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What Are the Winter Months in Japan? December to February
The winter months in Japan are generally December, January, and February. This is when the entire country is at its coldest!
However, since Japan stretches far from north to south, the actual start and end of winter can vary quite a bit depending on the region:
✔ Hokkaido is the first to get snow, with winter often starting in November and lasting until March or even early April.
✔ Tohoku's winter also starts early, typically in early November, and lasts until around March.
✔ The Hokuriku region (like Toyama, Ishikawa, and Fukui Prefectures) and Nagano usually start seeing snow in late November to early December.
✔ In warmer regions like Kanto, Kansai, Chugoku, and Shikoku, winter is mostly concentrated from December to February.
✔ Okinawa, with its subtropical climate, barely experiences a traditional winter. The months from December to February are simply the coolest time of the year there.
Japan in Winter Weather: A Tale of Two Climates
Let me show you the weather in Japan in winter. Well, because Japan is a long string of islands, the climate is totally different depending on where you go. It's like having a whole bunch of countries rolled into one!
Huge Regional Climate Differences: Snow in the North & Sunshine in the South
To make things simple, think of Japan as a few different zones. The Japan weather in winter really changes from north to south:
| Region | Major City | Avg. Temp | Japan in Winter Weather Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hokkaido, Tohoku & Hokuriku | Sapporo | -5°C to 5°C | A globally renowned heavy snowfall region. It's often cloudy or snowy with a distinctly damp, cold feel. |
| Kanto & Kansai | Tokyo, Osaka | 5°C to 12°C | Mostly clear and dry with large temperature swings between day and night. Snow is rare in the cities. |
| Central Honshu Mountains | Nagoya, Takayama | -5°C to 5°C | This area has an extreme inland climate, with very low temperatures and a huge day-night temperature gap. |
| Okinawa | Naha | 17°C to 20°C | Subtropical climate with no real winter. The season is mild, sunny, and dry, making it perfect for escaping the cold. |
- Snow Country (Hokkaido, Tohoku & Hokuriku)
This is our famous "heavy snow region." From December to February, it's a paradise for snow lovers!
In the far north, like Hokkaido, the snow is that light, fluffy powder that skiers dream about. Down south in Hokuriku, it can be a little wetter.
Just be ready for lots of cloudy days and temperatures that stay close to freezing.
Hokkaido in Winter | Best Ski Resorts, Onsens & Festivals
- The Main Cities (Kanto & Kansai)
If you're visiting Tokyo or Osaka, you'll find the weather to be surprisingly pleasant! The days are often bright and sunny, so you can enjoy walking around and sightseeing.
The air is cool and refreshing, but once the sun goes down, the temperature drops fast. Be sure to bundle up at night!
- Mountain Regions (Central Honshu)
Thinking of visiting places like Nagano or Shirakawa-go? The cold here is serious!
It's a dry cold, but the temperatures can be a shock. The snow looks amazing, and it stays on the ground all winter, making everything look like a picture from a fairytale.
- Tropical Okinawa
If you hate the cold, come here! Okinawa doesn't have a real winter. The days are sunny and warm, making it the perfect place to relax on a beach or take a break from the colder parts of your trip.
Japan Weather in Winter (December): The Winter Warm-Up
This is when the chill starts to set in. It's the beginning of winter, and the air is dry and crisp.
You'll see the first snowfalls in the north, and ski resorts start opening up, but in the big cities, it's mostly just cool and sunny.
| Region | Major City | Japan Winter Temperature | Snowfall in Japan in Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hokkaido, Tohoku & Hokuriku | Sapporo | -5°C to 0°C | First snowfalls begin to accumulate, and ski resorts open. |
| Central Honshu Mountains | Nagoya, Takayama | -3°C to 3°C | Early snowpack begins to form, becoming quite deep by the end of the month. |
| Kanto & Kansai | Tokyo, Osaka | 5°C to 12°C | Almost no snow; it's mostly dry and cold with sunny skies. |
| Okinawa | Naha | 18°C to 22°C | - |
Visiting Japan in December: Weather, Attractions & Itineraries
Japan Weather in Winter (January): The Deep Freeze
This is our coldest month in Japan in winter! The cold fronts are at their peak, so if you're a snow fan, this is your time!
