[Nationwide] 36 recommended “winter wonders 2025” you must see at least once in Japan

We have collected some 36 spectacular winter spots from across Japan as your perfect winter destinations in 2025.

From classic snowy scenery such as the Blue Pond in Hokkaido, Shirakawa-go in Gifu Prefecture, and Kenrokuen Garden in Ishikawa Prefecture, to the beautiful winter scenery created by Japan’s nature, such as frost-covered trees, frozen waterfalls, and illuminations, the photogenic scenery is an emotional experience that will blow away the cold!

Please dress warmly and pay attention to traffic information.

Table of Contents

• [Biei Town, Hokkaido] Shirokane Blue Pond
• [Towada City, Aomori Prefecture] Oirase Stream Ice Falls Tour
• [Hachimantai City, Iwate Prefecture] Nanataki Icefall Tour
• [Semboku City, Akita Prefecture] Lake Tazawa
• [Semboku City, Akita Prefecture] Gozanoishi Shrine
• [Yamagata Prefecture, Yamagata City] Rime trees (Zao Ropeway)
• [Nikko City, Tochigi Prefecture] Yunishigawa Onsen Kamakura Festival
• [Minakami Town, Gunma Prefecture] Minakami Kogen Ski Resort
• [Tsumagoi Village, Gunma Prefecture] Onioshi Highway/Manza Highway
• [Gunma Prefecture, Nakanojo Town] Lake Okushima
• [Yokoze Town, Saitama Prefecture] Icicles of Ashigakubo
• [Fujikawaguchiko Town, Yamanashi Prefecture] Lake Kawaguchi Winter Fireworks
• [Fujikawaguchiko Town, Yamanashi Prefecture]Lake Saiko Ice Festival
• [Matsumoto City, Nagano Prefecture] Ryujin Falls and Icicles
• [Hakuba Village, Nagano Prefecture] HAKUBA IWATAKE MOUNTAIN RESORT
• [Komoro City, Nagano Prefecture] Takamine Highlands Visitor Center
• [Joetsu City, Niigata Prefecture] Takada Castle Ruins Park
• [Agano City, Niigata Prefecture] Hyoko Water Park
• [Takaoka City, Toyama Prefecture] Amaharashi Coast Quasi-National Park
• [Nanto City, Toyama Prefecture] World Heritage Site Suganuma Gassho Style Village
• [Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture] Kenrokuen Garden
• [Shirakawa Village, Gifu Prefecture] Shirakawa-go Gassho Style Village
• [Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture] Biwako Valley/Biwako Terrace
• [Takashima City, Shiga Prefecture] Metasequoia Tree Line
• [Kyoto Prefecture, Kyoto City] Kifune Shrine
• [Kyoto Prefecture, Kyoto City] Sanzen-in Temple Gate
• [Miyazu City, Kyoto Prefecture] Amanohashidate View Land
• [Ine Town, Kyoto Prefecture] Ine Boathouses
• [Miki City, Hyogo Prefecture] Kurotaki Waterfall
• [Daisen Town, Tottori Prefecture] Mt. Oyama
• [Sera Town, Hiroshima Prefecture] Serakogen Candlelight Night 2024
• [Toon City, Ehime Prefecture] Shiraino Falls
• [Unzen City, Nagasaki Prefecture] Nita Pass
• [Aso City, Kumamoto Prefecture] Kusasenrigahama Beach
• [Beppu City, Oita Prefecture] Mount Tsurumi
• [Izumi City, Kagoshima Prefecture] Izumi City Crane Observation Center

[Biei Town, Hokkaido] Shirokane Blue Pond

Available from November to April only. A fantastical world created by blue and white lights.

The Shirogane Blue Pond came to be known as the “Blue Pond” because the water’s surface looks blue. In spring, it is a slightly greenish blue, and in early summer, it is light blue. In autumn, you can enjoy the water’s surface colored by autumn leaves. In mid-winter, the pond freezes over and turns completely white! During the day, a different world unfolds before your eyes, but the illumination at night is recommended.

By making use of the frozen water surface and snow accumulation, and by using a lot of lighting, you can enjoy a fantastical world view. One story is performed in about 10 minutes. The gradation of the lighting, the shadows of the larch trees, the stars shining in the night sky, and the fluffy falling snow are all things that can only be seen at that time, making you forget the cold.

Starting in November, the “Miyu Bus” will operate, touring illuminated spots such as the Blue Pond and Shirahige Falls at night.

• ■ Shirokane Blue Pond
• Address: Shirokane, Biei, Kamikawa District, Hokkaido
• Open: All year round [Parking Hours] April 24th to October 24th 7:00-19:00, October 25th to April 23rd 8:00-21:30 [Light-up] October 25th to April 23rd After sunset to 21:00 (※Sunset time: November 17:00-, December 16:30-, January 17:00-, February 17:30-, March 18:00-, April 18:30-)
• How to get there: [Train] Approx. 20 minutes by taxi from Biei Station on the JR Furano Line [Car] Approx. 90 minutes from Sunagawa SA Smart IC on the Do-o Expressway
• Parking lot: Available (500 yen for regular cars)

[Towada City, Aomori Prefecture] Oirase Stream Ice Falls Tour

A stroll through a quiet winter forest.

