations weeks ahead. Here's what to sort out before you fly.
1. Hotels for the Sapporo Snow Festival (early February)
The Sapporo Snow Festival is held every year in early February, with large snow and ice sculptures across the city. Hotels in central Sapporo fill up months in advance, so book as soon as your dates are fixed. Check the official festival site for exact dates.
2. Shirakawa-go winter light-up
The thatched-roof farmhouses of Shirakawa-go (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) are lit up on a handful of evenings in January and February. Visits on light-up nights require advance reservations. The easiest option is a bus tour that includes the reservation, often from Takayama, Kanazawa or Nagoya.
3. Snow monkeys (Jigokudani, Nagano)
Wild Japanese macaques bathing in hot springs is one of the most famous winter sights in Japan. You can do it by public transport, but a day tour from Tokyo saves a lot of planning in the snow.
4. Ski and snowboard passes, rentals and transfers
Niseko and Furano (Hokkaido) and Hakuba (Nagano) are known worldwide for powder snow. Booking lift passes, gear rental and airport transfers ahead saves time on arrival during the busy weeks around New Year and Chinese New Year.
5. A ryokan with an onsen
A night at a traditional inn (ryokan) with a hot spring is a winter highlight. Popular ryokan, especially ones with private open-air baths, book out early for weekends and holidays.
6. Winter illuminations
From November to February, cities and parks across Japan put on large light displays. Most city illuminations are free, but some of the larger events and the tours that visit them are ticketed.
7. New Year's (Dec 29 – Jan 3) logistics
The New Year holiday is Japan's biggest travel period. Trains are crowded, many restaurants and shops close for a few days, and prices peak. Reserve Shinkansen seats and accommodation early, and plan a few meals ahead.
Don't forget: stay connected
Maps and train apps are essential in snowy, rural areas where free WiFi is rare. See eSIM vs pocket WiFi for Japan to choose the right option.
Winter packing tips
- Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka are cold but rarely snowy. A warm coat is enough.
- Hokkaido and the Japan Alps get heavy snow. Bring waterproof boots with good grip.
- Heat packs (kairo) are sold cheaply at every convenience store.
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- Best Japanese snack box gift for the holidays
- Gifts for anime fans shipped from Japan
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