Hokkaido gets its best powder, the mountains are blanketed in snow, and even Tokyo might get a light dusting (though it almost never sticks!).
| Region | Major City | Japan Winter Temperature | Snowfall in Japan in Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hokkaido, Tohoku & Hokuriku | Sapporo | -10°C to -5°C (nighttime lows can reach -15°C) | Peak snowfall season with the deepest accumulation and excellent snow quality. |
| Central Honshu Mountains | Nagoya, Takayama | -8°C to -1°C (nighttime lows can reach -10°C) | Deepest snowpack with dry snow. Mountain roads can become icy. |
| Kanto & Kansai | Tokyo, Osaka | 2°C to 8°C (nights often approach or drop below 0°C) | The month most likely to see snow, though it rarely sticks for long. |
| Okinawa | Naha | 16°C to 19°C | - |
Japan January Weather 2026: Is It too Cold to Visit Japan in January?
Japan Weather in Winter (February): The Home Stretch
The cold is still here, but you can feel spring on the way! The days get longer and sunnier, and the temperatures start to creep up, especially towards the end of the month.
It's a good time for sightseeing, with beautiful clear skies and snow still on the ground for that classic winter feeling.
| Region | Major City | Japan Winter Temperature | Snowfall in Japan in Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hokkaido, Tohoku & Hokuriku | Sapporo | -5°C to 0°C (may return to 0°C by month's end) | The end of the snow season. Snowfall continues but lessens, and the snow quality is still great. |
| Central Honshu Mountains | Nagoya, Takayama | -5°C to 2°C (huge day-night temperature swings) | Snowpack is still very deep, but with less new snow and more sunshine, making for beautiful scenery. |
| Kanto & Kansai | Tokyo, Osaka | 5°C to 12°C | - |
| Okinawa | Naha | 17°C to 20°C | - |
Japan in Feb Weather (2026): Where Snowflakes Meet Sakura!
The Best Places to Visit in Japan in Winter: Your Perfect Winter Destination
Now let's talk about the most fun part—where to go in Japan in winter! Whether you're a snow lover, a culture enthusiast, or just want to escape the cold, there's an ideal spot for you!
| Best For | Where to Go | Why You'll Love It |
|---|---|---|
| Snow Lovers | Hokkaido, Tohoku | World-class powder snow, skiing, and incredible snow festivals. |
| City & Culture | Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto | Enjoy urban life, shopping, and delicious food without heavy snow or large crowds. |
| Early Sakura | Izu Peninsula | See beautiful, early-blooming cherry blossoms while relaxing in an onsen. |
| Nature & Culture Mix | Nagano, Gifu | Witness snowy mountain landscapes and traditional villages, plus hot spring-soaking monkeys! |
| Escaping the Cold | Okinawa | Experience warm, subtropical weather and sunny days perfect for a relaxed getaway. |
Top Japan Winter Festivals to Warm Up Your Trip to Japan in Winter
The cold is no match for our festive spirit! Japan winter festivals are a fantastic way to warm up and experience the season like a local.
Here are some of my favorites, organized by region.
