what to do and eat in winter in Japan
Nov 28, 2025 3:11 am
Konnichiwa from the Japan Switch Team!
I might ruffle some feathers with this.
A few years ago, they tried to cancel the Christmas song 'Baby, It's Cold Outside.'
But honestly... baby, it is c o l d outside right now.
Still, Tokyo doesn’t slow down for winter. If you’re here for the food, this is the when the best seasonal dishes come out of hiding.
And if you're a winter sports fan chasing that perfect powder, Japan is absolutely where you want to be.
So let's get into it!
Ultimate Guide to Winter Activities in Japan
In addition to some great Christmas markets, you also shouldn’t miss the illuminations, fairs, and skiing options (for beginners and pros). If you want to test your mettle against the cold, you can head up north to Hokkaido and check out the Sapporo Snow Festival! Check out the full article for our favorite winter to-dos!
Ultimate Guide to Skiing in Japan
Home to some of the world's finest powder snow, every winter thousands of skiers and snowboarders come here for the legendary Japow experience! From Hokkaido’s deep drifts to Nagano’s Olympic-level slopes, the variety is unreal. Find out where to go, when to visit, what it costs, and how to plan your trip!
Ultimate Guide to Japanese Nabe
From rich sukiyaki to spicy kimchi and seafood-filled regional favorites, there’s definitely a nabe for you! We break down the most popular styles, unique regional versions, and even how to make nabe at home. And if you're in Tokyo, we’ve rounded up our top restaurant picks so you can try the real thing!
Side note: If you're serious about visiting or living in Japan, check out Japan Switch's affordable online and offline Japanese lessons and make sure you're ready to make the most of your time here!
For more information or other updates and tips on life in Japan, be sure to check out our blog here.
Your Friends,
The Japan Switch Team