Top winter experiences in Japan

Looking for a snowy getaway in Asia? Japan is a popular destination for a white winter holiday, with thrilling snow sports, ice festivals and wildlife to discover in its frostier regions. Pack a jacket and grab your passport; you’re going to want to try these top winter experiences in Japan – bookable with Cathay Holidays.

Winter onsens

 A place with a name that translates to “Hell Valley” might not sound like the ideal spa escape, but Jigokudani, located between Toyama and Nagano prefectures, is home to some of Japan’s most striking hot springs – especially when seen in the winter. The springs were formed through volcanic activity thousands of years ago, and their purported healing properties made them popular among the indigenous Ainu people of Hokkaido. Head to Dai-ichi Takimotokan , one of Japan’s most celebrated onsens, to soak in indoor and outdoor baths sourced from five different springs, and boasting views of Jigokudani’s snowy mountain landscape.

Nagano snow monkeys

Over on the Nagano side of Jigokudani, you’ll find Snow Monkey Park , where wild Japanese macaques can typically be found bathing in hot springs. The park is paradise for aspiring wildlife photographers, as these cheeky monkeys are given free rein to roam, with no barriers separating them from curious tourists. Besides these furry residents, the park is also home to beautiful trails which become powdery snow wonderlands in the wintertime.

Frozen festivals

In the Hokkaido town of Sounkyo, winter sees the appearance of eerie ice caverns and gigantic white sculptures in their dozens. They are part of the Ice Waterfall Festival , which typically takes place in the early months of the year. The highlight of the festival is an interconnected series of ice tunnels up to 100 metres long, complete with neon lights and dangling icicles. Over the years, the event has also featured ice climbing walls and live shows. Just remember to dress warmly for the chilly day out. 

Olympic ski jumps

Loved Eddie the Eagle? Get a taste of what ski jumping is really like at the Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium , where Olympic skiers have previously performed feats that boggle the mind. While you won’t be able to tackle the slope yourself, you’ll be able to stand at the precipice of the jump and soak in the unbeatable views of Sapporo. While the gigantic ski jump is the star of the show, there’s also an Olympic Museum celebrating the 1972 Sapporo Winter Olympic Games and a French restaurant ideal for an intimatenight out.

Snowy slopes

It comes as no surprise that Japan’s ski resorts are among the best in the world. Places like Niseko in Hokkaido are renowned for their powdery slopes, while Japanese ski resorts such as Lotte Arai and Yu Kiroro welcome avid skiers and snowboarders from around the world. If you’ve already conquered Hokkaido’s mountains, look to smaller picturesque spots like hot spring town Zao Onsen or the many snow sports-friendly towns in Nagano.