A year is coming to an end and December is the best time for you to reflect, relax, and visit Japan. With the crisp air, seasonal festivals, and a mix of traditional and modern celebrations, Japan in December won’t disappoint.

Winter in Japan also means delicious seasonal treats. From piping-hot street food like takoyaki (octopus balls) to hearty dishes like oden (a warm broth filled with vegetables and fish cakes), December is the time to indulge. Beyond that? Keep reading as there is a lot to enjoy. Bundle up, explore, and make the most of what this beautiful country has to offer during the winter season.

The one thing that you need to try in Tokyo in December is to visit the various spots of beautiful winter illuminations scattered around Tokyo where the city would transform into a magical wonderland with the dazzling displays of numerous lights that are made into stunning trees. Here are several spots where you can enjoy those Winter illuminations in Tokyo:

This winter event lights up Hibiya Nakadori Street from 14th November 2024 to 28th February 2025. The illumination recreates four natural sky phenomena, making the street feel like a part of the cosmos. Experience the calming Blue Moment, where the sky turns a deep, dark blue, or the magical Aurora Green, inspired by the Northern Lights. The light display also includes Sunset Gold, capturing the rich reds and golds of a sunset, and the rare Pink Belt of Venus, visible just before sunrise or after sunset. These lights bring Tokyo’s winter nights to life with a unique, artistic touch.

What makes this event even more exciting is how the illuminations change depending on the season. So, no matter when you visit, you’ll see a slightly different light show each time, making it worth coming back for more. Plus, the lights stretch along Hibiya Nakadori Street, giving you plenty of room to wander and enjoy the spectacle at your own pace. The light-up time runs from 4 to 11 PM, so it’s easy to fit into any evening plans.

Location: Hibiya Nakadori Street

One of Tokyo’s most beloved winter events, Marunouchi Illumination, is back for the 2024-2025 season, lighting up the heart of the city with sparkling displays that are sure to put you in the festive spirit. From 14th November 2024 to 16th February 2025, Nakadori Avenue will be transformed with beautiful lights wrapping around the bare trees along the street. But it’s not just about the lights; this illumination also features interactive elements like illuminated sculptures, a miniature merry-go-round, and even a piano for you to enjoy.

A special addition this year is the collaboration with Super Mario, bringing characters from the iconic Nintendo game series to life in a playful display along the Marunouchi area. From 14th November to 13th January, the area will be buzzing with familiar characters in various forms, offering endless fun for both kids and adults alike. Plus, if you visit in December, you’ll get to see the illuminations stay on until midnight, giving you extra time to enjoy the festivities. And don’t forget the seasonal ice skating rink and Marunouchi Street Park Market, where you can pick up souvenirs or just enjoy the vibes until 25th December.

Location: Naka-dori Avenue

Every year, Roppongi Hills Christmas Illumination transforms the area into a stunning light display, and the 2024 edition is set to be just as impressive. From mid-November to 25th December 2024, Keyakizaka Street (a 400-metre stretch) becomes a must-see destination for anyone looking to experience Tokyo’s festive charm. Around 800,000 LED lights will adorn the trees, casting a beautiful blue glow that stands out against the evening sky. Tokyo Tower provides the perfect backdrop, and it’s one of the best spots to snap a photo with the glittering lights and the iconic tower together.

For the best view of the illuminations with Tokyo Tower in the background, head to the area just past O-Yane Plaza, where the Christmas Market is set up. It’s a popular spot, so just follow the crowd if you’re unsure! The lights are on from 5 to 11 PM each night.

Location: Roppongi Hills Complex, Minato, Tokyo

The Caretta Shiodome Illuminations have become one of Tokyo’s most popular winter light events, and the 2024 edition is no exception. Known for its incredible themes based on beloved Disney films like Beauty and the Beast, Frozen, Tangled, and Aladdin, this year’s display promises to continue the tradition of turning the Caretta Shiodome building into a glowing winter wonderland.

This year, the Caretta Shiodome Illuminations will run from November 2024 to February 2025, offering plenty of time to experience the stunning light displays. The event is completely free to attend! The whole event is designed to bring joy and wonder between you, family, friends, or your romantic partner.