Icicles and ice falls that only appear in the Oirase Valley during the harsh winter. On night tours, each spot is lit up differently, creating a fantastical atmosphere.

• ■ Oirase Stream Ice Falls Tour
• Telephone: 0176-24-3006 (Towada Oirase Tourism Organization)
• Address: Okuze, Towada City, Aomori Prefecture
• Event period: December 20th to March 2nd, 2025 *Please check the official website
• Price: Junior high school students and above: 3,300 to 4,400 yen (reservations required)
• Parking: 350 spaces available around central Towada city, 640 spaces available at Yasumiya on the shores of Lake Towada.

[Hachimantai City, Iwate Prefecture] Nanataki Icefall Tour

Be amazed by the spectacular natural beauty that can only be seen during the harsh winter!

This tour allows you to enjoy the frozen waterfall of Nanataki, which has a drop of about 30m. You will walk about 3km one way on snowshoes with a guide and reach the waterfall right next to it.

<Private Guide>

[Fee]Up to 5 people, 10,000 yen per group (snowshoe rental is an additional 1,000 yen per unit)

[Business hours and holidays]Please enquire. *Reservations must be made at least one week in advance.

• ■ Nanataki Ice Waterfall Tour
• Telephone: 0195-78-2092 (Iwate Prefectural Forest)
• 9:00-16:00. Tuesday is closed.

[Semboku City, Akita Prefecture] Lake Tazawa

A golden statue shining in the snowy scenery and an azure blue lake that boasts the deepest water in Japan.

Lake Tazawa is round and has a circumference of about 20km. It is 423.4m deep, making it the deepest lake in Japan.

Its defining feature is the lake’s surface, which sparkles in a breathtakingly beautiful blue. In summer, the lake’s surface sparkles in the hot sunlight, but in winter it’s something else! When snow piles up on the lakeside, the world of white and blue is mysterious.

The golden “Tatsuko Statue,” created based on the “Legend of Princess Tatsuko” that is passed down in this area, also shines brighter, creating a fantastical atmosphere.

• ■Lake Tazawa
• Address: Tazawako Lake, Sakiko, Senboku City, Akita Prefecture
• How to get there: [Train] Approximately 15 minutes by Ugo Kotsu bus from JR Tazawako Line Tazawako Station, get off at Tazawakohan bus stop and walk for a short distance [Car] Approximately 70 minutes from Omagari IC on the Akita Expressway

[Semboku City, Akita Prefecture] Gozanoishi Shrine

A vivid contrast of colors! In the background lies the deepest and most mysterious lake in Japan.

This shrine is known for the beauty of its torii gates on the shores of Lake Tazawa. In winter, the lake becomes clearer and is even more beautiful when reflected in the snow. From in front of the shrine, you can see the lake, the torii gates, and a 450-year-old Akita cedar. Nearby, you can also find a tree with seven different species of trees growing from a single stump, and a sacred spring that Princess Tatsuko is said to have drank from.

• ■ Gozaishi Shrine
• Telephone: 0187-48-2630
• Address: Ainogata 1, Nishiki-cho, Hinokinai, Senboku City, Akita Prefecture
• Free to visit, the shrine office is open from 10am to 3pm on weekends and holidays (January to the end of March)
• How to get there: 50 minutes by car from Morioka IC on the Tohoku Expressway

[Yamagata Prefecture, Yamagata City] Rime trees (Zao Ropeway)

The snow monster has two different faces: a dazzling white daytime sight and a fantastical nighttime sight! The mystery and miracle of nature is right before your eyes!

The frost-covered trees are works of art made of ice and snow, created by Zao’s unique climate and vegetation. If you take the ropeway, you can see the frost-covered trees 360 degrees around. Along the Sanroku Line, you can also see beautiful frost-covered trees that look like glasswork. Be sure to dress warmly.

<Light up>

[Date]December 27-31, January 1-5, January 10-12, January 17-19, January 24-27, January 31, February 1-3, February 7-10, February 14-17, February 21-23

[time]17:00-21:00 (last summit line ascent 19:50)

• ■ Rime trees (Zao Ropeway)
• Tele: 023-694-9518 (Zao Ropeway)
• Address: 229-3 Zao Onsen, Yamagata City, Yamagata Prefecture
• Open: 8:30-17:00 (last summit line up at 16:00) *There may be extra service when there are many passengers. Service may be suspended due to weather conditions.
• [Round-trip fare to Jizo Sancho Station] 4,200 yen for junior high school students and above, 2,100 yen for elementary school students *The above rates will be effective from December 1, 2024 (please check the official website for details)
• How to arrive: [Train] 50 minutes by Yamako Bus from JR Yamagata Station to Zao Onsen Bus Terminal, then 12 minutes on foot from Zao Onsen Bus Terminal [Car] 40 minutes from Yamagata Zao IC on the Yamagata Expressway

[Nikko City, Tochigi Prefecture] Yunishigawa Onsen Kamakura Festival

A snowy hot spring resort that’s fun even at night.

