Winter is, in our opinion, one of the best seasons to visit Japan. Snow blankets much of the country providing a romantic backdrop to seasonal adventures like skiing, snowboarding, relaxing in steaming hot springs, or strolling through streets decorated in festive lights.
While the city of Nagoya itself does not receive much snow, many of the regions surrounding Nagoya transform into snowy wonderlands brimming with charm and adventure. From snow-covered traditional villages to rejuvenating hot springs, festive illuminations, and powdery ski slopes, Nagoya makes an excellent base for winter travelers wanting to explore the magic of Japan in colder months.
Planning a winter trip from Nagoya? Here's a guide to our favorite snow and winter activity destinations:
1. Visit the Winter Wonderland, Shirakawa-go
Best Time: Mid-Jan to mid-Feb
Ideal For: Scenic photography, traditional culture, romantic getaways
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Shirakawa-go is the epitome of a winter fairytale. Nestled high in the remote mountains of Gifu Prefecture, this charming village is renowned for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses, which are designed to withstand heavy snowfall. In winter, the thatched roofs of these historic homes are blanketed snow, creating a scene straight out of a storybook.
Visitors can enjoy wandering through the village's quaint streets and stepping inside the houses to learn about rural life in Japan. If you have time, we highly encourage you not to miss the opportunity to witness the winter illuminations and see how the beauty of Shirakawago changes after sunset.
Don’t Miss:
- The winter illumination events (weekends in Jan–Feb)
- The panoramic viewpoint overlooking Ogimachi village
- Traditional crafts and warm snacks at local shops around the village
Tour Recommendation: Snow Monkey Resort's 1-Day Tour from Nagoya: Hida Takayama and World Heritage Site Shirakawa-go allows you to step into the past and savor the views of the Japanese countryside as you are led by an experienced, English-speaking guide on a full-day tour from Nagoya.
1-Day Tour from Nagoya: Hida Takayama and World Heritage Site Shirakawa-go
- Spots:
- TakayamaNagoyaShirakawago
- Pick-up:
- Nagoya
- Drop-off:
- Nagoya
2. Go Sledding in the Hida Highlands
Ideal For: Families and friends wanting to have a day playing in the snow
The Hirugano Highlands of Gifu Prefecture are famous for their heavy snowfall. At Bokka-no-Sato, you can enjoy a day in the snow filled with sledding, snow tubing, and snowman making. As the location is also a farm, you can also enjoy feeding and petting the animals, or take a horse-drawn sleigh ride around the farm!
Don’t Miss:
- Feeding the farm animals including horses, llamas, guinea pigs, and more!
- Enjoy a raft ride through the snow
- Taste ice cream made fresh daily from the cows on the farm
Tour Recommendation: Snow Monkey Resort's (Winter Only) 1-Day Tour from Nagoya: Snow Day in the Japan Alps & Shirakawago takes you high into the Japanese Alps for a day of fun in the snow exploring the Hida Highlands and Shirakawago on a round-trip tour from Nagoya. Even better, we can provide you with rentals so there in no need to worry about packing heavy winter clothes and boots.
New Tour
(Winter Only) 1-Day Tour from Nagoya: Snow Day in the Japan Alps & Shirakawago
- Spots:
- NagoyaShirakawago
- Pick-up:
- Nagoya
- Drop-off:
- Nagoya
3. Soak in the Hot Springs in Gero Onsen
Best Time: Dec to Feb
Ideal For: Relaxation, couples, wellness seekers
For those seeking warmth and relaxation, Gero Onsen is a must-visit. Often hailed as one of Japan’s top three onsen towns, Gero Onsen is located in Gifu Prefecture, just a short drive from Nagoya.
During winter, the contrast between the crisp, cool air and the steaming, mineral-rich waters of the hot springs creates a rejuvenating experience. Enjoy a soak in one of the public baths or private ryokan (traditional inns) while taking in the serene snowy landscapes. The town also hosts a variety of winter events and illuminations, adding to its charm during the colder months.
Highlights:
- Riverside outdoor baths (rotenburo)
- Footbaths scattered throughout the town
- Seasonal festivals and light displays in December and January
4. View the Wintery Garden at Hikone Castle
Best Time: Late Dec to early Feb
Ideal For: Garden lovers, tranquil walks, castle views
Just a bit further from Nagoya in Hikone, Shiga Prefecture, lies the Genkyu-en Garden adjacent to the magnificent Hikone Castle. In winter, the garden offers a tranquil retreat with its beautifully landscaped grounds covered in snow.
