12 Best Places to Visit in Japan During Winter

富士山（山梨県）

Welcome to Japan, a land where winter transforms the landscape into a serene, frosty paradise. Join us as we explore the 12 best places to visit in Japan during winter.

蔵王の樹氷（山形県）

Zao Snow Monsters, Yamagata Prefecture

First on our list is the Zao Snow Monsters in Yamagata. These natural sculptures are created when Siberian winds cover trees in heavy snow and ice. At night, they're illuminated, creating a spectacular winter wonderland.

白川郷（岐阜県）

Shirakawa-go, Gifu Prefecture

Next, we visit Shirakawa-go in Gifu Prefecture. This UNESCO World Heritage site is famous for its gassho-zukuri farmhouses, looking magical under a blanket of snow and evening lights.

銀山温泉（山形県）

Ginzan Onsen, Yamagata Prefecture

Ginzan Onsen in Yamagata offers a step back in time. Its Taisho-era streets and traditional hot springs provide a tranquil retreat amidst a picturesque winter scene.

さっぽろ雪まつり（北海道）

Sapporo Snow Festival, Hokkaido Prefecture

The Sapporo Snow Festival is a marvel of winter creativity. Huge, artistic snow sculptures dominate the city, attracting millions to Hokkaido’s capital to celebrate the season.

三十槌の氷柱（埼玉県）

Icicles of Misotsuchi, Saitama Prefecture

In Chichibu, Saitama Prefecture, the Icicles of Misotsuchi create a fairy-tale environment. These massive, naturally-formed icicles are illuminated at night, offering a mesmerizing winter spectacle.

地獄谷野猿公苑（長野県）

Jigokudani Monkey Park, Nagano

At Jigokudani Monkey Park in Nagano, witness the unique sight of wild snow monkeys enjoying a warm bath in natural hot springs, a rare and delightful winter experience.

立山黒部アルペンルート（富山県）

Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, Toyama

The Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route in Toyama is a journey through the Northern Japan Alps, featuring the impressive Kurobe Dam and the iconic snow walls of Murodo Plateau.

なばなの里（三重県）

Nabana no Sato Illuminations, Mie

In Mie Prefecture, Nabana no Sato transforms into a luminous world with one of Japan's largest illumination displays, creating enchanting light tunnels and themed landscapes.

かまくらの里（長野県）

Kamakura Snow Hut Village, Nagano

The Kamakura Snow Hut Village in Nagano offers a cozy winter experience. These igloo-like huts, illuminated by candles, host visitors for local food and sake, embracing Japan’s rich winter traditions.

兼六園（石川県）

Kenrokuen, Ishikawa

Kenrokuen in Ishikawa, one of Japan's Three Great Gardens, is a must-visit. Its snow-covered landscapes offer a peaceful and picturesque winter stroll.

湯西川温泉（栃木県）

Yunishigawa Onsen, Tochigi

In the mountains of Tochigi Prefecture, Yunishigawa Onsen is a hidden gem. The hot spring baths and the Kamakura Festival’s snow huts create an unforgettable winter ambiance.

小樽運河（北海道）

Otaru Canal, Hokkaido

Lastly, Otaru in Hokkaido captivates with its Snow Light Path Festival. The city's romantic canal, lined with lanterns and historic buildings, provides a perfect winter evening stroll.

Japan's winter offers a mesmerizing mix of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and festive celebrations. Each of these 12 destinations provides a unique way to embrace the season. Plan your journey and experience the magic of Japanese winter.

Thank you for joining us on this winter journey through Japan. Until next time, stay warm and inspired.

Find the eight great udon noodles!

Udon, a staple Japanese noodle made from wheat flour, water, and salt, varies in texture and thickness across different regions of Japan. Regional specialties include the firm Sanuki udon from Kagawa Prefecture and the softer, sweet-sauced Ise udon from Mie Prefecture, among others. This versatile noodle, integral to Japanese food culture and history, is commonly served in various styles like in hot broth or with a cold dipping sauce, reflecting the culinary diversity and traditions of each region.