| Region | Japan Winter Festivals | Venue | Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hokkaido | Sapporo Snow Festival | Odori Park (main site), TSUDOME site (snow activities), Susukino site (ice sculptures) | Early Feb |
| Otaru Snow Light Path Festival | Otaru Canal & former Temiya line, Hokkaido | Early to mid Feb | |
| Hakodate Winter Fireworks | Goryokaku Park, Hakodate | Feb 1, 8, 15 & 22 (20:00-20:15) | |
| Tohoku | Zao Juhyo Festival | Yamagata Prefecture | Late Dec to early Mar |
| Kanto / Kansai | Chichibu Night Festival | Chichibu City, Saitama Prefecture | Dec 2-3 |
| Christmas Illuminations & Markets | Roppongi, Omotesando, Shiodome, etc. | Early Dec to Dec 25 | |
| Hatsumode (First Shrine Visit) | Shrines like Zojoji Temple, Meiji Jingu Shrine, Senso-ji Temple, Fushimi Inari Shrine, Yasaka Shrine | Jan 1-3 | |
| Mt. Fuji Lake Kawaguchi Winter Fireworks | Oike Park, Lake Kawaguchi | Feb 1, 2, 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, 23 (20:00-20:20) | |
| Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival | Kawazu Riverbank, Shizuoka | Feb 1-28 | |
| Central Honshu | Shirakawa-go Light-up | Shirakawa-go, Gifu Prefecture | Specific weekends from mid-Jan to early Feb |
Sapporo Snow Festival: This is our most famous winter event, drawing millions of people! You'll be amazed by the incredible snow and ice sculptures that take over Odori Park and Susukino, ranging from small art pieces to massive, intricate buildings.
Otaru Snow Light Path Festival: If you're looking for romance, this is it! The old Otaru Canal and former Temiya railway line are lined with thousands of soft, glowing lanterns and snow sculptures, creating a magical and serene atmosphere.
Hakodate Winter Fireworks: What's better than fireworks in the winter? Enjoy a spectacular fireworks display over Goryokaku Park!
Zao Juhyo Festival: Head up the mountain in Yamagata Prefecture to see the amazing Juhyo, or "snow monsters"—trees completely covered in thick snow and ice. It's like visiting another world!
Chichibu Night Festival: One of Japan's most celebrated float festivals, the Chichibu Night Festival is a UNESCO-listed event you don't want to miss. Watch as huge, beautifully decorated floats are pulled through the streets at night, lit up by hundreds of lanterns.
Christmas Illuminations & Markets: In Tokyo, places like Roppongi, Omotesando, and Shiodome are transformed into dreamy winter wonderlands with dazzling light displays and festive markets.
Hatsumode (First Shrine Visit): Start your new year the Japanese way! On January 1st to 3rd, people visit a shrine or temple for their first prayer of the year, asking for good fortune. Join the crowds at places like Meiji Jingu Shrine in Tokyo for a special experience.
Mt. Fuji Lake Kawaguchi Winter Fireworks: The view is everything! Imagine a dazzling fireworks display lighting up the night sky with the iconic silhouette of Mt. Fuji in the background.
Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival: We told you cherry blossoms aren't just for spring! In the town of Kawazu, you can enjoy the first cherry blossoms of the year along the riverbank, a full month before the rest of the country.
Kawazu Sakura (Festival 2026): Earliest Cherry Blossoms in Japan
Shirakawa-go Light-up: This is a true fairy-tale event. On specific weekends, the traditional thatched-roof farmhouses of Shirakawa-go are beautifully lit up, casting a warm glow on the snow-covered landscape.
So, What to Do in Japan in Winter? More Than Just Snow!
Now for the best part—the fun! The cold weather just means there are more ways to enjoy your trip. The list of things to do in Japan in winter is endless, from snowy adventures to cozy, indoor activities.
1. Soak in a Steaming Onsen
This is my favorite part of a winter in Japan trip!
Imagine this: you're sitting in a steaming hot bath, surrounded by a peaceful, snow-covered landscape. The warm water soothes every muscle, while the cool, crisp air is impossibly fresh on your face.
For this incredible experience, head to places like Hakone, Noboribetsu, or the serene Ginzan Onsen in Tohoku.
Don't miss the adorable snow monkeys warming up in their own hot spring at Jigokudani Monkey Park in Nagano—it's an unforgettable sight that will make for a great story back home!
2. Catch the Clearest View of a Snow-Capped Mt. Fuji
The snow-capped peak of Mount Fuji is an iconic sight, but seeing it in winter is a whole different experience. The cold, dry air provides the clearest, most spectacular views of the mountain!
