What's so great about winter in Japan? 6 must-try activities

Japan winter Not only is it the cold wind that cuts through the skin, the streets are covered in white snow, but it is also a time that brings countless unique experiences. For Vietnamese people living in Japan, this can be a challenge when having to adapt to the harsh cold, but if you prepare carefully, this will become an opportunity to enjoy the wonderful things that Japan has to offer. Let's explore with T-Connect how to make the Japanese winter the most memorable and comfortable time!

What month is winter in Japan?

Winter in Japan starts in December and lasts until February. This is the time when temperatures drop sharply, with some areas experiencing temperatures below 12°C, especially in the North such as Hokkaido or the highlands. Vietnamese people who have just arrived in Japan may have difficulty adapting to the cold and dry weather during this season.

Japan winter weather how?

Each region in Japan has a different winter weather pattern, creating diversity in the experience of life here:

• Hokkaido: Coldest in Japan, heavy snow, average temperature from -6°C to -12°C.

• Kanto (Tokyo, Yokohama): Cold but little snow, ranging from 2°C to 10°C.

• Kansai (Osaka, Kyoto): Not too cold, about 4°C – 12°C.

• Kyushu & Okinawa: Warmer, rarely below 5°C, suitable for those not used to the cold.

In general, winter weather in Japan is much colder and more bitter than in Vietnam. If you are living in Japan, prepare suitable warm clothes to adapt well to winter!

Activities to experience in winter in Japan

Winter in Japan is not only cold but also a great time to participate in exciting activities that only this season has. If you still don't know what to experience in winter in Japan, let T-Connect suggest you:

Shinhotaka Ropeway – Enjoy the Snow from the Mountain

• Address:: Okuhida Onsenkyo Shinhotaka, Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture 
• Entrance fee: 2.900 yen for adults, 1.450 yen for children
• Work time: 8:30 – 16:00 (may vary by season).
• Website: http://shinhotaka-ropeway.jp/

This is the only double-decker ropeway in Japan, with a 360-degree view of the snow-capped mountains from above. When you reach the final station, you will be taken to an observation deck at an altitude of 2.156m, where you can take in the panoramic view of the majestic natural landscape.

Lighting up Taruma Kanekori

• Time takes place: Usually starts from December to February (need to check specific calendar each year).
• Address:: Taruma Kanekori area, in the mountains of Japan.

In winter, Japan is not only famous for its white snow but also for its sparkling light festivals, of which Taruma Kanekori is a special destination. Not just simple decorative lights, Taruma Kanekori uses light to enhance the natural beauty of ice and water, creating a magical scene.

Outdoor onsen bath in the snow

The cold winter days in Japan are the perfect time to relax in the hot springs of an onsen amidst the snow-capped landscape. Soaking in the natural mineral spring water helps reduce stress, improve blood circulation and soften the skin – essential in the dry winter.

Some of Japan's most beautiful outdoor onsen areas include:

• Kusatsu Onsen (Gunma): One of Japan's most famous onsen, the sulfur-rich mineral water helps beautify the skin.
• Ginzan Onsen (Yamagata):An ancient onsen village with a fairy tale-like setting.
• Noboribetsu Onsen (Hokkaido): Outdoor onsen amidst beautiful snowy scenery.
• Takaragawa Onsen (Gunma): Large onsen area with natural hot springs located along the river.
• Nyuto Onsen (Akita): Nestled among the mountains and forests, offering a wild, quiet experience.

Skiing & winter sports

Winter in Japan is also a paradise for those who love skiing and winter sports:

• Truthful: For both beginners and professionals, skiing offers the feeling of gliding quickly on soft snow slopes. Famous ski resorts in Japan include Niseko (Hokkaido), Hakuba (Nagano), Gala Yuzawa (Niigata),…
• Other exciting winter sports: Snowshoeing, sledding, ice skating, snowball fights…

Stroll around the ancient town

The ancient towns of Japan, with their quaint wooden houses and peaceful atmosphere, when covered in snow, create a perfect picture like in a movie. Walking around the following towns in winter will bring very special and memorable experiences:

