Discover the poetic winter in Japan in the Hokuriku Shinetsu and Tokai regions

(Dan Tri) - Possessing many unique charms, the Hokuriku Shinetsu and Tokai regions spanning Japan's main island are suitable choices for winter travel.

The Hokuriku Shinetsu region is a combination of the two regions of Hokuriku and Shinetsu. Hokuriku is one of the places with the heaviest snowfall in the world , while Shinetsu is surrounded by the majestic Alps and is covered in white snow every winter.

In contrast, Tokai, located on the Pacific coast, has a warm climate, little snow, and pleasant winters with many sunny days.

Not only possessing natural beauty, but the culture and traditional cuisine of the two lands above also promise an unforgettable experience on the journey to discover Japan from the perspective of JNTO.

Hida Furukawa Ancient Town

From late December, the ancient town of Hida Furukawa often has many clear days covered in white snow. Along the Seto River, rows of old white-walled warehouses and stone-paved roads are covered with a thick layer of snow, highlighting the ancient beauty.

Hida Furukawa (Photo: Hida City).

Hida Furukawa is also known as the inspiration for the setting in the famous anime Your Name. Tourists often visit familiar landmarks such as Furukawa Station or Keta Wakamiya Shrine to relive the scenes from the movie.

In Hida Furukawa, on January 15th every year, the Santera Mairi event takes place, which is considered a matchmaking activity for young men and women. Carrying wishes, event participants will visit three temples in turn, creating a warm and magical atmosphere.

Along the Seto River, the Senbon Rosoku candle-lighting event lights up the space with traditional Japanese candles in white and red made in Hida Furukawa. According to custom, the white candle is used to make a wish, while the red candle represents gratitude when the wish comes true.

Scene of the Santera Mairi event and Keta Wakamiya Shrine (Photo: Hida City).

In terms of cuisine, the Hida region is known as the birthplace of Hida beef, one of the most famous beef brands in Japan. Visitors can enjoy delicious dishes made from Hida beef, along with local specialties such as gohei mochi and ramen noodles.

Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum

Katsuyama City in Fukui Prefecture is a valley nestled in fertile mountains and is famous for its thick snow in winter. From geological layers accumulated over millions of years, many dinosaur fossils have been discovered and excavated here, helping the Prefectural Dinosaur Museum

Fukui is considered one of the world's top dinosaur museums.

Katsuyama Dinosaur Forest Park (Photo: Fukui Prefectural Tourism Federation).

Dinosaur World (Photo: Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum).

With over 50 dinosaur skeletons on display, along with reconstructed models, moving robots, and geological and paleontological displays, the museum offers a fascinating experience for both children and adults.

Dinosaurs discovered in Fukui Prefecture such as Fukuisaurus and Fukuiraptor are must-sees when visiting. In addition, during the heavy snow season from January to February, the park surrounding the museum is also very popular with dinosaur-themed snow games.

Fukui also has a local cuisine that is blessed by nature. Echizen crabs caught from this cold Japanese sea are a famous specialty. Traditional Echizen soba noodles are also very popular because of their rustic and easy to enjoy taste.

Gotemba Kogen Tokinosumika Resort

At the Gotemba Kogen Tokinosumika Resort located in Gotemba City, Shizuoka Prefecture, a large-scale light festival called “Hikarinosunmika” is held every year. With the theme of “Miracle Forest”, “Hikarinosunmika” will light up about 5.5 million light bulbs, transforming the majestic natural scenery overlooking Mt. Fuji into a sparkling scene.

The 2025-2026 “Hikarinosunmika” light festival will be held at Tokinosumika this winter (Photo: Gotemba Kogen Tokinosumika).

The event will also feature a 300m long light tunnel and a 20m high iconic light tree inspired by Mount Fuji. The 150m high laser water show, which won the best award at the 2024 International Lighting Awards, will feature a breathtaking combination of dance choreography by world-class choreographer Shojin and the magical “Night Baburium” soap bubble show.

Recognized as a “Japan Night View Heritage”, this place has become an ideal winter destination, not only attracting families but also especially popular with couples.

In addition, the resort's large campus is fully equipped with accommodation facilities, hot springs, restaurants, cafes, etc. Visitors can enjoy dishes made from local ingredients, especially Shizuoka's famous eel dish.

Source: https://dantri.com.vn/du-lich/kham-pha-mua-dong-nen-tho-tai-nhat-ban-o-khu-vuc-hokuriku-shinetsu-va-tokai-20251112160433355.htm