As the snow begins to fall and steam rises from the country’s many natural hot springs, Japan transforms into a place of serene beauty and quiet tradition. The cooler months here are prime onsen season – a time when the ritual of bathing becomes a soul-soothing experience. This winter, Oku Japan – a leader in culturally immersive self-guided and small-group walking and hiking tours through Japan’s heart – invites travelers to explore the country’s landscapes, trails, culinary treasures, and onsen traditions with five thoughtfully crafted winter itineraries.
Each of the below trips capture Japan’s timeless connection to the seasons – pairing snow-dusted scenery with warm hospitality, hearty regional dishes, and the chance to soak in healing waters after a day’s exploration.
Winter Nakasendō Trail: Snowy Post Towns and Mountain Paths
Eight days, guided
Follow in the footsteps of samurai warriors and feudal lords along the famed Nakasendō Trail, where Edo-period post towns like Magome and Tsumago glow under a soft winter blanket. Walking, and sometimes snowshoeing, along peaceful paths, guests traverse the picturesque Kiso Valley, spending nights in traditional country inns and soaking in the warmth of natural thermal onsen.
Available departures: January 6-13, January 23-30, February 10-17 and February 25-March 4
Japan Alps Winter: Nagano and Gifu
Six days, self-guided
Lying in the heart of the Central Japan, the prefectures of Nagano (setting for the 1998 Olympics) and Gifu have flourished since ancient times as a cultural crossroads between Eastern and Western Japan. The region is also home to the Japanese Alps, and this self-guided journey takes a deep dive into this area’s great scenic beauty, complete with some of Japan’s best hot springs, feudal castle towns, ancient temples, and winter markets framed by powdery peaks.
Available departures: Recommended from January through March
Japan’s Culinary Heritage: Winter Warmth
Nine days, guided
Winter brings some of Japan’s most comforting flavors to the forefront. This brand-new, culinary-focused, small-group tour traces a delicious path from Kyoto to the Japan Sea coast, delving into seasonal dishes like buri (Japanese amberjack), nabe hotpots, and sake tasting in local breweries. Guests meet regional producers, enjoy immersive cooking experiences such as mochitsuki, or rice cake pounding, a beloved seasonal tradition, and of course enjoy a stay at a traditional onsen ryokan.
Available departures: 2026 departures are full; 2027 departures will be announced soon.
Winter Kumano Kodō: Ancient Pilgrimage in Tranquility
Six days, self-guided
Walking the Kumano Kodō pilgrimage trail in the winter months offers a meditative experience unlike any other. Travelers explore sacred forest paths, visit ancient shrines, and stay in traditional minshuku guesthouses where onsen baths and home-cooked meals await. Fewer visitors and crisp mountain air make this UNESCO World Heritage trail a peaceful journey of reflection and renewal while also earning credentials to receive Dual Pilgrim status.
Available departures: From the end of December through February
Hokkaidō Winter: Lake Akan to Shiretoko
Seven days, self-guided
Japan’s northern frontier shines brightest in winter. This self-guided journey through Hokkaidō’s wild landscapes leads travelers from the volcanic lakes and Ainu heritage of Akan Mashu National Park to the icy shores of the Shiretoko Peninsula, one of the most remote corners of Japan. Along the way, travelers encounter local wildlife, indulge in the island’s famed seafood, and warm up in onsen surrounded by snow.
Available departures: Recommended from December to March
“Winter is when Japan slows down and reveals its most authentic rhythms,” says Hiroshi Kawaguchi, Oku Japan’s general manager. “Whether it’s soaking in a hidden mountain onsen, savoring delicious seasonal dishes, or walking through quiet temples and forests, these journeys invite you to experience the country’s deep connection to nature and heritage.”
Learn more about Oku Japan’s winter adventures, and its full roster of journeys across all of Japan all year round, at OkuJapan.com.