• Shirakawa-go (Gifu): The UNESCO world heritage site is famous for its gassho-zukuri (sloping roof) houses, especially in winter when snow covers everything, creating a very unique space.
• Takayama (Gifu): Takayama Old Town retains its traditional beauty with wooden houses and shops selling local crafts and food.
• Ouchi-juku (Fukushima): A small village nestled in the mountains, Ouchi-juku is famous for its traditional minka inns with their distinctive steep roofs. In the winter, these houses look like igloos. During the winter, you can stroll around the village and enjoy traditional dishes such as soba (cold noodles), a specialty of the area.

Enjoy Japanese winter cuisine

When it comes to Japanese winter, you can’t miss out on warm, nutritious dishes that help you fight the cold. Here are some Japanese winter dishes you should definitely try in the Japanese winter:

• Nabe Hot Pot: Nabe hotpot is an indispensable dish in Japanese winter, bringing a warm feeling to the whole family and friends.
• Oden: Oden is a popular winter dish made with ingredients such as eggs, fish cakes, radish, tofu, and is often stewed in a rich dashi broth. It is commonly sold in convenience stores, street food stalls, and small restaurants during the winter.
• Miso Ramen: Miso Ramen is a winter noodle dish, with a rich and flavorful miso broth, often served with pork, boiled eggs, and vegetables. When it's cold, a hot bowl of miso ramen is the ideal choice to keep your body warm.
• Yakiimo (Roasted Sweet Potato): Yakiimo is an extremely popular winter snack, especially on cold days. The roasted sweet potatoes are sold on street carts and have a naturally sweet, soft taste. This is the ideal dish to enjoy while walking in cold weather.

Things to note when entering winter in Japan

Winter in Japan can be very cold, especially in the northern regions and areas with heavy snowfall. Being well prepared will help you enjoy the winter comfortably and safely. Here are some important things to know when entering the winter season in the Land of the Rising Sun:

Winter clothes Japanese

Winter fashion in Japan is often known for its combination of functionality and aesthetics, bringing clothes that are both warm and fashionable. You can refer to some clothes that are both warm and beautiful such as:

• Long coati: Long coats are an indispensable item in the Japanese winter wardrobe. These coats are often elegant and luxurious in design, suitable for both work and play.
• Sweaters and sweaters: Japanese winter cannot be without wool and sweater. These clothes not only keep you warm but are also very easy to coordinate with other outfits.
• Thick skirtPleated skirts or pencil skirts can be paired with sweaters or long coats to create a fashionable and warm outfit.
• Gloves, hats and scarves: These accessories not only keep you warm but also add a touch of class to your winter outfit.
• Anti-slip shoes: Winter in Japan can be very slippery, especially when it snows, so you should wear non-slip shoes or boots with rubber soles to make moving around easier.

During the winter, layering is important to keep warm without looking bulky. Wear a thin layer like a T-shirt or sweater, then add a thick coat and accessories like a scarf, hat and gloves.

Winter Skin Care in Japan

Japanese winters are often very dry, so skin care is essential to avoid dry, cracked skin.

• Use moisturizer: Choose moisturizers with good moisturizing ingredients, especially in cold air conditions.
• Use lip balm:To avoid chapped lips, don't forget to bring lip balm.
• Drink a lot of water: Even though you don't feel thirsty, your body still needs to replenish enough water to maintain skin moisture.

Safety Notes When Traveling

Winter in Japan can be difficult to get around, especially when there is heavy snow.

• Walk carefully: Snow and ice can be slippery, so walk carefully to avoid falling.
• Use public transport: Public transportation such as trains and buses always have stable schedules, but you should pay attention to announcements about bad weather or emergency situations.
• Drive carefully:If you drive, have snow tires and necessary tools in your car.

Winter in Japan may seem harsh, but it offers a variety of special experiences, from the cold air to exciting winter activities. Make sure you are well-prepared with warm clothes, good skin care, and don’t miss out on any great winter festivals or destinations. Wishing you a warm, safe, and fun winter!

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