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Where to Travel in Japan During Winter

Japan is home to many things: an incredible Disneyland, an insane Robot Restaurant and of course, delicious ramen but did you know that Japan is also an awesome winter vacation destination? We’ve rounded up four of the best places in Japan to travel to during winter. Think snowy terrains, winter wonderlandscapes and magical, snowcapped mountains to make your winter holiday even more incredible.

Here are four places to visit Japan in winter: 

#1. Mt. Fuji

Where to Travel in Japan During Winter: Mt. Fuji
Where to Travel in Japan During Winter: Mt. Fuji (image via Ryan Kartzke, flickr)

Mt. Fuji is a striking landmark no matter what the season, but it’s especially stunning in winter as the white snow covers the mountaintop. The majestic icon is surrounding by snow-dusted trees, making a setting fit for a postcard! The Ice and Wine Caves are must-see in winter, view massive blocks of ice and unique rock formations resembling icicles.

Where to Travel in Japan During Winter: Mt. Fuji
Where to Travel in Japan During Winter: Mt. Fuji (image via Yasuo Kida, flickr)

Book a tour and explore the surrounding Fuji Five Lakes area. Stop at Lake Kawaguchi, the largest of the Fuji Five Lakes and admire the reflection of Mt. Fuji in the still waters. Discover the charming village of Oshino Hakkai, featuring picturesque ponds. 

#2. Jigokudani Monkey Park

Where to Travel in Japan During Winter: Jigokudani Monkey Park
Where to Travel in Japan During Winter: Jigokudani Monkey Park

During the winter, book a tour to the Jigokudani Monkey Park in Yamanouchi, Shimotakai District in Nagano, Japan. At this hot spring park, located within the Kogen National Park, you can spot adorable Japansese snow moneys soaking away in a warm bath!

Where to Travel in Japan During Winter: Jigokudani Monkey Park
Where to Travel in Japan During Winter: Jigokudani Monkey Park

Watch the snow monkeys playing, foraging for food or just unwinding in the onsen. Take in the towering peaks surrounding the park. Tours normally depart for a limited time (from December to March) so book early.

#3. Mount Zao

Snowy Japan Tours in the Summer: Zao Mountains
Where to Travel in Japan During Winter: Mount Zao

In the summer months, the Mount Zao region’s biggest draw is the Okama Crater, however in the winter months, Mount Zao boasts breathtaking frozen trees, or ‘snow monsters’. Trek through the pathways and check out the surrounding peaks of interesting shapes.

Where to Travel in Japan During Winter: Mount Zao
Where to Travel in Japan During Winter: Mount Zao (image via 8ware, flickr)

Make your way to Zao Onsen and hop on a chairlift to admire the ‘monsters’ below. At night, witness the ‘Snow Monsters’ become illuminated in colorful shades. Be sure to hit the slopes at Zao Onsen and include some skiing or snowboarding in your winter vacation.

 

#4. Shirakawa-go & Gokayama

Where to Travel in Japan During Winter
Where to Travel in Japan During Winter: Shirakawa-go & Gokayama

Journey to the historic villages of Shirakawa-go and Gokayama, UNESCO World Heritages Sites. These quaint villages are famed for their thatched roof farmhouses that create a stunningly charming view in the snow.

Where to Travel in Japan During Winter: Shirakawa-go & Gokayama
Where to Travel in Japan During Winter: Shirakawa-go & Gokayama

During the holiday season, book a tour and watch these enchanting houses light up in the night sky. As the sun sets, behold a captivating sight of twinkling lights, falling snow and adorable houses. The light up only happens for a short time and spots fill up fast, so book early and be sure to reserve your space.

 

With unique sights that can’t be found anyone else on Earth, Japan is a must when it comes to winter travel. Discover everything this amazing country has to offer and book a trip for your holiday, right now!

Need more winter travel inspo? Check this out:

 

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