Winter Wonderland — 7 Days
Tokyo → Nagano → Takayama → Kanazawa
Japan in winter is magical — watch snow monkeys bathe in hot springs, wander snow-covered Shirakawa-go, and warm up in cozy onsens.
Highlights
Snow monkeys, Shirakawa-go, Hot springs, Seafood market
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Welcome to winter Japan! Collect your JR Pass and take the Narita Express to Shinjuku. Enjoy the crisp winter air and dazzling winter illuminations in Shinjuku and Shibuya.
Morning visit to Meiji Shrine in its winter serenity. Afternoon shopping and café hopping in Harajuku. Evening marvel at the spectacular winter illuminations at Roppongi Hills and Tokyo Midtown.
Shinkansen to Nagano, then bus to Jigokudani. Watch wild Japanese macaques soak in natural hot springs surrounded by snow — a truly unique winter experience. Stay at a traditional onsen town, Shibu Onsen.
Hida Wide View train to Takayama through stunning snow-covered mountains. Wander the old town dusted with snow. Visit the morning market and warm up with local sake and Hida beef.
Day trip to Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO village buried in deep snow. The gassho-zukuri houses with steep thatched roofs are stunning against the white landscape. Warm up with local soba and hot sake.
Travel to Kanazawa. Visit Kenroku-en garden with its iconic winter scenery — snow-laden pine trees and the famous Kotoji Lantern. Explore Higashi Chaya and enjoy winter crab at Omicho Market.
Final morning for last-minute shopping for Kaga yuzen and gold leaf crafts. Transfer to Komatsu Airport. Depart with memories of Japan's magical winter wonderland.
Pricing & Accommodation
Included
• 6 nights accommodation (3-star hotels + 2 nights traditional ryokan with indoor/outdoor onsen)
• Japan Rail Pass (7-day ordinary)
• Airport transfers (Narita → Tokyo, Komatsu Airport)
• Daily breakfast at hotel
• Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park entry
• Shirakawa-go winter day trip by Nohi Bus
• Kenroku-en garden winter illumination entry
• Traditional kaiseki dinner at ryokan
• Local sake tasting in Takayama
• 24/7 bilingual travel concierge support
Not Included
• International flights
• Lunches and dinners (except where noted)
• Personal expenses (shopping, souvenirs)
• Travel insurance (strongly recommended for winter travel)
• Winter clothing rental (snow boots, jackets available locally)
• Optional ski/snowboard day trip (available as add-on)
Accommodation
Tokyo (2 nights): Modern business hotel in Shinjuku. Heated rooms with humidifiers to combat dry winter air. Walking distance to stations and winter illumination spots.
Nagano — Shibu Onsen (1 night): Historic onsen town ryokan with indoor and outdoor hot springs. Rooms feature tatami flooring and futon bedding. Includes dinner and breakfast.
Takayama (2 nights): Traditional ryokan in the snow-covered old town. Features a rotenburo (open-air onsen) where you can soak while snow falls around you.
Kanazawa (1 night): Boutique hotel near Kenroku-en with heated floors and excellent winter seafood dining options nearby.
Important Information
Best season: December–March for snow monkeys and winter scenery. January and February offer the heaviest snowfall in Shirakawa-go and Takayama.
Winter temperatures in Nagano and Takayama can drop below -5°C (23°F). Pack thermal layers, waterproof boots, and warm gloves.
The Snow Monkey Park involves a 30-minute walk through a snowy forest trail. Proper winter boots with good grip are essential — crampons are recommended.
Onsen in winter is magical but requires caution — the temperature difference between the hot water and cold air can be extreme. Limit soaks to 10–15 minutes.
Shirakawa-go in heavy snow may have bus delays or cancellations. We monitor weather and will adjust the itinerary if necessary.
Kanazawa is famous for winter crab (zuwai-gani) and yellowtail (buri) — December to February is peak season for these delicacies.
Travel Tips
Layer, layer, layer — Japanese buildings are well-heated, but you'll be outside frequently for snow viewing and onsen hopping.
Bring a good camera with extra batteries — cold weather drains batteries quickly, and the snow monkey photo opportunities are incredible.
Try the onsen tamago (hot spring eggs) at Shibu Onsen — eggs slow-cooked in the naturally hot spring water.
Takayama's morning market operates year-round but is especially atmospheric in snow — vendors sell warm amazake (sweet rice drink) to keep you cozy.
Kanazawa's Omicho Market in winter is a seafood paradise — don't miss the freshly caught crab and sea bream.
Book ryokans with outdoor onsen (rotenburo) — soaking in hot water while snow falls around you is an unforgettable Japanese winter experience.
Traveler Reviews
Robert & Helen
The most magical winter trip imaginable. Watching snow monkeys in the hot springs was a bucket-list moment. Shirakawa-go covered in snow was like stepping into a postcard.
Yuki M.
Solo traveler and absolutely loved every moment. The onsen towns were peaceful and the winter illuminations in Tokyo were breathtaking. Perfect for anyone seeking a serene winter escape.