The Best Things to Do in Japan in January

Exploring Japan in January: A Guide to the Best Things to Do in Japan in January

As the new year begins, Japan transforms into a winter wonderland, offering many experiences that blend its rich cultural heritage with the season’s beauty. “The Best Things to Do in Japan in January” is set to take you on a journey through the many facets of Japan during this magical month. January in Japan is not just about the crisp air and snow-covered landscapes; it’s a time of vibrant festivals, unique culinary experiences, and breathtaking natural beauty. From the bustling streets of Tokyo adorned with winter illuminations to the serene, snow-laden gardens of Kyoto, each corner of Japan offers a unique winter experience.

In the north, the famous Sapporo Snow Festival showcases spectacular ice sculptures, while the Japanese Alps beckon skiers and snowboarders with some of the world’s best powder snow. Meanwhile, traditional onsen towns like Hakone provide a perfect retreat with hot springs, offering a tranquil respite from the winter chill. Though less snowy, cities like Osaka and Nara charm visitors with their winter delicacies and historical landmarks, each adorned in a different aspect of winter’s embrace.

The charm of Japan in January lies in the harmonious blend of modernity and tradition. As the country prepares for the new year, there is an air of renewal and celebration. From the energetic festivals and lively city life to the quiet beauty of nature and hot springs.

Table of Contents

1. Visit the Sapporo Snow Festival

Photo Credit: y.ganden / Flickr

The Sapporo Snow Festival, held annually in Sapporo, Hokkaido, is one of Japan’s most famous winter events. It features magnificent snow and ice sculptures that transform the city into a winter dreamland. The festival attracts millions of visitors from around the world who come to admire the intricate designs and enjoy various snow-related activities.

Trip Plan: Spend a day or two exploring the main sites: Odori Park for the giant sculptures, Susukino for illuminated ice sculptures, and Tsu Dome for snow slides and rafting.
Trip Budget: Free to view sculptures; budget for food, drinks, and activities.
Why Visit in January: Experience a unique winter festival with artistic ice creations and a lively atmosphere.
Nearest Airports: New Chitose Airport.
Transports to Use: Sapporo’s subway system, buses, and taxis.
Tourist Attractions in January: The festival’s sculptures, live music, and local Hokkaido cuisine.
Nearby Things to Do in Japan in January: The historic city of Otaru is known for its canal and the Otaru Snow Light Path Festival.
Best Foods to Eat: Sapporo ramen, fresh seafood like crab, and Hokkaido’s famous dairy products.
Best Places to Stay: Hotels in central Sapporo are convenient for festival access.
Travel Tips: Dress in layers to stay warm; book accommodations early as the festival is very popular.

2. Skiing and Snowboarding in Hokkaido or Nagano

Japan is renowned for its excellent skiing and snowboarding conditions, particularly in regions like Hokkaido and Nagano. These areas boast a variety of ski resorts that cater to all levels, from beginners to advanced, with Niseko, Furano, and Hakuba being among the most popular. The quality of the snow, stunning scenery, and the unique experience of Japanese après-ski culture make these destinations a must-visit for winter sports enthusiasts.

Trip Plan: Choose a resort that matches your skill level and interests. Spend several days enjoying the slopes, local cuisine, and perhaps some onsen time.
Trip Budget: Moderate to high; includes accommodation, lift passes, equipment rental, and food.
Why Visit in January: For the best snow conditions – deep, powdery, and consistent.
Nearest Airports: New Chitose Airport for Hokkaido resorts; Tokyo Haneda or Narita for Nagano resorts, followed by a train or bus.
Transports to Use: Trains to the nearest town, then shuttle buses to the resorts.
Tourist Attractions in January: Besides the ski slopes, enjoy the onsen, snow festivals, and local dining.
Nearby Things to Do in Japan in January: Explore the nearby towns of Sapporo in Hokkaido or Matsumoto in Nagano for culture and history.
Best Foods to Eat: Warm ramen and udon, katsu curry, and local sake or hot drinks.
Best Places to Stay: Ski-in/ski-out resorts, traditional ryokans, and budget-friendly hostels.
Travel Tips: Consider ski lessons if you’re new to the sport; check avalanche reports and weather conditions regularly.

