Christmas & New Year Tours in Japan
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10 best Christmas & New Year Japan tour packages
Compiled by

SteffJapan travel expert at TourRadar
- Christmas in Japan
- Japan Winter Classic 11 Day - One Life Adventures
- 9 Day Independent Japan
- A Classic 11 Day Japan Holiday
- Japan Express – Osaka to Tokyo
- All Inclusive Japan Classics- 9 days
- Japan: Tokyo Nights & Kyoto Temples
- Tokyo, Kyoto and Alps
- Japan´s Landscapes end Kyoto
- Tokyo, Kyoto and Hiroshima end Tokyo
Duration 16 days Destinations Tokyo, Hakone, Matsumoto, Takayama, Kanazawa, Kyoto, Nara, Osaka Age Range Ages 12+ Operator Wendy Wu Tours From $16,957
12% Off- NZ$14,903You save $2,054
Japan Winter Classic 11 Day - One Life Adventures
32 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Great way to see the highlights of Japan with added extras that I wouldn't have done otherwise!”
Ayla, traveled in January
Winter magic unfolds at Kyoto's snow-covered Golden Pavilion and illuminated Kiyomizu-dera temple. Taste seasonal specialties in Osaka's Dotonbori, witness Tokyo's festive lights at Senso-ji, and soak in Nagano's hot springs while snow monkeys bathe nearby.
Duration 11 days Destinations Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto, Osaka, Nagano Age Range Ages 18-59 Operator One Life Adventures From
12% Off- NZ$4,338
9 Day Independent Japan
6 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“I really appreciated the inter-city travel and accommodation being sorted.”
Shane, traveled in July
Winter festivities shine at Tokyo's illuminated Meiji Shrine and seasonal markets. Kyoto's temples, including Kinkaku-ji and Fushimi Inari, host New Year celebrations. Special winter activities and traditional customs round out the experience.
Duration 9 days Destinations Tokyo, Odawara, Hakone, Kyoto, Osaka Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Vio Travel From $3,168
5% Off- NZ$3,010You save $158
A Classic 11 Day Japan Holiday
14 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Excellent organization. We felt accompanied in every moment and the team was exceptionally responsive.”
Alberto, traveled in August
Duration 11 days Destinations Tokyo, Takayama, Kyoto, Osaka Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Wonderful Holidays UK From $7,799
22% Off- NZ$6,083You save $1,716
Japan Express – Osaka to Tokyo
123 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The activities were interesting but perhaps have some extra pay extra such as a cooking class.”
YOLANDE, traveled in August
Duration 9 days Destinations Osaka, Koya-san, Hiroshima, Kyoto, Hakone, Fuji, Tokyo Age Range Ages 12+ Operator G Adventures From $5,699
25% Off- NZ$4,274You save $1,425
All Inclusive Japan Classics- 9 days
69 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The whole experience was seamless. The food and accommodation surpassed my expectations.”
Douglas, traveled in April
Winter festivities shine with special illuminations at Kyoto temples and festive markets in Tokyo's Ginza district. The prestigious Imperial Hotel Tokyo welcomes guests with traditional New Year's cuisine. Snow-covered Kinkaku-ji Temple hosts end-of-year ceremonies.
Duration 9 days Destinations Tokyo, Fujikawaguchiko, Fuji, Kamakura, Kyoto, Nara, Osaka Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Supera Tours From
25% Off- NZ$9,256
Japan: Tokyo Nights & Kyoto Temples
17 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“It was a great way to make new friends! Plus, she was so amazing and helpful and kind.”
Doyin, traveled in September
Traditional temple visits in Kyoto welcome the New Year, while festive shopping fills Tokyo's Harajuku. Winter illuminations brighten the nights as holiday traditions unfold in authentic Japanese accommodations.
Duration 6 days Destinations Tokyo, Takayama, Kyoto Age Range Ages 18-39 Operator G Adventures From $2,119
25% Off- NZ$1,589You save $530
Tokyo, Kyoto and Alps
9 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The accommodations were as expected. We enjoyed the Ryokan in Nikko where we dressed in traditional Japanese attire.”
Michelle, traveled in March
Tokyo's illuminated Shibuya district and snow-covered Nikko temples mark the season. Traditional New Year ceremonies take place at Zenko-ji, while winter views of Matsumoto Castle and snow monkeys bathing in steaming onsen at Jigokudani Park create memorable moments.
Duration 6 days Destinations Tokyo, Kyoto, Tsumago, Matsumoto, Nagano, Kusatsu, Nikko Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Europamundo From $3,453
15% Off- NZ$2,935You save $518
Japan´s Landscapes end Kyoto
12 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Tour was advertised as English. I was sometimes forgotten about and told the guide to speak English.”
Linda, traveled in October
Tokyo's festive Shinjuku district comes alive during the holidays, while Mount Koya monastery hosts traditional New Year celebrations. Snow-covered temples in Kyoto complete this seasonal journey with special illuminations throughout.