The contrast of the snow against the dark pine trees and ancient stone walls creates a picturesque setting perfect for enjoying a warm cup of matcha! And you can do just that while gazing up at the castle’s silhouette at the tea house in Genkyuen Garden.
Recommended Experience: Snow Monkey Resort's 1-Day Tour from Nagoya: Castles and Canals in Hikone and Omi Hachiman will take you to two castle towns, Hikone, with one of the oldest castles in Japan, and Omi Hachiman, known for its charming canals. Taste Matcha, relax in peaceful gardens, and soak in the scenery as you are led by your experienced, English-speaking guide through this picturesque region of Japan.
5. Take a Romantic Stroll under the Lights at Nabana-no-Sato
Best Time: Late Oct to early Mar (Illuminations)
Ideal For: Families, couples, light lovers
Nabana-no-Sato, just a short 30 min drive from Nagoya Station, is a spectacular winter destination famous for its dazzling winter illuminations. The theme park transforms into a sparkling wonderland from late autumn through the winter, featuring nearly six million LED lights.
Visitors can stroll through the various light displays, dine at the wide range of restaurants, or enjoy the flowers in the indoor garden. Nabana-no-Sato is located near Nagashima Spa Land, which offers a variety of attractions, shopping, hot springs, and dining options, making it a perfect destination for families and couples alike.
Top Features:
- Tunnel of lights
- Seasonal projection shows
- On-site restaurants and flower greenhouses
6. Discover Historic and Cultural Treasures at Inuyama
Best Time: Dec to Feb
Ideal For: History buffs, cultural exploration, day trips
Inuyama, a charming city in Aichi Prefecture, offers a delightful mix of historical and cultural experiences.
The main attraction is Inuyama Castle, one of Japan’s oldest and most picturesque castles. But nearby, Meiji Mura, an open-air museum featuring buildings from the Meiji era, is also a great place to explore in winter. The historical buildings are decorated in Christmas decor and create a nostalgic atmosphere that’s perfect for leisurely exploration.
Tour Recommendation: Snow Monkey Resort's 1-Day Tour from Nagoya: Samurai Swords and Japan’s Oldest Castle takes you on a captivating tour from Nagoya to explore the oldest castle in Japan, a National Treasure teahouse, a "city of swords," and the charms of Central Japan.
7. Learn How to Make Soba
Best Time: Nov to Feb
Ideal For: Foodies, couples, & those who like hands-on experiences
Soba, or buckwheat noodles, are an iconic dish in Japan's Kiso Valley and a perfect meal for a cold winter day. Due to the region's climate and harsh winters, soba came to be the preferred source of warmth and nourishment in the region.
There are many soba restaurants throughout the Kiso Valley, including in Magome and Tsumago. And some shops even offer workshops where you can learn to make soba noodles by hand!
Tour Recommendation: Snow Monkey Resort's (Winter Only) 1-Day Tour from Nagoya: Soba Cooking Class & Nakasendo Traditions not only takes you on a scenic escape to the mountains and immerses yours in the winter beauty of Japan’s Kiso Valley, but also guides you through a hands-on soba-making workshop where you’ll create and savor this iconic dish.
(Winter Only) 1-Day Tour from Nagoya: Soba Cooking Class & Nakasendo Traditions
- Spots:
- NagoyaKiso Valley
- Pick-up:
- Nagoya
- Drop-off:
- Nagoya
8. Attend a Winter Festival which inspired Ghibli in the Tenryu Riverlands
Festival Dates: December 13-14th, 15-16th, 20-21st
Ideal For: Studio Ghibli fans, curious travelers
The Tenryu Riverlands, located in southern Nagano Prefecture, boasts one of Japan’s most beautiful river gorges. While people typically associate this region with summer activities like river cruises and white water rafting, the area is home to a unique festival held every winter.
In winter, the communities in the Tenryu Riverlands hold the "Shimotsuki Matsuri", an intimate festival said to be the inspiration for Studio Ghibli’s acclaimed and much-loved film, "Spirited Away".
Special Offer
2-Day Tour: 'Shimotsuki' Winter Festival, Traditional Food & Sake Experience
- Spots:
- NagoyaKiso Valley
- Pick-up:
- NagoyaKiso Valley
- Drop-off:
- NagoyaKiso Valley
9. Enjoy Skiing in the Japan Alps in Gifu
Best Time: Dec to Mar
Ideal For: Skiers, snowboarders, families
For skiers, Gifu Prefecture offers some of the best ski slopes close to Nagoya. Gifu is home to the Hida Mountain Rage, more commonly known as Japan's Northern Alps. Some of the best skiing in the region can be found here, only about 1.5 hours from Nagoya by car.
