Japan in January 2026: Guide to Powder Ski & Winter Fun

While the mid-winter of January may not be the best season for your Japan tour, there is never a lack of things to enhance the fun of your winter holiday. Whether you want to jump into a ski-in and ski-out resort complete with rejuvenating hot springs, or join the crowds of locals praying for good luck for the coming New Year, this guide has everything you need for a memorable January trip to Japan.

Japan's Weather in January

Japan in January can be chilly (hovering about 8℃, 46℉) - it is usually considered one of the coldest and driest months, yet with crisp, clear days and stable sunshine, it is still comfortable for winter sightseeing.

• Central Japan's weather in January is characterized by rare rainfall and more dry, sunny days. Temperatures in Tokyo and Kyoto are mild, ranging from 2 to 8℃ (36 to 46℉), yet they usually feel like below 0℃ (32℉) after snowfalls. Since apparent temperature can be clammy during the nighttime, always pack well during your night outs.
• Southern Japan in January maintains its relatively milder winter. The highest temperature in Kyushu can reach 10℃ (50℉) in December, not to mention the southernmost Okinawa, about 17℃ (63℉), still ideal for enjoying the beach, capturing hammerhead sharks and whales, and the early cherry blossoms.
• In contrast, northern regions like Hokkaido and Tohoku, as well as mountainous areas around Nagano, are cooler (-10 to -6℃, 14 to 21℉) with abundant snowfall, making it one of the best times for skiing and hot spring experiences. Refer to the January climate zones below for more detailed information.

Japan Weather Map in January

Crowds & Costs

The winter chill makes January an off-peak season for travel to most of Japan, resulting in fewer crowds in major cities like Tokyo and Kyoto. This offers the perfect opportunity to capture memorable photos with empty backdrops and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere. Hotel rooms and tickets are also easier to book at reasonable prices during this time, apart from the New Year holiday in early January. 

In contrast, Hokkaido in the north and those ski resorts along the Japanese Alps (like Nagano and Niigata), experience their peak ski season with ski seekers from all around the world. Also, if you are planning a ski holiday in Japan in January, feel free to contact us - from the best ski resort to choose from to the winter itinerary beyond the powder snow.

Skiing in Japan

Best Places to Travel in January

Tokyo

Tokyo, home to popular attractions like Senso-ji and Meiji Shrine, offers some of the best opportunities to partake in Hatsumode and other New Year celebrations in Japan in January. Take the chance to visit the main building of the Imperial Palace, open to the public on January 2, or immerse yourself in the vibrant nightlife of Kabukicho for a unique experience in this bustling district. Additionally, Tokyo's proximity to Mt. Fuji makes it an ideal starting point for a day tour of the iconic mountain.

Tokyo Senso-ji

Kyoto

An ancient city ideal for capturing iconic Japanese-style winter images, where you'll easily find red torii gates and shrines adorned with a blanket of snow, like the Fushimi Inari Taisha with its thousands of gates. This city also offers authentic traditional experiences, from tea ceremonies to visits to the samurai and ninja museums, providing plenty of indoor activities to enjoy the winter days in Japan.

Shirakawago

Immerse yourself in the tranquil atmosphere of this quaint town, which offers a glimpse into ancient Japanese rural life. Shirakawago's unique triangle-style wooden houses, adorned with snow, create a picturesque fairytale setting - a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life during your January traveling. Take your time to savor the beauty of the fallen snow and the warmth of crackling fires, perhaps indulging in a cup of sake or a relaxing soak in the hot springs, allowing yourself to embrace nature's tranquility fully.

Hokkaido

A popular winter holiday destination famous for its excellent snow powder, and January also marks the peak ski season in Hokkaido. Hokkaido offers a plethora of attractions while traveling in Japan in January. Take a city tour in Sapporo with a taste of various seafood and beer, admire some ice or snow statues in an imaginary shape, or head to the Niseko ski resorts directly for an exciting winter gateway with powdery snow and pristine trails.

Kyushu

Located in southern Japan, Kyushu is the region that can still offer you a warm winter holiday in January. Enjoy local street food along the yatai stalls in Fukuoka, or head to the steaming Oita for your complete hot spring retreat. A crowd-free forest adventure through Yakushima is also recommended, while for more relaxing experiences, consider a direct flight to Okinawa to shed your coats and bask in the gentle sea breeze. Board the ship to explore further if you plan to stay more days here, which will lead you to capture the breaching whales and sharks.

