Japan Winter Holidays

Home to some of the most spectacular winter scenery in the world, from icy mountains to snowy seaside settings, Japan is a true winter wonderland. Here are some of our favourite experiences on a Japan winter holiday:

Visit Tokyo

Tokyo is well worth a visit at any time of year. The city's neon skyline is lit up like a futuristic Christmas tree adorned with glitzy skyscrapers, including the Tokyo Skytree, which is the world's tallest tower at 2,080ft, and the Tokyo Tower which has spectacular views of the city and a glass-floored observation platform guaranteed to make your tummy flip.

Experience Hokkaido’s Drift Ice

Hokkaido is famous for its drift ice, which forms in the Sea of Okhotsk and moves southward along the coast. On a guided tour, don dry suits and head out onto the ice to explore this entirely frozen seascape.

See the Fireworks in Chichibu

At the start of December, head to the city of Chichibu to experience one of Japan’s most loved festivals, the Chichibu Night Festival. The event sees the sky illuminated with a two-hour-long fireworks display, and the streets lined with stalls selling festival foods and amazake (sweet rice wine) to help combat the icy December temperatures.

Tour Temples and Shrines

Learn about Japanese culture (and warm up) while touring some of the many beautiful temples and shrines accompanied by an expert local guide. Afterwards, enjoy a traditional tea ceremony to truly get a taste of the country’s ancient traditions.