For many of us in Southeast Asia, the winter months don’t really feel like one, as the tropical climate just means cooler weather. That all changes when you spend winter in Hokkaido! This island is Japan’s northernmost prefecture and is renowned for its seafood and vibrant landscapes — even during the coldest months of the year.

From skiing spots and astounding natural attractions to brilliant winter festivals, read on for the top things to do in Hokkaido during the winter season. 

Best things to do in Hokkaido in winter

1. Dive into Hokkaido’s winter activities at Niseko Village

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With several ski resorts in Hokkaido and good snow quality, the region is popular for winter sports. Niseko United is the largest ski area in Hokkaido with 48km of groomed slopes, 70 different runs, and 29 lifts. With the high snowfall, extensive facilities, and professional staff, this resort is certainly one of the best in Japan.

Niseko United comprises four interlinked ski resorts around Mount Niseko Annupuri, which is a two-hour drive from Sapporo. Part of the larger Niseko United, Niseko Village is one of the best ski resorts for skiing. Niseko Village has a good blend of novice and intermediate courses as well as a relaxing ambience. It’s certainly a great option for first-timers who want to try Hokkaido winter activities.

2. Watch your step on the Shiretoko Peninsula

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While skiing in Hokkaido is extremely popular, try your hand at some winter activities unique to the region. Between late January and late March, ice from the Sea of Okhotsk drifts southwards — making it possible to walk on the ocean. 

On the Shiretoko Peninsula, there are several drift ice walking tours that allow visitors to tour the ice floes. This amazing experience will make your winter in Hokkaido unforgettable and give you a story to tell the kids. Just make sure to look out, as the floating ice can easily break apart when you walk on these.

Pro tip: Most tours provide dry suits during your walk but additional layers wouldn’t hurt as sometimes the ice can give way. 

3. Catch your own lunch from the Barato River

Image credit: Sapporo Convention Bureau Official Website

One of the best things to do in Hokkaido in winter is smelt ice fishing. Located 30 minutes away from Sapporo, the Barato River is a great place for locals and tourists alike to catch fish. On guided tours, participants are taught the basics of ice fishing before proceeding into tents to catch wakasagi (Japanese smelt).

Following an hour or two of fishing, your catch is fried on the spot into tempura. While these bite-sized tempura probably won’t be enough to fill your belly, the warm and crunchy snacks help to warm your body!  

Pro tip: From personal experience, it is easier to catch fish when the noise level is kept to a minimum. So, refrain from unnecessary conversation and focus on your pole as fishing is a game of patience. 

4. Head to Ningle Terrace and have a magical winter experience

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Nothing spells an authentic winter experience like a brightly lit log cabin out in the woods. Located in Furano’s surrounding forest, Ningle Terrace is a quaint shopping paradise made up of small log cabins. 

This collection of log cabins doubles as boutique cottages where artists create, display, and sell various hand-crafted goods. The warm timber, fresh pine scent, and rustic charm create a fantasy-like atmosphere perfect for a date. Alongside shopping for craft goods and souvenirs, visitors can also grab a bite at the few cafes around the village.

5. Admire beautiful natural gems on Otsu Coast

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One of the unique things to do in Hokkaido in winter is to check out this natural phenomenon — jewellery ice. This incredible sight can only be found along Otsu Coast, in Toyokoro town.

Essentially, river ice that flows out to sea gets moulded into round lumps before being washed ashore. When bright sunlight hits these lumps, it creates a glimmering effect that makes the ice look like exquisite gemstones.

Pro tip: Walk along the beach during sunsets or sunrises to get the best views of these gems.

6. Appreciate the bewitching blue hues of Shirogane Blue Pond

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No words can describe the beauty of Shirogane Blue Pond located in Biei. This man-made pond was a by-product of a dam that was built on the Biei River to prevent mudslides. To maintain the tranquillity of the pond, visitors can only observe it from the riverbanks; that means no swimming or boating.

The pond has a vivid shade of light or turquoise blue depending on the weather and season. Whichever the case, there is no doubt the half-submerged dead birch trees give the pond a mystical, almost eerie-looking appearance. 

Fun fact: Due to the accidental presence of aluminium hydroxide in the water, the birch trees remain withered throughout the year. This chemical compound is also the reason why the pond is blue. 

7. Visit Goryokaku Park for a spectacular view

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Goryokaku Park is a fort located in Hakodate and was originally built in 1855 to protect Hokkaido. This iconic star-shaped fort was converted into a public park in the 1910s and holds special historic significance today. The fort represents the transition between the Tokugawa shogunate and the Meiji government spelling the end of Japan’s feudal system.

Something about the undisturbed blanket of white makes this one of the best things to do in Hokkaido in winter. Staying after dark will enable visitors to see unreal views of the park when it is lit up by the surrounding lights. Additionally, visitors can ascend the nearby Goryokaku Tower to take in panoramic views of Hakodate City and the park. 