A seasonal winter sight at Yunishigawa Onsen, where the legend of the Heike clan’s fugitives lives on. Hundreds of miniature snow huts are built on the riverbed at the mouth of the stream, and at night they are lit up, creating a fantastical atmosphere.

• ■Yunishigawa Onsen Kamakura Festival
• Tele: 0288-22-1525 (Nikko City Tourism Association)
• Address: Yunishigawa, Nikko City, Tochigi Prefecture
• Sawaguchi Riverside Mini Kamakura is open from 5:30 pm to 9:00 pm [Period] Scheduled for January 24th (Friday) to February 23rd (Sunday), 2025
• The mini kamakura at the Sawaguchi riverside will be open from Monday to Thursday during the event.
• The mini igloos on the riverbank at Sawaguchi are free
• How to get there: 1 hour and 10 minutes from Imaichi IC on the Nikko Utsunomiya Expressway

[Minakami Town, Gunma Prefecture] Minakami Kogen Ski Resort

Run through the silvery white world with your dogs!

This ski resort offers a wide variety of snow activities. The highlight is the authentic dog sledding experience, which you can do without going to Hokkaido! Come and enjoy the thrill of running on the snow with energetic dogs.

• ■Minakami Kogen Ski Resort
• Tele: 0278-75-2222
• Address: 6152-1 Fujiwara, Minakami-machi, Tone-gun, Gunma Prefecture
• Open: [Saturday, January 4, 2025 – Monday, March 31, 2025] 4 times a day (10:00-13:00, duration 50 minutes, from Saturday, March 1, 9:00-12:00)
• Friday, February 28th – Monday, March 3rd – CLOSED!
• Prices: Dog sled experience driver plan * 14,500 yen per person * Application for 2 people per group
• How to get there: [Train] 1 hour by free shuttle bus from JR Jomo-Kogen Station (advance reservation required) [Car] 30 minutes from Minakami IC on the Kan’etsu Expressway

[Tsumagoi Village, Gunma Prefecture] Onioshi Highway/Manza Highway

Driving through the winter scenery.

This is a driving route from Karuizawa to Manza Onsen. Enjoy the mystical sight of the snow-covered Onioshidashi Park and the magnificent scenery of Mount Asama as you drive along.

• ■ Onioshi Highway/Manza Highway
• Tele: 0279-97-3123
• Address: 711-1 Kamahara, Tsumagoi Village, Agatsuma District, Gunma Prefecture (Office)
• [Onioshidashi Highway (passenger car)] Minenochaya to Onioshidashi 280 yen, Onioshidashi to Mihara 370 yen [Manza Highway (passenger car)] Mihara to Manza 1070 yen

[Gunma Prefecture, Nakanojo Town] Lake Okushima

This is the truly “Shiman Blue” lake.

The lake is attractive for its mysterious surface color, known as “Shima Blue.” In winter, the lake becomes even clearer and turns a deep blue. The frozen lake surface is covered in snow, a sight that can only be seen in winter and is not to be missed.

• ■ Lake Okushima
• Tele: 0279-64-2321 (Shima Onsen Association)
• Address: Gunma Prefecture Agatsuma County Nakanojo Town Shima
• Free to visit
• Free admission
• [Train] 40 minutes by Kan-etsu Kotsu bus from JR Nakanojo Station, then 50 minutes on foot
• Parking: 30 cars (the circular road is closed in winter)

[Yokoze Town, Saitama Prefecture] Icicles of Ashigakubo

A row of icicles measuring 200m in width and 30m in height! They are also lit up at night on weekends.

The Ashigakubo Icicles can be seen every year from early January to late February. Taking advantage of the mountain slope, local people sprinkle water from the stream and create these impressive icicles, measuring 200m wide and 30m high.

During the day, you can see large and impressive icicles.

On weekends and public holidays, the area is lit up at night, creating a magical atmosphere as the lights change color.

It’s easily accessible, just a 10-minute walk from the station, but the venue has an elevation difference and it can be very cold, so we recommend wearing warm clothing and comfortable shoes.

• ■Icicles of Ashigakubo
• Telephone: 0494-25-0450 (8:30-17:00)
• Address: Ashigakubo, Yokoze Town, Chichibu District, Saitama Prefecture
• [Monday-Thursday] 9:00-16:00 [Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and holidays] 9:00-20:00 *Last entrance 19:30 *Reservations required on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays (no reservations required for visitors coming by Seibu Railway (train)) *The illuminations are turned on from sunset on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays *There is a rotation system before the illuminations start

[Fujikawaguchiko Town, Yamanashi Prefecture] Lake Kawaguchi Winter Fireworks

Large flowers that light up the night sky are a seasonal winter sight at Lake Kawaguchi.

The main venue for this fireworks display is Oike Park on the shores of Lake Kawaguchi. On windless days, the fireworks are reflected on the lake, creating an even more fantastical atmosphere. We recommend staying at a hotel nearby to enjoy the view.

