Does it snow in Japan?
Short answer: yes
Japan has different climates throughout the country, so while it does snow during the winter season, the amount differs by region. Peak season for snowfall in Japan starts in mid-December and lasts until February, but the season can range from late October to early April. The southern regions receive significantly less snowfall than the north, with central cities like Tokyo having occasional light snowfall, but nothing compared to the winter wonderlands that are easily accessible away from the capital city.
Where does it snow in Japan?
Most of the country experiences some kind of snowfall once December hits. You’ll experience the occasional magical dusting of snow in major cities like Osaka, Kyoto and Tokyo, but here are some notable places to visit during the winter season in Japan:
Hokkaido is famous for some of the lightest, deepest powder snow in the world, making it a top destination for winter travel and skiing. Niseko is the country’s most famous ski destination and Oaru is a charming canal town that transforms into a winter wonderland of lanterns.
Ginzan Onsen and Nyuto Onsen are notable hot springs to visit during winter, which is arguably the best time to soak in steaming natural water surrounded by snow. They’re both located in the snowy Tohoku region of northern Honshu and are picturesque historic towns with ryokan (traditional Japanese inns) known for open-air baths with snowy views.
Jigokudani Monkey Park in Yamanouchi is famous for its troop of wild Japanese macaques that bathe in natural hot springs. The monkeys can be seen year-round, but they are most likely to soak in winter when the temperature drops.
Shirakawa-go is a UNESCO World Heritage village in the Japanese Alps known for its traditional gassho-zukuri thatched-roof farmhouses that look especially magical covered in snow.
Best time to visit for snow in Japan
The snow begins to fall in December and can last into April, but the heavy, consistent and powdery snow is best in the middle of the season.
These are also the months with the best skiing conditions in Japan. The full ski season is usually December to April, but early January to mid-February is when the Siberian weather patterns deliver deep, light and powdery snowfall perfect for shredding on the mountain.
February is when the Sapporo Snow Festival pops up in Hokkaido’s capital city. One of Japan’s most popular winter events, this weeklong festival is when massive, intricate snow sculptures take over the streets. Think snow and ice sculptures the size of buildings and winter entertainment like snow slides and rafting. The Otaru Snow Light Path Festival is also held in Hokkaido in February, featuring thousands of handmade lanterns and candles illuminating the city.
What's winter like in Japan?
Despite low temperatures and snowfall, Japan’s weather in winter can be relatively dry and sunny. Cities like Tokyo and Osaka experience temperature highs of 10°C and lows down to 3°C.
- Northern Japan experiences freezing temperatures paired with heavy snowfall
- Southern Japan has mild winters with average temperatures ranging 3 to 16°C
- Eastern Japan experiences freezing temperatures and heavy snowfall in high altitude areas, but mild conditions in and around Tokyo
- Western Japan has cold but mild winters with some heavy snowfall in the coastal areas.
Packing appropriate clothing is crucial to enjoy your trip to Japan in the winter. Protective and waterproof shoes are important, as well as warm jackets, thermal layers or a long-sleeve base, a sweater or fleece mid-layer, and scarf, gloves and hat for the colder areas. If you’re heading up north, pack snowpants. If you’re thinking you should bring a swimsuit for the onsens, think again... birthday suits only in the Japanese hot springs.
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What you pack for a trip to Japan depends on where you go and when, but there are some essentials you should bring any time of year.
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