Winter's charm can be best savored from the warmth of an onsen (hot-spring bath). Nestled among spruce and fir trees in western Hokkaido, the Zaborin Ryokan becomes a secluded snowy haven in midwinter. The ryokan invites you to unwind in the mineral-rich waters of a private rotenburo (outdoor onsen), surrounded by snow-laden trees.

In the hot-spring resort of Yudanaka, northwest of Tokyo, even the local Japanese macaques (famously known as snow monkeys) indulge in a warm soak. You can observe these monkeys luxuriating in the hot springs, their expressions of contentment almost human-like. Following their example, you can choose from a range of visitor-friendly onsens to warm up in afterwards

Aomori consistently ranks as one of the snowiest cities globally, making it an ideal destination for winter enthusiasts. It houses Aomoriya, a family-friendly theme park where you can participate in the nightly Michinoku Festival all year round, enjoying storytelling, dancing, and costumes. Additional activities include foot soaks in hot springs, lantern-lit ponds in the gently falling snow, and scenic train rides through the winter landscape, featuring regional sake brewed with spiny crab shells, a local specialty.

Winter signifies the season for snow crab fishing along Japan's northern coast. Once threatened by overfishing, the crabs are now back on the menu due to a fishing ban from March to October and the implementation of sustainable techniques. Snow crabs can be found in nearly every town and city, but Kanazawa on the northern coast boasts some of the freshest catches. At Omicho Market, you can witness these crabs being prepared for sale, then visit a nearby restaurant to try shabu shabu, a hot broth in which you can cook the raw crab to your preferred level of doneness.