January in Japan: A Cold but Festive Start to the Year
Weather Overview
January in Japan is generally cold, especially in the northern and mountainous regions. In Sapporo and throughout Hokkaido, temperatures often drop to minus 8 to 0 degrees, and heavy snowfall is common. The Tohoku region and Nagano prefecture also experience a lot of snowfall, creating ideal conditions for winter sports. Meanwhile, Tokyo and Kyoto experience dry, sunny days with temperatures ranging from 1 to 10 degrees, and snowfall is rare. Okinawa is relatively mild, with average temperatures around 18 degrees, but cold winds blow.
Clothing
If you are traveling to the mountain resorts of Hokkaido, Tohoku, or Nagano prefecture, be sure to dress for harsh winter weather. Thick, warm coats or down jackets, highly insulating innerwear, waterproof boots, gloves, and a warm hat are essential. In Tokyo and Kyoto, a warm coat or jacket will suffice on sunny days, but gloves and a scarf will be useful if the mornings and evenings are very cold. It can be hot inside trains and restaurants due to the heating, so it is recommended to wear clothes that can be easily taken off. If you go to Kyoto or other places, you may need to take your shoes off at temples and Japanese restaurants, so if possible, it is recommended that you wear shoes that are easy to take off. I often see tourists struggling with boots. In Okinawa, a light jacket or windbreaker will suffice, but it can be windy and rainy at times, so I recommend bringing an umbrella or raincoat.
How to enjoy January in Japan
January is the best time to enjoy skiing and snowboarding in Japan. Popular tourist destinations include Niseko and Furano in Hokkaido, Hakuba, Shiga Kogen, and Nozawa Onsen in Nagano. The cold also enhances the appeal of hot springs, especially those with open-air baths covered in snow. The first half of January is a fun time to get a glimpse of Japanese culture, as the excitement of the new year lingers. After that, Tokyo and Kyoto are quieter than usual, and major temples and museums can be visited without crowds. The air is often clear, and the surrounding areas offer great views of Mount Fuji. For nature lovers, January is also a great time to observe migratory birds, such as the red-crowned cranes in Kagoshima and the swans in the northern lakes. In cities such as Tokyo, Osaka, and Kobe, winter illuminations, which began in December, continue until mid-January, adding seasonal color to the city. Although the cold winters are harsh, they are easier to travel in than the heat of summer. Okinawa is relatively warm, but not suitable for sea leisure. You can expand your enjoyment by visiting ruins and zoos, or choosing large resorts with heated or indoor pools.
Seasonal Events and Holidays
New Year’s Day is the most important holiday in Japan, lasting from January 1st to 3rd. During this period, many stores and tourist spots are closed, and many Japanese people visit shrines and temples to pray for good luck in the new year. Popular spots include Meiji Shrine in Tokyo and Fushimi Inari in Kyoto. Be careful, as popular shrines and temples will be so crowded that you will not be able to move around from the night of December 31st to the next day. Another famous holiday is Coming of Age Day, which takes place on the second Monday of January. This day is a celebration of those who have reached the age of adulthood in Japan, 20 years old. Young people wear formal kimonos or suits and take part in local ceremonies. Crowds across Japan gather to celebrate this traditional event.
Travel Tips
If you plan to go skiing or attend popular festivals, we recommend that you book your accommodation and transportation in advance. Accommodations with good access to the popular ski resorts of Niseko in Hokkaido and Hakuba and Nozawa in Nagano are very busy from mid-December to February. Prices also rise, so you should make reservations early and consider ski resorts a little further away. For Japanese people, New Year’s Day is an important holiday, just like Christmas in the West. Small shops and tourist attractions may be closed from January 1st to 3rd, so be aware of this.
What not to do (or not do)
Don’t underestimate the cold weather in January, even in cities like Tokyo. Wearing a light jacket or not wearing gloves or a scarf can make you feel uncomfortable. When visiting shrines or participating in festivals, observe your surroundings and respect local customs. It will be a spiritually and culturally educational experience, and a fun memory. If there is a particular restaurant or shop you want to visit, check their opening dates. Some stores may be closed for the first three days of January. If you go to a ski resort, please strictly follow the resort rules. In recent years, there have been many reports of foreigners skiing off the slopes and accidents. Please note that the rules in your home country and Japan are often different.
Summary: Is January a good time to travel to Japan?
January is a great time for travelers who want to experience snow sports, quiet sightseeing, and traditional New Year’s customs. Although it is cold, there are many sunny days, and popular spots are less crowded after New Year’s. If you prepare for the weather and avoid the holidays at the beginning of the month, January will be a refreshing and memorable winter experience in Japan. On a clear day, you will be able to see the magnificent view of Mt. Fuji covered in snow.