8. Spend the night on a frozen lake

Image credit: Eastern Hokkaido Tourism Campaign Council Official Facebook Page

Apart from these Hokkaido winter activities, there are a host of winter festivals that visitors should definitely check out. The Hokkaido Kamakura Festival is a great way to take in the local culture. This folk celebration revolves around the kamakura (igloo or snow hut): traditionally used to worship gods like the water deities, but nowadays, also serve as tourist attractions. 

On Lake Shikaribetsu Kotan, a man-made ice village is constructed on its frozen surface. This village remains intact between late January and early March. During this time, visitors can enjoy good food, drinks, and music while enjoying the cold weather. You can even stay overnight in one of the igloos, which we highly recommend as there are some great stargazing opportunities! 

9. Feel romance and lanterns in the air in Otaru

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The Otaru Snow Light Path Festival is held every February in the port city of Otaru. This festival coincides with the highly popular Sapporo Snow Festival, but it is possible for tourists to visit both.

Locals construct snow sculptures and decorate the town with glittering lanterns and displays. Despite the cold winter winds, the bright festive lights give the town a jovial atmosphere. Along Otaru Canal, one can find floating candles and snow figures that create a romantic setting perfect for any date.

10. Immerse in the festivities in Onuma Quasi-National Park

Image credit: Travel Hakodate Official Website

A winter in Hokkaido isn’t complete without a visit to the Onuma Hakodate Snow and Ice Festival. This annual event takes place in the first week of February in Onuma Quasi-National Park in Hakodate.

Apart from snow sculptures and food stalls, the main attraction is the 20-metre-long ice slide made from frozen lake water. Visitors can also take part in ice carving and other Hokkaido winter activities such as smelt fishing during the festival.   

11. Cap off your trip in style at Noboribetsu Jigokudani

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Noboribetsu Jigokudani or Hell Valley might sound like a terrible place to end your winter in Hokkaido. Given that this spot is actually a volcanic crater with boiling sulfuric steam plumes, one can be forgiven for thinking so. 

In reality, this crater and the neighbouring town Noboribetsu are scenic spots to take a dip in a hot spring. After a long day of playing in the snow, treat your body to a warm and relaxing hot spring. We recommend Noboribetsu Hot Spring (¥900 for adults and ¥450 for children) to soak in the sulfuric waters.  

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With so many things to do in Hokkaido during winter, any traveller is guaranteed to have an unforgettable experience. Whether it’s skiing down mountain slopes in Hokkaido or enjoying breathtaking natural views, you’ll likely want to come back for more. And yes, this guide is just the tip of the iceberg!

10 Best Thrift Stores and Vintage Shops in Japan

It’s one of the best countries to shop sustainably for branded goods!

Andrea Larice YapJan 5th, 2023

Japan is arguably one of the most exciting destinations to go thrift shopping. Its plethora of furugiya (used clothing stores) or risaikuru shoppu (recycle shops) offer some of the best deals and most unique finds you can snag. If you’re one to ditch fast fashion and opt for pre-owned (but wearable) goods that have stood the test of trends, you’re in for a treat! Here, we round up some of the best vintage shops and thrift stores in Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto for your fashion needs. 

With Japan’s tight laws against counterfeit branded goods from abroad (including luxury or high-end products), thrift shopping is the way to go when you’re on the hunt for authentic pieces at a much more affordable price. Ultimately, this promotes the reusing and repurposing of pre-loved items for bargain hunters. 

Pro tip: If you’re looking to find more thrift stores in Japan, do a simple Google search with the keywords “furugiya” or “risaikuru shoppu” along with the destination of your choice! 

Also read: 50 Reasons Why Japan Is Awesome

Must-visit vintage stores and thrift stores in Japan

Tokyo

1. Mode Off

Image credit: Mode Off Official Website

On the hunt for inexpensive but stylish fashion items? Mode Off is a vintage clothing chain with tons of branches scattered all over Tokyo. This Japan thrift shop typically houses secondhand clothing, which highly appeals to the sustainable fashion market. While there may be some concerns when purchasing used items, Mode Off makes certain to offer only safe and clean products for you to enjoy. Take your pick among designer pieces, Japanese fashion brands, and more for a much cheaper price!

Tip: If you have some clothes that you want to get rid of that are still in wearable condition (and ideally in-season), Mode Off also accepts donations.

Address: Japan, 〒154-0015 Tokyo, Setagaya City, Sakurashinmachi, 1-chōme−15−19

2. Treasure Factory

Image credit: Treasure Factory Style Official Website

Another secondhand store giant for great deals and fashion-forward styles is Treasure Factory Style! Here, you’ll find heaps of branded clothing from Prada and Levi’s to The North Face and the like for more than half the price. What’s more, you can also shop their curations online, which is perfect for those who wish to thrift from the comfort of their homes. But of course, where’s the fun in that? 

Address: 4 Chome-4-15 Koenjiminami, Suginami City, Tokyo 166-0003, Japan

3. 2nd Street

Image credit: 2nd Street Official Website

Next up on your thrifting adventure is 2nd Street, one of the most popular Tokyo thrift stores. If you’re looking for pre-owned vintage items and outdoor gear, this is definitely the place to go. While it has quite a number of stores around Tokyo, its two-story branch in Shimokitazawa is not one to be missed! The best part? 2nd Street organises its goods by category and brand, which makes shopping a whole lot easier. 