• ■ Lake Kawaguchi Winter Fireworks
• Tele: 0555-72-3168 (Fujikawaguchiko Town Tourism Division)
• Address: 6713-2 Funatsu, Fujikawaguchiko-machi, Minamitsuru-gun, Yamanashi Prefecture, Oike Park on the shores of Lake Kawaguchi
• Launch time: 8:00 p.m. to 8:20 p.m. [Event period] Saturdays and Sundays from January 25, 2025 (Saturday) to February 22, 2025 (Saturday), and February 23, 2025 (Sunday) (planned)
• 10 minutes by car from Kawaguchiko IC on the Chuo Expressway

[Fujikawaguchiko Town, Yamanashi Prefecture]Lake Saiko Ice Festival

Be soothed by the ice sculptures, art born from nature.

This ice festival is held at Lake Saiko Wild Bird Forest Park. The frost-covered trees can reach up to 10 meters in height. Experience something out of the ordinary in the fantastical, lit-up space at night.

• ■Lake Saiko Ice Festival
• Telephone: 0555-72-3168 (Fujikawaguchiko Town Tourism Division)
• Address: 2068 Nishiko, Fujikawaguchiko-cho, Minamitsuru-gun, Yamanashi Prefecture
• Open: 9:00-19:00, illuminations start at sunset [Event period] Scheduled for late January to early February 2025
• How to get there: 20 minutes by car from Kawaguchiko IC on the Chuo Expressway

[Matsumoto City, Nagano Prefecture] Ryujin Falls and Icicles

I am overwhelmed by icicles.

Thin threads of water flow over the limestone caverns, forming countless waterfalls. In January and February, the water freezes over, creating beautiful icicles that can be enjoyed.

• ■ Ryujin Falls and Icicles
• Telephone: 0263-93-3251 (Shirahone Onsen Tourist Information Center)
• Address: Azumi Shirahone Onsen, Matsumoto City, Nagano Prefecture

[Hakuba Village, Nagano Prefecture] HAKUBA IWATAKE MOUNTAIN RESORT

A spectacular terrace with a panoramic view of the snow-capped Northern Alps.

Even if you don’t ski or snowboard, you can enjoy a variety of outdoor experiences in the snow, including the spectacular terrace “HAKUBA MOUNTAIN HARBOR,” where you can relax in the snow. Feel the beauty of the Northern Alps while warming yourself up with a hot drink.

• ■HAKUBA IWATAKE MOUNTAIN RESORT
• Telephone: 0261-72-2474
• Address: 12056 Kitajo, Hakuba Village, Kitaazumi District, Nagano Prefecture
• [HAKUBA MOUNTAIN HARBOR] 8:15am – 4pm [Hakuba Hitotoki no Mori] 8:30am – 3pm
• Resort admission ticket (including gondola and 5th line South Lift ride) 2900 yen for junior high school students and above, 1600 yen for elementary school students
• How to arrive: [Train] 20 minutes by free shuttle bus from JR Hakuba Station, 8 minutes by gondola lift [Car] 1 hour from Azumino IC on the Nagano Expressway, Nagano IC on the Joshinetsu Expressway, and Itoigawa IC on the Hokuriku Expressway

[Komoro City, Nagano Prefecture] Takamine Highlands Visitor Center

Takamine Plateau, where winter moves the soul.

You can experience the activity of walking through winter forests and mountains wearing “snowshoes.” It’s so refreshing to walk on a snowy field where no one has set foot! A guide will be there to support you, so even beginners can feel at ease.

• ■ Takamine Kogen Visitor Center (Asama International Nature School)
• telephone: 0267-23-3124
• Address: Takamine Plateau, Komoro City, Nagano Prefecture
• 9:30am [Until March 23rd (Sun)]
• How to get there: [Bus] 40 minutes by bus from JR Komoro Station, then a short walk from Takamine Kogen Hotel [Car] 30 minutes from Komoro IC on the Joshinetsu Expressway

[Joetsu City, Niigata Prefecture] Takada Castle Ruins Park

You will be overwhelmed by the majestic sight of snow falling on the triple tower.

Takada Castle Park was established on the site of Takada Castle, whose first lord was Matsudaira Tadateru, the sixth son of Tokugawa Ieyasu, and the entire park is designated as a historic site by Niigata Prefecture. The sight of snow piled up on the restored Takada Castle three-story turret is dignified and beautiful, and well worth a visit.

• ■ Takada Castle Ruins Park
• Telephone: 025-526-5111 (Joetsu City Urban Development Division)
• Address: 44-1 Honjocho, Joetsu City, Niigata Prefecture
• How to get there: [Train] 15 minutes walk from Takada Station on the Echigo Tokimeki Railway [Car] 10 minutes from Joetsu Takada IC on the Joshinetsu Expressway or Joetsu IC on the Hokuriku Expressway

[Agano City, Niigata Prefecture] Hyoko Water Park

About 5,000 swans have migrated from Siberia!

Lake Hyoko is a nationally known swan migration site. During the peak season from late October to early December, over 5,000 swans gather here from the frigid cold of Siberia to spend the winter.

