Snow from Tokyo: sledding, skiing and snow monkeys

Tokyo rarely gets snow, but it is an hour away by train. From December to March, the families’ favorite day.

Three snow days from Tokyo are easy: Karuizawa, about 1 h 10 by shinkansen, with a ski slope next to the station and a big outlet mall; the Jigokudani snow monkeys bathing in hot springs near Nagano (about 1 h 20 by shinkansen, then a bus and a 30-minute forest walk); and snow at the foot of Mt. Fuji on the Shizuoka or Kawaguchiko side, with sledding for kids. January and February are the best months.

1. Karuizawa: skiing, sledding and shopping

Getting there: Hokuriku shinkansen from Tokyo or Ueno, about 1 h 10.
On site: the Karuizawa Prince Hotel ski area sits right by the station, with gentle beginner slopes and a kids’ snow area.
Shopping: the large Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza is in the same place.

2. The Nagano snow monkeys

Getting there: shinkansen to Nagano (about 1 h 20), then a bus and a 30-minute walk on a forest trail that is often snowy.
The scene: wild macaques warming up in a hot spring surrounded by snow.
Tip: boots with grip or snow boots; Iheb tells you where to rent them.

3. Snow at the foot of Mt. Fuji

On the Shizuoka side (near Gotemba) and the Kawaguchiko side, small snow parks open from late autumn to early spring, with sledding and snow play for kids and Fuji right above you. It pairs well with Hakone or the lakes.

What to wear, where to pray

Clothes: snow suits, gloves and boots can be rented on site; bring warm base layers.
Prayer: Iheb plans a warm, quiet place for the day’s prayers.
Meals: fish, vegetable or halal dishes, chosen in advance.