5 Reasons to Visit Japan in January

5 Reasons to Visit Japan in January

Japan is a dream destination for many, but January offers a unique and special experience you can’t find at other times of the year. From New Year traditions to stunning winter landscapes, here are five reasons why you should visit Japan in January:

1. Celebrate Oshogatsu (Japanese New Year)

Oshogatsu, or New Year’s celebration, is one of the most important events in Japan. In January, you can experience a hopeful and tradition-rich atmosphere. Here are some highlights:

  • Hatsumode: The first shrine visit of the year is a respected tradition. Popular shrines like Meiji Jingu in Tokyo or Fushimi Inari in Kyoto are filled with people praying for good luck.
  • Fukubukuro: Many shops offer “fukubukuro” or lucky bags filled with surprise items at a big discount. It’s a perfect chance to shop for unique items.

2. Beautiful Winter Scenery

January is the peak of winter in Japan, and snow is a major attraction in some regions:

  • Ski Resorts in Hokkaido and Nagano: Japan has some of the world’s best ski resorts with soft powder snow, ideal for skiing or snowboarding.
  • Shirakawa-go Village: This traditional village turns into a fairy tale scene with its snow-covered thatched-roof houses. It’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

3. Amazing Snow Festivals

While the Sapporo Snow Festival officially happens in February, preparations start in January. You can see ice sculptures being made or enjoy smaller snow events in snowy regions.

4. Warm Winter Foods

Japanese food in January has a special taste and is perfect for the cold weather:

  • Nabe: Hot pot dishes like shabu-shabu or sukiyaki are very popular during winter.
  • Mochi: After New Year’s, eating mochi (rice cakes) is a strong tradition. Try zenzai (red bean soup with mochi) to warm up.
  • Fresh Seafood: Winter is the best time to enjoy fish like buri (yellowtail) and snow crab, which are in season.

5. Unique New Year Traditions and Activities

There are some unique traditions you can only see at the start of the year:

  • Kakizome: The first calligraphy writing of the year is often done at schools or shrines.
  • Toshikoshi Soba: Eating New Year’s soba noodles is believed to bring long life and prosperity.
  • Tsurugaoka Hachimangu’s Yabusame: In Kamakura, you can watch yabusame, or horseback archery, as part of prayers for a successful year.

Fun Facts:

  • Japan is one of the first countries in the world to celebrate the New Year due to its early time zone. This gives you the chance to enjoy New Year’s earlier than many other places.
  • January is often considered the clearest month in Japan, making Mount Fuji more visible from places like Tokyo or Yokohama.

With stunning nature, rich culture, and unique traditions, January is the perfect time to explore Japan. Pack your warm clothes and start the new year with an unforgettable experience in the Land of the Rising Sun!

กลับไปยังบล็อก