Getting to the Caretta Shiodome Illuminations is easy too. The venue is a short walk from Shiodome Station, accessible via the Oedo Line or the Yurikamome. Alternatively, you can also reach it from Shinbashi Station, which connects to several major lines including the Ginza Line, Yamanote Line, and Tokaido Line.

Location: Caretta Shiodome, Minato, Tokyo

Hokkaido, which is located on the northernmost island in Japan is well known as this winter wonderland for ski enthusiasts and snowboarders from all around the world. Housing the world-famous powder snow, and long ski seasons complete with stunning scenery. Hokkaido is truly a snow paradise that you need to visit during your trip in December. Besides, Hokkaido also houses several renowned ski resorts such as:

If you're into skiing or snowboarding, Niseko United is the place to be. This group of four different resorts offer some of the best ski resorts in Hokkaido that is located on the slopes of Mount Niseko Annupuri. Divided into four resorts which are Niseko Annupur International Ski Area, Niseko Village Ski Resort, Niseko Grand Hirafu Ski Resort, and Hanazono Niseko Resort, Niseko United offers a vast area of terrain that is suitable for skiers and snowboarders at any levels from beginners to professionals.

You can also try the cable car and enjoy the winter views. This makes it a great option if you’re looking for a more peaceful and scenic experience, while still enjoying the world-class snow Niseko is famous for.

Location: Niseko Annupuri

Kiroro Ski Resort in Hokkaido is a dream destination for snow lovers of all kinds. Known for its consistent snowfall and pristine powder, Kiroro offers top-notch skiing and snowboarding on beautifully groomed trails.

Beyond skiing and snowboarding, Kiroro is packed with winter activities for those looking to mix it up. You can try snowshoeing through the serene landscapes or get a rush of adrenaline with snowmobiling or a ride on a snow buggy. Families and kids will love sledding and snow rafting, which combine excitement and fun in the snow. For a unique experience, opt for CAT cruising, which takes you off the beaten path to untouched powder areas that feel like a private adventure. If you’re curious about trying something different, hopping on a snow bike could be just the thing to shake up your winter holiday.

Location: Tokiwa, Akaigawa, Yoichi District, Hokkaido 046-0571, Japan

Located in Hokkaido, Rusutsu Resort is one of Japan's largest ski areas, spanning three mountains with over 37 trails and 19 lifts, including gondolas and chairlifts. This vast terrain comes with gentle slopes perfect for beginners to challenging runs that thrill advanced skiers and snowboarders. The resort’s 3.5-kilometre-long runs let you take in stunning views of the surrounding snow-covered landscape while enjoying an uninterrupted descent. With consistent snowfall and well-maintained trails, Rusutsu is a dependable choice for a memorable day on the slopes.

Rusutsu is not just about skiing and snowboarding. Off the slopes, the resort offers a mix of activities and attractions, including snow tubing, snowmobiling, and a relaxing après-ski ambience.

Location: Southeast of Mt. Yotei, Hokkaido

After a long tiring day of exploring the illuminations lights in Tokyo or skiing as well as snowboarding in Osaka, you could take a break and relax in the iconic natural hot spring of Japan, Onsen which can be found throughout Japan. It is one of the most popular ways to unwind and rejuvenate yourself which ie is believed to have a number of health benefits including relieving muscle pain, improving blood circulation, and giving visitors leisure and relaxation.

There are two types of Onsen which are Rotenburo which is known as the outdoor bath and the other one is Rotenburo which is known as the indoor bath. Most of the traditional onsen is usually a communal bath, but there are some hotels and resorts that provide private or separate sections for men and women. Here are the recommendations onsen that you might want to add to your list:

Nestled in Yamanashi, Fuji Chobo-no-Yu Yurari Onsen offers the perfect escape for you who are seeking relaxation with a view. The standout feature of this onsen is its breathtaking backdrop of Mount Fuji, visible from several of the natural spring baths.