稲庭うどん (秋田県）

Inaniwa udon, originating from Inaniwa, Akita Prefecture, Japan, is renowned for its labor-intensive creation and distinct features. These thin, almost transparent white noodles are celebrated for their firm yet smooth texture, often served boiled with dipping sauce or in hot broth. With roots in the Edo period, Inaniwa udon is a cherished Akita delicacy, famed for its unique production process and texture, and adored by udon connoisseurs globally.

水沢うどん（岩手県）

Mizusawa udon, hailing from Mizusawa City in Iwate Prefecture, Japan, is distinguished by its thick, soft, and chewy texture, made with high-quality water and wheat. These noodles, known for their clear and smooth surface, are typically served boiled in warm broth or sauce, highlighting their tenderness and rich flavor. A culinary icon with a history of several hundred years, Mizusawa udon is a beloved staple in local food culture and a symbol of Iwate Prefecture's rich culinary heritage.

ひもかわうどん（群馬県）

Himokawa udon, originating from Gunma Prefecture, Japan, is distinctive with its broad, flat ribbon shape, setting it apart from conventional udon varieties. Traditionally boiled briefly and rinsed in cold water, it is typically enjoyed with dipping sauce or otsuyu, acclaimed for its unique texture. Deeply embedded in Gunma's culinary heritage, Himokawa udon's rich history spans centuries, making it a celebrated traditional noodle and a symbol of the region's culture, cherished locally and internationally.

氷見うどん（富山県）

Himi udon, from Himi City in Toyama Prefecture, Japan, is celebrated for its unique texture and artisanal production process, using specific flour types and methods that create a firm, transparent noodle. Often boiled and rinsed in cold water, it's typically served with dipping sauce or hot soup, complementing the local cuisine's fresh seafood. Esteemed for its longstanding cultural significance and distinctive qualities, Himi udon holds a special place in both local traditions and the hearts of udon enthusiasts worldwide.

味噌煮込みうどん（愛知県）

Miso Nikomi Udon, a warm and hearty noodle dish from Nagoya City in Aichi Prefecture, Japan, features thick udon noodles simmered in a rich, red miso-based broth. It's typically loaded with ingredients like chicken, tofu, vegetables, and seafood, all melding flavors within the robust soup. Deeply connected to Nagoya's miso culture, this dish, which gained prominence in the 20th century, is celebrated for its comforting warmth and distinctive taste, beloved by both locals and visitors.

伊勢うどん（三重県）

Ise udon, from Ise City in Mie Prefecture, Japan, is famed for its unusually soft, thick noodles and a distinctive black, sweet soy sauce-based tare. Cooked to be much softer than typical udon and simmered in the rich sauce for an extended period, these noodles offer a unique texture and flavor. Deeply tied to the Ise Shrine and its historical traditions, Ise udon has evolved into a symbolic regional dish, cherished for its unique culinary identity by locals and international enthusiasts alike.

讃岐うどん（香川県）

Sanuki udon, a specialty of Kagawa Prefecture in Japan, stands out for its firm and smooth texture, achieved through unique production techniques. After boiling, the noodles are rinsed in cold water, enhancing their firmness, and are typically served either dipped in sauce, in warm broth, or directly in hot broth. Emblematic of Kagawa's rich culinary heritage, affectionately dubbed "Udon Prefecture," Sanuki udon is revered both nationally and globally for its artisanal quality and versatile serving styles.

五島うどん（長崎県）

Goto Udon, originating from the Goto Islands in Nagasaki Prefecture, Japan, is characterized by its clear, thin, and firm noodles that reveal a deeper flavor upon chewing. These noodles are typically boiled, cooled in cold water, and then served with either hot broth or a cold dipping sauce, highlighting their simple yet profound taste. A vital part of the Goto Islands' traditional food culture, Goto Udon, with its centuries-old history, is a testament to the local artisans' dedication and a symbol of the region's rich culinary heritage, enjoyed by both residents and visitors.

