Thick winter clothes should be taken on especially in Hokkaido and northern Honshu. Sweater with a thick overcoat is essential to keep warm in December around Japan. The further north you go, the thicker clothes should be prepared. To Hokkaido, down coat, padded overcoat, winter pants, etc. are indispensable.

Hokkaido has been a snow wonderland in December. It is a prefect destination for snow-covered landscapes, skiing, and penguins’ walk.

Nagano, in the mountainous region of central Japan, is also welcomed in winter for the hot springs. You can take a traditional onsen bath in a private hot spring, and you may also come across one or more snow monkeys who enjoy bathing in hot spring as well.

Winter Landscape in Japan

Ginza - A Tokyo Night Scene

Tokyo is the best choice to experience the winter celebrations in Japan. The city is filled with festive vibe to greet the Christmas and following New Year. Atmospheric winter illuminations are dazzling to shine on the night of this city, in Marunouchi, Ebisu Garden Place, Tokyo Station, Yomiuriland, Hibiya Park, Tokyo Skytree, etc. Of course, you can also watch the gorgeous illuminations in other cities like Osaka, Kobe and Sendai.