Winter is a popular time to visit Japan, but the Japan National Tourism Organization says winter in the country isn’t just about skiing.
“From charming lantern-lit towns to snow-shoe trekking and subtropical island escapes, we invite travellers to diversify their winter visit by immersing themselves in regional activities, embracing local traditions and seeking less-dis covered winter destinations,” says Naoki Kitazawa, ed of the Sydney office.
This includes a range of onsen experiences, while adventure lovers can canoe or kayak along the partially frozen Kushiro River; take a snowmobile or snow-rafting tour across powdery snowfields or try snowshoeing through magical forests including Daisetsuzan National Park. At Jigokudani Monkey Park in Nagano, the famous Japanese macaques frolic in and out of steaming hot springs in the snow. There are guided farm tours to dig up sweet overwintering cabbages from underneath the snow, followed by a hearty winter meal featuring the found booty.
Other winter activities include dog sledding, and paragliding, and the impressive Misotsuchi Icicles are a must-see winter spectacle, says JNTO, adding that there are also myriad festivals during this period including the UNESCO-recognised Chichibu Night Festival.
However, says JNTO, in the southern Okinawa Prefecture (pictured) winter visitors can enjoy sunshine, explore coral reefs, and see cherry blossoms before the rest of the country. See more HERE.
