Journey Through Japan in January: Your Winter Travel Itinerary

Stepping off the plane in Japan in January, you’re greeted by a crisp, cool breeze that hints at the winter magic ahead. Snow-capped mountains beckon in the distance, while cities bustle with life, undeterred by the chill.

Japan is a land of contrasts in January – from serene, frosty landscapes to vibrant festivals that light up the long nights. If you’re craving a one-of-a-kind winter adventure, Japan delivers. Let’s discuss:

Is January a Good Time to Visit Japan?

January is an excellent time to visit Japan for travellers who enjoy winter activities, cultural experiences, and fewer crowds. While the weather is undeniably chilly, this opens up opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, soaking in hot springs and attending unique festivals.

Plus, with the holiday rush over, you’ll find lower prices and more elbow room at popular attractions.

Weather

In January, Japan’s weather varies depending on the region, but generally, you can expect:

Region	Average Temperature (°C)	Average Temperature (°F)
Hokkaido	-4 to -12	25 to 10
Honshu (Tokyo)	2 to 10	36 to 50
Kyushu (Fukuoka)	3 to 11	37 to 52

• The northern island of Hokkaido sees the coldest temperatures and heaviest snowfall. Cities like Sapporo transform into winter wonderlands.
• On the main island of Honshu, Tokyo and Kyoto experience cool to cold weather with occasional snow. Temperatures rarely drop below freezing.
• Southern islands like Kyushu have milder winters. Snowfall is rare, but you’ll still need a warm coat.

Cultural Events & Festivals

Festivals and events add colour and excitement to Japan’s winter landscape. A few notable ones in January include:

1. Hatsumode: The First Shrine Visit of the Year

• When: January 1-3
• Where: Major shrines like Meiji Jingu (Tokyo), Fushimi Inari Taisha (Kyoto), Sensoji Temple (Tokyo)
• Significance: Millions visit shrines to pray for health and happiness, marking the year’s first visit. Visitors often purchase omikuji (fortune-telling slips) to gain insights into the coming year.

2. Shōgatsu: Japanese New Year Celebrations

• When: January 1-3
• Where: Nationwide
• Significance: This is Japan’s most important holiday, where families gather to exchange greetings and enjoy traditional New Year meals such as osechi ryori. Temples and shrines attract large crowds for prayers and celebrations.

3. Joya no Kane: New Year’s Eve Bell Ringing

• When: December 31 (New Year’s Eve)
• Where: Temples across Japan, notably Zojoji in Tokyo
• Significance: Temples ring their bells 108 times at midnight to purify listeners from the sins of the previous year, drawing large crowds for this solemn ceremony.

4. Dezome-shiki: Firemen’s Parade

When: January 6

Where: Tokyo and other major cities

Significance: This traditional parade showcases the bravery and skills of firefighters through acrobatic stunts and demonstrations, providing an exciting spectacle for attendees.

5. Tōka Ebisu: Prosperity Festival

• When: January 9-11 (Osaka), January 8-12 (Kyoto)
• Where: Nishinomiya Ebisu Shrine (near Osaka) and other locations
• Significance: Celebrating Ebisu, the god of prosperity, this festival attracts crowds seeking good fortune. Visitors buy fukuzasa (decorated bamboo branches) symbolizing luck, accompanied by food stalls and traditional dances.

6. Dontosai Festival

• When: January 14
• Where: Osaki Hachimangu Shrine, Miyagi
• Significance: A purification ritual marking the end of New Year celebrations where participants bring decorations to burn in a sacred fire, symbolizing renewal and health for the coming year.

7. Santera Mairi: Three Temples Pilgrimage

• When: January 15
• Where: Hida Furukawa, Gifu Prefecture
• Significance: This nocturnal pilgrimage illuminated by lanterns offers a serene atmosphere as participants visit three Buddhist temples, reflecting on the new year.

8. Seijin no Hi: Coming of Age Day

• When: Second Monday of January
• Where: Various cities across Japan
• Significance: Celebrating those who turned 20 in the previous year, this national holiday features ceremonies where participants dress in traditional kimonos or suits, marking their transition into adulthood.

These events not only highlight Japan’s rich cultural heritage but also provide visitors with unique experiences that reflect the spirit of the new year.