Udon Noodles offers a captivating exploration of Japan's diverse udon noodle culture, showcasing regional specialties from firm Sanuki to soft, sweet-sauced Ise udon. It beautifully illustrates how these noodles are more than just a dish, but a reflection of the unique history and culture of each region in Japan.

日本の遊園地 Amusement Park

Welcome to the exciting world of Japanese theme parks! Join us as we explore the enchanting Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea, dive into the thrills of Osaka's Universal Studios Japan with its incredible Super Nintendo World, and discover a host of record-breaking roller coasters and uniquely themed parks across Japan. Get ready for a journey through some of the most magical theme parks you'll ever visit!

東京ディズニーランド

Tokyo Disneyland (Chiba Prefecture)

Tokyo Disneyland is a kingdom of dreams and magic. It is one of the world's largest theme parks, easily accessible from Tokyo, only 15 minutes by train from Tokyo Station. A number of attractions that allow you to experience the world of Disney movies, breathtaking authentic entertainment, cute food and goods featuring the characters, and other exciting experiences await you. Why not spend a wonderful day at a Disney theme park that you won't experience anywhere else?

ユニバーサル・スタジオ・ジャパン

Universal Studios Japan (Osaka Prefecture)

Universal Studios Japan, located in Osaka, is a major theme park that features a wide array of attractions and entertainment based on famous movies and franchises. The park is renowned for its immersive lands and rides, including The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Minion Park, and Super Nintendo World, which bring beloved characters and stories to life. Universal Studios Japan offers a unique blend of thrilling rides, live shows, and interactive experiences, making it a popular destination for visitors of all ages seeking a mix of adventure, nostalgia, and Hollywood magic.

東京ディズニーシー

Tokyo DisneySea (Chiba Prefecture)

Welcome to Tokyo DisneySea, a sea of adventure and imagination. This is the only Disney theme park in the world with an ocean theme. Just a 15-minute train ride from Tokyo Station, a whole new world awaits you. You can enjoy various types of attractions filled with adventure, discovery, and surprises, entertainment beyond your imagination, or just relax and enjoy a meal with alcohol in hand. This is one of the world's largest theme parks for adults and children alike.

アドベンチャーワールド

Adventure World (Wakayama Prefecture)

A zoo and aquarium located in Wakayama Prefecture, opened in 1978 (current name since 1983). The zoo is particularly famous for its giant pandas, which can be seen outdoors. The Safari Zone is also popular for its tours that allow visitors to see the animals up close and feed them treats from carts and cars. In addition, dolphins, penguins, sea lions, and other popular aquarium animals can be seen, making this a major tourist spot in Shirahama that families can enjoy all day long. 

富士急ハイランド

Fujikyu Highland (Yamanashi Prefecture)

Fujikyu Highland is an amusement park located in Fujiyoshida City, Yamanashi Prefecture, which opened in 1961 (under its current name since 1964). The park is famous for its scream machines and has more than 10 types of them, including one of the world's largest roller coasters. The Haunted House is also a popular horror attraction. There are also family attractions and character areas, as well as a hot spring and a hotel. Various events are held each season, and the park is crowded with students and families throughout the year.

鴨川シーワールド

Kamogawa Sea World (Chiba Prefecture)

Kamogawa Sea World is an aquarium with over 11,000 river and sea creatures of 800 species in four animal performance and environment-integrated exhibition facilities: killer whales, the kings of the sea, dolphins, sea lions, and belugas. Operating hours vary daily. 

ナガシマスパーランド

Nagashima Spa Land (Mie Prefecture)

It's famous for its numerous thrilling rides, including 12 roller coasters, the most in Japan as of 2017. Key attractions include 'Steel Dragon 2000' and 'White Cyclone.' The park also features a large outdoor pool, hot spring facilities, hotels, and an outlet mall. Opened in 1966, it's the fourth most visited theme park in Japan, attracting 5.82 million visitors annually. The park is busiest during holidays but is quieter on weekday mornings.

