When it comes to winter, Japan’s snow comes to mind.

Japan’s snow is known as “powder snow”, which is light and fluffy. Places like Hokkaido and Hakuba in Nagano are especially popular with overseas skiers.

Moreover, snow-covered shrines, temples, and hot spring towns create a uniquely Japanese landscape that feels almost magical to visitors from countries without snow. Even those who don’t enjoy skiing can experience and appreciate Japan’s winter charm.

Many people imagine that snowy destinations such as Niseko or Hakuba are far from urban centers and hard to access. However, that’s not the case. Here, we introduce five snow spots within easy reach of the Kansai area, including Osaka and Kyoto, that can be visited on a day trip.

 

5 Snow Spots You Can Visit on a Day Trip from Kansai

 

Biwako Valley

Escape the city and experience winter like never before at Biwako Valley, a stunning mountain resort overlooking Lake Biwa, Japan’s largest freshwater lake.

 

Best Time for Snow

Peak Snow Season: January to February

Enjoy the most reliable snowfall, ideal for skiing, snowboarding, sledding, and snow photography.

Early or Late Season: December to early March

Snow may be lighter, but you can still experience beautiful winter landscapes and enjoy snow play for kids.

Location

• Situated in the Hira Mountains, Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture, Japan
• Summit offers panoramic views of Lake Biwa, Japan’s largest freshwater lake

Access

• By Train & Bus:
  • Take the JR Kosei Line to Hira Station → 15 min bus ride to Biwako Valley
• By Car:
  • From Kyoto East IC (Meishin Expressway) → approx. 40 min
• Ropeway to Summit:
  • Biwako Valley Ropeway connects the base to the mountain top, providing stunning views along the way

 

Metasequoia Tree Road

Escape to Takashima, Shiga Prefecture, and stroll or drive along the iconic Metasequoia Tree Road, a 2.4 km avenue lined with approximately 500 towering Metasequoia trees.

Best Time for Snow

• Late December to February – Light snow often covers the 2.4 km avenue, creating a serene and picturesque winter landscape.
• Even if snowfall is light, the bare tree trunks form striking silhouettes against the white snow and blue sky, perfect for photography.

Location & Access

• About 1.5 hours by car from Kyoto
• Accessible by JR train + bus, though bus frequency is limited

 

Ine no Funaya – Japan’s Unique Seaside Village

Traditional fishing houses built on the water’s edge, with boat garages on the ground floor and living quarters above. Unique architecture blends sea and village life. Over 230 houses line the bay, creating a picturesque scene.

 

Best Time to See Snow

• December to February – Snow occasionally blankets the rooftops and harbor, creating stunning winter scenery.
• Peak Season: Mid-January to early February offers the most consistent snow coverage.

Location & Access

• Where: Ine Town, northern Kyoto Prefecture, along the Sea of Japan
• By Car: ~2.5–3 hours from Kyoto
• By Train & Bus: Kyoto → Toyooka Station → local bus (~3–3.5 hrs)
• On Foot: Main sightseeing area is easily walkable

 

Amanohashidate View Land

Amanohashidate, located in Miyazu City, Kyoto Prefecture, is a breathtaking natural sandbar stretching about 3.6 km across Miyazu Bay. Covered with around 5,000 pine trees, it is celebrated as one of Japan’s Three Scenic Views, alongside Matsushima and Miyajima.

The name Amanohashidate means “bridge to heaven,” as the land formation looks like a bridge connecting the sky and the earth. From observation points, visitors can try the traditional “Matanozoki” pose (bending over and looking through your legs) to see the sandbar appear like a dragon rising to the heavens.

 

Best Time for Snow

• Late December to February
• Peak Season: January to early February, when snow is most likely

Location & Access

• Where: Miyazu City, northern Kyoto Prefecture, Japan
• By Car: ~2.5 hours from Kyoto city
• By Train & Bus: Kyoto → Amanohashidate Station → bus or taxi (~3 hours)
• To the Summit: Ropeway or chairlift provides easy access and panoramic views

 

Kifune Shrine

Just outside Kyoto city, in the quiet mountain village of Kibune, lies Kifune Shrine, a sacred spot famous for its lantern-lined stone steps.

Location & Access – Kifune Shrine

• Where: Kifune, north of Kyoto city (about 30 min from central Kyoto)
• Train: Eizan Railway to Kibuneguchi Station + 10–15 min walk uphill
• Taxi: ~30 min from central Kyoto
• Tip: Winter is snowy; wear warm shoes with good grip

Best Time for Snow

• Late December to February – When snow falls, the red lanterns and stone steps transform into one of Kyoto’s most magical winter scenes.
• Snow is not guaranteed every day, but when it comes, the shrine becomes a fairytale-like wonderland.

 

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