Japan remains one of the world’s safest travel destinations, but like anywhere, it comes with seasonal risks—especially in winter, when flu and norovirus cases spike. Crowded trains, busy tourist attractions, and indoor heating all contribute to the rapid spread of infections.

However, Japan’s strong culture of hygiene, like frequent handwashing, mask-wearing, and the use of antiseptic mouthwash, offers valuable lessons for travelers looking to stay well. Simple habits, smart precautions, and local knowledge can make all the difference.

Wanping Aw, a biomedical scientist and founder of TokudAw, has spent years bridging science with travel. With a Ph.D. in Biomedical Science and deep expertise in Japan’s medical landscape, she offers key insights into how travelers can protect themselves—and how TokudAw provides health-conscious solutions for those exploring Japan.

A simple guide to help you stay warm and cozy for your snow holiday in Japan

How to Dress for Winter and Snow

Layering is the best way to stay warm and dress in winter. You’ll need to dress in 3 layers–base layer, mid layer, outer layer. You’ll also need warm accessories, which we will cover in this guide for cold-weather dressing. Dressing in multiple layers not only helps to trap more heat than wearing just one thick layer, but it is also a very functional way to regulate your body temperature. As you move from the cold to a warmer place indoors, you’ll be glad to be able to remove some of those layers.

Imagine carving through clouds of featherlight snow, where every turn feels like gliding through silk. That’s Japow—a skier’s nirvana, and Japan’s ultimate winter gift.

But the magic doesn’t stop at the slopes. Soak tired legs in soothing onsens framed by snow-capped peaks and refuel with steaming bowls of soba or a bubbling hot pot, all while the lively yet serene ambiance of Japanese ski villages wraps around you.

If you haven’t already heard, this year, the Japan 2024-2025 snow forecast promises epic conditions, making it the perfect season to chase powder (more on that below).

So pack your gear, bring your appetite for adventure (and ramen), and prepare for a bucket-list-worthy ski season.

From ski-only resorts, resorts with night skiing, park skiing, tree skiing, off-piste skiing, and resorts for the ultimate Japow experience, you’ll find a resort to suit your needs.

Planning a Ski Trip to Japan? Wait–Don't go to Hokkaido.

Here’s why you should try skiing on the main island of Honshu instead.

You’re planning your next ski adventure to Japan. You can’t wait to experience the legendary Japow you’ve heard so much about. Instinctively, you want to hit the ski resorts in Hokkaido - but wait. Before booking your accommodation and tickets for Hokkaido, we want to share some compelling reasons why a ski trip in Honshu could be an even better choice.

La Niña–mention this term to any experienced skier and snowboarder, and watch as their eyes glow in uncontrollable excitement. Think you know everything about La Niña? What exactly is La Niña and why should you care? For one, it could mean the difference between a fun season and an epic one. 

Will La Niña Arrive in Time for Japan's 2024-2025 Ski Season?

Read on to find out 5 things every skier or snowboarder needs to know about the phenomenon