Japan in January

Japan is a country that never fails to captivate visitors with its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural beauty, and futuristic cities. In January, the country transforms into a winter wonderland, offering a unique and unforgettable experience to those who venture out into its icy landscapes. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or a culture aficionado, Japan has something to offer everyone. From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the tranquil onsen towns, the country is a sensory feast for the eyes and the soul.

Immerse yourself in the traditional New Year celebrations and marvel at the stunning shrines and temples blanketed in snow. Take a dip in a hot onsen, savor the taste of steaming bowls of ramen, and admire the views from the top of a mountain. With so much to see and do, it can be difficult to know where to start. But fear not, in this article, we will guide you through some of the must-visit destinations and experiences in Japan during the month of January. Get ready for an adventure of a lifetime in one of the world’s most unique and fascinating countries!

Where to Go in Japan in January

Step into a winter wonderland and explore the enchanting beauty of Japan in January! This season offers a unique set of experiences that are waiting to be discovered. With festive celebrations, snow-covered temples, and traditional New Year festivities, Japan is the ultimate winter destination.

Tokyo shines even brighter during this time, with bustling streets and bright lights in Shibuya and Ginza. For a serene escape, visit onsens (natural hot springs) in Hakone, Nagano, and Kusatsu for a relaxing soak in a hot spring surrounded by picturesque winter landscapes. And for those seeking an adventure, Niseko and Furano’s mountain resorts offer skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing.

Don’t miss the chance to explore Japan’s rich cultural heritage as well. Admire snow-covered shrines and temples and learn about traditional Japanese customs and rituals at traditional pottery villages of Arita, Imari and Karatsu. 

To fully enjoy your trip, it’s important to pack warm clothing, including a hat, gloves, and scarf, and book accommodations and activities in advance. To get an authentic taste of Japanese culture, connect with our Local Designers in Japan, who will show you places beyond the typical tourist hotspots and encourage you to try the “not-so-obvious” Japanese dishes.

Trips you may like

9-Day Authentic Samurai and Sake Experience

This 9-day trip is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will immerse you in rich history and culture, as you uncover two of the things that make Japan truly unique; Sake and Samurai. When it comes to Sake, you’ll learn about the various processes behind making sake and the unique properties that make each style of sake different – and just how many different ways there are as you explore local sake breweries throughout Niigata and Yamagata. Now, it is time for your first introduction to the history of the Samurai. You’ll start in Nagoya and head out to Inuyama, where your swordsmith training will begin. Beginning with an exploration of Inuyama Castle, one of Japan’s five national treasures, you will then spend the next two days learning the art of sword-making, its importance in Samurai and Japanese culture, its origins and the training behind it. Next, you will have the rare opportunity to meet with katana artisans in their own ateliers, where you will watch their crafts being practised firsthand and learn the history of their trade. You’ll visit a tsukamakishi (hilt-wrapper), a shiroganeshi (habaki-maker), a sayashi (scabbard-maker), and a togishi (sword polisher), and might even see their own personal antique collections on this tour! This bucket-list trip captures the heart and history of Japan; Samurai and Sake, but also allows you time to explore the spiritual side of Japan, following walking trails to temples, meeting extraordinary locals and embracing the culture of this unique destination. Accommodation listed or similar.

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6-Day Tradition Meets Future in Tokyo & Kyoto

Japan is a real feast for all of your senses, with sumo, geisha, sake, karaoke, onsen, and izakaya waiting to be discovered. Spend six days exploring the highlights of this enthralling country, centred around Japan’s two major cities, Tokyo and Kyoto. Begin your trip with a guided tour of incredible Tokyo, where you will explore Tokyo’s dazzling lights, the Tsukji Market, famous for its tuna auctions and the ultra-cool shopping district of Shibuya, complete with a never-ending array of lights and mega-street crossings. Boarding the Shinkansen bullet train, you will travel at up to 320km/h from Tokyo to Kyoto in complete comfort. Arriving in Kyoto, you will be guided through the wonders of this city, visiting the famous Gion ‘Geisha’ district, Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and Nishiki Market, otherwise known as Kyoto’s kitchen! The highlight of this trip is a traditional group tea ceremony with an authentic Geisha, where you will learn the importance of this sacred Japanese ritual. Transferring back to Tokyo for the final leg of your journey, you will have the opportunity for last minute sightseeing and shopping before your private airport transfer! Thousands of years of history are concentrated in this fascinating nation – come and explore Japan’s attractions for yourself. Accommodation listed or similar.