東京ドームシティ

Tokyo Dome City (Tokyo Prefecture)

The Tokyo Dome, LaQua area, Attractions area, Korakuen Hall and hotels are located in the Tokyo Dome City. The park has a variety of attractions and is lit up at night, and the Sky Flower and Bloom Express are popular with couples. For families, the Onsen Spa and One-Day Passport offer a full day of fun with attractions that have no height restrictions.

よこはまコスモワールド

Yokohama Cosmo World (Kanagawa Prefecture)

Located in Yokohama, is famous for its large Ferris wheel, "Cosmo Clock 21." Situated in the Minato Mirai 21 district, it offers attractions for all ages, including family-friendly rides and thrilling roller coasters. The park also features game corners and dining options. Known for its stunning night views, the park's Ferris wheel and surroundings light up beautifully in the evening, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.

天橋立ビューランド

Amanohashidate Viewland (Kyoto Prefecture)

Located on Bunshuyama Mountain, is an amusement park with an observatory from which visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of Amanohashidate, one of the three most scenic spots in Japan, from the south. The view from here is called "Hiryu-kan" (flying dragon view) because Amanohashidate looks like a dragon dancing in the sky when you "crotch peek" at it. The park has a Ferris wheel, cycle cars, and other rides that can be enjoyed by everyone from small children to the elderly. 

よみうりランド

Yomiuri Land (Tokyo Prefecture)

Popular amusement park featuring a variety of attractions for all ages, including thrilling roller coasters and family-friendly rides. Known for its seasonal events and beautiful natural setting, the park is especially enchanting at night with its stunning illuminations. It also offers seasonal attractions like pools and ice skating rinks, alongside dining and shopping facilities, providing a full-day experience for visitors seeking both relaxation and excitement.

ラクーア

LaQua (Tokyo Prefecture)

An entertainment facility located in Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo. Opened in 2003, it is an urban fusion commercial facility with an amusement park, restaurants, and a spa. It has a Ferris wheel, roller coaster and other attractions, shopping facilities, restaurants, and a spa facility, Sparacoor. Spa LaQua is a day-trip bathing facility with open-air baths, saunas, bedrock baths, massages, etc., and is crowded with families and couples.

レゴランド・ジャパン

Legoland Japan (Aichi Prefecture)

A family-friendly theme park centered around Lego blocks. It features a variety of Lego-themed attractions, models, and interactive experiences appealing to both children and adults. The park also focuses on educational activities that enhance creativity and problem-solving skills. With a range of dining and shopping options available, Legoland Japan offers a complete family entertainment experience, making it a popular destination for tourists.

東京ジョイポリス

Tokyo Joypolis (Tokyo Prefecture)

An indoor theme park known for its Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) attractions. Managed by Sega Entertainment, it offers immersive video game-based experiences, traditional rides like roller coasters, and interactive gaming. The park also features dining and arcade facilities, making it a popular all-day entertainment destination, especially for youths and families. Situated in the scenic Odaiba area, Tokyo Joypolis stands out for its innovative and unique entertainment offerings.

ひらかたパーク

Hirakata Park (Osaka Prefecture)

One of Japan's oldest amusement parks, is located in Hirakata City, Osaka. Opened in 1910, it offers a range of traditional rides like roller coasters and Ferris wheels, along with seasonal events. The park is set in a natural environment with green spaces, ideal for walks and picnics. It also features various dining options and souvenir shops, providing a blend of amusement park fun and natural beauty, perfect for family and friend outings.

浅草花やしき

Asakusa Hanayashiki (Tokyo Prefecture)

Japan's oldest amusement park, was established in 1853 (Kaei 6) at the end of the Edo period. The popular "roller coaster," various attractions, fairgrounds, and restaurants line the grounds, and the park is popular among visitors of all ages as one of Asakusa's sightseeing attractions. The rooftop offers a panoramic view of the Asakusa cityscape, and there are many attractions that can be ridden by children as young as 0 years old, making it a great place for amusement park debuts!

城島高原パーク

Kijima Kogen Park (Oita Prefecture)

A scenic theme park surrounded by natural beauty. It offers attractions like roller coasters and Ferris wheels, along with animal encounters and hiking trails. A highlight of the park is its extensive hot spring facilities, reflecting Beppu's reputation as a hot spring destination. Additionally, the park features dining and souvenir shops, providing a mix of adventure and relaxation in a natural setting.

