Japan in January: Your Go-To Guide for Best Trip!

Japan in January is cold and gloomy, as it is the middle of winter. Nothing but love and joy are present in the city. Throughout the entire year, Japan is a fantastic destination for Japan tourism. After visiting Japan, you can only depart physically because your spirit stays behind. The nation represents both contemporary and historically-rooted modern love. The following are some important considerations if you’re thinking about visiting Japan in January. Experience the captivating beauty and rich cultural heritage of Japan with our all-inclusive Japan tour packages.

Things to Know Before You Go to Japan

If you’re planning a trip to Japan in January, here are some key things to keep in mind:

• Currency: The currency used in Japan is the yen. It’s a good idea to carry some cash, as smaller shops and restaurants might not accept credit cards.
• Visa Requirements: Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa to enter Japan. Check with the Japanese embassy in your country to find out the specific requirements for your nationality.
• Weather: January is one of the coldest months in Japan, so pack warm clothing and accessories. If you’re heading to regions with heavy snowfall, like Hokkaido, make sure to bring waterproof shoes or boots with good traction.
• Cultural Customs: Japan has many unique cultural practices, so it’s important to be respectful and aware of local customs. For example, it’s common to remove your shoes before entering someone’s home or a temple. It’s also important to be quiet and considerate in public spaces, such as on trains and buses.
• Language: Japanese is the official language, but many people in tourist areas and big cities speak some English. Learning a few basic Japanese phrases can help with communication and show respect for the local culture.
• Festivals and Events: January is a great time to experience winter festivals and events in Japan. Be sure to research and plan ahead for any events you want to attend. Popular events, like the Sapporo Snow Festival, can draw large crowds, so it’s a good idea to book accommodations and transportation in advance.

Weather in Japan in January 2024

January is typically a cold month, with temperatures varying depending on the region. Here are some general characteristics of Japan during the month of January

• Winter season: January is right in the middle of the winter season in Japan. The winter season starts in December and lasts until February.
• Cold temperatures: Japan can be quite cold in January, especially in the northern parts of the country. In places like Sapporo, temperatures can drop to around -5°C (23°F) or even lower. Even in Tokyo, temperatures can be around 5-10°C (41-50°F) on average.
• Snow: Some parts of Japan, especially in the northern regions experience heavy snowfall in January. Places like Hokkaido, Aomori, and Niigata are known for their heavy snowfalls and winter festivals.

City	Average High (°C)	Average Low (°C)
Tokyo	10	2
Kyoto	9	0
Osaka	9	1
Sapporo	-2	-8
Hiroshima	10	2

Events and festivals in Japan in the month ofJanuary 2024

1. New Year’s Day – New Year’s Day is one of the biggest holidays in Japan, and it’s a time for families to gather, eat traditional foods, and visit temples and shrines. Many people also watch the first sunrise of the year.
2. Coming of Age Day (second Monday of January) – This holiday celebrates young adults who have turned 20 years old in the past year, which is the age of majority in Japan. There are ceremonies held throughout the country, and many young people wear traditional Japanese clothing.
3. Sapporo Snow Festival (early February) – Although it technically takes place in February, this festival usually starts in late January. It’s one of the biggest winter festivals in Japan, and it features huge snow sculptures, ice skating, and other winter activities.
4. Setsubun (February 3rd or 4th) – Setsubun is a traditional event that marks the end of winter and the beginning of spring. People throw roasted soybeans and shout “Oni wa soto, fuku wa uchi!” (Demons out, fortune in!) to drive away evil spirits.
5. Hatsuichi (January 1st) – Hatsuichi is a traditional market that takes place on the first day of the year, and it’s a great place to buy traditional Japanese goods and food.
6. Tondo Matsuri (January 14th-15th) – This festival, held in Kyoto, involves burning wooden prayer sticks to pray for good health and good fortune in the new year.

Top 5 Things to do in Japan during the month of January

1. Experience Hatsumode

While on your Japan tour, January is an excellent time to immerse yourself in Japanese New Year festivities. Hatsumode is the first Shinto visit of the year in Japan and it adds a cultural touch to your trip. Popular temples such as Meiji Shrine in Tokyo or Fushimi Inari Shrine located in Kyoto are visited by people to pray for good fortune. The environment is energetic and you can witness cultural performances while relishing traditional Japanese cuisine from the local food stalls.

2. Skiing in Hokkaido

January is ideal for indulging in winter sports. Hokkaido, an island in northern Japan  is where you have to be if you want to try skiing. The snow in Hokkaido is so soft and apt for skiing. Also, don’t forget to relax in the hot springs after a day on the snow.

3. Witness the Sapporo Snow Festival

The Sapporo Snow Festival is held annually during late January or at the start of February. You can witness installations and enjoy the snow sculptures in Odori Park and Susukino in Sapporo, Hokkaido. The festival exhibits incredible ice and snow carvings, some of which are lit during the night, thus creating a magical winter experience. It is a unique event that attracts visitors to Japan.

4. Sanjusangendo Archery Contest

In Japan, the second Monday in January is celebrated as Coming of Age Day, a special occasion when young people who have turned 20 are recognized as adults. You’ll see young women dressed in beautiful kimonos and men in suits, marking this significant milestone. A unique event associated with this day is Kyoto’s Sanjusangendo Archery Contest, held on January 14th. Also known as Ohmato Taikai, this contest has a history spanning over 400 years and takes place at the Sanjusangendo Temple in Kyoto, renowned as the world’s longest wooden building.

Each year, around 2,000 practitioners of Kyudo, the ancient art of archery, gather at this event, donning colorful kimonos. Many of these participants are 20-year-old women who have just come of age, making the event even more special. The sight of these skilled archers in traditional attire is both spectacular and unique. To attend, you can easily use your JRail Pass to travel from Tokyo to Kyoto on the Shinkansen Hikari bullet train.

5. Fukubukuro and the January Sales

Fukubukuro, or “lucky bags,” are a fun and unique New Year tradition in Japan, where stores sell mystery bags filled with discounted items. It’s a great way to get some exciting surprises and bargains. In addition to these mystery bags, January is also a prime time for sales at shops across the country. If you’re on the lookout for a good deal during your trip, this is the perfect time to shop. For fantastic shopping experiences, be sure to visit Ginza and Shinjuku in Tokyo, Umeda and Grand Front in Osaka, Minato Mirai in Yokohama, and Hakata in Fukuoka.

Average Expenses to visit Japan in January 

Item	Average Cost in INR
Accommodation	7,000-11,000
Food (per day)	1,500-2,500
Transportation	1,500-2,500
Entrance fees	500-1,000
Shopping (souvenirs)	2,000-3,000

Overall, January is a cold and wintry month in Japan, but it can also be a beautiful time to visit if you’re prepared for the weather. There are multiple winter activities that one can indulge in. Embark on an unforgettable journey with our curated Japan Tour Packages, offering a seamless blend of cultural immersion, scenic beauty, and extraordinary experiences.”

Frequently Asked Questioons