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10-Day Nature and Unique Culture of Japan

This 10-day journey highlights the hotspots, hidden gems, nature and unique culture of Japan! Taking you through parts of modern Tokyo, to the traditional and historical former capital Kyoto, stopping along the way in the food and nightlife capital of Japan, Osaka. From the serenity of grand gardens to conveyor belt sushi restaurants at the top of skyscrapers; from the observation decks sprinkled around the city to the humble little ramen shops tucked away on side streets, it’s understandable why Tokyo is the most popular starting point for travellers coming to Japan. Tokyo is where you will uncover the hot-spots and the hidden gems of the city. Next stop, historic Kyoto. From your first day in Kyoto, you may very well feel the elegant ambience of a city entrenched in history. Here you will be immersed in Japan’s culture with a local guide, exploring the beautiful scenery that is Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, taking part in a traditional tea-ceremony and wandering amongst free-roaming deer in nearby Nara . Known by many as the food capital of Japan, the city of Osaka, your next stop is bright, vivacious, and friendly, however it also has a historical side. Here, you will explore Osaka Castle, a monument that played an integral role in the unification of Japan, before strolling down Dotonbori, where you can see the popular Glico running man display and try out Osaka’s signature foods: Takoyaki and Okonomiyaki. This trip is the perfect trip for travellers looking for a combination of Japanese culture, nature and food. Accommodation listed or similar.

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14-Day Highlights of Japan: Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto & Osaka

Embark on a two-week trip that covers all the major Japan highlights! From historical to modern, from urban to rural; you can enjoy the great diversity of Japan. In each area, local guides will show you the highlights of the region and introduce the local culture. The trip starts in Tokyo, the current capital of Japan. You will receive an introduction to Japanese culture and learn about modern Japanese life. Then, you’ll visit Hakone where you can appreciate a fantastic view of Mt. Fuji. You’ll then venture out to the countryside of Takayama, which is a small rural town with its own unique culture and traditions. From Takayama, you will visit Shirakawago, which is a well-preserved old folk village by car. Then, you’ll head to north to Kanazawa, a city produced by the Samurai which is home to the most beautiful Japanese garden. You will then visit Kyoto, one of the most beautiful cities in Japan and the mecca of Japanese culture. Here, you can experience authentic Japanese things such as food, culture, temples, art, gardens, crafts and more. You’ll then travel to Nara by train or car. Nara is an older city than Kyoto and it was the centre of Japanese religion and academia. Finally, you’ll head west to Osaka, the second biggest city in Japan. Osaka is famous as a paradise of street food with very open-minded and friendly local people! Geographically, Osaka is very close to Kyoto, but you will find a huge difference between them. From Osaka, you will take a day trip to Hiroshima by bullet train before heading back to Tokyo where your trip will come to an end!

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Best Places to Visit in Japan in January

Japan in January is not only a winter wonderland, but also a time of traditional festivals and celebrations. Visitors can experience a variety of cultural events, both traditional and modern. Here are a few festivals and experiences to consider when visiting Japan in January:

Tokachigawa

Immerse yourself in the winter wonderland of Hokkaido and experience the true essence of Japanese hospitality. Snow and ice events are held all over the region during winter, showcasing the locals’ willingness to accept and enjoy the cold season. Don’t miss the “Hakucho Matsuri (Swan Festival)” at Tokachigawa Onsen, named after the majestic swans that grace the area.

The festival’s centerpiece is the “Sairinka” event, which attracts over 50,000 visitors. The concept is simple but enchanting: to create a beautiful and magical winter wonderland that nobody has ever seen before. And it delivers on that promise! The stunning displays of art will warm your heart and soul, even on the coldest of days.

Japan in January is also the best time to witness the breathtaking natural phenomenon known as Unryu, or “frost smoke/steam fog”, which occurs near the Tokachi River from January to February when the temperature drops to -15℃ (5.0℉) or lower and the sun is shining.

