As a basic rule, it’s colder the further north you go – and more snow falls on the Sea of Japan side of the central mountain ranges than on the Pacific side. No matter where you go though, you’ll want to be suitably prepared with winter clothing.

Foreign skiers and boarders rave about the skifields in Japan - plenty of snow, reasonable costs and cultural aspects such as onsen (hot springs) and Japanese food. Sapporo’s spectacular Yuki Matsuri is the country’s best known winter festival.

While Shōgatsu is Japan’s most important holiday period, there is also plenty of fun leading up to and after New Year. End-of year bōnenkai parties are popular throughout December, and shinnenkai parties usher in the New Year through January.

During New Year's holidays, many restaurants and attractions shut down, while traveling around Japan can be hectic.

Things start to change in late February in lower latitudes with the arrival of plum blossoms. It will stay cold in the higher latitudes, such as in Hokkaidō until April or even May.

Practical Info

Winter in Japan