Most of the ski resorts in the region offer rentals for skiers and snowboarders alike, and Meiho Ski Resort even offers lessons in English. For those looking for transportation to Gifu's Ski Resorts, please see our charter page to book transportation or request a quote.
Popular Resorts:
- Meiho Ski Resort
- Takasu Snow Park
- Hirugano Kogen Ski Resort
NAGOYA → HIRUGANO KOGEN SKI RESORT/TAKASU SNOW PARK
- Duration:
- 1-2 Hours
- Spots:
- Nagoya
8. Encounter Wildlife at the Snow Monkey Park
Best Time: Late Dec to early Mar
Ideal For: Wildlife enthusiasts, families, unique experiences
Venture a bit further to the Jigokudani Snow Monkey Resort in Nagano Prefecture, for a unique winter adventure.
Here, you can observe the famous Japanese macaques as they bathe in the natural hot springs. Surrounded by snowy peaks and frosted forests, the sight of these playful primates soaking in the warm waters is a delightful contrast to the cold. The area also offers various winter hiking trails and opportunities to explore the beautiful natural landscape.
Tour Recommendation: Snow Monkey Resort's award winning 1-Day Tour: Snow Monkeys, Zenkoji Temple & Sake in Nagano allows you to take in some of the highlights of Nagano with a visit to Zenkoji – one of the oldest and most important Buddhist temples in Japan - followed by sake-tasting and lunch at a nearby restaurant and, of course, the Snow Monkey Park and its world-famous hot spring-bathing monkeys!
Best Selling
1-Day Tour: Snow Monkeys, Zenkoji Temple & Sake in Nagano
- Spots:
- NaganoSnow MonkeyHakuba
- Pick-up:
- Nagano CityHakuba
- Drop-off:
- Nagano CityHakuba
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I see snow around Nagoya?
While Nagoya itself sees little snow, nearby areas like Shirakawa-go, Nagano, and Gifu Prefecture offer accessible winter experiences by car, train, or guided tour.
What’s the best way to reach these winter destinations from Nagoya?
Most locations are reachable by JR trains, highway buses, or private charter. Guided day tours offer the most convenient option, especially for snow-covered or remote areas.
When is peak winter season around Nagoya?
Peak season typically runs from late December to mid-February. Illuminations may begin as early as late October.
What should I wear during winter in Nagoya?
Layered clothing, waterproof boots, gloves, a scarf, and a warm coat are essential. If skiing, gear can often be rented on-site.
Can I combine onsen and snow activities in a single trip?
Absolutely! Destinations like Gero Onsen, Nozawa Onsen, and Shibu Onsen (near the Snow Monkey Park) offer the best of both worlds.
How can I visit off the beaten path locations to see snow near Nagoya?
Looking for a private tour or charter to any of the locations listed in this article? We’ve got you covered.
PRIVATE CHARTERS
If you are looking for transportation to/from major destinations in Central Japan, our company is happy to help! Our buses and vehicles are suitable for single travelers, couples, families and groups of up to 45 people. Click the button below to browse some of our popular charters and to inquire directly.
PRIVATE TOURS
In addition to providing transportation, we can also accommodate your tour needs by providing guides with the itinerary of your choice. If there are tours that you want us to conduct or if you want to adjust our current tours to your needs, feel free to contact us. There are a number of private tours already on our website that allow you to enjoy our tours without the stress of having to worry about other guests, so check those out, too. Click on the button below to make an inquiry.
Additional Tips for Winter Travel from Nagoya
- Book accommodations early: Winter is a peak season, especially for ski resorts and popular illumination events.
- Join a tour if you're unfamiliar with snowy driving conditions: Many rural roads can become icy or require snow tires/chains.
- Plan for short daylight hours: Sun sets around 5 PM in winter, so start early.
- Check weather conditions: Mountain areas may experience sudden snow or road closures.
- Enjoy seasonal cuisine: Try warm nabe hot pots, roasted sweet potatoes, and local sake for a cozy winter treat.
No matter your winter travel style—adventure, relaxation, or cultural exploration—the regions around Nagoya offer something special. So layer up, grab your camera, and experience the quiet magic of Japan in winter.
