Winter Paradise Up North

Hokkaido's Winter is simply superb! May it be the world-famous powder snow, ice sculptures, fun winter sports, or simply the mesmerizing white landscape that catches everybody's attention. Imagine yourself gliding down the slopes of Niseko or Furano, experiencing the thrill of skiing or snowboarding in some of the finest powder snow conditions in the world. Join us on an exciting trip through Japan’s snow paradise and explore the unique Christmas markets, ice festivals, and mystic culture of the native inhabitants of Hokkaido; the Ainu. Don't miss the Sapporo Snow Festival, where you can marvel at intricate ice sculptures and enjoy delicious local cuisine amidst the winter wonderland.

Six people eat at a table in a break room.

This course is specifically created for our Hokkaido campus to give you full cultural exposure paired with many fun outdoor activities to make the coming Winter an unforgettable journey of a lifetime. From traditional Ainu dance performances to hot spring baths (Onsen) nestled in snowy landscapes, immerse yourself in Hokkaido's rich cultural tapestry while enjoying exhilarating activities like snowshoeing or dog sledding through pristine forests.

PACKAGE DETAILS

20 lessons / week **
2-8 weeks
Weekdays and Saturdays
Add Modules & Private Lessons
Open to all levels
Only Available for Hokkaido
¥44,000 / week
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* Application, Study, and Material Fee are not included.
** If a level has only 2 students, classes get upgraded to private or semi-private with 15 lessons/week.
WANNA STAY LONGER? Long-term courses Here!

Winter 2025


  • Possible START END dates.
  • Minimum duration of the course - 2 weeks.
  • Cultural Activities might take place on Saturdays.
  • Total Beginners start on 1st Monday of each month.

Winter 2026


  • Possible START END dates.
  • Minimum duration of the course - 2 weeks.
  • Cultural Activities might take place on Saturdays.
  • Total Beginners start on 1st Monday of each month.

Fun Snowy Activities

Two women in yukatas form a shape with their arms in front of a room divider.

Kimono Dressing
着物着付け

Transform into a vision of elegance with Kimono Dressing, experiencing the beauty of traditional Japanese attire.

People stand and sit silently in a room with cushions.

Zen Meditation
瞑想

Discover inner peace through Temple Meditation, finding harmony amidst the serene surroundings.

A man in a blue robe and a woman in a striped shirt hold large wooden sticks over a Japanese taiko drum in a room.

Taiko Drum Playing
太鼓

Feel the pulse of Japan with Taiko Drum Playing, channeling energy and rhythm into powerful beats from centuries ago.

A smiling woman with long dark hair paints a Japanese character with a brush and ink at a table in a studio.

Japanese Calligraphy
書道

Dive into the ancient art of Japanese Calligraphy, where brushstrokes become expressions of beauty and deep philosophical meaning.

Seven people in traditional Japanese clothing holding swords, standing on a wooden floor.

Katana Sword Practice
居合道

Unleash your inner Bushido Warrior with "Iaido" or "Tate", mastering the discipline and precision of the ancient Samurai.

Two snow sculptures embracing at night in a snowy city square.

Snow Festival
着物着付け

Enjoy the beauty and magic of Hokkaido's winter festivals. Join us for fun with friends in white snow Dreamland.

Three women pose with chopsticks near electric skillets of noodles in a room.

Japanese Cooking Workshop
日本料理

Delight your taste buds with a Japanese Cooking Workshop, mastering the secrets of authentic cuisine.

Five people in colorful kimonos kneel on a tatami mat floor, drinking from small bowls in front of a shoji screen.

Tea Ceremony
茶道

Find tranquility in the graceful movements of a Tea Ceremony, savoring every moment of cultural immersion.

Winter Course FAQ

I have never studied Japanese before, can I apply for this course?

Yes, of course! However, total beginners can only start on the first Monday of each month.

When does the course start and how long can I take it?

Meiji's Winter course takes place during January and February. You can take this course between 2-8 weeks.

What’s the difference between the Winter course and a regular Standard Course with Traditional Culture or Pop Culture?

They are indeed similar, yet have different components, e.g. special activities and excursions we only offer for the Winter period. There might be some overlapping activities with other modules, but we will ensure you have fun activities for the whole Winter season :)

What type of classes and activities will I have?

You will study 20 lessons of Japanese per week, and take 3 cultural or outdoor activities, such as tea ceremony, nearby mountain hiking, park visits, Taiko drumming, Soba making, Katana Sword Training, and many more! Some specific activities will take place on Saturdays depending on the season and availability.

Are all Winter excursions included in the course?

No, some excursions to far away destinations, e.g. Ainu Cultural Center, Otaru Snow Hiking, Asahikawa Snow Festival, Jozankei Hot Spring or Hakodate are separately charged and optional. We will inform you about the exact prices of these trips and you can sign up for them a week in advance.