In the early morning, you can see flocks of swans taking flight with the morning sun as a backdrop, and it’s heartwarming to watch Uncle Swan feed them at 9:00, 11:00, and 15:00. You can’t always see swans, but if you’re lucky, you may be able to see their majestic wings spread.

In addition, Hyoko Suikin Park is a park that preserves the rich nature around Lake Hyoko and has an observation building and promenade for observing wild birds such as swans. In addition to swans, you can also observe various water birds such as ducks up close, so why not visit?

• ■ Lake Hyoko Water Park
• Telephone: 0250-62-2690
• Address: 313-1 Mizuhara, Agano City, Niigata Prefecture
• How to get there: [Train] Approximately 60 minutes by Niigata Kotsu Sightseeing Bus from JR Niigata Station, then a short walk from the Hyoko-mae bus stop. [Car] 30 minutes from Niigata Kameda IC on the Hokuriku Expressway, 20 minutes from Yasuda IC on the Ban’etsu Expressway.

[Takaoka City, Toyama Prefecture] Amaharashi Coast Quasi-National Park

A great spot to view the 3000m Tateyama mountain range across the sea.

At the Amaharashi Coast Quasi-National Park, you can see the legendary Yoshitsune Rock. It is said that when Minamoto no Yoshitsune was caught in the rain on his way to Oshu, Benkei lifted the rock to take shelter.

This is a rare spot where you can see the 3000m-class mountains of the Tateyama mountain range across the sea. On a clear winter day, the air is clear, so you’re more likely to see a clearer view! If the weather conditions are right in the early morning, you can also see the fantastic scenery of a steamy mist called a “ki-arashi.”

Winter is the perfect time for photography as it shows off a variety of beautiful expressions!

• ■ Amaharashi Coast Quasi-National Park
• Telephone: 0766-20-1547 (Takaoka City Tourism Association)
• Address: Ota, Takaoka City, Toyama Prefecture
• How to get there: [Train] 5 minutes walk from Amaharashi Station on the JR Himi Line [Car] 15 minutes from Takaoka Kita IC on the Noetsu Expressway

[Nanto City, Toyama Prefecture] World Heritage Site Suganuma Gassho Style Village

Enjoy the original Japanese scenery spread across a heavy snow area.

The “Shirakawa-go and Gokayama Gassho-style Villages” were registered at the 19th UNESCO World Heritage Committee in 1995. Three villages were included in the list, one of which is Suganuma, Gokayama, Toyama Prefecture.

Suganuma village, located on a small river terrace of the Shogawa River that runs through the mountains, currently has nine gassho-style houses remaining. The entire area, including traditional buildings such as storehouses and forests such as Yukimachirin, has been designated a national historic site.

It has not been developed into a tourist destination and retains its original Japanese landscape, rich in nature, so walking through the village makes you feel as if you have traveled back in time to hundreds of years ago.

In winter, the area receives 2 to 3 meters of snow. Be enchanted by the snow-covered Gassho houses and the beautiful silver world!

• ■ World Heritage Site Suganuma Gassho-style Village
• Address: Suganuma, Nanto City, Toyama Prefecture
• Open hours: 8:00-17:00 (9:00-16:00 from December to March) *Entry until 16:00
• Closed: New year holiday season
• How to get there: [Train] 75 minutes by World Heritage Bus from Takaoka Station on the JR Johana Line or Himi Line, get off at Suganuma stop and walk for a short distance [Car] Approximately 1 minute from Gokayama IC on the Tokai-Hokuriku Expressway
• Parking: Yes (500 yen per car as a conservation contribution *for regular cars and light vehicles)

[Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture] Kenrokuen Garden

The snow hanging scenery of Kenrokuen can only be seen in winter!

Kenrokuen is known as one of the three most famous gardens in Japan. It offers beautiful views of the Japanese garden all year round, with cherry blossoms in the spring, fresh greenery in the summer, autumn leaves in the fall, and snowscapes in the winter.

Every season is beautiful, but the snow-hanging scenery in winter is exceptional. The wet snow that is unique to the Hokuriku region falls on the trees, and the sight of ropes tied around the large trees in the park to prevent them from breaking or falling is a spectacular sight! Many people choose to visit Kanazawa in winter to see this sight.

Another attractive feature is that you can see seasonal flowers such as camellias and camellias in January and plum groves in February.

• ■ Kenrokuen
• Address: 1 Kenrokucho, Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture
• Open: [March 1st to October 15th] 7:00-18:00 (last entry 17:30) [October 16th to the end of February] 8:00-17:00 (last entry 16:30) *There are illuminations (night opening) during cherry blossom viewing and autumn foliage seasons. Details are here.
• Close: none
• Prices: Adults (18 years and over) 320 yen, Children (6 to 18 years old) 100 yen *Group discounts available
• How to get there: [Train] 17 minutes by Hokuriku Railroad bus from JR Hokuriku Shinkansen Kanazawa Station, get off at Kenrokuen-shita/Kanazawa Castle and walk for a short distance [Car] 20 minutes from Kanazawa-Morimoto IC on the Hokuriku Expressway
• Parking lot: None (please use the paid parking lots nearby)

[Shirakawa Village, Gifu Prefecture] Shirakawa-go Gassho Style Village

A row of 100 Gassho houses. Enjoy the untouched Japanese scenery covered in snow.