那須ハイランドパーク

Nasu Highland Park (Tochigi Prefecture)
A major amusement park known for its numerous roller coasters and family-friendly attractions. Opened in 1969, it covers about 500,000 square meters. Managed by Fujimi Nasu Resort, it features attractions like Spin Turn Coaster, Big Bang Coaster, Water Coaster, and a variety of themed areas like Galaxy & Star Plaza and Tropicana Park. The park focuses on activities suitable for all ages, including a dog run and events like cosplay contests.

神戸おとぎの国

Kobe Otogi no Kuni (Hyogo Prefecture)

A family-friendly amusement park with free entry. Ride prices range from 200 to 400 yen, catering especially to young children and families. The park, not too large to overwhelm, is ideal for young visitors and features a variety of attractions suitable for kids. As part of a roadside station, it also offers shopping, dining, and a relaxed, stylish atmosphere.

In conclusion, Japan's theme parks offer an unparalleled mix of enchantment, thrills, and unique experiences. From the whimsical Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea to the action-packed Universal Studios Japan, each park brings its own magic. Whether you're a roller coaster enthusiast or a fan of immersive worlds, Japan's diverse theme parks promise unforgettable adventures and lasting memories. So, get ready to dive into the extraordinary world of Japanese theme parks!

28 different types of local ramen

In Japan, there is a rich diversity of regional ramen, each with its unique flavors and ingredients, stretching from Hokkaido in the north to Kagoshima in the south. We introduces 28 different types of local ramen, showcasing the variety in broths such as miso, tonkotsu, soy sauce, and salt, and matching them with the perfect noodles for a delightful culinary experience. These local specialties offer a taste of the regional characteristics and can be a memorable part of travel experiences.

Best Castle in Japan - Original Castles

Exploring Japan's original castles is like stepping into a time capsule, where each fortress tells its own tale of samurai, shoguns, and sieges. Let's journey through these remarkable survivors from Japan’s feudal past, sprinkled with some fun facts to spice up your castle trivia!

姫路城

Himeji Castle (Hyogo Prefecture)

Known as the "White Heron Castle," Himeji is Japan's most splendid feudal castle, thanks to its brilliant white façade and graceful, bird-like appearance. 

Built in the early 17th century, Himeji Castle has survived wars, earthquakes, and the test of time, largely due to its strategic defensive design. It was expanded by Ikeda Terumasa, a lord given the castle as a reward for his support in the Battle of Sekigahara, a pivotal conflict that unified Japan under the Tokugawa shogunate. 

Himeji Castle has a complex maze of paths leading to the main keep, originally designed to confuse invaders (and occasionally modern-day tourists!).

松本城

 

Matsumoto Castle (Nagano Prefecture)

This castle is famous for its striking black exterior, earning it the nickname "Crow Castle." Its wooden interiors and moats present a stunning example of classic Japanese castle architecture.

Constructed in the 16th century, Matsumoto Castle was a crucial fortification for the powerful Tokugawa Ieyasu. Unlike many Japanese castles, it wasn’t built on a hill but on a plain - a testament to the confidence in its defensive capabilities.

The castle's keep is a rare "hirajiro" – a flatland castle, as opposed to the more common hilltop castles in Japan.

備中松山城

Bitchu-Matsuyama Castle (Okayama Prefecture)

Perched on a mountaintop, this castle is a hidden gem known for its strategic, elevated position.

Dating back to the 14th century, this castle served as a stronghold for various samurai clans over the centuries. Its elevation provided a strategic advantage, giving defenders a panoramic view of potential threats.

It's the highest castle above sea level in Japan, offering breathtaking views and a literal breath of fresh air.

松江城

Matsue Castle (Shimane Prefecture)

Known for its imposing size, Matsue Castle’s towering structure dominates the landscape. Its dark wooden exterior adds to its grandeur.