3. Soak in an Onsen (Hot Spring)

Onsen, or Japanese hot springs, are an integral part of Japanese culture and a must-experience in winter. These natural hot springs can be found throughout Japan, with some located in scenic areas such as mountains or by the sea. Onsen towns like Hakone, Beppu, and Noboribetsu offer a variety of baths, from outdoor rotenburo to private indoor onsens, and are often set in traditional Japanese inns (ryokans) where guests can enjoy a complete cultural experience.

Trip Plan: Plan a stay in an onsen town, where you can relax in different hot spring baths and explore local attractions.
Trip Budget: Varies; accommodation in Onsen Ryokans can range from affordable to luxury.
Why Visit in January: The cold weather enhances the hot spring experience, offering a cozy retreat.
Nearest Airports: Tokyo airports for Hakone; Oita Airport for Beppu; New Chitose Airport for Noboribetsu.
Transports to Use: Trains, buses to reach onsen towns, and taxis for local transport.
Tourist Attractions in January: Snow-covered landscapes around the onsen, local shrines, and traditional town streets.
Nearby Things to Do in Japan in January: Explore nearby scenic areas or cities like Yokohama near Hakone, Yufuin near Beppu, and Sapporo near Noboribetsu.
Best Foods to Eat: Seasonal kaiseki ryori (multi-course meal), local specialties, and sake.
Best Places to Stay: Traditional ryokans with onsen facilities offer an authentic experience.
Travel Tips: Familiarize yourself with onsen etiquette; check in advance if tattoos are allowed.

4. Experience Tokyo’s Winter Illuminations

Tokyo in winter transforms into a sparkling wonderland with its dazzling illumination displays. From the trendy streets of Shibuya and Roppongi to the elegant Marunouchi district, various areas across the city light up with intricate LED displays, creating a festive and magical atmosphere. These illuminations attract locals and tourists alike, offering a unique way to experience the city’s beauty in winter.

Trip Plan: Spend an evening wandering through different neighborhoods to view the lights, perhaps combined with dining and shopping.
Trip Budget: Free to view; budget for dining, shopping, and transportation.
Why Visit in January: The illuminations offer a mesmerizing evening experience, brightening the long winter nights.
Nearest Airports: Tokyo Haneda or Narita International Airport.
Transports to Use: Tokyo’s extensive subway and train network, buses, and taxis.
Tourist Attractions in January: Besides the illuminations, visit Tokyo Tower, Asakusa, and the Meiji Shrine.
Nearby Things to Do in Japan in January: Yokohama for its Chinatown, Minato Mirai area, and the hot spring town of Hakone.
Best Foods to Eat: Warm ramen, tonkatsu, tempura, and seasonal sweets.
Best Places to Stay: Hotels in central Tokyo areas like Shinjuku, Shibuya, or Ginza for easy access to illumination sites.
Travel Tips: Dress warmly for the evening; some illumination events may have specific viewing times.

5. Visit Kyoto’s Temples and Shrines

Kyoto, Japan’s ancient capital, has numerous temples and shrines, each boasting a unique history and architectural beauty. These cultural treasures are often blanketed in snow in January, offering a serene and picturesque scene. Iconic sites like Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion) and Fushimi Inari-Taisha, with its thousands of red torii gates, are exceptionally breathtaking in the winter setting.

Trip Plan: Spend a few days exploring famous temples, Zen gardens, and traditional tea houses.
Trip Budget: Varies; some temples have entrance fees, but many are free.
Why Visit in January: The snow-covered temples offer a peaceful, less crowded experience.
Nearest Airports: Osaka’s Kansai International Airport or Itami Airport.
Transports to Use: Kyoto city buses, subway, and taxis.
Tourist Attractions in January: Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Nijo Castle, and the Gion district.
Nearby Things to Do in Japan in January: Nara for its historic temples and free-roaming deer, and Osaka for its modern cityscape and food scene.
Best Foods to Eat: Kyoto-style kaiseki, matcha-based sweets, and yuba (tofu skin) dishes.
Best Places to Stay: Traditional ryokans in the city center or near major tourist spots.
Travel Tips: Wear comfortable shoes for temple hopping; consider a guided tour for historical insights.

