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Manila Bulletin devider Lifestyle devider Travel devider Must-visit winter destinations in Japan

Must-visit winter destinations in Japan

Don't miss these sites when visiting during the cool season

Published Dec 11, 2025 11:16 pm

At A Glance

  • While most might prefer the picturesque scenes of autumn, as the leaves change color and drift off from its branches, or the spring season's sakura craze, Japan's winter season is one you must not sleep on.
Hokkaido Ice Pavilion
Hokkaido Ice Pavilion

You don't have to fly all the way to Europe or the US to feel the magical bliss of the winter season.

Japan is largely becoming a go-to destination for Filipino travelers. While most might prefer the picturesque scenes of autumn, as the leaves change color and drift off from its branches, or the spring season's sakura craze, Japan's winter season is one you must not sleep on. Come December, as the cooler regions find themselves blanketed with snow, it's the perfect opportunity to check out these destinations recommended by the Japan National Tourism Organization Manila Office (JNTO).

Zao Mountains

Zao Mountains

Tohoku

As the temperatures drop to a single digit, or at times even below zero, Tohoku finds itself invaded by snow monsters. In the Yamagata Prefecture, trees of the Zao Mountains find themselves transformed into ghastly, tall figures akin to monster snow goons. They're at their largest in the months of February and March. You'll be able to spot them either from above via a cable car ride or zoom past them through the skiing paths.

Ginzan Onsen

Ginzan Onsen

After palling around with the giant snow monsters, you can wind down by checking out the natural hot springs in the area. While the idea of being nude around strangers might seem intimidating, the calmness brought by dipping into the warm waters of an onsen is enough to wipe those thoughts away. These hot springs are designed to put your body at ease, and you'll leave feeling fresher than ever. We recommend dropping by the Ginzan Onsen, a historic town that was once home to a silver mine. Most visitors find joy in comparing the Ginzan Onsen to the bathhouse seen in Studio Ghibli's “Spirited Away.”

Sapporo Beer Museum

Sapporo Beer Museum

Hokkaido

If near below zero temperatures aren't enough for you, the Hokkaido Ice Pavilion will surely satisfy your cool weather cravings. All year-round, the ice hall is kept at a chilling -20°C. Visitors often enjoy spotting grand icicles on display, with some having formed more than 20 years ago. After the freezing temperatures, it's best to warm your insides with a refreshing glass of beer. One stop to the Sapporo Beer Museum is sure to quench your thirst. Many frequent the place as it is a historical beer brewing site, going so far as to earn Hokkaido the title of being the birthplace of beer in Japan. If alcohol isn't to your taste, you can also warm up by gorging down fresh ramen at the Asahikawa Ramen Village. There are over eight ramen shops to try multiple variations of ramen from, allowing you to pick and choose according to taste.

Asahikawa Ramen Village

Asahikawa Ramen Village

Navigating around Japan has also been made easier for travelers by airlines like All Nippon Airways (ANA) and Japan Airlines (JAL) providing connectivity between the Philippines and Japan’s lesser-known prefectures. 

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