Things to do
in JANUARY 2026
Written by
Angus Miyaji
Things to know about JANUARY 2026
January is the heart of winter and arguably the most culturally significant month in Japan. It begins with Oshogatsu (New Year), a period of family celebration where locals eat traditional Osechi Ryori (New Year’s Breakfast Meal) and visit temples and shrines. While the mountains in Gunma and Tochigi will be covered in deep powder snow, the plains in Saitama and Ibaraki are typically crisp, dry, and sunny.
Skiing and Snowboarding in the mountains are available for all levels so you can see here for the different Ski resorts.
- Ski Resorts for’ Intermediate and Advanced’
- Ski Resorts for ‘Beginners’
- Ski Resorts for ‘Family & Kids’
Traveler Tip:
The winter months (January and February) in this region are incredibly dry. This means, the skies are the very clear and you cans see the beautiful distant snow capped mountains close up and clear. However, the lack of humidity can also be harsh on your skin and throat. It is highly recommended to use moisturizer for your hands and face, and keep lip balm handy at all times. Don’t worry if you forget them. Japanese drugstores and convenience stores carry a large variety of high-quality, affordable moisturizing products.
What to wear in JANUARY
You will need winter protection. Pack a heavy down jacket, thermal inner layers (like UNIQLO Heattech), a warm scarf, and gloves. The “onion style” of dressing is crucial here. Trains and shops are often heated very high, so you need to be able to peel off layers quickly to avoid overheating indoors.
The “Secret Weapon”: Once you arrive, buy Hokkairo (or Kairo for short which are disposable heating pads) at any convenience store. You can get stick-on types for your lower back or non-stick versions for your coat pockets to keep your hands toasty. They are cheap and effective against the Gunma and Tochigi chill.
Footwear: If you plan to visit Northern Gunma (Minakami/Kusatsu) or Northern Tochigi (Nikko/Nasu), waterproof snow boots with non-slip soles are essential. For Saitama and Ibaraki cities, normal sneakers are fine, but thick socks are a must.
Holidays & Crowds in JANUARY
The New Year season (Jan 1st–5th) is busy but fun with a festive feel. At shrines, you can enjoy Demise (street food stalls), and shopping areas are filled with the excitement of Fukubukuro (Lucky Bags) sales. In this region, look out for Daruma Ichi (Daruma Doll Markets), especially the famous one in Takasaki city held early in the month. Many local areas have their own unique events that might not be listed online, so it is a good idea to check with your hotel and ask locals what is happening nearby. Please note that many small restaurants or family-run businesses may be closed until January 4th.
Also, be aware of the Coming of Age Day long weekend (January 10th–12th, 2026) when many young adults will be out in kimonos and leisure spots will be busier than usual.
Transport Warning: During the New Year period (Jan 1–3), most trains run on a “Holiday Schedule” (fewer trains than rush hour), so always double-check your route on a travel app.
Recommended Activity in JANUARY
January offers pristine winter scenery, with the famous illuminations at Ashikaga Flower Park continuing to sparkle, and the magical Ice Waterfalls of Fukuroda Falls in Daigo and others also in Chichibu forming a breathtaking natural work of art often lit up at night.
The deep winter cold makes it the ultimate time for a Yukimi-buro (snow-viewing bath). Areas like Kusatsu, Manza, Shima, and Minakami in Gunma, or Oku-Nikko, Nikko, Yunishigawa, Nasu, and Nasu-Shiobara in Tochigi, allow you to soak in steaming mineral waters surrounded by serene, snow-covered landscapes.
This is also the prime season for a sweet culinary adventure, ‘Strawberry picking’. You can visit farms and enjoy fresh varieties like Tochiotome, Tochihime, and Skyberry. See here for Strawberry Picking farms welcoming overseas visitors.
In the high mountains, the powder snow is at its best, offering superb conditions for skiing and snowboarding in areas like Minakami and Nasu-Shiobara, or snowshoeing through silent forests of Oku-Nikko.
For a major cultural experience, head to the lively Takasaki for the Daruma Market early in the month, a traditional event where visitors buy lucky Daruma dolls to wish for a prosperous year ahead.
News for MAY 2025
Japan’s Ministry of Transport has officially recognized the “North Kanto Flower Corridor” under its Garden Tourism registration system. This exciting initiative connects 12 beautiful gardens across Tochigi, Gunma, and Ibaraki prefectures, such as Ashikaga Flower Park and Hitachi Seaside Park aiming to boost regional tourism by showcasing their unique floral attractions.
Events & Festivals in JANUARY
from Tokyo
from Tokyo
Recommend things to do in JANUARY
Maenikko Brewery
Ichigo no Sato
Kitrip Nikko
Ashikaga Flower Park
Honda Collection Hall
Yoshimura Strawberry Park
Wakayama Farm
Max Minakami
Places to stay in JANUARY
Shima Onsen Kashiwaya Ryokan
Hatcho-no-yu
Shiroiya Hotel
Chuzenji Kanaya Hotel