Top Things To Do in Japan in January

Beyond festivals, January visitors can enjoy a range of activities suited to the season:

1. Onsen (Hot Springs)
   
   • When: Throughout January
   • Where: Popular areas include Hakone, Nagano, and Beppu.
   • Highlights:
     – Enjoy soaking in steamy onsen baths amidst winter scenery.
     – Many ryokan offer both private and communal hot spring experiences.
2. Tea Ceremonies
   
   • When: Throughout January
   • Where: Kyoto and Tokyo
   • Highlights:
     – Participate in a formal tea ceremony while savoring seasonal sweets.- Learn about the ancient art of tea preparation in a tranquil setting.
3. Winter Sports
   
   • When: Throughout January
   • Where: Japan Alps, Hokkaido, Tohoku (e.g., Niseko, Hakuba)
   • Highlights:
     – Skiing and snowboarding opportunities abound in some of Japan’s best resorts.- Many resorts offer all-inclusive packages for convenience.
4. Nabe Dinners (Hot Pot)
   • When: Throughout January
   • Where: Restaurants across Japan or at rented cottages.
   • Highlights:
     – Experience communal dining with bubbling nabe dishes that warm the soul.
5. Strawberry Picking
   
   • When: Starting in January
   • Where: Tochigi and Shizuoka Prefectures
   • Highlights:
     – Enjoy the unique experience of picking fresh strawberries directly from farms.

Pro Tip: Many ski resorts offer all-inclusive packages with lift tickets, gear rentals, lodging, and meals. Compare prices and book early for the best deals.

Famous Places to Eat in Japan in January

Japan’s legendary food scene doesn’t slow down in winter. Seek out these regional specialities and local favourites:

1. Kikunoi (Kyoto): This three-Michelin-starred kaiseki restaurant elevates seasonal ingredients to an art form. Winter menus feature delicacies like crab, puffer fish, and matsutake mushrooms.
2. Ramen Jiro (Tokyo): Warm up with a hearty bowl of Jiro-style ramen, known for its rich pork broth, thick noodles, and generous toppings. The flagship shop in Mita draws long lines, but it’s worth the wait.
3. Kani Douraku (Osaka): Crab is a winter delicacy in Japan, and this famous chain serves it every which way – boiled, grilled, in hot pots, and more. The giant moving crab sign outside the Dotonbori branch is a city icon.
4. Otaru Beer Hall (Hokkaido): Escape the cold at this German-style beer hall, which serves craft brews and Bavarian fare in a cozy setting. Try the venison stew or classic sausages and pretzels.

Hidden Gem: For a truly local experience, duck into a small izakaya (pub) and sample an array of small plates and sake. Many specialize in regional dishes using winter ingredients.

What to pack for January?

Clothing

• Warm, waterproof coat
• Sweaters or fleece layers
• Thermal underwear
• Thick socks
• Scarf, gloves, and hat
• Waterproof boots with good traction

Accessories

• Moisturizer and lip balm (cold air can be drying)
• Sunglasses (snow glare can be intense)
• Hand warmers
• Reusable water bottle (hydration is key in dry winter air)

Packing Tip: Dress in layers that you can easily add or remove as temperatures change. Many indoor spaces are well-heated, so you’ll want the ability to adapt.

Where to stay in Japan?

Japan offers a wide range of lodging options to suit different budgets and preferences. Some top choices for January include:

• Ski resorts: Stay right on the slopes at places like The Vale Niseko or Hakuba Tokyu Hotel for easy access to the best winter sports.
• City hotels: Base yourself in a major city for day trips and sightseeing. The Park Hyatt Tokyo and Kyoto’s Ritz-Carlton offer luxury and great locations.
• Ryokan: Experience traditional Japanese hospitality at a ryokan (inn) with tatami mat rooms, onsen baths, and multi-course kaiseki meals. Gora Kadan in Hakone and Zaborin in Hokkaido are top picks.
• Minshuku: These family-run guesthouses provide a homey feel and local touches at a lower price point than most ryokan. You’ll find them throughout the country, especially in onsen towns.

Booking Tip: Look for ryokan or ski resort packages that include meals, as dining out can add up quickly in resort areas.

Average Cost of a Trip to Japan

Japan’s reputation as an expensive destination is not entirely undeserved, but with careful planning, you can manage costs. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:

• Accommodations: Budget hotels and hostels start at around ¥5,000 (Rs. 2,700) per night, while mid-range hotels average ¥10,000-20,000 (Rs. 5,500 – 11,000). Luxury ryokan and ski resorts can easily top ¥50,000 (Rs. 27,000) per night.
• Food: A simple meal like ramen or conveyor belt sushi can cost as little as ¥500-1,000 (Rs. 270 – 550), while a mid-range restaurant meal averages ¥2,000-3,000 (Rs. 1,100 – 1,600) per person. High-end kaiseki or sushi can run ¥10,000-30,000 (Rs. 5,500 – 16,500) or more.
• Transportation: A 7-day Japan Rail Pass costs ¥29,650 (Rs. 16,000) for ordinary class or ¥39,600 (Rs. 22,000) for green class. Local trains, buses, and subways are quite affordable, with most rides costing less than ¥500 (Rs. 270).
• Activities: Many temples, shrines, and museums charge admission fees ranging from ¥500-2,000 (Rs. 270 – 1,100). Ski lift tickets typically cost around ¥4,000-6,000 (Rs. 2,200 – 3,300) for a one-day pass.