Built in the early 17th century, Matsue Castle was an important seat of power in the Izumo region. It survived the Meiji Restoration, a period when many castles were dismantled as Japan modernized.

It’s one of the few castles in Japan where the original wooden keep still survives, rather than a concrete reconstruction.

彦根城

Hikone Castle (Shiga Prefecture)

This castle is celebrated for its well-preserved structures and elegant garden.

Hikone Castle's construction began in 1603, shortly after the Battle of Sekigahara. It's one of the few castles built by the Ii clan, an influential family in the Tokugawa shogunate.

Hikone Castle’s mascot, Hikonyan – a charming cat samurai – is a local celebrity and was created to celebrate the castle's 400th anniversary.

松山城

Matsuyama Castle (Ehime Prefecture)

With its relatively complete original structures, this castle offers a glimpse into the Edo period’s architectural style.

Built in the early 17th century, Matsuyama Castle played a significant role in the Edo period’s regional politics. Its complex design includes multiple turrets and moats, a reflection of its strategic importance.

The castle has a chairlift and a ropeway, offering a unique and modern way to ascend the hill to the castle.

弘前城

Hirosaki Castle (Aomori Prefecture)

Famous for its stunning cherry blossoms, this castle in Tohoku becomes a picturesque fairy tale during spring.

Constructed in 1611 by the Tsugaru clan, Hirosaki Castle is symbolic of the clan's power in the Tohoku region. It witnessed the tumultuous transition from feudal to modern Japan during the Meiji Restoration.

The castle's park hosts over 2,500 cherry trees, creating one of Japan's most spectacular hanami (flower viewing) spots.

犬山城

Inuyama Castle (Aichi Prefecture)

This castle claims the title of being one of Japan's oldest surviving castles, with a history dating back to the 16th century.

Dating back to 1537, Inuyama Castle is one of Japan's oldest surviving castles. It was pivotal during the Sengoku period, a time of near-constant military conflict and social upheaval in Japan.

Its main tower is a designated national treasure, and the view from the top offers a panoramic vista of the Kiso River.

高知城

Kochi Castle (Kochi Prefecture)

A rarity among Japanese castles, as most of its original buildings, including the lord's living quarters, have survived to this day.

Built in the early 1600s, Kochi Castle was the seat of the Yamauchi lords during the Edo period. It's unique for retaining both its original main keep and its lord's residence.

Kochi Castle is famous for its Tosa Matsuri, a summer festival featuring a mock battle reenactment in the castle grounds.

丸岡城

Maruoka Castle (Fukui Prefecture)

Known for its simple yet elegant structure, it's one of the twelve original castles that have survived in Japan.

Known for its "Mist Castle" legend, Maruoka Castle was built in 1576. It played a role in local conflicts during Japan’s Warring States period, changing hands between various feudal lords.

Local folklore claims that the main keep's stones are held together by a mixture of sand and the tears of mistreated workers, earning it the nickname "Castle of Mist".

丸亀城

Marugame Castle (Kagawa Prefecture)

Famous for having the smallest keep among Japan's original castles, it compensates with impressively high stone walls and a beautifully preserved moat.

Constructed in 1597, this castle was built by Ikoma Chikamasa, a daimyo (feudal lord) who pledged allegiance to Toyotomi Hideyoshi, a prominent unifier of Japan.

The castle's steep stone walls are among the tallest in Japan, presenting a formidable defense in their day.

宇和島城

Uwajima Castle (Ehime Prefecture)

This hilltop castle is notable for its compact yet charming keep, offering an authentic Edo period experience.

Completed in 1601, Uwajima Castle was a crucial fortification in Shikoku. It was a key seat of power for the Date clan, a powerful samurai family in the Edo period.

Uwajima Castle is one of only twelve original castles never destroyed in war, fires, or earthquakes, a true survivor of time.

Each of these castles is a silent witness to centuries of history, from feudal battles to the unification of Japan, and eventually to the modernization of the country. Visiting them is not just about appreciating their enduring beauty but also about understanding the complex historical narratives they embody.