What to See & Do in Japan in January

Enjoy the Hot Springs of Onsen

Nothing can be more enjoyable than soaking in a hot spring after a day of outdoor activities during the mid-winter of January, and the good news is that you can always find a historic onsen ryokan to relax your body in the warm water. Take Hakone as an example, a famous hot spring town beneath Mt. Fuji, which means you can even book an open-air onsen here to admire the stunning snow-capped mountain while lying comfortably in the hot springs.

Capture the Bathing Snow Monkey

You might already appreciate the allure of hot springs, but humans are not the only ones who benefit from this natural wonder. Japan is abundant in natural hot springs, and even the wildlife indulges in their warmth. At the Snow Monkey Park in Nagano, many furry monkeys can be seen packing in the warm water pools, with their adorable pink faces contrasting against the snowy backdrop. It's a delightful sight that rivals the enjoyment experienced by humans.

Snow Monkey

Try Some Exciting Activities at the Ski Resort

January marks another peak season for visiting northern Japan, thanks to its gentle slopes blanketed in soft, powdery snow and top-notch equipment gear and facilities. Ski-in and ski-out resorts abound, promising an unforgettable winter holiday experience. These resorts cater to visitors of all levels, offering gentle slopes for beginners to hone their skills and challenging wooden trails for seasoned veterans. Whatever your skiing prowess, there's a slope waiting to elevate your Japan vacation.

Join the Line to Hatsumode

Hatsumode, the traditional first shrine or temple visit of the new year, is a top thing to do in any January journey in Japan. Popular sites like Senso-ji and Meiji Shrine bustle with visitors seeking to offer prayers for their wishes and blessings. The queues can stretch for days, with some eager worshippers lining up as early as December 31st to ensure an early Hatsumode experience. So, don't hesitate to join the line for your first temple or shrine visit, which is sure to be an unforgettable experience during the New Year festival.

Events & Festivals

Japanese New Year

In January, known as Shougatsu in Japanese, there are numerous activities to celebrate the New Year. This typically three-day holiday starts on January 1st. Alongside the Hatsumode tradition, you can also join the local customs, such as indulging in osechi cuisine and savoring rice cakes like mochi. Or partake in traditional games like Japanese badminton, kite flying, and card games featuring Japanese poetry.

Sanjusangendo Archery Content

Also known as Toh-Shiya, the first Japanese archery competition of the year, falls on 16th January, very close to the Coming of Age Day. On this day, many archers, along with 20-year-old men and women, take part in the archery competition at Sanjusangen-do Temple in Kyoto. Here you can not only admire the temple with its thousands of wooden statues but also witness the impressive archery skills of the competitors, all dressed in elegant clothes.

Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival

Slightly preceding the Sapporo Snow Festival, it is an ice festival that takes place around Lake Shikotsu. This vibrant event features a colorful ice museum illuminated with lights and adorned with diverse statues. Visitors can indulge in a range of winter sports, from skiing to ice fishing, and also relax in nearby hot springs.

Swan Festival

Also known as the Hakucho Festival, a free light show festival displayed from 25th January to 16th February, with hundreds of colorful lights and tents set at Tokachigaoka Park to celebrate the swan migration. It is a rather long festival that can last from late January to mid-February, making it an ideal way to go after your dinner and enjoy the dreamlike atmosphere accompanied by a gentle rhythm.

Japan Travel Tips in January

Prepare Clothes That Are Easy to Remove

When traveling to Japan in January, staying warm is essential. However, it's wise to wear layers that are easy to remove because indoor heating can make you feel hot if you have too many clothes on, which may be more common when visiting Honshu.

Find Your Own Way to Enjoy the New Year's Atmosphere

As the start of the New Year, Hatsumode can be one of the most popular events during your January visit to Japan, with most temples and shrines packed with visitors from all over the world. You can get up early to join in the festivities with the locals on New Year's Day. Or visit the shrine before the holiday, when the crowds are smaller, but you can still soak up the festive atmosphere.

Secure Your Ski Resort As Early As Possible

While January may not be the peak travel season in Japan, it certainly is for skiing. The pristine quality of the snow draws countless visitors, both locals and international travelers, eager for an exhilarating winter getaway. While there are numerous ski resorts to choose from, it's wise to book your accommodations well in advance to ensure you don't miss out on this thrilling winter sports experience.

Journey to Japan With Odynovo

Traveling to Japan in January is a great time to take advantage of the hot springs and mountain landscapes, making the cooler temperatures and snow the best match to enhance your winter holiday. From excellent ski resorts to various festivals to celebrate the new year, there is much to enjoy during this mid-winter. Let Odynovo know your needs and prefer to have a carefree January holiday experience just for you.