Discover how to enjoy Winter in Japan

Winter in Japan is vastly different from the scorching summer, with cold temperatures and chilly winds. Generally, it is cold from late November to early March, depending on the region. While many may not like the cold, winter has its own unique pleasures.

Winter Delights

New Year's

New Year's in Japan is a special event. On January 1st, people visit shrines and temples to pray for health and happiness in the coming year. This is called "Hatsumode(初詣)." Special dishes like "Osechi(おせち)" and "Ozoni(お雑煮)" are enjoyed during this time.

Illuminations

During winter, various places in Japan showcase beautiful illuminations. Even in the cold, you can enjoy these magical light displays. As December approaches, the streets are decorated with Christmas lights and illuminations.

Hot Springs

Hot springs are especially recommended in winter. Japan has numerous hot springs, so you can enjoy them no matter where you live. Outdoor baths with snowy views are particularly special.

Skiing and Snowboarding

Winter sports in Japan include skiing and snowboarding. Japan has many ski resorts, with Hokkaido and Nagano being particularly popular. Most resorts offer rentals, so you don't need to buy your own gear and clothes.

Seasonal Foods

Oysters

Oysters are most delicious in winter as they grow in cold seas. You can enjoy them raw, grilled, in hot pots, or fried.

Fugu (Pufferfish)

Fugu is a luxury winter delicacy in Japan. It's a special treat in Japanese cuisine, available as sashimi called "Fugu Sashi(ふぐさし)" or in hot pot dishes like "Tecchiri(てっちり)."

Mikan (Mandarin Oranges)

Mikan are plentiful in winter. A quintessential winter activity in Japan is eating mikan while sitting under a kotatsu. They are affordable, nutritious, and rich in vitamin C, which helps prevent colds.

Daikon (Japanese Radish)

While available year-round in some regions, daikon is in season in winter. Winter daikon is juicy and sweet. It can be used in various dishes like stews, oden, and salads. It's also packed with nutrients that can help prevent colds.

Hot Pot Dishes

Though not seasonal, hot pot dishes are frequently enjoyed in winter in Japan. There are various types of hot pot dishes:

• Sukiyaki: Thinly sliced beef cooked in a sweet sauce made of soy sauce and sugar, often dipped in raw egg before eating. Vegetables, tofu, and mushrooms are also cooked in the pot.
• Shabu-shabu: Thin slices of meat briefly cooked in hot water and dipped in sauces before eating. Commonly uses pork, with dipping sauces like sesame sauce or ponzu. Vegetables and tofu are also boiled together.
• Yosenabe: A hot pot dish where various ingredients such as fish, meat, vegetables, and tofu are cooked together. The soup base can include dashi, soy sauce, miso, soy milk, or kimchi.
• Oden: A dish consisting of ingredients like daikon, eggs, konjac, and fish cakes simmered in a dashi broth. Oden can be bought per piece at convenience stores or enjoyed at izakayas. Ready-made hot pot soups are available at supermarkets, making it easy to try at home.

Winter for Working People

For employees, winter brings bonuses and holidays, but also requires attention to prevent illnesses.

Year-End and New Year Parties

Some companies have year-end parties (Bonenkai) and New Year parties (Shinnenkai).

Bonenkai: Held at the end of the year to forget the hardships of the past year. December is known as the Bonenkai season as many parties are held.

Shinnenkai: Held at the beginning of the year to celebrate the new year, usually in January.

Year-End and New Year Holidays

Most companies have holidays from December 30 to January 3. December can be busy due to the upcoming holidays.

For industries like service sectors that are busy during holidays, companies may offer extended holidays from mid-January to February. It's common for employees to clean and tidy up the workplace on the last working day before the holidays.

Winter Bonuses

Many companies provide bonuses in December. In Japan, people often use their bonuses for big purchases, hobbies, or saving for the future and family.

Health Management and Prevention

Winter is a season for colds and flu. Many people may fall ill at work. Regular hand washing, gargling, and wearing masks are essential to prevent illness. Getting enough sleep and eating nutritious food is also important.

In Conclusion

Winter in Japan offers many enjoyable activities. From Christmas events and illuminations to skiing and snowboarding, there are plenty of winter-specific delights. For those who dislike the cold, enjoying seasonal foods at home is a great option.

For working people, winter is special with bonuses and long holidays. However, it's also a season when colds and flu are prevalent, so make sure to take preventive measures like washing hands and gargling.