Japan in December

December through February and it is winter in Japan, with warm clothes needed. As both a mountain region and island nation, the climate varies significantly across the country. Northern Japan has long, cold winters with heavy snow, whereas central Japan is more moderate with shorter winter and heavier snow in elevated areas only. In Tokyo, the nation’s  hyperreal capital, temperatures range between 5 to 10 °C (41-50 °F) at this time, with precipitation at a minimum, around 10 mm per month. In the north, Hokkaido, Japan’s second largest island, is the coldest part of Japan, the high quality of its powder snow attracting skiers and snowboarders alike. The island’s main city Sapporo sees temperatures between minus 2 to 2 °C (28-36 °F) in winter. It is a fine time to visit many of the island’s onsen (hot springs), the contrast of the hot water-pools and cool crisp air energizing and divine. January and February are a perfect time to seek out the snow monkeys of Nagano in central Honsh?, to amble along serene snow-topped temples or simply to enjoy steaming-hot bowls of udon. For water sports enthusiasts, February marks the start of diving season in Japan and those willing to brave the cooler waters have an opportunity to spot humpback whales, but sea turtles, seahorses and even sharks can be seen all season long.

Suggested Itineraries

Classic Japan

Duration
14 days / 13 nights
Price Per Person
From $49,000
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Across 18 Centuries: Historic Japan

Duration
11 days / 10 nights
Price Per Person
From $42,000
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Castles and Coastline: From Kyoto to Osaka

Duration
11 days / 10 nights
Price Per Person
From $20,500
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Contemporary Art Wonders of Japan: Touring the Seto Inland Sea

Duration
8 days / 7 nights
Price Per Person
From $27,300
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Exploring Japanese Culture, Kyushu-style

Duration
5 days / 4 nights
Price Per Person
From $11,000
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Japan with Kids

Duration
8 days / 7 nights
Price Per Person
From $15,100
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Japanese Art and Culture Tour

Duration
13 days / 12 nights
Price Per Person
From $33,500
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Land of Cherry Blossoms: Southern Japan Highlights

Duration
8 days / 7 nights
Price Per Person
From $22,900
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Nagano's Winter Wonderland

Duration
8 days / 7 nights
Price Per Person
From $16,300
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Sacred Scenic Sites of Japan

Duration
14 days / 13 nights
Price Per Person
From $27,700
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Travelogues

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