Most skiers land in Sapporo and head straight out to Niseko, but the city has five ski areas of its own. That includes Sapporo Teine, where the 1972 Olympic slalom races were held. And it’s only...
WINTER IN JAPAN
Visit snowy villages, soak in hot springs (onsen), and enjoy illuminations, ski resorts, and New Year’s traditions.
Things to Do in Niseko Besides Skiing
So, half your group lives for powder, and the other half would honestly rather not strap a plank to each foot and fall down a mountain? Yes, we all know that Niseko equals skiing and snowboarding,...
Ski Resorts Near Tokyo
One of the best things about living in Tokyo is how easy it is to get to the snow. There are loads of ski resorts near Tokyo, and skiing and snowboarding here are really accessible. You don’t...
The Best Ski Resorts in Japan for Skiing and Snowboarding
If you've ever seen videos of skiers or snowboarders floating through waist-deep powder, there's a good chance they were filmed in Japan. The snow here is famously light and dry, especially in...
Where to Spend Valentine’s Day in Tokyo: 25+ Romantic Date Night Spots
It’s that time of year again, when couples start getting excited for a romantic day or evening together. If you’re spending Valentine’s Day in Tokyo, then you’re in luck! The city is overflowing...
Sapporo Snow Festival First-Timer’s Guide: 10 Tips to Know Before You Go
Planning your first-ever visit to the Sapporo Snow Festival? Well, firstly, that’s amazing! You’re going to have an incredible time! But, that being said, it is a big event that can seem a little...
6 Unmissable Japanese Snow Festivals to See Amazing Snow Sculptures in 2026
Did you know that Sapporo isn’t your only option when it comes to Japanese snow festivals? Believe it or not, but between December and March, there are places in Japan that get some of the deepest...
New Year’s Fireworks in Tokyo: Where to Welcome in 2026
Are you looking for New Year’s fireworks in Tokyo and…struggling? Don’t worry, it’s a rite of passage for Westerners spending the holidays in Japan to discover that things are done a little...
2025 Tokyo Christmas Market Guide: Where to Find the Best Festive Vibes
If you are visiting Japan in December, you might be surprised by just how seriously Tokyo takes Christmas. But it’s important to know that things work a bit differently here. In Japan, Christmas...
Tokyo Day Trips in Winter: Fuji Views, Onsen, and Ski Resorts
There are so many great reasons to want to plan a trip to Tokyo during winter: the comforting (and delicious) food, long onsen visits, the beautiful winter illuminations that light up the city…and,...
Your Complete Winter in Japan Guide (2026–27): Snow, Onsen, and Winter Sports
Don’t sleep on winter in Japan. Yes, there's the powder that skiers and snowboarders fly halfway round the world for, and our guide to the best ski resorts in Japan has you covered there. But did...
Ultimate Otaru Area Guide and 1-Day Itinerary
Hokkaido is huge—like, way bigger than most people realise—and honestly, so much of it never gets explored by tourists. Everyone hits up Sapporo or Niseko, which are awesome, but if you’re already...
Ultimate Hakodate Area Guide and Overnight Itinerary
Welcome to Hakodate, a coastal city that knows how to pack a punch. With its mix of old-school charm, dazzling night views, and some of the best seafood you’ll ever eat, this place is made for...
February in Japan: Snowy Wonders and Seasonal Delights
February in Japan blends the beauty of snowy landscapes, heartwarming traditions, and mouthwatering winter food. It’s the kind of month where you can dive into snow-filled adventures up north or get...
January in Japan: Snowy Adventures, Traditional Beginnings, and Seasonal Flavours
January in Japan kicks off the year with a mix of cold-weather activities, deep-rooted traditions, and comforting winter foods. From serene temples bustling with New Year rituals to powdery slopes...