December in Japan is an exceptional month where festive cheer, seasonal foods, and deeply rooted traditions come together. As the last month of the year, December invites you to experience the wonders of winter amidst vibrant city lights, cosy hot pots, and the cultural warmth of New Year preparations. Whether you’re drawn to the breathtaking illuminations, unique holiday customs, or traditional end-of-year festivities, December offers a magical blend of experiences throughout Japan.
The Festive Glow: Illuminations and Christmas Celebrations
Although Japan doesn’t celebrate Christmas as a religious holiday, December is transformed into a festive wonderland of lights and holiday cheer. Illuminations, as they’re known, have become a popular December attraction across Japan, lighting up parks, streets, and landmarks with dazzling displays that draw both locals and visitors.
Tokyo is especially mesmerising in December, with well-known areas like Roppongi Hills, Marunouchi, and Shibuya shimmering with elaborate illuminations, often synchronised with music. In Osaka, Nakanoshima Park and Midosuji Avenue feature equally captivating displays, making them must-see locations for holiday enthusiasts. These vibrant illuminations typically start in mid-November but reach their peak in December, filling cities with a warm, celebratory glow.
Japanese Christmas traditions reflect a distinctive twist on the holiday season. Christmas Eve is often celebrated as a romantic evening, and for families, the holiday meal of choice is surprisingly fried chicken from KFC, a unique tradition that began with a clever marketing campaign in the 1970s.
After dinner, many families enjoy kurisumasu keki, a light sponge cake layered with whipped cream and strawberries—a delightful Japanese take on Christmas dessert that adds a touch of sweetness to the season.
Year-End Celebrations: The Japanese Approach to the New Year
As December draws to a close, Japan prepares for Ōmisoka (New Year’s Eve), which is one of the most important holidays of the year. Unlike Western New Year celebrations marked by fireworks and parties, Japan’s approach to the New Year is often more introspective, focusing on family and tradition.
Joya no Kane: Many people visit temples for the Joya no Kane ceremony, where bells are rung 108 times to symbolise the purging of earthly desires, according to Buddhist beliefs. The tradition signifies a fresh start, free from the worries and missteps of the past year. Major temples, like Tokyo’s Zojoji Temple and Kyoto’s Chion-in, hold public bell-ringing events where visitors can participate in this profound experience.
Osechi Ryori: Preparations for the New Year include making osechi ryori, a collection of carefully prepared foods that hold symbolic meanings, such as good fortune, prosperity, and long life. These dishes are stored in colourful lacquered boxes and enjoyed by families on New Year’s Day. Common elements include datemaki (sweet rolled omelette), kurikinton (sweet chestnut and sweet potato mash), and kazunoko (herring roe), each symbolising a wish for the upcoming year.
Hatsumode: The first shrine or temple visit of the new year, known as hatsumode, is an essential practice for many Japanese people. Shrines such as Tokyo’s Meiji Shrine and Kyoto’s Fushimi Inari attract millions of visitors seeking blessings for health, happiness, and prosperity. Visitors write wishes on wooden plaques called ema, and buy lucky charms called omamori to carry protection and good fortune into the new year.
Weather in Japan in December: What to Expect
December weather in Japan is diverse, ranging from snowy landscapes in the north to mild, cool temperatures in the south. As winter settles in, the climate varies considerably depending on the region, so here’s a breakdown to help you prepare:
Hokkaido: Japan’s northern island, Hokkaido, experiences full winter conditions in December, with temperatures typically between -6°C and 4°C. Snowfall is frequent, creating ideal conditions for skiing, snowboarding, and enjoying winter sports. Popular ski resorts such as Niseko and Furano open their doors to locals and tourists alike.
Tohoku: In Tohoku, temperatures range from -2°C to 7°C. Snow begins to accumulate, especially in mountainous areas, making it a fantastic destination for winter enthusiasts. Coastal areas may be milder but still have the crispness that marks the beginning of winter.
Kanto (Tokyo): The Kanto region, including Tokyo, enjoys cool, dry weather in December, with temperatures from 4°C to 13°C. While snow is rare, December offers clear skies, making it an ideal time for outdoor sightseeing and viewing the city’s illuminations.
Kansai (Kyoto & Osaka): December temperatures in Kansai range from 3°C to 13°C. This mild winter weather makes it easy to explore cultural sites in Kyoto and the vibrant urban scene in Osaka without the crowds of spring or autumn.
Chubu (Japanese Alps & Nagoya): In the Chubu region, temperatures vary, with Nagoya experiencing milder conditions from 2°C to 11°C, while the Japanese Alps are much colder and can receive early snowfall. December is a great month for skiing in areas like Hakuba and enjoying snowy mountain scenery.
Chugoku (Hiroshima & Okayama): Temperatures in Chugoku range between 4°C and 13°C, offering mild winter weather for exploring the region’s historical and natural attractions. The mild temperatures make it comfortable to visit spots like the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and the historic trails of Miyajima Island.
Shikoku: December temperatures in Shikoku range from 5°C to 15°C, making it one of the warmer regions of Japan during winter. The cooler climate is ideal for outdoor activities, and the quiet, rural landscapes provide a peaceful winter escape.
