If you think of Japan you might think of Tokyo or Kyoto – a bustling metropolis – but Japan also has incredible natural wonders. There's plenty more breathtaking sights that can be placed on a bucket list.
From the turquoise waters of Hokkaido and the ice-blue pools of Okinawa, with old forests and beaches, there is an incredible natural wonder.
Some may seem harder to reach than others and yet are incredible displays that are sure to be unforgettable.
WHEN IS IT TIME TO PLAN WINTER HOLIDAYS TO JAPAN?
It is typically wintering between January and December in the USA. The rainy seasons in Japan last much longer, but the temperatures vary by region.
In Tokyo the temperature reached 12C in December but drops to 41C in early morning or evening. In January, the temperature falls to 5 degrees Fahrenheit at noon with a temperature drop of 2 degrees Fahrenheit (30 degrees Celsius).
February sees warm weather with average temperatures at minus 12 degrees at night versus just over 15 degrees in daylight.
Central Japan and Kansai experience similar conditions, while Okinawa rarely experiences coldest temperatures above 14 degrees.
The northern Japanese mountain range is below freezing temperature and experiences nearly every single day of snowfall.
01. Winter Season in Japan
Winter typically starts in mid or early December and ends in mid to late March. The winters in each region change according to the geographical areas.
Usually the cold temperatures of some regions in Japan ranging from 4° Celsius to 7° Celsius are around 25 to 45 degrees Fahrenheit.
Nevertheless the whole story is different for areas located at the foothills of Tohoku and Hokkaido. Obviously the weather is colder and the Japanese also experience longer winters than normal.
02. Winter Festivals In Japan
The Otaru Light Snow Path festivals generally occur in Sapporo as well as in nearby towns, making the most out of the possibility of visiting both festivals.
Alternatively, a festival that takes place in another city in Japan can also be organised. Tokamis snow festival and Asahikaka winter festival.
It's amazing! Snow statues of Daimaou Kuosaka (aka Pikotaro) at Sapporo Snow Fest Illuminated snow sculptures at Sapporo Snow Festival with sapporo television towers at night. Sultan Abdallah. Decorative sculpture from snow and slush.
03. Places to Visit in Biei in Winter
Biei is a quiet place, and the area around the Blue Pond is touristy populated. Biei is within Instagrammable snow-covered landscapes and volcanic Mount Tokachi is less than an hour drive away.
A few minutes from Biei are the Biei Shirogane Onsen hot springs and hotels. Near Shirogano Onsen, a key attraction of the town is the beautiful Shirahige Waterfall.
The dozens of waterfalls are over 100 metres tall and look magical in winter light.
04. The bamboo groves of Arashiyama, Kyoto
A popular spot in Japan, the Sagano bamboo forests are an amazing sight to behold. With dappling sun dripping from branches, it is very relaxing.
They stand 20 m high. Lookup is sometimes dizzying especially if you are in a brisk wind. Seeing the beauty in all its glory makes it worth the time to look back.
There's much to explore and although the route is only 300m long you can walk at your own speed and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Explore more Kyoto Bamboo Forests. If there is no way you can get in Kyoto, you could instead visit some bamboos in Japan.
05. Takachiho Gorge, Miyazaki
The stunning Takachiho Gorge is ideally visible from the waters and you can hire a small fishing boat and have a romantic cruise on the quiet Gokase River.
There isn’t an actual paddle in the park however: despite its nature-filled wonder, the gorge is filled with maple trees and a dramatic 17 m-high miniai-no-taki waterfall.
Are we better at staying wet in our country? The gorge is stunning from above, and the hikers can take a stroll down the Takachiho promenade 1km away and enjoy a beautiful panorama.
06. The famous Mount Fuji, Yamanashi
You cannot visit Japan without seeing this place. In addition to being a popular landmark and national symbol Mount Fuji remains one of nature's wonders.
It can be reached from the other side of Hakone lake. If you're interested in conquering this monster, you'll find some helpful climbing tips here. There is nothing more beautiful than a sunrise in the Peaks!
07. Mt Haguro, Yamagata
The easiest accessible mountain of the three forms of the sacred Dewa Sanzan pilgrimages, Mount Haguro is the real life incarnation of the enchanted woodland.
The hike at its highest point that requires a climb of nearly 1,600 steps will surely challenge you.
But in the foothills, a graceful fivestorey wooden pagoda was constructed in 937 and surrounded by thick forests of cedars with a tree that has lasted from 400 a.
08. Kamikochi, Nagano
Kamikochi is a lush green plateau located in the north-western Japanese Alps in Nagaoki Prefecture which consists of several high elevation mountain ranges and is accessible by walking without any difficulty.
Most people hover around the Kappabashi Bridge. Bus stops can be found near the site.
And perhaps a more significant part is to experience the beautiful scenery: wooded riverbeds dotted with a fortress of peaks, a fortress which in autumn glows in colours of yellow, orange and red.
Beat the crowds starting with the serene Taisho Pond whose clean surface is reflective of its gorgeous environment.
09. The stunning Nachi Falls, Wakayama
It is the tallest uninterrupted falls in Japan at 132 metres high and 13 metres wide and is a spectacular sight for tourists in the world.
