All the Reasons to Love December in Japan

Weather

Japan showcases a diverse climate from north to south. In December, the north island, Hokkaido, experiences cold, snowy conditions, perfect for winter sports. Central and southern areas like Tokyo and Kyoto enjoy milder, crisp weather with minimal rainfall, ideal for outdoor exploration with temperatures in the 40s and 50s. Mountainous regions in the central and southern island will also begin to receive more significant snowfall and the cities may experience light dustings toward the end of the month.

Festive Atmosphere

Japan in December delights visitors with elaborate illuminations and outdoor markets in the larger cities and towns. Although the major religions are Shinto and Buddhism and Christmas is not an official holiday, the festive feel is alive and real in December! In Tokyo, one of my favorite hotels during this time of year is the Aman Tokyo, located in the Otemachi Tower. The tree-lined streets surrounding the tower glitter with festive lights, the views from the rooms during the crisp clear days offer stunning views all the way to Mt. Fuji and the hotel offers special dining experiences for Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year's Eve.

In the Saitama prefecture, the Chichibu Night Festival, held annually on December 2nd and 3rd, is one of Japan's top three festivals for floats. It's celebrated with elaborately decorated floats, vibrant fireworks and streets bustling with festival food. This festival is renowned for its stunning nighttime illuminations, with intricately designed lanterns adorning the floats, creating a mesmerizing atmosphere.

Tip: New Year is the most important holiday in Japanese culture and the lead up begins the week prior, when domestic travel picks up and popular temples become busier. If choosing to stay for the New Year celebrations, plan accordingly, as many rail services and businesses begin to restrict services and hours. Many businesses will close completely between January 1-3.

Winter Sports

In December, Japan offers a wide array of winter sports options across its varied landscape, catering to enthusiasts of all skill levels. From the northernmost island of Hokkaido to the mountainous regions of Nagano and Niigata, the country is renowned for its world-class ski resorts and unique winter experiences and plentiful powdery snow conditions.

Hokkaido — with its renowned resorts like Niseko Grand Hirafu, Rusutsu and Furano — opens its ski season from late November to early May, offering everything from skiing and snowboarding to special events like New Year torchlight skiing and sunrise skiing on New Year’s Day. The Westin Rusutsu Resort offers a ski-in-ski-out experience with large rooms and comfortable family-configured lofts and suite options.

Nagano, a region famous for hosting the Winter Olympics, boasts resorts like Madarao Mountain Resort, offering access to Shin’etsu Shizenkyo area’s ski resorts with special value tickets for lift passes. Besides skiing and snowboarding, you can also explore the Jigokudani Monkey Park. Nestled in the Yamanouchi area of Nagano Prefecture, the park offers a unique and captivating experience with its famous "snow monkeys," or Japanese macaques, bathing in natural hot springs. The monkeys are accustomed to humans and can be seen indulging in the hot springs, especially picturesque against the snowy backdrop typically present from December to March.

Tip: A local guide can be a great way to get the most out of a Japanese ski adventure and offer translation and cultural knowledge as well. Japanese ski resorts are known for their deep powder and the guides are your experts in navigating this terrain. On my last trip to the Nagano area, our guide not only provided insightful trail knowledge during the day but also coordinated a private dining experience in the house of a local renowned chef then later arranged an impromptu karaoke session for my son in our hotel.

Onsen Season

The Japanese onsen experience offers a profound sense of relaxation and rejuvenation in scenic, serene settings. Onsens, or natural hot springs, are a cherished part of Japanese culture, celebrated for their healing properties and tranquil ambiance. December in Japan presents the ultimate season to melt into the steamy mineral-rich springs.

Public and luxury onsen baths can be found throughout the country. Kusatsu is a famous onsen town that revolves around the mineral spring in the center of town. Local traditional ryokan accommodations will pipe the springs in and offer private tubs. Luxury onsen resorts provide a holistic experience that combines the therapeutic benefits of mineral-rich waters with impeccable hospitality, traditional Japanese architecture and exquisite cuisine. The Tobira Onsen Myojinkan, set in the scenic Nagano Prefecture, offers a luxurious onsen experience in the heart of the Yatsugatake National Park. Established in 1931, this tranquil haven provides therapeutic hot springs renowned for their healing properties, set against a backdrop of natural beauty. The hotel emphasizes sustainability and harmony with nature, inviting guests to unwind in its serene environment.

Culinary Delights

December in Japan is a time perfectly suited to indulge in the rich culinary experiences that highlight the season's essence and the diversity of Japanese cuisine. From the snow-laden landscapes of Hokkaido to the bustling streets of Tokyo, every region showcases its unique flavors and traditions through food.

Nabe, a warming Japanese hot pot, is a winter staple perfect for communal dining, incorporating a variety of vegetables, meats and seafood simmered in a flavorful broth. Fukuoka's tonkotsu ramen, with its rich pork-based broth, exemplifies the soul-warming dishes beloved in colder months. Street food, or yatai, plays a significant role, offering affordable and tasty snacks like takoyaki (fried octopus balls) in Osaka and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes) in Hiroshima, providing a glimpse into local cuisine.

Unique dining settings also offer unforgettable experiences. Dining on a Yakatabune boat in Tokyo Bay combines traditional Japanese dishes with stunning city views. One of Kyoto's most revered culinary traditions is Kyo-Kaiseki, an elaborate multi-course meal that emphasizes seasonal and local ingredients. This dining experience is akin to a culinary art form, where each dish is carefully crafted to represent the season's essence.

The Suiran Kyoto offers a remarkable dining experience at its Kyo-Suiran restaurant, blending Japanese tradition with French culinary artistry in a historic setting. Located within the Suiran, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Kyo-Suiran is set against the backdrop of Arashiyama's breathtaking scenery, surrounded by a beautiful Japanese garden. This dining venue stands out for its fusion cuisine, incorporating the best seasonal ingredients from Kyoto with high-quality French elements. The restaurant is housed in a century-old building that once belonged to the founder of Kawasaki Heavy Industries, offering guests an extraordinary dining journey that intertwines cultural heritage with gastronomic innovation.

Tip: Dining in Japan is a cultural experience with different norms that a first-time Western visitor may not be aware of. Examples like not eating on-the-go in public and the particulars of chopstick etiquette are helpful to know in advance to avoid embarrassing situations.

Popular Tourist Sites

Whether visiting temples, the Imperial Palace, a tea ceremony or Tokyo Disney, December in Japan is the ideal time to explore popular areas to take advantage of fewer crowds, comfortable weather and advantageous pricing. With the exception of temple visits near the New Year, the overall experience of these otherwise bustling sites will be open for you to explore in an unhurried manner and truly appreciate the cultural significance.

December in Japan presents an unparalleled opportunity for travelers to engage with the nation's rich cultural fabric and breathtaking natural landscapes. This month is ideal for exploring vibrant city life, attending unique winter festivals and enjoying the serene beauty of snow-covered scenes. Whether it's the illuminated urban vistas or the thrilling outdoor activities in snow-capped mountains, December beautifully showcases Japan's diversity and invites adventurers and culture enthusiasts alike to discover its seasonal wonders and traditions.

This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to Japan. For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Celine Chua's guide, Autumn in Japan.