Shirakawa-go is the name given to the Shogawa River basin in Shirakawa Village, Ono County, Gifu Prefecture, and the former Shogawa Village (now Takayama City). In the area, there are over 100 large and small Gassho houses remaining. The scenery is said to be the original Japanese landscape.

Shirakawa-go Gassho-style village, located in a valley surrounded by mountains, is attractive because it offers a variety of different scenery depending on the season. In winter, snow falls on the Gassho-style houses and the entire village, creating a scene that makes you feel like you’ve entered another world.

In winter, you can experience the amazingness of the Gassho-style roofs, which are built with a steep slope to make it easier for snow to fall off. Visit Shirakawa-go, which is known as one of Japan’s heaviest snowfall areas and a World Heritage Site.

• ■ Shirakawa-go Gassho-style Village
• Telephone: 05769-6-1013 (Shirakawa-go Tourism Association)
• Address: Ogimachi, Shirakawa Village, Ono District, Gifu Prefecture
• How to get there: [Train] 50 minutes by bus from Takayama Station on the JR Takayama Main Line, then a short walk from Shirakawa-go Bus Terminal [Car] Approximately 10 minutes from Shirakawa-go IC on the Tokai-Hokuriku Expressway

[Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture] Biwako Valley/Biwako Terrace

The Grand Terrace Cafe, located at an altitude of 1,100m, is open even in winter.

Lake Biwa, which spreads out at the foot of the terrace, reflects the snow-capped mountains and shines a pale blue. You can also enjoy an aerial stroll through a silvery white world on the ropeway that takes you to the summit in five minutes.

There are some snowy roads up to the terrace, so we recommend sneakers or snowshoes. On many days, normal tires are OK to go to the ropeway base station, so please check on the day.

• ■Biwako Valley/Biwako Terrace
• Telephone: 077-592-1155
• Address: 1547-1 Kido, Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture
• Ticket: The round-trip fare for the ropeway varies depending on the season (check the official website)
• Parking lot: 1700 spaces

[Takashima City, Shiga Prefecture] Metasequoia Tree Line

Let’s run through the plateau road lined with 500 trees.

The approach road to Makino Highlands is a straight, tree-lined road that stretches for about 2.4 km. The approximately 500 metasequoia trees reach a height of about 25 m, and their sturdiness with trunks stretching up to the sky is sure to impress anyone.

The scenery changes with the seasons, and the snow-covered winter scenery is particularly beautiful.

• ■ Metasequoia Tree Line
• Telephone: 0740-33-7101 (Biwako Takashima Tourism Association)
• Address: Shiga Prefecture, Takashima City, Makino Town, Hiruguchi to Makino
• How to get there: [Car] Approx. 30 minutes from Kinomoto IC on the Hokuriku Expressway
• Parking: Free parking is available at Makino Pickland.

[Kyoto Prefecture, Kyoto City] Kifune Shrine

An ancient shrine dedicated to the god of water.

On snowy weekends, a special night-time snow viewing event is held, and the approach to the shrine is illuminated with vermilion lanterns creating a fantastic atmosphere. The event is announced on the official SNS account at 3pm on the day of the event, so it is recommended that you check it out while sightseeing around the city.

On the day of the event, special buses run from Kibuneguchi Station, making it easily accessible from the city. The mountain roads are narrow, so it is recommended to use public transportation.

<Light-up on snowy days>

[period]Weekends and holidays from early January to late February *Whether the event will be held or not will be announced on the official SNS at 3pm on the day

[time]Sunset (around 6pm) – 8pm

• ■ Kifune Shrine
• Telephone: 075-741-2016
• Address: 180 Kurama Kifune-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture
• Detail: more information on Kifune Shrine

[Kyoto Prefecture, Kyoto City] Sanzen-in Temple Gate

The gently falling snow paints the temple grounds white, and you can enjoy the elegant winter scenery.

One of the five temples of the Tendai sect. Snow usually falls between late December and early March, turning the pond garden “Shuhekien” and the cedar grove garden “Yuseien” into a monochrome world.

• ■ Sanzen-in Temple Gate
• Telephone: 075-744-2531
• Address: 540 Ohara Raigoincho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture
• Open: 9:00-16:30 (may vary depending on the season)
• Admission fee: 700 yen for adults, 400 yen for junior and senior high school students, 150 yen for elementary school students
• How to arrive: 1 hour 10 minutes from JR Kyoto Station to Ohara bus stop, then 10 minutes walk from Ohara bus stop
• Parking: None *There is a private parking lot nearby

[Miyazu City, Kyoto Prefecture] Amanohashidate View Land

Amanohashidate in winter is a fantastic sight with its rows of snow-covered white pine trees.

