Generated with sparks and insights from 12 sources
Summary
Explore the beauty of winter near Tokyo with these day trips and tours. From the hot springs inhabited by snow monkeys in Nagano to the illuminated icicles of Chichibu and the ski slopes of Fujiyama Snow Town Yeti, there's a winter wonderland waiting to be discovered. Don't miss the magical winter illuminations at Ashikaga Flower Park and the serene views of Lake Yamanakako. For couples, Karuizawa offers a romantic snowy retreat. Each location offers a unique experience, making winter an ideal time to explore the areas surrounding Tokyo.
Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park
Home to the photogenic Japanese snow monkey, this park features several monkey-populated pockets and a man-made pool where monkeys relax in hot springs.
Tips
Book a full-day snow-monkey tour for a comprehensive experience including transport, guidance, and lunch.
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<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Japanese Onsen Ryokan Where You Can Bathe with Snow ...", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xfi0sYR-hZQ", "channel": { "name": ""}, "published_date": "Jan 28, 2023", "length": "" }</div>
<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Japanese SNOW MONKEY Park | Winter trip to Nagano Japan ...", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i7STznonvNs", "channel": { "name": ""}, "published_date": "Nov 17, 2023", "length": "" }</div>
Ashigakubo Icicles
One of the three main icicle formations in Chichibu, easily accessed by train from Tokyo and lit up in the evening from January to February.
Tips
Visit during the illumination event for a magical experience and enjoy free amazake.
<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Ashigakubo Icicles | A Winter Day Trip to Chichibu from Tokyo ...", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H5PKLg-IObU", "channel": { "name": ""}, "published_date": "Feb 27, 2022", "length": "" }</div>
<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Drive 299 Route to Icicles of Ashigakubo Chichibu #4k #japan ...", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ImireEEVRsU", "channel": { "name": ""}, "published_date": "Feb 17, 2022", "length": "" }</div>
<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Scenic ice park near Tokyo - Icicles of Ashigakubo #4k #japan ...", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h-pQo092Zrg", "channel": { "name": ""}, "published_date": "Feb 13, 2022", "length": "" }</div>
Fujiyama Snow Town Yeti
A day-trip ski destination located at the second station of Mt. Fuji, offering ski runs suitable for all levels.
Tips
Ideal for first-time skiers with about 50% of the runs being beginner slopes. Book a day-trip package for convenience.
<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Exploring Mt.Fuji Snow Town Yeti Ski Resort.\u65e5\u672c\u5bcc\u58eb\u30b9\u30ce\u30fc ...", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XUflkqMKF5s", "channel": { "name": ""}, "published_date": "Mar 5, 2020", "length": "" }</div>
<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Skiing at Fujiyama Snow Town Yeti", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wjSPT270gHg", "channel": { "name": ""}, "published_date": "Jun 22, 2019", "length": "" }</div>
Ashikaga Flower Park
Famous for its winter illuminations, the park showcases millions of lights in various colors, celebrating the beauty of wisteria and other flowers.
Tips
Visit from October to February to witness one of Japan's best light-up events.
<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Ashikaga Flower Park, Tochigi | Japan Travel Guide", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QcQpJSFQXLY", "channel": { "name": ""}, "published_date": "May 7, 2018", "length": "" }</div>
<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Visiting Ashikaga Flower Park for Wisteria Festival ...", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YYqheb2Dgzk", "channel": { "name": ""}, "published_date": "Apr 23, 2023", "length": "" }</div>
Lake Yamanakako
The closest lake to Mt. Fuji, offering stunning views, cycling routes, and hot-spring baths with views of the mountain.
Tips
Enjoy the Diamond Fuji phenomenon and explore the eight 'magical' ponds of Oshino Hakkai nearby.
<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Japan Travel: Lake Yamanakako", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fnvj4zxkiA8", "channel": { "name": ""}, "published_date": "Oct 18, 2018", "length": "" }</div>
<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Hidden Gems At Lake Yamanaka | Japan Travel Guide", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y2Ygbhw8vDo", "channel": { "name": ""}, "published_date": "Dec 19, 2016", "length": "" }</div>
Karuizawa
A popular winter couple’s getaway with snowy streets, scenic spots, and open-air bathhouses.
Tips
Consider a day tour from Tokyo for a hassle-free experience exploring Karuizawa's attractions.
<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Travel in Japan: What to do in Karuizawa", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2ZB_97Ccn0s", "channel": { "name": ""}, "published_date": "Aug 27, 2020", "length": "" }</div>
<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "[4K] Karuizawa in December 2021, Nagano Japan ...", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dhuQlAn-Mzc", "channel": { "name": ""}, "published_date": "Dec 31, 2021", "length": "" }</div>
