Best fall and winter weekend getaways near Tokyo

When the temperatures drop and the air becomes crisp, a weekend escape from Tokyo becomes even more tempting. Whether you’re craving a classic spa treatment, fresh mountain air, or the chance to soak up local culture and winter lights, these destinations offer the perfect respite during the colder months.

Botanical Pool Club, Chiba

At first glance, Botanical Pool Club seems like a better summer getaway—it is, after all, a pool club. However, from November to March, the outdoor pool is kept at a comfortable temperature of 40°C, allowing you to enjoy a winter pool experience. Soak in the steaming water, breathe in the crisp winter air, and gaze up at the stars above—the atmosphere feels far removed from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo city, despite being less than two hours away by bus or car.

In addition to the thermal pools, the resort’s wellness facilities are a great option for relaxing during the fall and winter months. Warm up and relax in the sauna before enjoying a cozy hot pot dinner made with local, seasonal ingredients and a range of seasonal, warm cocktails.

Hakone, Kanagawa Prefecture

Hakone is a cold-weather favorite for good reason: open-air hot springs, sweeping views of Mount Fuji, and a host of spots that are easy to explore in a single lap. this Hakone Loop Course Combine the area’s famous ropeways, sightseeing buses and Lake Ashi “pirate ship” cruises into one scenic day trip.

Stop by Owakudani, home to spectacular sulfur vents and “black eggs,” which are said to bring seven years of good luck to those who eat them. End the day at the Hakone Open Air Museum, where you can admire the massive sculptures with the mountains in the background. End your night with a bath Open-air bath An open-air bath in a traditional Japanese inn.

Hakone accommodation guide

• Gora flower bed: A famous Japanese-style inn built on the site of the royal villa, famous for its unique cuisine and beautiful gardens.
• Hakone Kowakien Tenyu: All rooms feature private open-air hot spring baths, perfect for ultimate privacy and relaxation.

Lake Kawaguchi, Yamanashi Prefecture

There are few places where you can get closer to Mount Fuji than Lake Kawaguchi. Head to Churei Pagoda for an iconic view of Mount Fuji juxtaposed with spiritual shrines, ride the Mount Fuji Panoramic Gondola or join a lake cruise for sweeping views of Mount Fuji next to beautiful swans. Then warm up with a hearty bowl of hoton, the region’s most popular miso hotpot udon.

Lake Kawaguchi accommodation guide

• Fuji Lake Hotel: A highly rated hotel offering rooms and open-air baths with stunning views of Mount Fuji directly across the lake.
• familiar: Popular hotel located on the shores of Lake Kawaguchi. Many rooms also have private bathrooms with views of Fuji.

Echigo-Yuzawa City, Niigata Prefecture

If you’re looking for a winter wonderland, Echigo-Yuzawa is one of the fastest snow gateways from Tokyo. The Shinkansen provides direct access to Gala Yuzawa Ski Resort, with skiing, snowboarding and beginner-friendly snow sports right at the station’s doorstep – just get off at Gala Yuzawa Station. You can even rent gear on site.

On the way, stop by Pang Shukana sake tasting museum located inside the station with vending machines allowing you to sample local beers.

Kusatsu Onsen, Gunma Prefecture

Kusatsu is famous for having Japan’s most potent (read: sulfur) hot spring water, which is magical in the fall and winter. Witness the famous steaming Yubata Onsen in the center of town and enjoy lively performances Tomomi During the performance, waiters stirred the scalding spring water with wooden paddles.

Kusatsu Onsen accommodation guide

• time court: Modern and elegant hotel with private open-air bath in each room and access to 23 public baths.
• Kusatsu Onsen Houn: A long-established traditional Japanese inn near Yubata with a tranquil garden bath.

Kamakura and Enoshima, Kanagawa Prefecture

Winter brings a different side to Kamakura and Enoshima, with temple visits and seaside walks more comfortable than ever and with fewer crowds than in summer. Visit the Giant Buddha, stroll Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, and take a scenic Enoden ride along the coast. After sunset, Enoshima is illuminated by the Shonan Gem Illuminations, one of the most beautiful winter light shows in the region.

Karuizawa, Nagano Prefecture

Karuizawa has a sophisticated resort town atmosphere, making it an ideal place for a winter getaway. Ski or snowboard at Karuizawa Prince Ski Resort, shop at the discount stores near the station, or take a quiet walk around Kumoba Pond, which is especially beautiful in late autumn when the autumn leaves are reflected in the water.

Izu Peninsula, Shizuoka Prefecture

With its rugged coastline and mild climate, the Izu Peninsula is a treasure trove of cold season tourist destinations. Shuzenji Onsen is one of the most famous hot spring resorts in the area, not to mention one of the top 100 hot spring resorts in Japan, known for its stunning scenery and tranquil bamboo groves. Picturesque seaside spa town Higashiizu Well worth a visit too. In late February and early March, the early-blooming Kawazuzakura trees bathe them in soft pink earlier than the rest of Japan. Animal lovers should also visit the Izu Cactus Zoo to see the capybaras soaking in the open-air hot springs.

Kawagoe City, Saitama Prefecture

Only 30 minutes by train from central Tokyo, Kawagoe It is an atmospheric town full of Edo period charm, full of well-preserved architecture, local culture and traditional cuisine. Explore the Kurozukuri Warehouse District, lined with unique clay-walled buildings, listen to the chimes of the famous Toki-no-Clock Clock Tower, and wander the Koukoya Yokocho alleyway, famous for its nostalgic sweets.

Nagano Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park

For one of Japan’s iconic winter experiences, head to Jigokudani, where wild snow monkeys soak in the natural hot springs from December to March (the coldest months of the year). The best way to get there is by car or bus. From the parking lot, visitors must walk 30 minutes along an unpaved path to reach the actual park. A short hike into the valley adds to the experience, but be sure to wear appropriate clothing and shoes.

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Updated on November 20, 2025