Let there be LIGHT - Christmas illuminations in Japan
When it comes to the imported tradition of Christmas-time illuminations, the ante is being raised each year in Japan. Naturally, they’re often the grandest near shopping areas. The illuminations are usually put in place around November, and kept up until the New Year, while some are left on display until Valentine’s Day.
Japanese Hot Springs
Natural hot springs (Onsen) are numerous and highly popular across Japan. Every region of the country has its share of hot springs and resort towns, which come with them. All hot springs are supposed to have a relaxing effect on your body and mind. The feeling of being relaxed leisurely in a warm hot spring while looking at the thickly piled snow scene is only for this season. Nonetheless, since there is a loss due to the amount of snow, early in winter, it is recommend a period from around the year-end and new year when the amount of snow increases until before thawing.
Winter. Depending on what part of Japan you are travelling to, winter experiences in Japan can be vastly different. Big cities such as Tokyo and Osaka generally experience short winters with cold and sunny days and occasional snowfall. But the further you head into the mountainous regions and Northern parts of Japan the more the temperature starts to drop and the winters are long and bitterly cold with high levels of snowfall for many months of the year. Various snow and illumination events are held across the country during the winter season creating breath taking views in this winter wonderland which draws just as many tourists as during the warmer months. Not forgetting the thermal waters, take a dip in the onsen hot spring and let your body relax while enjoying the cold weather of Japan.