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In northeastern Japan (Tohoku), you can witness the "Snow Monsters" of Zao—trees covered in so much ice and snow that they take on ghostly, alien shapes. February is also the best time to see the drift ice (ryu-hyo) in the Okhotsk Sea off the coast of Abashiri. By late February, the very first signs of early plum blossoms (ume) begin to appear in warmer regions, signaling that spring is on the horizon. Regional Variations

Winter starts early here, often in November, and lasts through March. Expect sub-zero temperatures and several feet of snow.

❄️ Indoor heating in Japan is very efficient, so you will want to peel off layers when entering trains or shops.❄️ Buy Heattech: This specialized thermal wear from Uniqlo is a staple for locals and incredibly effective at holding body heat.❄️ Visit an Onsen: There is no better feeling than soaking in a natural hot spring while snow falls around you.❄️ Watch for "Kaiming": Be careful when walking on city sidewalks; patches of ice can be surprisingly slippery in shaded areas. If you'd like to plan your trip further, let me know: Do you prefer city sightseeing and winter lights?