Winters in Japan are magical. Should you think visiting this country is not worth the money because there are places such as Switzerland, Canada, or even the United States themselves, you should think again.
Aside from hosting the Winter Olympics twice already, Japan is a fantastic destination for this festive season because of the food, activities, and outdoor adventures. In Tokyo, though this capital city is filled with skyscrapers that seem to hinder the flow of the cold wind through the air smacking your face, wintertime is unforgettable here.
Here are the best things to do in Tokyo in winter!
1. Indulge in a Relaxing Nabe Hot Pot Meal
Sorry, ramen, but nabe hot pots are the top favorite dishes during winter in Japan. Especially in Tokyo, there’s the Ryogoku vicinity, one of the homes of sumo wrestling, serving chanko nabe, a type of recipe that sumo wrestlers eat. Choose from various nabe hot pot styles, such as shabu-shabu, sukiyaki, and motsu nabe. You won’t find it challenging to prepare your meal as you have these styles in your hometown, too.
2. Catch the Holiday Big Sale Events in Tokyo
Don’t you think shopping is the perfect way to brave the cold of winter? Scientifically, winter can make people sad because of the reduced sunlight levels. This is why shopping, or retail therapy, can help as it boosts your brain with “happy hormones,” the Cleveland Clinic pointed out.
In Tokyo, big Christmas and New Year sales are held at Christmas markets, department stores, and tech outlets. Fantastic.
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3. Climb the Tokyo Skytree
The famous Tokyo Skytree, a broadcasting and observation tower, is at its best in winter. Surprisingly, compared to the rest of the year, the skies are relatively clear during winter, making your time atop the tower memorable. See Mount Fuji and beyond lit up in Christmas illuminations.
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4. Take a Winter Selfie With Mount Fuji, Then Ski
You may have been to Tokyo, Japan, but others will tell you, “Show me photos of Mount Fuji, or else you haven’t been to Japan!”
They’re partially right. Being the iconic attraction in the city, Mount Fuji’s profile is also at its finest in winter. After taking a selfie with the mountain, head to the snow resort on foot, where you can practice winter sports on its seven challenging ski slopes. Or, if you have kids in tow, bring them instead to the toboggan run, which is close to those in Canadian winter mountains.
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5. Warm Yourself up With Oden
Your Tokyo food tour doesn’t end with the nabe hot pot. Another winter meal that’s the ultimate favorite is Oden, which is well-loved for this season because it’s warm and comforting. Among the best places to try this selection of fish cake, stewed meats, and veggies is the Akabane Ichibangai Shopping Street.
During this season, you may also find stalls selling oden on sale. Be limitless with Oden.
6. Accompany a Japanese on Their First Temple Visit of the Year
Visiting a temple on your own or with your group tour is marvelous, but nothing compares to being able to accompany a local on their first temple visit of the year. The Japanese follow a tradition known as Hatsumōde, wherein they welcome the New Year by making their first visit to a temple. The top three most recommended temples for this Tokyo experience are Meiji Jingū, Sensō-ji, and the Kanda Shrine.
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7. The Best Time to Experience Onsen Is in Winter
Onsen are hot springs in Japan that are usually found near mountains or inside inns. It is weird to indulge in a warm bath in summertime, so if you happen to be in Tokyo, Japan in winter, don’t forget to experience onsen. From enhancing your blood circulation to boosting your immune system – perfect as the cold season usually sees the onset of cold and cough – onsen offers several health benefits.
8. Cherry Blossoms are Off-Season, so Adore Plum Blossoms Instead
Tokyo can’t give you all the experiences you want in one visit. If you want the cherry blossom encounter, visit from late March to early May, which isn’t wintertime. Luckily, the country holds the Ume Matsuri festival, which features plum blossoms instead of cherry blossoms. Plum blossoms are like the cherry blossoms’ “Black Swan” version. They smell like your sweet honey perfume and bloom in places like Tokyo every February.
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9. Celebrate Christmas!
Of course! Even though Japan is a Buddhist nation, it values its international tourists by illuminating attractions and hosting holiday events for every faith. In Tokyo, the most popular spots for Christmas gatherings are Ginza, the Marunouchi district, Ebisu, Omotesando, Roppongi’s Tokyo Midtown, and the Meguro River. Or, head to Tokyo Disneyland, which, for sure, has Christmas-themed events.
10. Stave off Bad Luck by Celebrating the Last Day of Winter
Every winter is a great time in Tokyo, as well as throughout Japan. So, it’s only apt for its people to give high regard for the last day of winter, and you can join the celebrations. In February, the Setsubun no Hi festivals mark the last day of winter, where locals throw roasted soybeans while chanting a Japanese phrase that translates to, “Demon out, fortune in!” It’s an experience you don’t want to miss.
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Temperatures during winter in Tokyo can drop to as low as five degrees Celsius. If you’re headed for the adventures above, come prepared by bringing the proper winter clothing, gear, and equipment if you’re going skiing. From indulging yourself in the most mouthwatering winter food to seeing the cherry blossom alter-ego, endless discoveries in Tokyo’s winter await.
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