Winter in Japan
Seasons in Japan have their own charming and unique features, and winter is no exception.
While Japanese summer is known as the Matsuri season due to the hot weather that is convenient for such lively festivals, winter has its fair share of captivating celebrations that makes it equally worth experiencing.
Winter in Japan
Winter in Japan starts in December and ends in February. As the temperatures start to drop, the country begins to adapt accordingly with diverse winter activities. Skiing and snowboarding, for instance, are among the most popular winter activities that are enjoyed by old and young alike.
One might think that this is all Japan has to offer in winter. However, what is mentioned thus far is simply a scratch on the surface.
Japanese winter is a season of beauty and serenity, where the landscape turns into a breath-taking display of widespread, blinding whiteness covering the country.
Snow is one Japan’s most attractive winter features, and it gets even more fascinating when combined with winter illuminations.
So, what are winter illuminations?
Winter illuminations are a huge part of the overall winter experience in Japan.
During winter illuminations, millions of tiny LED lights are used to decorate and cover different parts of most, if not all, cities, usually those frequented by lots of people, transforming them into a bewitching paradise.
These places include public spots like parks, gardens, shopping districts, and city streets, making people’s experiences even more memorable.
Winter illuminations happen annually, and they typically start around November and last till the end of the year in December. However, some start earlier, meaning around October, while some others may run longer till the end of the season in February.
Since these sparkling light displays happen during winter, especially coupled with snowfall, many tend to confuse them with Christmas celebrations. However, winter illuminations are not held to celebrate anything specific.
Despite it all, the illuminations create a magical, even romantic, vibe that is appreciated by all.
Winter illuminations happen on a nationwide scale annually, but the capital, Tokyo, is typically home to the biggest and best of them.
So, if you are planning a trip to Japan during winter, make sure to see some of these enchanting illuminations. They are guaranteed to leave an everlasting impact on you and your whole experience.
Seasons in Japan are diverse, and, generally, each one of them is coupled with distinctive activities and celebrations.
Winter Illuminations are definitely the biggest highlight of Japanese winter, as they transform the country into a glowing, breath-taking, widespread gleam that never ceases to shine.
