Best Things to Do in Kyoto in Winter – Brave the ‘deep freeze’ with plenty to keep you warm!

Being one of the best experiences in Kyoto and perhaps a lifelong memory, it is not merely a calming cup of tea, it is a cultural and spiritual routine that makes this ceremony a profound experience. Kyoto where this ceremony was conceived and has become famous all over the world is the ideal place to try it. Whether you are at a hotel in Kyoto City the likes of Park Hotel Kyoto or a little beyond, there are many places to try. Visitors can wear the traditional kimono, learn the historical background of the ritual and make their tea led by the host. The hosts have mastered not only the ritual but the fine skill of relating to the guest and making the experience a learning and memorable one.

Despite being a mountainous city, Kyoto welcomes visitors to revel in winter sports rather than be closed indoors to make the most of their holiday and have that rush of adrenaline coursing through their veins bringing not only warmth but also fun. Skiing and snowboarding can be tried at many scenic and visitor-friendly resorts dotted in Kyoto as well as at close prefectures about a 30-minute drive away. Some ski resorts also have late-night openings on weekdays.

Wholesome warm food in good company is an antidote to ward off the cold. 'Nabemano' or 'Nabe' is the term that is used to describe a variety of Japanese hot pot dishes and the hot pot itself. Nabe include popular winter dishes such as yose-nabe, sukiyaki, and shabu shabu in which ingredients such as vegetables, seafood, meat, and mushrooms are used. Thse soups and stews are cooked in front of the diners on portable stoves. When enjoying hot pot dishes, you'll get a small bowl into which cooked ingredients are scooped with the help of a serving ladle. You can also add various condiments such as ponzu, daikon-oroshi, and shichimi to personalise the flavours.

The is undoubtedly an experience to pamper yourself, there are thousands of natural hot springs around Japan, known locally as 'onsen'. However, choose one with care and be aware of the etiquette of using hot springs in consideration of yourself and fellow users. Using an open-air onsen gives that exceptional aura of being surrounded by nature as you relax gazing at the snow-capped mountains with droplets falling on your shoulders.

New Year is regarded in Japan as a significant holiday, if you happen to be visiting during this time witness the customs and activities surrounding Hatsumode or 'first temple visit'. The atmosphere is colourful and festive with vendors displaying their ware, people in high spirits as they make their first visit to the temple. A good time to observe the men in kimono too, and enjoy the refreshments offered by the temples or shrines during these first seven days of January.