The onsen boasts a variety of bathing options, including open-air baths, saunas, and private baths available for day use. The waters here are rich in chloride and sulphate, known for their soothing and therapeutic properties. These minerals help ease muscle tension and improve circulation, making them ideal for unwinding after a day of exploring or skiing. For an added touch of indulgence, you can book a massage to complement your soak, leaving you completely refreshed. Fuji Chobo-no-Yu Yurari Onsen also features a restaurant where you can enjoy a meal after your bath. The menu highlights local flavours, offering a satisfying way to end your visit.

Location: Fuji Chobo-no-Yu Yurari（富士眺望の湯ゆらり）

The exceptional ryokan offers a relaxed hot spring experience in the heart of Kusatsu which is known for its historical and exceptional hot springs. The Onsen provided by this ryokan is known to be high-quality and gives a relaxing effect as well as various health benefits.

Noboribetsu itself is an area that is known for its vast hot spring offerings, as for Noboribetsu Onsengo Takinoya ryokan offers easy access to one renowned hot spring named Noboribetsu hot spring. The ryokan also features an on-site onsen for visitors where they can enjoy the various spring qualities of Noboribetsu including the milky white sulfur spring and colorless springs.

Winter in Japan isn’t just about snow and skiing, it’s also a time for incredible festivals. From massive snow sculptures to twinkling lanterns and ice-carving competitions, these events offer unique experiences that bring the cold months to life. Check out some winter festival spots below!

Held annually in early February, the Sapporo Snow Festival transforms Hokkaido’s capital into a winter wonderland filled with incredible ice and snow sculptures. Towering sculptures, some the size of small buildings, showcase intricate designs ranging from famous landmarks to pop culture icons. Crafted by the Ground Self-Defense Force and local artists, these masterpieces are illuminated at night, creating an unforgettable visit.

Besides admiring the sculptures, visitors can enjoy activities like snow slides at the Tsudome Site and explore the vibrant food stalls serving Hokkaido's specialties, such as miso ramen and seafood delicacies. The festival offers a mix of entertainment, including live performances and cultural showcases. Be sure to dress warmly as February temperatures in Sapporo can be chilly, but the excitement of the festival will keep your spirits high.

For those planning to visit the 2025 edition, mark your calendars from February 4 to February 11. While the event is a must-see, do check for updates, as weather conditions can occasionally lead to changes in the schedule.

Location: Odori Park, Susukino, and Tsudome

Taking place around the same time as the Sapporo Snow Festival, the Asahikawa Winter Festival offers a more intimate but equally impressive winter experience. Known for its massive snow sculptures, the event even features one so large that it doubles as a stage for live performances. Each year, these sculptures revolve around different themes, adding an element of surprise to each festival.

A standout attraction is the World Ice Sculpting Championship, where artists from across the globe showcase their craft. These sculptures, intricate and stunning, become even more enchanting at night when they’re illuminated, casting a magical glow over the festival grounds. This year’s theme includes a shimmering depiction of Shuri Castle, a World Heritage Site from Okinawa, reimagined in ice. Don’t miss out on the food stalls offering warm treats and local Hokkaido dishes, perfect for keeping the cold at bay.

Located in Aomori Prefecture’s snowy Tohoku region, the Hirosaki Castle Snow Lantern Festival combines history, art, and winter charm. The festival features traditional snow lanterns alongside miniature igloos and creative snow sculptures. The park, home to the historic Hirosaki Castle, transforms into a serene white landscape, with gentle lantern lights creating a calm ambience after sunset.

The festival originated in 1977 as a way for locals to bring warmth and joy to the long, cold winters. Today, it continues to be a cherished tradition. You can stroll through the park, admire the craftsmanship of the lanterns, and enjoy a rare moment of winter quietness. For an extra treat, head to the nearby Starbucks, housed in a beautifully preserved Tangible Cultural Property, to warm up with a hot drink in a unique setting. Make sure to check the schedule, as this event is only held for a few days each year.

Location: Aomori Prefecture

If you would like to visit Japan soon, Traveloka is more than happy to help you book some hotel accommodations, flight tickets, and tourist destinations that are mentioned above. Besides giving the best price, Traveloka also often gives out some discounts and promotions! What are you waiting for? Grab yours fast!