Duration 11 days Destinations Tokyo, Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Himeji, Okayama, Kurashiki, Hiroshima, Matsuyama, KotohiraSee all destinations Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Europamundo From $6,256
15% Off- NZ$5,318You save $938
Tokyo, Kyoto and Hiroshima end Tokyo
14 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Excellent tour with very knowledgeable guides, we couldn't have asked for better guides.”
LiamHudson, traveled in September
Festive illuminations brighten Tokyo Tower, while New Year ceremonies grace Meiji Shrine and winter views frame the Golden Pavilion. Holiday markets in Shinjuku, seasonal specialties in local restaurants, and illuminated evening visits to Dotonbori create lasting memories.
Duration 7 days Destinations Tokyo, Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Himeji, Okayama, Kurashiki, Hiroshima Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Europamundo From $4,932
15% Off- NZ$4,192You save $740
What people love about Christmas & New Year Tours in Japan
- A Classic 11 Day Japan Holiday
Excellent organization. We felt accompanied in every moment and the team was exceptionally responsive when it was needed. Our impression was absolutely positive and we strongly recommend them.
- Japan Winter Classic 11 Day - One Life Adventures
Hé was a excellent tour guide
- Japan in a Nutshell Private Tour
We had an amazing time in Japan with Firebird Tours! As a family that usually plans our own trips, we decided to try a tour company this time, and it was a great choice. The booking process was easy, and our representative gave us helpful advice on where to go and how to save money. The trip went smoothly, thanks to the Firebird App, which kept us updated on all the details. Our guides were always on time, friendly, and knew a lot about each city. They were flexible, letting us adjust the tour to fit our pace and interests. We’ll definitely use Firebird again for our next trip and recommend them to anyone looking for a hassle-free travel experience.
What our customers ask about Christmas & New Year Tours in Japan
When is the best time to book a Christmas & New Year tour in Japan?
The optimal booking window for Christmas & New Year tours in Japan runs 6-8 months before departure. Hotels like the Sotetsu Fresa Inn in Osaka and Hotel Intergate Tokyo reach capacity quickly for dates between December 15 and January 5. Prices tend to rise during this festive period particularly around popular spots like Shibuya Crossing in Tokyo and Kyoto's temples. Early planning helps secure better rates and preferred accommodation choices during this peak travel season.
What special activities and events can I experience during a Christmas & New Year tour in Japan?
The holiday season in Japan brings distinctive experiences that blend modern festivities with ancient traditions. Visitors can see the lit-up Kinkaku-ji Temple in Kyoto join hatsumode shrine visits at Senso-ji in Tokyo and take part in New Year's Eve celebrations. Tours typically include stops at Mount Fuji and local markets. A TourRadar traveler noted: "we experienced real Japanese hospitality and felt immersed in the culture trying different Japanese foods exploring markets visiting temples and historic areas." Traditional bell-ringing ceremonies at places like Zojoji Temple add to the cultural experience.
How cold is Japan during Christmas & New Year and what should I pack?
Winter weather in Japan varies by region. Tokyo maintains temperatures between 5-10°C (41-50°F) while Hokkaido often sees temperatures below freezing. For stays at properties like the Shinagawa Prince Hotel in Tokyo or New Miyako Hotel in Kyoto pack warm layers including a winter coat gloves scarf and waterproof walking shoes. A TourRadar traveler noted: "We saw snow in the Japanese Alps but Tokyo was mild - pack layers and definitely bring good walking shoes as there's lots of exploring to do."
What Japanese New Year traditions will I experience on the tour?
New Year tours showcase key Japanese traditions including joya no kane (108 temple bell rings) traditional osechi ryori meals at venues like the Mitsui Garden Hotel Kyoto and hatsumode shrine visits. Visitors can observe locals in kimono making temple visits and participate in New Year ceremonies. As one traveler shared: "experiencing real Japanese hospitality and being immersed in the culture was purely magical during this festive time."
How crowded are popular tourist sites during the Christmas and New Year period?
Tourist attractions see peak crowds between December 29 and January 3. The Tokyo Skytree Kinkaku-ji Temple and Osaka's Dotonbori area draw particularly large numbers. Tour operators like Europamundo often schedule early morning visits to help avoid the heaviest crowds. The Daiwa Roynet Hotel in Tokyo's Nishi-Shinjuku area serves as a practical base for reaching attractions during quieter hours.
What dining options are available during Christmas and New Year in Japan?
Holiday dining in Japan offers a mix of traditional and contemporary options. Hotels such as the Ochanomizu Hotel Shoryukan in Tokyo feature special Christmas buffets that combine Japanese and Western cuisine. New Year brings opportunities to try osechi ryori while food districts like Osaka's Dotonbori and Tokyo's Tsukiji Outer Market stay open with holiday specialties.
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