With a fresh blanket of snow, its symmetrical cone looks like a true masterpiece, a perfect photo opportunity you'll cherish forever. Head to a famous viewing spot like Lake Kawaguchi or to admire its beauty from a distance.
3. Hit the Slopes for the World's Best Powder
If you love snow, you're in the right place! Japan in winter is a paradise for winter sports.
The famous "Japow" (Japan Powder Snow) is some of the best in the world, and you can find it at world-class resorts in Hokkaido and Nagano. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a total beginner, the slopes are fantastic.
After a day of epic runs, you can enjoy a delicious meal and relax in a cozy ski lodge, surrounded by beautiful, snow-capped mountains.
4. Get Festive with Japan's Magical Winter Festivals
The cold is no match for our festive spirit! You absolutely have to experience one of our famous Japan winter festivals.
You'll be amazed by the incredible snow and ice sculptures at the Sapporo Snow Festival—some of them are the size of buildings! For a truly romantic vibe, wander through the serene, lantern-lit streets of the Otaru Snow Light Path Festival.
Or, step into a real-life fairytale at the Shirakawa-go Light-up, where the traditional farmhouses glow in the night.
5. Join Millions for a New Year's Tradition (Hatsumode)
Start the new year with a traditional Japanese custom that is both spiritual and fun!
On January 1st, join the millions of people who visit a major shrine for their first prayer of the year, a custom called hatsumode. The atmosphere is amazing, with a mix of celebration and peaceful reflection.
For this experience, visit iconic places like Meiji Jingu Shrine or Senso-ji Temple in Tokyo, or the famous Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto.
6. Step into a Winter Fairy Tale in Japan's Old Towns
There's nothing more charming than an ancient village blanketed in fresh snow!
The quiet crunch of snow under your feet, the sight of traditional wooden houses with snowy roofs, and the warm glow of lanterns create a serene and romantic atmosphere.
Wander the historic streets of Takayama in Gifu Prefecture, visit the picturesque thatched-roof village of Miyama in Kyoto, or explore the samurai district in Kakunodate.
For an unforgettable sight, go to Kenrokuen Garden in Kanazawa after a fresh snowfall—it looks just like a painting.
7. Let the Christmas Illuminations Dazzle You
The cities of Japan really know how to put on a show for the holidays!
From early December, places like Tokyo's Roppongi, Omotesando, and Shiodome are transformed into dreamy winter wonderlands. You can wander through dazzling light tunnels, see huge, sparkling Christmas trees, and hear festive music playing.
In Osaka, you can find fantastic displays at Universal Studios Japan.
8. Ring in the New Year with a Bang!
Join the massive countdown at Tokyo's Shibuya Crossing! The energy is absolutely electric as thousands of people gather to celebrate together.
If you prefer a slightly more low-key but still exciting atmosphere, you can watch the special light-up at Tokyo Tower at midnight.
It's a great way to feel the incredible energy of the city and ring in the new year with a blast!
9. Hunt for the First Cherry Blossoms of the Year
Get a head start on spring! Head to the Izu Peninsula in late winter to see the early-blooming Kawazu cherry blossoms.
Unlike the more delicate Somei Yoshino blossoms, these flowers are a vibrant pink and have an earlier and longer blooming period. They bloom from early February to early March!
10. Go Whale Watching and Beach Walking in Okinawa
If you want to escape the cold altogether, fly to Okinawa!
While the rest of the country is in a winter wonderland, you can go whale watching and see majestic humpback whales migrating through the warm waters. It's a unique experience you won't get anywhere else in Japan during the winter.
You can also take a quiet, warm walk along one of Okinawa's beautiful, uncrowded beaches—the ultimate cold-weather escape.
Top 18 Things to Do in Japan: What to See & Top Attractions (2025 Guide)
How to Plan Your Japan in Winter Itinerary?