Kyushu: Kyushu enjoys relatively mild winter weather, with temperatures between 6°C and 16°C. The region’s warmer climate allows for continued sightseeing, making it a great destination for those who prefer less chilly winter experiences.
Okinawa: Okinawa, Japan’s southernmost region, maintains a subtropical climate even in December, with temperatures from 14°C to 22°C. While too cool for swimming, it’s a comfortable time to explore the island’s natural scenery and cultural sites without the summer crowds.
Packing Tips for December
December weather in Japan varies significantly depending on the region, so it’s important to pack accordingly:
Layered Clothing: The weather in Tokyo, Osaka, and other urban areas tends to be chilly but manageable, so layered clothing is ideal. In colder areas like Hokkaido or mountainous regions, be prepared with a warm coat, gloves, and thermal layers.
Waterproof Gear: While December doesn’t typically bring heavy rain, snow is possible in certain regions, making waterproof boots and an umbrella useful.
Warm Accessories: Hats, scarves, and gloves are must-haves, especially if you’re planning to attend outdoor illuminations or explore winter landscapes.
Cultural Festivities: Tying Up the Year
In Japan, December is often a time for reflecting on the year gone by and showing gratitude to colleagues, friends, and family.
Bounenkai (Year-End Parties): Japanese workplaces and social circles hold bounenkai or “forget-the-year parties” in December, where people gather to reflect on the year’s ups and downs, often with food, drinks, and laughter. These gatherings provide an opportunity to bid farewell to the old year and set the tone for a fresh start.
Seasonal Decorations and Kadomatsu: As part of New Year preparations, homes and businesses decorate entrances with kadomatsu, arrangements of pine, bamboo, and plum branches symbolising longevity, resilience, and renewal. Other traditional decorations include shimenawa, a braided straw rope placed at doorways to ward off evil spirits and welcome positive energy for the New Year.
Nengajo (New Year Cards): Another December tradition is writing nengajo, or New Year greeting cards, which are often sent to friends, family, and business associates. People write wishes for health, happiness, and prosperity in the upcoming year. Postal services ensure these cards arrive precisely on January 1, and sending them is a cherished practice that reinforces social ties.
Winter Flavours: December’s Seasonal Delicacies
Japanese cuisine in December is a comforting experience, full of seasonal ingredients and warm dishes that reflect the spirit of winter.
Nabe (Hot Pot): One of Japan’s most beloved winter dishes, nabe is a hearty hot pot enjoyed by families and friends gathered around the table. This one-pot meal features an assortment of vegetables, tofu, and meats simmered in a savoury broth. Each region has its own variation, with Hokkaido’s kani nabe (crab hot pot) highlighting the fresh seafood available during winter.
Oden: A winter staple found in convenience stores and food stalls, oden is a dish of assorted ingredients like daikon radish, tofu, fish cakes, and eggs, simmered in a light broth. It’s a perfect street food for chilly December days, offering a warm, savoury flavour that is both filling and comforting.
Yuzu Delicacies: December is the start of yuzu (Japanese citrus) season, adding a fragrant and tangy twist to dishes, desserts, and hot drinks. This refreshing citrus is also used in yuzuyu, a bath infused with yuzu fruits, which is a common custom on the winter solstice believed to bring good health and ward off colds.
Mochi and Festive Sweets: December sees families preparing mochi (rice cakes), a treat enjoyed around New Year. The traditional mochitsuki (mochi-pounding) events bring communities together, while many families prepare it at home or buy pre-made versions. Wagashi (traditional Japanese sweets) are also crafted to reflect winter motifs, incorporating seasonal ingredients like chestnuts and red bean.
Winter Wonderland: Snowy Landscapes and Seasonal Activities
For those who love winter scenery and activities, December is an ideal time to explore Japan’s snowy regions. Hokkaido, Nagano, and the Japanese Alps are especially beautiful this time of year, offering a range of outdoor activities.
Skiing and Snowboarding in Hokkaido: Hokkaido’s ski resorts, such as Niseko and Furano, are world-renowned, drawing winter sports enthusiasts from around the globe. With excellent snow conditions and a variety of runs, Hokkaido is a dream destination for skiing and snowboarding in December.
Nagano’s Snow Monkeys: One of Japan’s unique winter attractions is the snow monkeys in Nagano, who bathe in natural hot springs at Jigokudani Monkey Park. December offers a beautiful backdrop of snow, providing a rare sight of these macaques as they relax in the warm waters.
Onsen Experience: Visiting an onsen (hot spring) during winter is a quintessentially Japanese experience. Hot spring towns like Hakone, Beppu, and Kusatsu offer stunning views of snowy landscapes, allowing visitors to soak in natural mineral baths surrounded by scenic mountains.
Soak Up the Magic of December in Japan
December in Japan feels like a month-long celebration, with every day offering something a little different. Whether you’re taking in the glow of city illuminations, indulging in the warmth of seasonal dishes, or exploring snow-dusted landscapes, there’s a unique charm in the air that only deepens as the year draws to a close.
This time of year is all about cosy gatherings, festive lights, and embracing traditions old and new. From casual holiday strolls to heartfelt New Year’s rituals, December invites you to enjoy the season’s beauty in your own way — and discover what makes Japan’s winter truly special.
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