6. Enjoy Winter Delicacies

Japanese cuisine offers an array of winter specialties that provide comfort and warmth during the cold months. These dishes are delicious and an integral part of Japan’s culinary culture. Winter is the perfect time to savor nabe (Japanese hot pot), oden (a hearty stew), warming sake, and seasonal seafood like crab. Street food stalls, izakayas (Japanese pubs), and high-end restaurants across the country offer these delightful winter foods.

Trip Plan: Visit local izakayas, food markets, and restaurants to try different winter dishes.
Trip Budget: Varies; street food is affordable, while fine dining can be more expensive.
Why Visit in January: To experience the comfort and joy of traditional winter foods in their peak season.
Nearest Airports: These depend on the city; major airports include Tokyo Haneda, Osaka Kansai, and Sapporo New Chitose.
Transports to Use: Local trains, subways, and buses in cities; taxis for convenience.
Tourist Attractions in January: Food markets like Tsukiji in Tokyo and Kuromon in Osaka; local festivals where street food is a highlight.
Nearby Things to Do in Japan in January: Visit nearby onsen towns or cultural sites for a full day’s experience.
Best Foods to Eat: Nabe varieties (like sukiyaki and shabu-shabu), oden, grilled seafood, and sake.
Best Places to Stay: City hotels for easy access to various dining options.
Travel Tips: Try regional specialties and ask locals for their recommended dishes.

7. Participate in Hatsumode (First Shrine Visit of the Year)

Hatsumode is the Japanese tradition of visiting a shrine or temple for the first time in the new year to pray for good fortune, health, and happiness. It’s a deeply rooted custom in Japanese culture, offering a unique glimpse into the spiritual side of Japan. Major shrines and temples across the country, like Tokyo’s Meiji Shrine and Kyoto’s Fushimi Inari Taisha, are popular spots for Hatsumode.

Trip Plan: Join the locals in this annual tradition, typically within the first few days of January. You can buy omikuji (fortune-telling paper slips) and enjoy traditional New Year foods at the stalls around the shrines.
Trip Budget: Mostly free; small fees for omikuji or talismans.
Why Visit in January: Experience a significant cultural and spiritual event in Japan.
Nearest Airports: Tokyo Haneda or Narita for Meiji Shrine; Osaka Kansai for Fushimi Inari.
Transports to Use: Public transport like subways and buses to reach the shrines.
Tourist Attractions in January: The festive atmosphere around the shrines, traditional performances, and food stalls.
Nearby Things to Do in Japan in January: Explore other attractions in Tokyo or Kyoto and nearby parks and gardens.
Best Foods to Eat: Traditional New Year foods like mochi (rice cakes) and sweet sake.
Best Places to Stay: Hotels in city centers for easy access to major shrines.
Travel Tips: Expect crowds; visit early in the morning or late in the evening for a quieter experience.

8. Attend the Coming-of-Age Day Celebrations

The Coming-of-Age Day is a national holiday in Japan, celebrated on the second Monday of January to honor those who have reached the age of 20 during the past year. This significant rite of passage is marked by ceremonies (Seijin-shiki) nationwide. New adults wear traditional attire, such as kimonos for women and suits or hakama for men. The event is a colorful and joyful celebration of adulthood and responsibility.

Trip Plan: Witness the ceremonies at local city offices or public halls and observe the traditional attire and festivities.
Trip Budget: Free to observe; costs for participating in celebrations.
Why Visit in January: To witness a unique and vibrant cultural event.
Nearest Airports: Major airports in cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Fukuoka.
Transports to Use: City buses, subways, and taxis.
Tourist Attractions in January: Local shrines and temples where participants visit after the ceremony.
Nearby Things to Do in Japan in January: Explore city attractions, parks, and cultural sites.
Best Foods to Eat: Enjoy a celebratory meal at a local restaurant or izakaya.
Best Places to Stay: City hotels close to the celebration venues.
Travel Tips: Be respectful when taking photos; this is a special day for young adults.