Now that you're an expert on Japan winter weather and what to do, let's talk about planning your trip! As your local pal, I've got a few top-tier Japan winter itinerary ideas that we've designed just for you.
7 Days Hokkaido Winter Tour: The Ultimate Winter Wonderland
The Route: Sapporo - Otaru - Lake Toya - Noboribetsu - Ski Resort - Sapporo
This tour is for snow lovers! Experience the Sapporo Snow Festival and Otaru's snow lanterns before enjoying a cozy onsen at Lake Toya and Noboribetsu. It's the perfect snowy escape.
7 Days Tokyo Nagano Ski Tour: The City and Ski Adventure
The Route: Tokyo - Mt. Fuji - Tokyo - Nagano - Tokyo
Combine city life with winter sports! Explore Tokyo, see a snow-capped Mt. Fuji, then hit the world-class ski slopes in Nagano. This itinerary offers the best of both worlds.
9 Days Japan Hot Spring Tour: Hakone Onsen & Arima Onsen
The Route: Tokyo - Hakone (Mt. Fuji) - Kyoto - Nara - Osaka - Kobe - Osaka
Unwind on a relaxing trip from Tokyo to Osaka. Soak in the famous onsen of Hakone and Arima while exploring the rich culture of Kyoto and Nara. A perfect blend of rest and culture.
What to Wear in Japan in Winter? Get Your Japan Winter Outfit Ideas
Deciding what to wear in Japan in winter is all about one thing: layering! The secret to a comfortable trip is dressing to handle the huge temperature difference between the chilly outdoors and the very warm indoors.
Here's your essential checklist to get your Japan winter outfit ready!
| Layers | What to Wear in Japan in Winter |
|---|---|
| Outer | A waterproof and windproof down jacket or a thick coat. |
| Middle | A sweater, fleece jacket, cardigan, or a lightweight inner down jacket. |
| Base | Thermal underwear (long sleeves and long pants) or a long-sleeved cotton shirt. |
| Pants | Thermal tights, long johns, or waterproof and windproof ski pants (if going to snow regions). |
| Footwear | Waterproof, non-slip winter boots (like snow boots) and wool or thick cotton socks. |
| Accessories | A wool or knit hat, scarf, gloves (waterproof is best), ear muffs (for those who get extra cold), heating pads, and sunglasses (for strong glare off the snow). |
Pro Tips for Dressing by Region:
The best part about the Japan weather in winter is that it changes so much by region, so your wardrobe should too!
Hokkaido / Tohoku: You'll need to be fully prepared here! High-quality down jackets, waterproof and windproof coats and pants, and snow boots are a must. Don't forget your hat, scarf, and gloves, and trust me, heating pads are a lifesaver for staying toasty warm.
Kanto / Kansai / Urban Areas: While the temperature isn't as low as in the north, it can feel colder due to the dry air and wind. A thick coat paired with a sweater and thermal underwear is usually enough. A scarf and hat are super useful for staying warm outdoors. Just make sure to wear a pair of comfortable walking shoes!
Indoor & Outdoor Tips: This is the most important part! Japanese trains, department stores, and other indoor spaces are very well-heated. You'll want to be able to easily take off your outer layer when you go inside to avoid getting too hot. This is why layering is the key to a comfortable and fun trip!
Visiting Japan in Winter with Asia Odyssey Travel, Your Local Pal
You've now seen a glimpse of the breathtaking winter magic that awaits you in Japan. From snowy landscapes and cozy onsens to dazzling city lights, a winter trip is a special experience.
As a local operator based right here in Tokyo, we at Asia Odyssey Travel (Japan) are your go-to guide for all of Japan's seasons – Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter.
Whether you're planning a trip to see the snow in Hokkaido, the culture in Kyoto and Nara, the vibrant city life of Tokyo and Osaka, or the iconic beauty of Mount Fuji, we've got you covered.
Let us use our expert, firsthand knowledge to design your perfect trip!
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