Visiting Japan in December

The start of Japan’s ‘silver season’, December isn’t normally the first choice when deciding on the best time to visit Japan, but if you’re happy to brave the cold, you’ll enjoy the sights with much smaller crowds and clear dry days to explore at the start of the month. Spot the country’s famous snow monkeys warming up in the hot springs at Jigokudani Monkey Park, and mimic them by bathing in one of the thermal hot springs at an outdoor onsen surrounded by snow.

Ryokans, the traditional Japanese inns often attached to the onsens, can be cold as there’s little heating though. The cities come alive with illuminations, as well as a variety of festivals running up to the busier period around Christmas – traditionally celebrated in Japan with dinner from KFC! Further north, the first of the snowfall means the start of the ski season if you’re embracing all that winter has to offer.

Festivals: On December 2-3, the Chichibu Yomatsuri night festival is one of the grandest float festivals in Japan, designated Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO, with lavishly decorated floats lit up with lanterns and firework displays.

Best for: Winter illuminations, snow monkeys, skiing.