As the mist appears along the river, the meandering shape creates a massive dragon-shaped mist that moves slowly, offering a truly enchanting sight. But that’s not all. Tokachi’s winter season also produces other stunning scenery, such as “Sun pillar” and “Diamond dust”. With relatively low snowfall and plenty of sunshine, Tokachi is known as “Tokachi-bare (Sunny Tokachi)” in winter. The clear, crisp air makes for perfect stargazing, and the night sky is a canvas of twinkling stars that will leave you mesmerized.

If you love skiing and want to experience the wonders of Tokachi’s winter season, connect with our expert Local Designers to add it to our 10-Day Skiing in Hokkaido trip or create a personalised trip that meets all of your needs and interests. Don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the natural magic of Unryu in Tokachi.

Lake Shikotsu

Experience the magical wonderland of Chitose and Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival, an annual extravaganza that takes place in the heart of Japan’s stunning Shikotsu-Toya National Park at the end of January. 

Immerse yourself in the beauty of the festival’s sparkling ice sculptures, crafted using the purest water from Lake Shikotsu, known for its crystal-clear quality. Take a ride on the thrilling ice slide or lace up your boots for a spin on the ice rink – perfect for little ones and adults alike. Don’t miss the horse rides around the venue, an enchanting way to soak up the festival’s enchanting ambiance.

As night falls, prepare to be dazzled by the spectacle of 300 fireworks lighting up the sky, accompanied by the thunderous beats of traditional Wadaiko drums. After a day of exploring, why not relax in the soothing waters of the nearby hot springs, available for day-trippers, and indulge in a delicious meal and some souvenir shopping in the hot spring town.

Chitose and Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival is the perfect way to celebrate winter’s wonderland, and a magical experience you won’t want to miss, especially that it is only 40-min drive from Sapporo, one of the locations included in our 10-Day Skiing in Hokkaido trip.

Nagano

January is a truly magical time to visit Nagano, with the region offering a frozen fantasy land experience that is unrivaled. The snowfall during this time of year transforms the area into a pristine snowy playground, perfect for outdoor activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. 

Nagano is home to some of the best ski resorts in Japan, catering to skiers and snowboarders of all levels, from beginners to advanced. In January, the slopes are covered with fresh powder snow, providing excellent conditions for winter sports. 

Moreover, January is the perfect time to experience one of Nagano’s most iconic attractions, the Snow Monkeys of Jigokudani. These adorable primates are famous for their unique behavior of soaking in hot springs amidst the winter landscape. Watching these monkeys enjoying the natural hot water and snowflakes falling gently around them is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that should not be missed. 

Apart from that, Nagano is also known for its hot springs – onsen, offering a perfect way to relax and rejuvenate after a long day of winter activities. In January, the contrast of the hot springs and the cold weather creates an atmosphere that is both invigorating and soothing. 

Additionally, Japan in January is a time for various winter festivals in Nagano, such as the Nozawa Fire Festival and the Matsumoto Castle Ice Festival, adding more charm and excitement to your winter vacation. You can include these festivals in our 2-Day Nagano Sights & Skiing tour.

Special Events in Japan in January

If you are planning to visit Japan in January, you are in for a treat, as there are plenty of festivals and events to experience during this time. Two of the most popular winter festivals in Japan are the “Hakucho Matsuri” (Swan Festival) at Tokachigawa Onsen and the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival. Two of the most popular winter festivals in Japan are the “Hakucho Matsuri” (Swan Festival) at Tokachigawa Onsen and the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival.

Swan Festival

The “Hakucho Matsuri” takes place in early January in Tokachigawa Onsen, a hot spring resort located in Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island. The festival celebrates the arrival of swans, who migrate to the region from Siberia during the winter months.

During the festival, visitors can admire beautiful snow sculptures depicting swans, as well as enjoy firework displays, a parade featuring traditional Japanese music and dance, and various food and drink stalls. The highlight of the festival is the “Swan Ball,” where visitors can dance the night away in a heated tent while enjoying stunning views of the snow-covered landscape.

Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival

Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival takes place in late January and early February and is held at the frozen Lake Shikotsu, also located in Hokkaido. The festival features a range of ice sculptures, including a stunning ice castle and ice slides, as well as food stalls, music performances, and light displays. 

