Most people treat winter as the perfect time to stay indoors. While the rest of the world tends to hibernate during this period, the Japanese regard winter as one of the best times to explore their city. Apart from the joyous events that come with the Christmas and New Year celebrations, winter offers its visitors the most unique experiences, exclusive to this season. There are many amazing Japan tours to choose from, and you won’t make a mistake if you choose to go there in winter time.
Skiing in Hokkaido
We list down 7 reasons to visit Japan during winter.
- World Class Skiing
Japan has risen to become one of the top skiing destinations in the world today. Winter sees the northernmost part of the country blanketed in light and feathery snow. Japan boasts of over 500 ski resorts with incredibly long, sweeping runs and top-notch powder snow. The most popular skiing resorts can be found in Hokkaido and Nagano Prefecture in the Japanese Alps. Extreme skiers or “powder-hounds” climb some of Japan’s legendary mountain peaks for a more intense adrenaline rush.
- Snow Festivals
Heavy snowfall during this season makes it possible to transform the country into a giant winter wonderland. Tourists flock to Japan to witness its famous snow festivals. One of the biggest and most talked about winter celebrations is the Sapporo Yuki Matsuri held every February. Visitors can observe a dozen large snow sculptures along with a hundred smaller sized snow statues in Odori Park. The Japanese military usually takes part in the conceptualization and creation of this festival’s main attraction. Over the years they have built impressive masterpieces such as Star Wars’ Darth Vader, Harry Potter, Arc de Triomphe and, most recently, the President of the United States, Donald Trump.
- Snow Monkeys
Even though the Snow Monkey Park is open throughout the year, winter is considered the best time to see the Japanese macaques. During this season, visitors can often catch these snow monkeys warming themselves up by soaking and playing in the local onsen (hot springs).
- Dancing Red Crowned Cranes
Due to their endangered status, the red crowned cranes are considered as one of Japan’s highly valued treasures. Winter is the best time to visit them in their natural sanctuary at the Kushiro marshland. Tourists can also head over to the Tancho Observation Center and the Tsurui Village to witness the mating ritual of these birds. The amazing sight features the red crowned cranes in an intricate and seemingly choreographed dance.
- Onsen Hot Spring Baths
Onsen are highly enjoyed during winter because of the unique experience it offers. While your body soaks in hot water, your face is caressed by the cold wind blowing from the mountains. A number of ryokan or Japanese style inns offer authentic onsen experience. Guests can soak in their very own healing mineral waters, drink green tea in a tatami-lined room, or take a nap.
- Amazing Illuminations
Winter is also the perfect season for Japanese to demonstrate their love of lighting things up. Strategic areas are covered in twinkling fairy lights, highlighting Christmas and New Year celebrations. Among Japan’s first and most spectacular light show is the Kobe Luminarie. This Italian designed festival was first held as a memorial to the victims of the disastrous Kobe earthquake in 1995. Other famous winter illuminations include that of the Tokyo Midtown, Caretta Shiodome, Sagamiko Illumination, Sendai Pageant of Starlight, Ashikaga Flower Fantasy, and Nagasaki’s Kingdom of Light. The Nabana no Sato Winter Illumination in Nagoya has 8.5 million LED lights illuminating the flower park, making it one of the largest illumination events in Japan.
- Winter Food
Japan offers great gastronomical treats all year round, but some of its tastiest dishes are exclusively experienced during winter. Two of the nation’s wintertime favorites include oden and nabe. Oden are large simmering pots with daikon, boiled eggs, tofu, and fish cakes cooked slowly in a dashi or soy-based broth. Nabe are stews or hotpots composed of any ingredients from vegetables, meat, and seafood.
Japan entices tourists from around the world to visit it throughout the year. While many still favor springtime for the famous hanami or cherry blossom viewing, more and more people are now discovering the advantages of visiting Japan in winter. From its amazing snow and light festivals, winter treats, onsen hot baths, and top of the line skiing resorts, Japan’s wintertime is definitely an experience you shouldn’t miss.
Skiing in Hokkaido at Kiroro Resort:
