Japan in January: Complete Winter Travel Guide

Planning a trip to Japan in January? Experience the magic of winter in Japan, with its snowy landscapes, vibrant festivals, and authentic New Year’s traditions. Explore Hokkaido’s powder snow, Kyoto’s historic temples, and Tokyo’s lively streets. Japan in January offers festive highlights, such as Hatsumode shrine visits and snow festivals, along with fewer crowds and affordable accommodations. Most attractions remain open, and transportation runs smoothly, making it an ideal time for a winter adventure. This guide provides insights into Japan’s January weather, cultural experiences, activities, and travel tips, along with curated tour packages for an unforgettable winter journey. Discover the magic of winter Japan with our comprehensive Japan tour packages designed for the season.

Key Takeaways

• Best time for winter sports: January offers peak skiing conditions in Hokkaido with powder snow and world-class resorts
• Cultural immersion: Experience authentic Japanese New Year celebrations, including Hatsumode shrine visits and traditional festivals
• Winter weather varies by region: Northern Japan sees heavy snowfall (-8°C in Sapporo) while Tokyo remains milder (2-10°C)
• Budget-friendly travel: January is off-peak season with lower accommodation costs compared to the spring cherry blossom season
• Fewer crowds: Enjoy popular attractions without the tourist rush, except during New Year’s week (January 1-3)

Is January a Good Time to Visit Japan?

Yes, absolutely, but it depends on what you’re looking for. January is one of the most rewarding times to experience Japan, especially if you enjoy winter activities, cultural festivals, and don’t mind cold weather. If you prefer warm temperatures and long days, consider spring or autumn instead.

Read more: Japan Travel Guide

Japan January Weather: What to Expect by Region

Japan’s weather varies significantly by region, so understanding the climate helps you plan clothing, activities, and travel routes.

Tokyo and Central Japan

• Average temperature: 2°C – 10°C
• Mildly cold with occasional rain or snow.
• Days are generally sunny, but mornings and evenings can be chilly.

Northern Japan (Hokkaido)

• Average temperature: -8°C – 0°C
• Heavy snowfall makes it ideal for skiing and snowboarding.
• Winter festivals, like the Sapporo Snow Festival, attract visitors worldwide.

Region	City	Average High (°C)	Average Low (°C)	Snowfall
Hokkaido	Sapporo	-2	-8	Heavy (frequent)
Tohoku	Aomori	1	-4	Heavy
Kanto	Tokyo	10	2	Rare
Chubu	Nagano	4	-4	Moderate to Heavy
Kansai	Kyoto	9	0	Occasional
Kansai	Osaka	9	1	Rare
Chugoku	Hiroshima	10	2	Rare
Kyushu	Fukuoka	10	3	Very Rare
Okinawa	Naha	19	14	Never

Best Places to Visit Japan in January

January transforms Japan into a winter wonderland, with each region offering unique experiences.

Hokkaido – Winter Sports Paradise

Hokkaido is ideal for skiers and snowboarders. Sapporo combines city life with winter charm, offering hot ramen, beer culture, and early Sapporo Snow Festival preparations. Niseko is famous for its champagne powder snow and internationally friendly resorts. Nearby Otaru enchants with canal-side streets and snow festival setups starting in January.

Tokyo – Urban Winter

Tokyo blends modern city life with traditional New Year celebrations. Visit Meiji Shrine for Hatsumode and Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa. January shopping includes fukubukuro (lucky bag) sales in Shibuya, Shinjuku, and Ginza. Day trips offer clear views of Mount Fuji, the Fuji Five Lakes, or Hakone hot springs.

Kyoto – Temples & Tradition

Kyoto’s temples shine under snow. Explore Fushimi Inari Shrine and Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) early morning for golden light and fewer crowds. Enjoy tea ceremonies, Gion district walks, and kaiseki dining for a complete cultural experience.

Takayama & Shirakawa-go – Mountain Villages

Experience traditional Japan in the Japanese Alps. Takayama preserves Edo-period architecture, while Shirakawa-go features UNESCO-listed snow-covered gassho-zukuri farmhouses, perfect for photography and cultural immersion.

Nagano – Ski Resorts & Snow Monkeys

Nagano offers world-class skiing in Hakuba Valley and Nozawa Onsen. Don’t miss Jigokudani Monkey Park, where snow monkeys bathe in hot springs, a prime January attraction.

Tip: For families, combine Tokyo’s urban attractions with Nagano or Hakuba for skiing, creating a diverse winter itinerary without extreme cold exposure.

Read more: Best Places to Visit in Japan

Winter Festivals in Japan in January

Japan’s January festivals and events offer some of the country’s most authentic cultural experiences. The month centres around New Year celebrations but includes several unique winter festivals.

Major Festivals and Events in January

Event	Date	Location	Description
Shogatsu (New Year)	January 1-3	Nationwide	Japan’s most important holiday with temple visits, traditional foods, and family gatherings
Hatsumode	January 1-7	Nationwide	First shrine visit of the year; major temples see millions of visitors
Coming of Age Day	Second Monday	Nationwide	Celebrates young adults turning 20; features ceremonies and traditional dress
Toshigyo-ji Temple Bell Ringing	December 31-January 1	Various temples	Joya no Kane ceremony with 108 bell rings at midnight
Sanjusangendo Archery Contest	Mid-January	Kyoto	Traditional archery competition at a historic temple
Seijin Shiki Ceremonies	Second Monday	Major cities	Formal ceremonies for new adults turning 20
Dezomeshiki	Early January	Tokyo	Acrobatic demonstrations by the Tokyo Fire Department

Best Things to Do in Japan in January

January in Japan blends winter sports, cultural experiences, and seasonal festivities.

1. Hatsumode Shrine Visits

Start the year with traditional shrine visits to pray for good fortune. Smaller neighbourhood shrines offer intimate experiences, food stalls, and traditional performances. Meiji Shrine in Tokyo is a popular spot for Hatsumode.

2. Skiing & Snowboarding

Japan’s powder snow attracts enthusiasts worldwide. Top resorts:

• Niseko, Hokkaido: International-friendly powder snow
• Hakuba Valley, Nagano: Varied terrain for all levels
• Nozawa Onsen, Nagano: Skiing plus traditional hot springs
• Furano & Shiga Kogen: Less crowded, extensive slopes

3. Outdoor Hot Springs (Onsen)

Relax in steaming onsens amidst snowy landscapes. Recommended regions: Kusatsu (Gunma), Hakone (Kanagawa), Beppu (Oita), Noboribetsu (Hokkaido). Follow proper bathing etiquette for a serene experience.

4. Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park

Watch Japanese macaques soak in hot springs. Best viewed in January with snow-covered scenery. Accessible via Nagano Station or as a day trip from Tokyo.

5. Tokyo Fukubukuro (Lucky Bags)

Shop early January for mystery bags in Ginza, Shibuya, Shinjuku, Harajuku, and Akihabara. Expect items ranging from ¥1,000 to ¥100,000.

6. January Grand Sumo Tournament

Attend Hatsu Basho in Tokyo’s Ryogoku Kokugikan for an immersive cultural experience. Arrive early to see lower-division matches.

7. Winter Illuminations

Enjoy spectacular light displays in Tokyo, Osaka, Kobe, and Nabana no Sato. Ideal for romantic experiences, combined with onsens and kaiseki dining for couples.

Quick Tip: For a Japan January honeymoon, combine winter illuminations with hot spring resorts and kaiseki dining for romantic, memorable experiences. Consider booking through our Japan honeymoon packages for curated romantic itineraries.

Japan January Travel Tips

• Clothing: Thermal layers, sweaters, waterproof jackets, gloves, scarves, warm socks.
• Gear: Comfortable walking shoes, hand warmers, travel adapter.
• Money: Carry cash for small purchases; most shops accept cards in major cities.
• Transport: Consider the Japan Rail Pass for intercity travel.
• Cultural Tips: Respect shrine etiquette, remove shoes where required, and follow public transport rules.

What to Pack for Japan in January

Clothing:

• Thermal layers, sweaters, and a warm jacket
• Waterproof coat or down jacket for snow and rain
• Gloves, scarf, beanie, and warm socks

Footwear:

• Comfortable, waterproof walking shoes or boots
• Optional: slip-on shoes for shrines and indoor spaces

Accessories & Essentials:

• Hand warmers and an insulated water bottle
• Travel adapter for electronics
• Sunglasses for sunny, snowy days
• Small backpack or crossbody bag for daily outings

Toiletries & Health:

• Moisturiser and lip balm (cold air can be drying)
• Basic first aid kit and any prescription medications

Tip: Pack layers for flexibility, as northern Japan is much colder than Tokyo, and indoor heating can make light layers sufficient indoors.

Final Thoughts: Visiting Japan in January

Japan in January is a winter wonderland, where snow-covered landscapes meet vibrant festivals and rich cultural traditions. From skiing in Hokkaido and exploring historic temples in Kyoto to enjoying Tokyo’s New Year celebrations and shopping events, the month offers diverse experiences for every traveller. With careful planning for weather, activities, and travel logistics, you can make the most of shorter crowds, seasonal cuisine, and unique winter adventures. Embrace the cold, layer up, and immerse yourself in the magic of Japan’s winter season for an unforgettable January journey.

FAQs: Visiting Japan in January

1. Is January a good time to visit Japan?

Yes, January is ideal for travellers who enjoy winter sports, snow festivals, and traditional New Year celebrations. The crowds are smaller than in spring, and accommodation prices are more budget-friendly.

2. What is the weather like in Japan in January?

Northern Japan (Hokkaido) experiences heavy snowfall with temperatures around -8°C to 0°C, while Tokyo and central Japan are milder at 2°C to 10°C. Okinawa remains warm at 14°C–19°C.

3. What are the must-visit places in Japan in January?

• Hokkaido: Skiing in Niseko, Sapporo Snow Festival
• Tokyo: Meiji Shrine Hatsumode, Fukubukuro shopping
• Kyoto: Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kinkaku-ji
• Nagano: Ski resorts, Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park
• Takayama & Shirakawa-go: Traditional snow-covered villages

4. What festivals happen in Japan in January?

Key festivals include:

• Shogatsu (New Year, Jan 1–3)
• Hatsumode (first shrine visit, Jan 1–7)
• Coming of Age Day (second Monday of Jan)
• Toshigyo-ji Temple Bell Ringing (Dec 31–Jan 1)
• Dezomeshiki Firefighter acrobatics (early Jan, Tokyo)

5. Can I go skiing in Japan in January?

Yes, January offers peak skiing conditions in Hokkaido, Nagano, and other mountainous regions. Resorts like Niseko, Hakuba Valley, and Nozawa Onsen are international-friendly and offer powder snow.

6. Do I need a visa to visit Japan in January?

Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Many Western countries have visa-free entry for short stays, but Indian travellers need a Japan tourist visa. Check embassy guidelines and ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates.

7. Is January suitable for a honeymoon in Japan?

Yes, January offers romantic winter landscapes, hot springs (onsen), kaiseki dining, and winter illuminations, making it perfect for a honeymoon itinerary.