It has an amusement park and an observation deck with a panoramic view of Amanohashidate, one of the Three Most Scenic Spots of Japan. If you look between your legs at the observation deck, you’ll see a view that looks just like a dragon soaring through the air.

• ■Amanohashidate View Land
• Telephone: 0772-22-1000
• Address: 437 Monju, Miyazu City, Kyoto Prefecture
• Open： Until February 20, 2023: 9:00-16:30 *May vary seasonally
• Admission fee: 850 yen for junior high school students and above, 450 yen for elementary school students, one infant per adult is free
• How to get there: 10 minutes by car from Yosa Amanohashidate IC on the San’in Kinki Expressway
• Parking: 17 cars (700 yen)

[Ine Town, Kyoto Prefecture] Ine Boathouses

The boathouses, surrounded by a tranquil atmosphere, are full of charm.

The area is lined with boat houses, each with a garage for boats on the first floor and secondary living quarters on the second floor. It has been designated as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings by the national government.

• ■ Boathouses of Ine
• Telephone: 0772-32-0277 (Ine Town Tourism Association)
• Address: Hirata, Ine Town, Yosa District, Kyoto Prefecture
• How to get there: 30 minutes by car from Yosa Amanohashidate IC on the San’in Kinki Expressway
• Parking: Available (maximum 3,000 yen per car per day)

[Miki City, Hyogo Prefecture] Kurotaki Waterfall

This waterfall, known as “Miki’s Niagara,” has a drop of 4m and a width of 30m.

During the coldest period of the year, when there is little water, if the early morning temperature remains below -5°C for about five consecutive days, the ice waterfall will appear. Come and see the magnificent sight of countless icicles lined up in a row. The best time to see it is from mid- to late January.

• ■ Kurotaki Waterfall
• Telephone: none
• Address: Kinkai, Yoshikawacho, Miki City, Hyogo Prefecture
• Free to wander around
• How to get there: 2 minutes by car from Yoshikawa IC on the Chugoku Expressway, 15 minutes on foot from Yamada Nishiki no Sato Parking Lot
• Parking: Yamada Nishiki no Sato Parking Lot

[Daisen Town, Tottori Prefecture] Mt. Oyama

The tallest mountain in the Chugoku region. Enjoy snowshoeing and more!

Mount Daisen is the highest mountain in the Chugoku region at 1,729 meters above sea level. On a clear day, you can see the Sea of ​​Japan, Yumigahama Peninsula, and Shimane Peninsula below.

In winter, Daisen White Resort, a ski resort representing the Chugoku region, opens. It consists of four areas: Goenzan, Nakanohara, Kaminohara, and Kokusai, and can be enjoyed by everyone from beginners to advanced skiers.

Snowshoe activities are also popular! The feeling of walking on the fluffy new snow is very pleasant, and even beginners can enjoy it right away.

When the trees are overgrown, the forest is inaccessible, so you can have a rare experience searching for giant beech trees and animal footprints. Snowshoe rentals and tours are available at the Mt. Daisen Tour Desk.

• ■ Mt. Oyama
• Telephone: 0859-52-2502 (Daisen Town Tourist Information Center)
• Address: Daisen, Daisen Town, Saihaku District, Tottori Prefecture
• Open: 24 hours
• How to get there: [Train] From JR Sanin Main Line Yonago Station, take the Nihon Kotsu bus for about 50 minutes, get off at Daisenji bus stop and walk for about 10 minutes to the trailhead. [Car] From Yonago Expressway Yonago IC, 15 minutes
• Parking: Available (fees apply only in winter *1,000 yen per day for passenger cars from late December to the end of March)

[Sera Town, Hiroshima Prefecture] Serakogen Candlelight Night 2024

Candle-colored snow fluttered and melted slightly in my palm.

On quiet plateau nights, the garden is filled with swaying flowers in the spring, summer and fall, and the light of about 12,000 candles flickers. On clear nights, you can look up at the clear starry sky, and on snowy nights, the world becomes magical and beautiful. The lantern tree, which was introduced last year, is a popular photo spot.

It’s just a short walk from the parking lot, but it gets cold at night, so be sure to bring a warmer or other protective gear. Last year, the latter half of the event was covered in snow.

• ■ Serakogen Candlelight Night 2024
• Telephone: 0570-074-075
• Address: 1405 Tobari Sorakuguchi, Sera-cho, Sera-gun, Hiroshima Prefecture
• Open: November 2nd (Saturday) to December 24th (Tuesday) *Only held on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays in November. In December, held on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays during the period, as well as December 23rd (Monday) and 24th (Tuesday). 17:00-21:00 (last entry 20:30) *November 2nd to 4th: 17:30-21:00 (last entry 20:30)
• How to get there: 45 minutes from Sanyo Expressway Kawachi IC
• Parking lot: 200 cars

[Toon City, Ehime Prefecture] Shiraino Falls

This 96m waterfall is named after the white boar, said to be the guardian deity of the Saragamine mountain.

When the daytime temperature remains below 5°C for several days, the ice sculptures are completed, as if the flow of water and even the splashing water are frozen in place. The best time to see them is from mid-January to mid-February.

