Slow travel has been booming in Japan, with 84 percent of local travel providers seeing increased demand for experiential journeys.
Rather than rushing through must-see sights, slow travel has invited visitors to deeply connect with Japan’s culture, nature, and traditions.
The autumn and winter months have offered the perfect backdrop for this approach. With this in mind, the experts at JRPASS have created a guide to wholesome experiences, from spying on snow money to being captivated by sculptures at Sounkyo’s Ice Festival.
Haroun Khan from JRPass shared why autumn was a captivating time to visit Japan.
“Autumn brings out a new set of vibrant colours across Japan. There is the tradition of “Momijigari”-hunting autumn leaves- to observe their beauty. The shift to more hearty cuisine and cooler weather in autumn makes it a great place to visit if you appreciate fewer crowds and a cosier atmosphere,” said Khan.
“Winter in Japan transforms the landscape into a peaceful wonderland, blending natural beauty and cultural richness. Whether it’s the captivating sights, such as the Sounkyo ice festival, or warming hotpots, the season provides an opportunity that’s both serene and unforgettable.”
Daisetsuzan: Where autumn comes early
Daisetsuzan, Japan’s largest national park, is a natural haven where autumn comes early. From early September to early October, the best time to view the changing leaves is in this park.
Hiking trails on Mt. Asahidake, Mt. Tomuraushi, and Mt. Tokachidake offer stunning views of the colourful forests as the seasons change. To heighten the experience, cable cars are available for panoramic views over the treetops.
Seasonal celebrations: From leaves to lanterns
The Lake Kawaguchi Autumn Leaf Festival is a visual spectacle and a cultural celebration of the season, drawing thousands of visitors each year. During the day, visitors can see Mount Fuji, and after dark, tunnels and rows of vibrant, fiery leaves illuminate the area, creating an unforgettable experience.
Established over 300 years ago, the Nihonmatsu Lantern Festival is up there with the coziest traditions. Floats with thousands of vibrant lanterns illuminate the streets of Fukushima, all decorated to represent cultural notions, with local drummers adding to the experience, which welcomes around 180,000 visitors annually.
Autumn Harvest: Japan’s seasonal specials
Autumn in Japan is a season of vibrant colours and delicious seasonal foods. From the nutty warmth of chestnuts (kuri) to the earthy aroma of matsutake mushrooms, flavours evoke the rich essence of the season.
Traditional dishes like grilled Pacific saury (sanma—meaning autumn knife fish) start to appear, and Yakiimo (roasted sweet potatoes) become popular street food, offering warmth during the crisp autumn months.
Experience snow monkeys in Jigokudani’s cozy onsen
At Jigokudani Monkey Park in Nagano, Japanese macaques, known as snow monkeys, soak in natural hot springs. Nestled in the snow-covered mountains, this park provides a one-of-a-kind opportunity to observe wild monkeys lounging in the steamy onsen.
For the best views, visit between January and February, when a beautiful snowy backdrop surrounds the monkeys.
Wintery magic: Sounkyo ice fall festival lights up Hokkaido
Japan approaches the winter season with its unique flair, and the period is filled with festive magic. A standout winter event representing Japan’s unique flair is the Sounkyo Ice Fall Festival in Hokkaido.
At night, colourful illuminations transform the ice creations into a stunning display, making this winter festival an unforgettable experience. Visiting the national park to admire breathtaking ice sculptures crafted from the lake’s water is unsurprisingly a hit, with the event expecting over 120,000 guests this winter.
Warm up with Japan’s winter bites and symbolic dishes
Winter in Japan brings hearty, warming dishes. Popular comfort foods include hot pots (nabemono) and stews made from meats and vegetables, but a significant meal is Toshikoshi soba, traditionally eaten on New Year’s Eve. The long noodles symbolise longevity, marking the transition into a new year. This dish is filling and meaningful and served warm with fishcakes and green onion.
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