9. Explore the Historic City of Nara

Nara, the first permanent capital of Japan, is a city steeped in history and culture. It’s renowned for its ancient temples, shrines, and the iconic Nara Park, where hundreds of freely roaming deer add to the city’s charm. Key attractions include the Todai-ji Temple, which houses a giant Buddha statue, the picturesque Kasuga Taisha Shrine, and the Nara National Museum. Nara in January offers a quieter and more contemplative experience, with fewer tourists and a peaceful atmosphere.

Trip Plan: Spend a day visiting the main historical sites and enjoying the natural beauty of Nara Park.
Trip Budget: Moderate; some temples have entrance fees.
Why Visit in January: It is less crowded, allowing a more relaxed exploration of the sites.
Nearest Airports: Osaka’s Kansai International Airport or Itami Airport.
Transports to Use: Trains from Osaka or Kyoto; walking or buses within Nara.
Tourist Attractions in January: The Great Buddha in Todai-ji, Kasuga Taisha’s lanterns, and the Nara National Museum.
Nearby Things to Do in Japan in January: Kyoto for more historical sites, and Osaka for modern city attractions.
Best Foods to Eat: Kakinoha sushi (sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves), Nara’s traditional tea, and local sake.
Best Places to Stay: Hotels near Nara Park or traditional ryokans in the city.
Travel Tips: Be gentle with the deer in Nara Park; they are wild animals.

10. Scenic Train Rides

Japan offers some of the most scenic train journeys in the world, incredibly picturesque during the winter months. Trains like the Resort Shirakami take you through snowy landscapes, offering views of the sea and mountains. The Snow Monkey Express in Nagano is another popular winter train ride leading to the famous Jigokudani Monkey Park, where snow monkeys bathe in hot springs. These train rides offer stunning scenery and a comfortable and unique way to explore Japan’s countryside.

Trip Plan: Plan a day trip or a longer journey to experience these scenic train routes.
Trip Budget: Some require rail passes or separate tickets depending on the train service.
Why Visit in January: To see Japan’s landscapes transformed by snow and winter beauty.
Nearest Airports: Haneda or Narita for journeys starting in Tokyo; Nagoya or Osaka airports for central and western routes.
Transports to Use: Local trains and bullet trains to access different regions.
Tourist Attractions in January: Along the routes, visit coastal towns, hot springs, and snow-covered fields.
Nearby Things to Do in Japan in January: Stop at various towns and cities along the train routes for local attractions.
Best Foods to Eat: Regional specialties are available at train stations or on trains.
Best Places to Stay: Stay in cities where the train journeys begin or end, like Tokyo, Nagano, or Aomori.
Travel Tips: Check train schedules in advance; consider getting a Japan Rail Pass for longer trips.

Conclusion: Embracing Japan’s Diverse Beauty in January

Our exploration of Japan in January has taken us through a captivating array of experiences, each uniquely illuminating the country’s rich culture and breathtaking landscapes. From the bustling Sapporo Snow Festival in the north to the serene, snow-draped temples of Kyoto, January in Japan is a symphony of contrasts, blending the vibrancy of winter festivals with the tranquility of nature’s winter cloak.

As we’ve seen, January is when Japan‘s famed efficiency and hospitality shine brightest against the backdrop of a winter wonderland. Whether it’s gliding down the pristine slopes of Hokkaido, soaking in a tranquil onsen while snowflakes gently fall, or partaking in the age-old traditions of Hatsumode, the experiences are as diverse as they are memorable. The allure of Japan in winter extends beyond its physical beauty; the best things to do in Japan in January include the warmth of an inviting bowl of ramen, the elegance of a geisha performance in an old Kyoto tea house, and the laughter of children playing with snow in a Nara park.

As we conclude “Exploring Japan in January: A Guide to the Best Things to Do in Japan in January,” it’s evident that Japan in winter is not just a destination; it’s an experience that resonates deeply, leaving lasting impressions and a yearning to return. Whether you seek adventure, culture, relaxation, or culinary delights, Japan in January offers an enchanting journey through a landscape rich with tradition, beauty, and the joy of discovery.