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This translation was generated by AI and may contain wording that differs from the facts. Please check the Japanese original or official sources for anything important. Japanese original
Key points
- Illuminations: Tokyo's Marunouchi and Roppongi light up, along with places such as Nabana no Sato in Mie.
- Skiing: resorts such as Niseko and Hakuba open fully around mid December, famous for powder snow.
- Year-end traditions: toshikoshi soba noodles on New Year's Eve and the ringing of temple bells at midnight.
🌤 Weather and temperature
Tokyo averages about 8 °C with dry, sunny weather. Hokkaido and the Sea of Japan coast are snowy.
| City | Average temperature | Rainfall |
|---|---|---|
| Sapporo | -0.9 °C | 115 mm |
| Tokyo | 7.7 °C | 58 mm |
| Osaka | 8.7 °C | 56 mm |
| Fukuoka | 9.1 °C | 69 mm |
| Naha | 19 °C | 110 mm |
Monthly averages based on Japan Meteorological Agency normals (1991–2020).
🚄 Crowds, holidays and prices
Early to mid December is quiet and good value. From around the 29th, the New Year travel rush begins and some shops and sights close over the holidays.
🏮 Festivals and events
- Chichibu Night Festival (Saitama · December 2–3)
Ornate floats are hauled up a steep slope. One of Japan's three great float festivals with Kyoto's Gion and Takayama; UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage - Takachiho Yokagura (Miyazaki · Mid-November to early February)
Each village performs all 33 sacred dances through the night. The land of the Amano-Iwato myth
Dates change from year to year; always check the official announcement.
🌸 Flowers and autumn colours
- Arashiyama and Sagano (Kyoto · Late November to early December)
Togetsukyo Bridge and a whole mountainside of autumn colour. Sagano scenic railway and Hozu River boat rides - Nabana no Sato Illumination (Mie · Late October to May (illumination); tulips in spring)
One of Japan's largest winter illuminations, plus tulip and begonia gardens in spring
🍣 Seasonal food and traditions
- Seafood in season: Winter yellowtail, cod, oysters, sea cucumber
- Produce in season: Daikon, turnips, leeks, yuzu, shungiku
- Traditions and daily life: Winter solstice (yuzu baths, pumpkin), Christmas, year-end cleaning, Year-End Jumbo lottery, New Year's Eve (toshikoshi soba, midnight bells)
📍 Where to go this month
Tokyo Skytree
At 634 m, the world's tallest free-standing broadcast tower. On clear days you can see Mount Fuji from the deck.
Shibuya Crossing
Up to 3,000 people cross at once on a single green light, making it the world's most famous intersection.
Niseko Powder Snow
Fifteen metres of snow a year and the lightest powder on Earth — 'Japow'. A world-class ski resort from December to April.
Kabuki-za Theatre
See a single act of 400-year-old kabuki from the single-act seats for ¥1,000–2,000, with English audio guide.
Depachika Food Halls
Basement food halls of department stores: hundreds of counters of deli dishes, bento and sweets, with discounts before closing.
Kaiseki Cuisine
A multi-course meal born from the tea ceremony: a dozen seasonal dishes served on chosen tableware. 'Washoku' is UNESCO Intangible Heritage.
🧳 What to pack
Winter (Dec–Feb)
- A coat is enough in Tokyo and Osaka; Hokkaido needs a down jacket and non-slip shoes
- Lip balm and moisturiser for the dry air, plus disposable heat packs
- Ryokan provide towels; bring or buy one for day-trip hot springs
- Many places close from 29 Dec to 3 Jan and transport is crowded
💡 Travel tip
If you travel over New Year, check which attractions close, and avoid travelling on the peak days.
🗓 Other months
January · February · March · April · May · June · July · August · September · October · November · December
Frequently asked questions
What is Christmas like in Japan?
It is not a public holiday, but cities are full of lights, and it is a popular day for couples and families to enjoy cake and fried chicken.
Are attractions open in Japan over New Year?
Some museums and attractions close from about 29 December to 3 January, but temples and shrines are busy with New Year visitors and many shops stay open.
