Exploring new and sustainably enriched travel in Japan’s snowy regions

This mid-winter may tempt you to seek somewhere with warm weather and spectacular beaches. Many individuals might avoid traveling, especially to regions in Japan with heavy snowfall. Conversely, the reality is that there are a myriad of stunning experiences and picturesque scenery you can enjoy this season. To captivate visitors, yukiguni (snowy regions) have launched new ways to experience the winter wonderland.

Features of snowy regions in Japan

Areas facing the Sea of Japan are well-known to have heavy snowfall. Moisture-filled clouds are generated due to the warm current in the Sea of Japan. These clouds then develop as they hit mountains over 2,000 meters, propelled by monsoon winds from Siberia, resulting in a massive amount of snowfall.

In spite of the freezing cold weather, many people have inhabited these areas dating back to the Jomon period, which is about 8,000 years ago. It seems unbelievable. However, they have been devising ways to make their lives better while embracing the bountifulness of the harsh weather conditions.

Unveiling the charm of yukiguni’s timeless lifestyle

Residents in the snowy regions have honed their wisdom over the long-term winter to live there pleasurably. Water is generated by melting snow from the mountains, contributing to the bountiful crop.

Local sake is also famously crafted by taking advantage of pure water and rice. When it comes to food preservation, it is strongly reflected in their wits. Fermentation with vegetables harvested in spring and fall is a distinctive invention for residents to survive in winter when the delivery system is closed. To spread their unique but grounded lifestyle, they started offering two types of stays.

1. Workation: Blending work and cultural experience

If you are one of those who can work anywhere, it’s a great chance to travel to a yukiguni and stay for a couple of days or even weeks. Immerse yourself in a nature-centered environment and work efficiently, taking nourished breaks with simple cooking and bathing between tasks.

Cooking for themselves is essential for the extended stay of travelers, as the registered places provide local seasonings and recipes. This allows travelers to prepare something simple yet nutrient-rich. Miso paste with local bell pepper-shaped vegetables, called Kagura nanban, adds a finishing touch to rice balls. Noodles sourced from the powder of a nutrient-dense plant called Karamushi can serve as an alternative to making pasta.

This initiative is implemented based on the concept, “The travel is completed by the visitors being involved in the community.” On a day off, you can join many local activities throughout the year. In winter, you can take a stroll with snowshoes and make a snow igloo, guided by local seniors.

2. Traveling with a sense of homecoming

The definition of travel has been diversified due to changes in work and lifestyle. Many individuals seek a place where they belong beyond their own homes. In response to this demand, the travel plan called Kaeru tabi, was created. The travelers are required to assist with their accommodation, including house chores and cleaning. In exchange for their work, they are given a room and permission to use the common spaces for free.

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The main focus of the plan is building strong relationships with local residents more than with the place itself, enabling visitors to consider it their second home. Multiple visits make you feel like you belong as a family member rather than being welcomed as a guest. In your free time, the stay allows you to explore and discover something new in the snowy places, such as tasting local sake and bathing in the local hot springs.

The severe cold in the heavy snowfall areas of Japan is real. However, they offer plenty of incredible opportunities in harmony with their traditions and cultures for visitors. Consider these occasions for your next trip and discover the hidden bounties in the beautiful wintery areas.