10 things to do in Japan this winter

Occupying a former public bathhouse and dining facility, this newly opened, expansive art space makes full use of its magnificent natural surroundings. Graphic artist Yoshirotten’s first permanent exhibit is a must-see.

Crowning Ginza’s new Kurosawa x Tiffany Building is a luxe rooftop hideaway helmed by chef Takeshi Sato, who honed his craft at renowned Parisian restaurants like L’Arceste. While the Sapphire Lounge is set to become a members-only space, walk-ins are welcome until around spring 2026.

Catch a rare aerial view of the Mozu Tombs – a World Heritage site that’s usually hidden in plain sight – from 100 metres above ground. From this height, the full scale of these massive burial mounds finally comes into focus, revealing details you’d never notice from the ground.

The Unesco-listed Ainokura (Gokayama) Gassho-zukuri Village glows under snow and warm lights during this illumination event held on February 21 and 22 – a rare chance to see a piece of living heritage at its most atmospheric.

Opening on February 5 inside the expansive Yomiuriland amusement park is the world’s first permanent outdoor Pokémon theme park. Wander through the forest and spot – or catch – around 600 Pokémon in their ‘natural’ surroundings. In Sedge Town you’ll find a Pokémon Center, a Poké Mart and a Gym, and can catch a Pokémon parade.

Looking back on 30 years of creativity from fashion label minä perhonen, ‘Tsugu’ showcases the evolution of the brand’s craft and playfulness. Through richly textured textiles born from collaborations with artisans, along with immersive video works, the exhibition offers a glimpse into the future of making and design.

The ryotei-style inn, formally called Yanagawa-hanshu Tachibana-tei Ohana, is regarded as the only nationally designated place of scenic beauty in Japan where you can stay overnight. The place also offers a plan that lets you enjoy breakfast while cruising through the network of canals that run throughout the city of Yanagawa.

The coolest fashion person you know would probably shop at Oops Clothing Store – if they knew about it. Hidden in Nishi, Oops stacks Y2K selects, rising Japanese designers, international pieces and archive finds you won’t believe. Loud graphics, hacked silhouettes, Kansai chaos...Everything feels alive. Along with frequent pop-ups and parties, it’s become a subculture hub and your gateway into Osaka’s flavour.

Relocated from Kanda to Minami-Aoyama in November 2025, this gig spot designed by Hirokazu Yamazaki of the band Toe is beloved by musicians. It’s noted for its distinctive booking policy, spanning ambient and jazz to experimental music.

Each winter, a village of snow and ice called Kotan appears on the frozen surface of Lake Shikaribetsu. You’ll find open-air hot springs carved directly into the ice as well as an atmospheric Ice Bar, where drinks like cocktails and hot chocolate are served in glasses made of natural ice at a bar crafted from hefty blocks of the cold stuff.