Money-Saving Tip: Look for discount passes like the Hakone Free Pass or Osaka Amazing Pass, which bundle transportation and admission to popular attractions for one low price.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Japan Adventure

Local Etiquette

• Learn a few basic Japanese phrases like “sumimasen” (excuse me) and “arigatou gozaimasu” (thank you).
• Remove your shoes when entering homes, ryokan, temples, and some restaurants.
• Onsen has specific bathing etiquette – wash thoroughly before entering the hot spring and don’t wear swimsuits (unless explicitly allowed).
• Don’t tip at restaurants or hotels – it’s not expected and may be considered rude.

Safety and Health

• Winters are flu season, so wash your hands often and consider getting a flu shot before traveling.
• Slips and falls on icy sidewalks are common – wear sturdy, non-slip footwear.

Transportation

• Taxis are safe and clean, but they can be expensive. Have your destination written in Japanese or use a translation app to avoid confusion.
• Rent a car only if you’re confident driving in snow and ice. Many roads in Hokkaido and the mountains require tire chains in winter.

Currency

• Japan is still a largely cash-based society. While credit cards are increasingly accepted in cities, many smaller businesses deal only in cash.
• ATMs that accept international cards can be found at 7-Eleven, post offices, and some major train stations.
• Currency exchange is available at airports, banks, and some hotels, but rates may not be as favorable as withdrawing from an ATM.

Planning Tip: Download a public transportation app like Hyperdia or Japan Travel by NAVITIME to easily navigate train and subway routes.

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FAQs

1. What are the best things to do in Japan in January?

Top winter activities in Japan include:

• Skiing and snowboarding at resorts like Niseko, Hakuba, and Shiga Kogen
• Attending unique festivals like the Sapporo Snow Festival or Joya no Kane bell-ringing ceremonies
• Soaking in outdoor onsen surrounded by snow
• Enjoying seasonal foods like crab, puffer fish, and hot pot dishes

2. Is Japan cold in January?

Yes, January is one of the coldest months in Japan. Temperatures range from an average high of 10°C (50°F) in Tokyo to an average low of -12°C (10°F) in Sapporo. Expect snow in northern and mountainous regions.

3. What can I wear in Japan in January?

Pack warm, waterproof layers like a coat, sweaters, thermal underwear, scarf, gloves, and hat. Wear sturdy, non-slip boots with good traction for walking on snow and ice. Don’t forget to bring moisture-wicking inner layers, as many indoor spaces are well-heated.

4. Is Japan expensive to visit in January?

Japan can be pricey, but costs are manageable. Accommodations range from budget hostels to luxury ryokan. Food varies from cheap ramen to high-end kaiseki. Save on transportation with a Japan Rail Pass or regional passes.

5. How safe is Japan?

Japan has one of the lowest crime rates in the world, making it a very safe destination for travelers. However, it’s always a good idea to take common-sense precautions like keeping an eye on your belongings and being aware of your surroundings.

6. What can I see in Japan in January?

Japan’s winter landscapes are a sight to behold. Don’t miss:

• Snow-covered temples and shrines in Kyoto
• Steaming outdoor onsen in the Japan Alps
• Frozen waterfalls and ice sculptures in Hokkaido
• City illuminations and winter light-ups

7. Will it rain in Japan in January?

While January is one of the driest months in Japan, there is still a chance of rain or snow depending on the region. Tokyo averages around 43mm of rainfall in January, while Sapporo gets over 100cm of snow. Pack a waterproof jacket and shoes just in case.

8. What are the major Events & Festivals in Japan in January?

Some of the biggest events in Japan in January include:

• Sapporo Snow Festival (early February, but sculptures start going up in January)
• Joya no Kane (New Year’s Eve bell-ringing ceremonies at temples nationwide)
• Dezome-shiki (Tokyo Fire Department’s New Year’s parade)
• Seijin no Hi (Coming of Age Day celebrations for new 20-year-olds)