It is important to take proper precautions against freezing for both tires and shoes, such as using chains or cleats. If possible, try to use a free parking lot where there is relatively little freezing.

• ■ Shiraino Falls
• Telephone: 089-964-4414 (Toon City Regional Revitalization Division)
• Address: Shirainotaki Rural Park, Kawanouchi, Toon City, Ehime Prefecture
• Free to wander around
• How to get there: 45 minutes by car from JR Matsuyama Station via R11 and R494 (30 minutes on foot from the free parking lot)
• Free parking for 30 cars, paid parking for 5 cars (300 yen)

[Unzen City, Nagasaki Prefecture] Nita Pass

The “hanabouro” sparkles in the light, with a beauty like that of a diamond.

Nita Pass offers beautiful scenery in every season. In winter, the frost, known as “hanabouro” in Unzen, is a treat. On sunny days, the frost reflects the sunlight and sparkles like diamonds. You can also see frost arches along the road leading from Myoken Station, which can be reached by ropeway, to Myoken Shrine.

• ■Nita Pass
• Telephone: 0957-73-3572 (Unzen Ropeway)
• Address: Unzen, Obama Town, Unzen City, Nagasaki Prefecture
• Open: [Nita Pass Circular Road] 8:00-17:00 [Ropeway] 8:51-last ascent 16:51 *All times subject to seasonal changes
• The ropeway cannot be used during bad weather.
• Price: [Nita Pass Circular Road Toll Contribution Fee] 100 yen [Round-trip Ropeway] 1,500 yen for adults, 750 yen for elementary school students and younger
• How to get there: 1 hour and 30 minutes by car from Isahaya IC on the Nagasaki Expressway

[Aso City, Kumamoto Prefecture] Kusasenrigahama Beach

This can only be seen a few times a year! A miraculous sight as the grasslands are covered in snow.

This miraculous view can only be seen on snowy days. The 785,000m2 grassland is transformed into a world of white silver, and the surrounding trees are covered in glittering frost, creating a fantastical landscape. In the distance, you can see the smoke from Mt. Nakadake. The contrast with the clear blue winter sky is stunning.

*Please note that there is a possibility of frozen roads and snow accumulation, so we recommend bringing studless tires and chains.

• ■ Kusasenrigahama Beach
• Telephone: 0967-34-1600 (Aso Information Center)　
• Address: Kusasenrigahama, Aso City, Kumamoto Prefecture
• Free to visit
• How to get there: 1 hour and 30 minutes by car from Kumamoto IC on the Kyushu Expressway
• Parking: 400 cars (500 yen per day)
• More info: click here

[Beppu City, Oita Prefecture] Mount Tsurumi

Take a 10-minute stroll through the air to see the pure white ice crystals blooming on the trees.

You can also expect to see frost, which is rare in Kyushu, at 1,375m above sea level on Mount Tsurumi. If the weather conditions are right on a cold, early morning, you can take the ropeway up to the mountaintop station and encounter a fantastical landscape of white flowers blooming on the trees. Behind that, you can see the cityscape of Beppu with steam rising from the hot springs.

• ■ Mount Tsurumi
• Telephone: 0977-22-2278 (Beppu Ropeway)
• Address: 10-7 Kanbara, Minamitateishi, Beppu City, Oita Prefecture
• Open: [November 15th – March 14th] 9:00am – 5:00pm (last outbound flight 4:30pm) *May vary seasonally
• Close: None * May be suspended in the event of bad weather or for facility maintenance and inspection
• Price: Adults (junior high school students and above) 1,800 yen, seniors (70 years and above) 1,700 yen, children (ages 4 to elementary school) 900 yen
• How to get there: 5 minutes by car from Beppu IC on the Higashi Kyushu Expressway
• Parking: 250 cars
• More details click here

[Izumi City, Kagoshima Prefecture] Izumi City Crane Observation Center

The largest wintering ground for cranes in Japan. The early morning flight is a spectacular sight.

The Izumi Plain, reclaimed by the Satsuma Domain, is where 10,000 hooded and white-naped cranes migrate from Siberia to spend the winter. The cries of the cranes echo all around, and from inside the center you can observe the ecology of the cranes up close. The area is registered under the Ramsar Convention as a “wintering site for Izumi cranes.”

• ■Izumi City Crane Observation Center
• Telephone: 0996-85-5151 (Opening hours only)
• Address: 2478-4 Sho, Izumi City, Kagoshima Prefecture
• Open: 9:00-17:00 (last entry 16:30)
• Close: None during the period [Period] November 1st to the second Sunday of March
• Admission fee: 220 yen for adults, 110 yen for elementary and junior high school students. *Those who pay the wintering ground environmental conservation contribution (1,000 yen per vehicle for regular cars or smaller) can enter for free and have special access to the rooftop from 6:30 a.m.
• How to get there: 1 hour 20 minutes from Kurino IC on the Kyushu Expressway, or 10 minutes from Noda IC on the Minami Kyushu Western Route
• Parking: 172 spaces