Experiencing winter in Kyoto will take you into a mystical world , where the ancient beauty of the city is covered with a pure white coat of snow. The quiet streets, the gentle lights of winter festivals, and the warm hot springs create an unforgettable winter picture. This is the ideal time to explore Kyoto, where both culture and beautiful nature converge.
1. Admire the sparkling light festival in Kyoto
Romantic beauty at Togetsukyo Bridge in winter in Kyoto (Photo source: Collected)
One of the winter experiences in Kyoto that visitors cannot miss is enjoying the wonderful light festival atmosphere, especially the Arashiyama Hanatoro festival. Taking place in December, this festival turns the Arashiyama neighborhood into a mysterious shimmering landscape with more than 2,500 glowing lanterns, illuminating the winding 5km long roads.
Every evening, visitors can admire the romantic beauty of Togetsukyo Bridge, the dim light from the lanterns covering the Arashiyama bamboo forest, creating a poetic and enchanting space. Besides, you can also join culinary tours in this area, enjoy winter specialties at the stalls and immerse yourself in the delicious and beautiful space.
2. Experience skiing in Kyoto
Experience winter in Kyoto with exciting skiing activities (Photo source: Collected)
The experience of skiing in Kyoto in winter is both exciting and fascinating. With its snow-capped mountains, Kyoto is an ideal destination for those who love winter sports . The ski resorts in the city and its surroundings not only offer a peaceful atmosphere, but also give visitors the opportunity to experience the exhilaration of gliding on snow.
From gentle slopes for beginners to challenging locations for experienced skiers, Kyoto offers a perfect picture for all tastes. Skiing here is not only a sport, but also an opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of winter nature, enjoy the fresh air and experience relaxing, impressive moments amidst the vast white snow.
3. Enjoy a relaxing space at the onsen hot springs
Relax in the warm onsen hot springs in Kyoto (Photo source: Collected)
Winter in Kyoto is also the perfect time to relax in onsen hot springs. This is an indispensable part of Japanese cultural life, especially when the temperature outside drops. Kyoto hot springs such as Kurama Eleven, Funaoka Onsen and Goko-yu Onsen offer you relaxing experiences amidst peaceful mountain scenery. Enjoy the feeling of soaking in the warm, relaxing water after a long day of sightseeing.
4. Explore the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest
Enjoy the peaceful space at Arashiyama bamboo forest (Photo source: Collected)
One of the most suitable destinations to enjoy the winter atmosphere in Kyoto is the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. If you are lucky enough to come to Kyoto on snowy days, the scenery here will become more magical and poetic than ever. The feeling of walking among the tall bamboo trees, with snow covering the ground and the quiet surrounding scenery will make you feel absolute peace. This is one of the winter experiences in Kyoto that anyone should try.
5. Enjoy hot Nabe hotpot in winter in Kyoto
Enjoy hot Nabe hotpot in winter in Kyoto (Photo source: collected)
Winter in Kyoto offers a unique culinary experience that visitors cannot resist. In the cold of winter, there is nothing better than enjoying a hot pot of nabe, a typical traditional hot pot dish. Each family or group of friends will gather around the dining table, together dipping fresh ingredients such as mushrooms, tofu, meat, and vegetables into the boiling broth. The rich flavor of the spices, combined with the warmth of the dish, will make you feel cozy and close in the cold winter days.
6. Experience tea ceremony culture
Discover traditional tea ceremony culture in winter in Kyoto (Photo source: Collected)
Winter is also the time to attend a traditional tea ceremony in Kyoto. In winter, you will enjoy a cup of hot matcha, in the cozy and peaceful space of ancient tea houses. This winter experience in Kyoto will not only help you find peace of mind but also help you understand more about the art of Japanese tea ceremony, an important part of the culture here.
7. Participate in the traditional culture of Hatsumode on New Year's Day
Immerse yourself in the traditional Hatsumode festival in Kyoto (Photo source: Collected)
When visiting Japan during the New Year, you must definitely participate in the Hatsumode festival, the traditional Japanese New Year festival. On New Year's Eve, temples and shrines in Kyoto will hold bell-ringing ceremonies to drive away bad luck and welcome good luck for the new year. You will feel the solemn yet colorful atmosphere at shrines such as Heian Jingu or Kitano Tenmangu. This is a great opportunity for you to participate in a part of Japanese culture and learn more about the typical New Year's rituals.
Experiencing winter in Kyoto is a journey that takes you to an ancient landscape, where white snow adorns sacred temples and lush green gardens become magical. Let's feel the quiet, charming beauty of the ancient capital of Japan this winter with Vietravel!
Source: https://www.vietravel.com/vn/am-thuc-kham-pha/trai-nghiem-mua-dong-o-kyoto-v16175.aspx
![[Photo] Binh Trieu 1 Bridge has been completed, raised by 1.1m, and will open to traffic at the end of November.](https://vphoto.vietnam.vn/thumb/1200x675/vietnam/resource/IMAGE/2025/10/2/a6549e2a3b5848a1ba76a1ded6141fae)
![[Photo] Binh Trieu 1 Bridge has been completed, raised by 1.1m, and will open to traffic at the end of November.](https://vphoto.vietnam.vn/thumb/402x226/vietnam/resource/IMAGE/2025/10/2/a6549e2a3b5848a1ba76a1ded6141fae)
Comment (0)