The view over the Pagoda of Seigantoji is breathtaking and is well worth visiting Wakayama.
Then, take a few short walks on Kodo Trail to see Nachi Taisha a sacred temple located just opposite Buddhist Seigantoji Temple.
The falls were initially believed as the most sacred and considered an important place in nature by the early Japanese people.
10. Alpine views of Mount Yari, Nagano
Mount Yari is famous for the ridges and ripples that catch snow for a beautiful pattern. The view of Mt. Fuji from this mountaintop and amazing panoramas of the nearby mountain range makes it no wonder it is on many hikers' bucket list.
The first recorded ascents are made by a Buddhist priest named Banryu during Edo.
The area has been nicknamed the Japanese Alps by the British hiker Gowland who subsequently followed in 1880.
This hiking trail can be explored by a guide from April to December with the area viewed as very beautiful in autumn.
11. Ski Resorts in Japan
In Japan there is 74% of mountains, so skiing and a little snowboarding are possible. There are resorts in Northern Japan with backcountry and ski slopes.
Seasons usually begin in late December and can last through March depending on snowfall.
12. Kabira Bay, Ishigaki, Okinawa
Kabira Bay is a pristine beach that attracts thousands of visitors to Ishigaki Bay every year. Coral reef and magnificent animals under water are stunning.
While there may be no swimming in these places due to currents, jellyfish and boats, it is recommended to travel with glasses to see sea life.
A trip to the uninhabited Islands will also be provided. It is only by Snorkeling that one may enjoy the waters of the Island which are strictly controlled. Find the most interesting information about Ishigaki.
13. The blue seas of the Kerama Islands, Okinawa
The Kerama Islands represent the heaven in the northwestern Okinawan Islands near Naha. It includes sandy beaches, coral reefs and even whale sharks.
In 20 of these islands only 5 are currently inhabited; some hostels, hotel facilities and plenty of diving companies also offer kayaking and snorkel tours or rental equipment.
You'll get into the island culture in a few days on the beach. Tokachiki has an unusually hilly landscape that offers amazing rainforest walks and regular boats on the small islands. There is a local restaurant that will leave you in no time at all.
14. Fresh Food Around Japan!
What are tourists really interested in when they love Japanese food? Even though it sounds like you've had Japanese dishes at Japanese restaurants, the experience will change even when you are eating at the tiny restaurants.
During winter the most delicious Japanese cuisine is offered including sushi. Particularly within a certain area including Tokyo Kanazawa, Fukuoka and Hokkaido. The best place to visit is Hiroshima.
15. Hitachi Seaside Park, Ibaraki
Ibaraki has a hitachi seashore park in their itinerary. Best known for its blue sea of roughly 5.3 million nemophilas in spring, and bright red kochias or summer cypresses in autumn (pictured), Hitachi Seaside Park also grows California poppies, roses, daffodils and even sports There's not just flowering, but there are amusement parks, children's activities zones and 11 km of cycling trails throughout 350 acres.
16. Fewer Crowds: Better Trips Coming!
Are Japanese people interested in visiting Japan? Winters can be an ideal choice. Some people are reluctant to go to Japan in the winter. Often it is impossible for them to face the cold.
However, this is another nice reason to visit Japan in winter. It means you can face less tourists and behave like locals.
Because winter is considered a low season you can save more because almost everything has its lowest cost.
17. Planning a Trip To Hokkaido During The Winter Holidays
Japan has beautiful natural beauty during the summer months and a lot of people enjoy visiting their national parks. However the island is most famous for its snowy landscape.
Do not miss Sapporo's snowfest where local and international artists create snow and ice sculptures as tall as buildings. You can visit Otaru to see dozens of lantern-lit street and canal lights at the Snowlight Festival.
18. Enjoy Time in Cafes or Bars
Apart from skiing, trolling around, or even enjoying Japans most amazing foods that can cool the soul, you should also spend a little time at a restaurant or bar.
There's a cafe and a bar as well and you can go to Izakaya, which is a place where the majority of Japanese sell sake, the most popular drink in Japan.
Not only that, izakayas often serve comfort foods with broth which goes great with sakes. You can even visit izakawa for locals who spend some time at the izakawas as well.
19. Ginzan Onsen, Yamagata
Bathing in hot springs or onsen is a relaxing way to relax in Japan. When snow has fallen and the air is cold, outdoor viewing can become a much better experience.
One of the most beautiful place for winter onsen in Japanese is Ginzan in Yamagata Prefecture.
The small mountain village was established in 900 and contains historic wooden-frame ryokans, traditional inns around a pedestrianised area in its heart and on a riverbank.
20. Winter Travel Via JR Tadami Line
The JR Tadami Line trains on the longest stretch of the Prefecture of Fukushima and Niigata. During the winter when it's covered with thick snow, the Japanese landscape is beautiful and the views are absolutely breathtaking.
The train connects cities in Aizuwakamatsu and Uonuma through mountains surrounded by pine forests and follows a winding river course through dazzling bridges.
This long journey gives you pause and allows you to view beautiful views through an equestrian lane.