Address: 2-30-13 Kitazawa, Setagaya, Tokyo

Also read: 18 Cool & Unique Japanese Vending Machines That Will Blow Your Mind

Osaka

4. Next 51

Image credit: Next 51 Official Facebook Page

If you’re up for some thrifting in the Osaka Prefecture, it’s hard to miss Next 51! This Japan thrift shop chain has four locations in the city with different store concepts. From vintage and secondhand speciality stores to recycle shops that house different brands, Next 51 has everything for every thrifter. Its branch in the Nakamachi District, however, is quite hard to beat, as it houses two floors. Shop vintage high-end clothes and accessories on the first floor, and find antique furniture and used musical instruments on the second floor.

Address: 4-chōme-4-4 Kōryō Nakamachi, Sakai Ward, Sakai, Osaka

Also read: 11 Underrated Destinations in Japan That Are Worth Discovering

5. Kinji

Image credit: Kinji Official Instagram Page

Nothing beats a good ol’ vintage jacket, don’t you think? Find the best deals on local and international designer outerwear over at Kinji! From leather jackets to vibrantly coloured windbreakers and knitted sweaters, you’ll find almost every style here. To add a little oomph to your finds, breeze through their selection of trendy hats, bags, and branded shoes. Voila, you have a whole new outfit to strut it! 

Address: Japan, 〒542-0086 Osaka, Chuo Ward, Nishishinsaibashi, 1 Chome−6−14 ビッグステップ 2F

6. Jam

Image credit: Jam Official Facebook Page

Jam offers a wide range of used fashion items for both men and women, and does a pretty good job when it comes to following trends. Thus, you’ll find lots of pieces that are in-season displayed on their racks. Much like other Osaka thrift stores (and used clothing stores in Japan in general), Jam curates old band tees, varsity jackets, sportswear, and vintage Levi’s. They also have a huge selection of Dr. Martens and other vintage leather footwear, if you fancy that punk, grunge look. 

Address: 2-4-6 Minamihorie, Nishi Ward, Osaka City, Osaka Prefecture 550-0015

Kyoto

7. Three Star

Image credit: Three Star Official Instagram Page

With a focus on American clothing brands, Three Star lets you in on handpicked trendy Western-style silhouettes and fashion accessories. If you prefer oversized clothes and gender-neutral outfits, you’ll easily find its offerings quite tasteful. Aside from apparel and accessories, Three Star has a generous selection of antiques and home goods like catchalls and novelty trinkets. 

Address: Mimatsu Kaikan, Kyoto 604-8042, Kyoto Prefecture

8. Harajuku Chicago 

Image credit: Harajuku Chicago Official Instagram Page

Like any other great Japan thrift shop, Harajuku Chicago offers a plethora of local, American, and European clothing brands. Their curated collection of secondhand items is reasonably priced, and you’ll surely find something within your budget. What sets them apart from other Kyoto thrift stores, though, is that they specialise in kimono items and other traditional Japanese clothing! So, if you’re on the lookout for those, go pay them a visit. 

Address: 258, Shikibu-cho, Teramachi-dori, Nakagyo-ku Kyoto-shi, Kyoto

Also read: TOP 10 RAMEN You Should Try in JAPAN

9. Little Trip to Heaven 

Image credit: Little Trip to Heaven Official Instagram Page

For all things chic and dainty, make a beeline for Little Trip to Heaven! Sure, hip and trendy thrift stores may be all that, but nothing compares to the charm of classics. This quaint secondhand boutique sells a variety of old-fashioned pieces reminiscent of the ’60s and ’70s. Here, you’ll find chiffon silhouettes, floral and plaid printed dresses, and a bunch of affordable yet elegant jewellery. Now, that’s vintage! 

Address: Japan, 〒604-8043 Kyoto, Nakagyo Ward, Higashidaimonjicho, 296 1F･2F リトルトリップトゥヘブン

10. Kindal

Image credit: Kindal Official Facebook Page

Last but not least on this list of the best thrift stores in Japan is Kindal, another sought-after used clothing chain among locals. Its Kyoto branch mainly focuses on pre-owned luxury brand items such as Louis Vuitton, Hermès, and Chanel. However, they also carry a ton of popular streetwear brands like Supreme, Vetements, and Human Made. Sounds like something up your alley? Both their physical store and online shop are worthy of your attention!

Address: Here’s What’s New in Japan for Travelers Planning a Trip in 2023

Clearly, Japan is nothing short of an exciting thrift shopping destination! What’s more, these finds make great alternatives to the usual Japanese souvenirs. Do you know other awesome vintage shops and thrift stores in Japan? Be sure to share your go-to’s with us on our Facebook page or tag us on our Instagram @lindelatravel. Happy thrifting, fashion fiends! 

Source: https://bit.ly/3W6urEL