Hi everyone, our group of 6 (2 first-timers and 4 experienced Japan travelers) will be visiting from January 3rd to January 18th 2026. For this trip, we are planning to do a lot of the standard Golden Route, starting in Kyoto and ending in Tokyo. Based on what we have planned right now, I believe we have potentially 3-4 nights which we could spend somewhere other than Tokyo or Kyoto while still being able to do desired day trips (Uji from Kyoto, Kamakura from Tokyo, etc).
Personally, I am dying to see some snowy Japan, as I previously lived in Eastern Hokkaido for a Winter and thought it was so special. However, I am worried that 3-4 nights is not enough time for an ideal experience in Hokkaido. We do not want to ski or do any other winter sports, but we would love a good beginner snowy hike or other outdoor scenery. I am not opposed to renting a car. I've seen others recommend Nagano, and I have interest in any Northern/snowy spot in Japan. Does anyone have some wisdom they could impart upon me, experience with fun wintery overnight trips, or want to tell me to forget it and just spend more time in Tokyo?
I'd also appreciate anyone's thoughts or experiences with 1-4 nights in:
-Nagano (Togakushi, snow monkey mountain)
-Yamagata
-Niigata
-Nagoya(unrelated to the snowy theme, but just interested in stopping here for Ghibli park, train museum, and more)
Thank you!
by ialsomeow