9 things to do in Japan in December

When traveling, you want to include things in your itinerary that can only be seen or experienced during that specific time period. For those of you who feel this way, we would like to introduce the situation, events, and recommended spots in Japan in December.

*Please note that the dates for the events introduced may change. Please check the official websites of the facilities for the schedules.

About Japan in December

In Japan, December marks the true beginning of winter. The cold intensifies, and the crisp air creates a refreshing atmosphere. In the Kanto and Kansai regions, daytime temperatures hover around 10 degrees Celsius, but it gets much colder at night. In Hokkaido and the Tohoku regions, snow accumulates, creating a genuine winter landscape. December is also a time when many Christmas and year-end events take place, and cities are beautifully decorated. Visiting during this time allows you to enjoy the unique winter scenery and special events.

Must-Visit Scenic Spots in December

During this season, you can enjoy winter-specific scenic spots all over Japan. Prepare warm clothing and savor the beautiful winter landscapes.

“Arashiyama Hanatouro” (Kyoto)

“Arashiyama Hanatouro” in Kyoto is a light-up event held in early December. Famous spots such as the bamboo groves and “Togetsukyo Bridge” are illuminated by lanterns, allowing visitors to enjoy a magical night view. The “Bamboo Path” is especially enchanting, with a mystical atmosphere different from the daytime. Enjoy the contrast between the historic streets and the beautiful illuminations.

“Kirifuyu Terrace” (Hokkaido)

At “Kirifuyu Terrace” in Hokkaido, you can enjoy the beautiful natural phenomenon known as “kirifuyu,” where ice flowers bloom on trees. From December 1st to 25th, the area is also illuminated, making the “kirifuyu” even more mystical. You can enjoy an aerial walk with a gondola, and on clear days, the majestic “Hidaka Mountains” and the “kirifuyu” create a breathtaking view.

Echizen Coast (Fukui)

The “Echizen Coast” in Fukui Prefecture is known for the beautiful daffodils that bloom from December to January. The contrast between the rugged cliffs and the white daffodils along the coastline is stunning, and it is one of the three major daffodil colonies in Japan. The combination with the sunset is also beautiful, making it a spot worth visiting.

Special Festivals

In December, special events and festivals are held all over Japan. These events are valuable opportunities to experience the culture and history of the region.

“Chichibu Night Festival” (Chichibu, Saitama)

The “Chichibu Night Festival,” held in Chichibu, Saitama Prefecture, is one of Japan’s three major float festivals. Extravagant floats parade through the town, and fireworks are launched at night. The main festival on December 3rd is especially impressive, with floats being pulled up steep slopes. It is also registered as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage and is a must-see festival.

“Koga Lantern Festival” (Koga, Ibaraki)

The “Koga Lantern Festival” in Koga, Ibaraki Prefecture, is a unique festival where each group brings a nearly 20-meter-long bamboo pole and competes to extinguish the opponent’s lanterns. The sparks flying and the intense bamboo pole battles are highly impressive. This festival is also known as one of the “strange festivals of Kanto.”

“Kasuga Wakamiya Onmatsuri” (Nara, Nara)

The “Kasuga Wakamiya Onmatsuri” is a traditional festival held at “Kasuga Taisha” in Nara, Nara Prefecture. The main event on December 17th features a historical procession from the Heian to the Edo period. Various rituals such as “dengaku” (field music) and “bugaku” (court dance and music) are performed, allowing visitors to experience Japan’s traditional culture up close.

Seasonal Winter Gourmet

Winter is a season rich in delicious ingredients in Japan. Enjoy the gourmet foods unique to the cold season.

“Himi Cold Yellowtail” (Toyama)

In Himi, Toyama Prefecture, you can savor “Himi Cold Yellowtail,” a winter delicacy. The yellowtail is fatty and can be enjoyed in various dishes such as sashimi, sushi, and grilled fish. Especially the fresh yellowtail is exquisite, and once you taste it, you will never forget its deliciousness.

“Echizen Crab” (Fukui)

“Echizen Crab” in Fukui Prefecture is a type of “zuwai crab” considered the most luxurious in Japan. The meat is packed tightly and is characterized by its sweetness and delicate texture. You can enjoy it in various ways, such as boiled crab, grilled crab, and crab sashimi. During the crab season, you can also enjoy “seafood buffets” where you can fully savor “Echizen Crab.”

“Iwatzu Leek” (Hyogo)

“Iwatzu Leek” in Hyogo Prefecture is known for its rich sweetness and aroma. It becomes tender when used in hot pots or sukiyaki. It is also delicious when grilled directly or fried in tempura, making it a perfect ingredient for the cold winter season. Be sure to try the fresh “Iwatzu Leek” that you can only taste locally.