As winter approaches, a chill wraps the whole of Japan, and while it rarely snows in most of the country’s metropolitan areas, the surrounding mountains and northern regions are regularly covered by fresh blankets of powder.
Whilst many Australians make a beeline for Niseko, Hakuba and other ski destinations, Japan offers a range of winter getaway destinations and experiences across the country. Pack plenty of warm clothes, then bundle up and head outside to enjoy picturesque villages, steamy outdoor onsen, ‘in the know’ skiing locations, and warming winter festivals. Here’s a taste of the top destinations to explore, and what to do when you’re there.
Gokayama, Toyama Prefecture
With its carefully preserved historic villages, Gokayama is full of charm and simplicity. Ainokura Village and Suganuma Village are the UNESCO World Heritage sites that make up Gokayama and they are dotted with an enchanting collection of gassho-style thatched farmhouses – traditional structures built sustainably using local materials. Their rural setting preserves the harmony between the countryside and the grass-thatched structures, which appear to have sprouted from the earth.
Villagers preserve and protect the buildings and landscape together, following the ancient concept of ‘yui’ – which roughly translates to working cooperatively to maintain you and your neighbours’ homes. Many of these unique houses are open to guests, giving visitors the chance to experience life as it was before Japan modernised while supporting the preservation of this unique way of life.
Ginzan Onsen, Yamagata Prefecture
Built on the site of a former silver mine, this tiny town (which can easily be walked in about 15 minutes) is known for its old-world atmosphere, especially in winter when the snow covers its traditional buildings creating a stunning wintry scene.
Traditional inns (ryokan) line the river, and Ginzan Onsen is known for having some of the best hot springs in the country. Ginzanso is a quaint ryokan located at the entrance to the town, its 46 Japanese-style guest rooms each come with a private bath, while the outdoor hot spring baths (rotenburo) offer views of the nearby river and mountains.
Otaru, Hokkaido Prefecture
A port city in Hokkaido, Otaru is known for its glassworks and sake breweries. The town’s stone buildings, once occupied by these trades, as well as banks and trade merchants, remain perfectly preserved. Cosy up away from the chill in winter in one of the restored old warehouses – many are now converted into hotels, restaurants, and boutique shops.
When you’re venturing outside, be sure to visit one of the town’s seafood restaurants – Otaru has an incredible reputation for seafood thanks to its location on Ishikari Bay. And for charming winter illuminations, the Yuki Akari no Michi (Snow Light Path) Festival runs in February (3-17 February 2025).
Fukushima Prefecture
Samurai, snow and sake: Fukushima has it all for a winter escape. The slopes of Mt Bandai are ready for skiers and snowboarders, and the nearby onsen is ideal for unwinding. Winter festivals and illuminations across the region also help brighten the days and nights.
For ski enthusiasts, Nekoma Mountain, on the northern side of Mt Bandai and part of Hoshino Resorts Bandaisan Onsen Hotel, is known for its snow quality and varied trails. Cut through Japan’s famed Japow by day and by night enjoy a drop or two of Fukushima’s renowned sake. Rich in samurai history, Aizu-Wakamatsu’s atmospheric streets, historic Tsurugajo Castle, and unique artisan crafts and culinary specialities offer another side to the prefecture.
Koyasan, Wakayama Prefecture
Wakayama is Japan’s spiritual heartland attracting enlightenment-seeking pilgrims and hikers in equal measure. From the World Heritage-listed Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Route and the mountainous temple complex of Koyasan, the prefecture has plenty of winter travel adventures.
One of the greatest and most well-known Buddhist centres in Japan, the town of Koyasan has over 1,200 years of history to explore across this vast, yet peaceful complex, with over 100 temples scattered throughout the grounds. The cobbled pathway leading to Okunoin Temple passes by over 200,000 mossy gravestones and memorials, making for a peaceful and reflective, winter walk.
Kurokawa Onsen, Kumamoto Prefecture
Nestled in the serene mountains of Kyushu’s Kumamoto Prefecture, Kurokawa Onsen is an idyllic retreat that shines bright in winter. This picturesque onsen town is set in cobblestone streets, lined with wooden ryokan and steaming onsen baths.
Finish your day of relaxation with an evening of delicious locally-brewed beverages before heading back to your comfortable ryokan. Other nearby attractions include Mt Aso, one of Japan’s largest active volcanoes, which offers dramatic winter landscapes and gentle hiking trails.