21. Snow Monkeys in Jigokudani Park
It'll only be good soaking in a cold on the outdoor sand if no monkeys join you. In the Nagano Prefecture you can explore the landscapes and snow-covered mountains of the area.
There you can also see macabre monkeys doing unusual things. Jigokudani Monkey Park has natural hot springs which attract wild monkeys to cool off.
22. Zao Snow Monsters, Yamagata
Zao is not only a great ski resort for the skiers hitting the slopes but offers a picturesque scene from a winter fairy tale or horror film.
The hilltops are lined with snowy forests swept with the wind so they are looking more like giant, mutating snowmen.
They also have a festive festival in Jan, which includes illuminations and flash fire. Approximately 20 minutes walk from Kyoto, you're at the Ogasawara Islands. Chichijima, an important island, is an important place to watch dolphins and whales.
23. Sapporo Snow Festival
The Sakura Snow Festival is Japan's biggest snow festival. In addition to the streets of the town, the festival is set to take over three large sites including Odori Susukino and the Tetsu Dome.
Winterfest in Sapporo, a major town in the Hokkaido Prefecture, is a weeklong event that draws over 2,000 visitors per year. Accommodation costs are high but should be booked very early.
24. Shirakawa-go Winter Illuminations
Shirakawago hosts several lighting shows during winter, but new rules are in place for 2019 to ensure the visitors can make a reservation for these. Places are limited, so make your reservation in advance.
No matter where you travel, the sights and shops in the park are always spectacular. In Tochigi prefecture Ashikaga flower park hosts a large light festival in October through March each year. The festivals are often shorter, though. These will probably come in the weeks before Christmas.
25. Winter Illuminations in Tokyo
In Japan the winter illumination is everywhere and every district is competing for the best displays in the world but they are not missed in the capital, Tokyo.
In the past lighting the city was done using coloured LEDs and now features a digitally created choreography projected map of the crowd.
Throughout the holidays Tokyo glows bright, and a few places of Tokyo excel with illumination more than others.
Best winter illuminations in Tokyo includes carettashiodome illumination, roppongi hills christmas illumination and Tokyo Midtown Christmas illumination.
26. Yakushima Island
Yakushima Island To really get in touch with Japan's nature at its very best, you need to spend some time on Yakushima Island . This island is not only a haven for animals and one of the best natural sights in Japan, it's also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Best Places for Winter Shopping
Winter sales are widely available in Japan and most retail stores participate but many do not list the prices of these discount offers on their website. Japan Shop Now is a useful web site for finding store listings.
Winter sale at Hankyu departments store Tokyo Umeda store. Ginzaza District, the area where high end stores sell in Tokyo during the Winter Sales. Japanese women shopping in Tokyo.
FAQs about Awestruck in Japan Nature Wonders
What is the Best Time to Visit Japan in Winter?
Japan is the world’s leading tourism destination with over 20 million annual visitors and has a number of touristy high and low seasons like most other countries in the world. January to March is the best time of the year to visit Japan.
Because this season has low temperatures there is less crowding and accommodations usually cost less. However, don't forget about the days prior to or after Christmas.
As Obaneso in August and The Golden week in late April New Years are a major celebration and can cause chaos in the transport system as well.
What months is winter in Japan?
Winter runs between October and March. During the cold season, it offers a perfect opportunity to have hot spring water.
Dipping on a warm spring with a nice winter landscape is extremely remarkable. Illuminations occur throughout Japanese throughout the end of the year.
Is Japan worth going to in winter?
Other FAQ - Traveling to Japan in Winter. With light crowds even in the temperate towns of Kyushu and Shikoku, you can visit your favorite attractions in Kanazawa or Kyoto. Buried in snow, Japan is the most undisturbed.
Is Japan good in December?
Yes, December should be good for visiting Japan. The month falls during the winter when many areas around the United States are covered in thick snow.
The December holidays have great opportunities to be adventurous. It's also an ideal time for festivals and events organized throughout Japan.
What are the landscapes of Japan?
Japan is predominantly dominated by mountainous territory - almost three-fourths of all the country's land is mountainous and long mountain regions form the core of the archipelago. The dramatic Japan Mountains capped by 3000-metre-high mountains divide the center of Honshu, the largest island.
What is Japan's most famous landscape?
Mount Fuji - The majestic snowy peak of Mount Fuji is easily recognised and is one of Japans best attractions and is a must-see.
This also carries active volcanos that are one of Japans 3 sacred mountaineers including Mount Tate and Mount Haku.
Is Japan very cold in winter?
Northern Japan is warm in the summer and extremely cold winter with heavy snow along the Seaside Japan and mountain ranges.
East Japan has hot and humid winters with heavy snows on the Sea of Japan and mountains and on the coastline.
Conclusion
Embarking on a journey to witness the Awestruck in Japan Nature Wonders is an experience that transcends the ordinary.
From the delicate allure of cherry blossoms to the mysterious depths of Aokigahara Forest, Japan's natural wonders beckon, promising moments of awe and inspiration. So, add these gems to your bucket list and let the magic of Japan unfold before your eyes.
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