Visitors can also try their hand at ice fishing, snow rafting, and other winter sports, or relax in one of the many hot springs in the area. In the evening, the ice sculptures are illuminated, creating a magical and otherworldly atmosphere.

Both the “Hakucho Matsuri” and the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival offer a unique and captivating winter experience, allowing visitors to appreciate the beauty and wonder of the winter season in Japan.

Nozawa Onsen Fire Festival

Another unique winter festival that takes place in Japan in January is the “Nozawa Onsen Fire Festival,” held on January 15th in the town of Nozawa Onsen in Nagano Prefecture. The festival is a celebration of the town’s history and culture, and it attracts visitors from all over Japan and beyond.

The highlight of the Nozawa Onsen Fire Festival is the “Dosojin” ritual, where young men dressed in traditional clothing build two large towers made of trees and bamboo. The towers represent the entrance to the town and are intended to ward off evil spirits. As the evening progresses, the young men light the towers on fire, and the festival-goers sing and dance around them. The Dosojin ritual is followed by a spectacular fireworks display, which illuminates the night sky and adds to the festive atmosphere.

In addition to the Dosojin ritual and fireworks display, the Nozawa Onsen Fire Festival also features other traditional Japanese cultural events, such as taiko drum performances and folk dances. Visitors can also enjoy local food and drink, including sake and grilled mochi (sticky rice cakes).

The Nozawa Onsen Fire Festival is a great way to experience the unique culture and traditions of Japan during the winter season. Whether you are interested in history, art, or simply enjoy a lively festival atmosphere, the Nozawa Onsen Fire Festival is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Weather in Japan in January

January is one of the coldest months in Japan, and the weather can vary greatly depending on the region. Northern areas of Japan, such as Hokkaido, experience heavy snowfall and very low temperatures, with average temperatures ranging from -10°C to -3°C (14°F to 27°F). 

The central regions of Honshu, including Tokyo and Kyoto, typically experience drier and milder weather, with average temperatures ranging from 3°C to 10°C (37°F to 50°F). Southern areas, such as Okinawa, have much milder winter weather, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F). 

Despite the colder weather, January can be a great time to visit Japan, as many winter festivals and events take place during this time, offering unique experiences and stunning winter landscapes. However, it’s important to pack warm clothing and accessories to stay comfortable and enjoy all that Japan has to offer during the winter season.

Things to Know Before You Go

If you’re planning to visit Japan in January, here are a few things you should know before you go:

• Currency: The currency in Japan is the yen. It’s important to have some cash on hand, as many small shops and restaurants may not accept credit cards.
• Visa: Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa to enter Japan. Check with the Japanese embassy in your home country to see what the requirements are for your nationality.
• Weather: January is one of the coldest months in Japan, so be sure to pack warm clothing and accessories. If you plan to visit areas with heavy snowfall, such as Hokkaido, bring waterproof shoes or boots with good traction.
• Cultural habits: Japan has many unique cultural customs and habits, so it’s important to be respectful and mindful of local customs. For example, it’s customary to remove your shoes before entering someone’s home or a temple. It’s also important to be quiet and respectful in public spaces, such as trains and buses.
• Language: Japanese is the official language in Japan, although many people in tourist areas and major cities may speak some English. It’s a good idea to learn some basic Japanese phrases to help with communication and show respect to the local culture.
• Festivals and events: January is a great time to experience winter festivals and events in Japan, so be sure to research and plan ahead for any events you’re interested in attending. Popular events such as the Sapporo Snow Festival can attract large crowds, so it’s a good idea to book accommodations and transportation in advance.

January is a great time to visit Japan for those who enjoy winter activities and cultural experiences. Despite the colder weather, many regions in Japan offer stunning winter landscapes, such as the snow-covered mountains of Hokkaido and the ice sculptures of the Lake Shikotsu.

Additionally, January is a popular time for unique festivals and events, such as the Hakucho Matsuri (Swan Festival) and the Nozawa Onsen Fire Festival, which offer a glimpse into Japan’s rich history and culture.

To find your dream holiday to Japan in January, scroll through our gallery of fully customisable Japan trips or connect with our Local Designers on the ground and let them help you craft your ultimate Japan stay!