Winter Japanese Course in Hokkaido

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
¥48,000 / 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 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.

Winter 2027


  • 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

Three people in traditional kimonos stand together in the snow in front of a Japanese shrine.

Kimono Dressing
着物着付け

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

A young man takes a selfie with a man and woman in kimonos in front of a snowy torii gate.

Friendship
友情

Join the joyful spirit of local guides as you explore Hokkaido’s winter wonders with warm smiles in the cold air.

A group of people in winter coats uses tools to carve a large snow sculpture at night in a city park.

Snow Festival Creations
雪祭り

Feel the creativity come alive at the snow festival as artists carve icy masterpieces under the night sky.

Cars drive through a snowy city intersection lined with tall buildings covered in large Japanese billboards.

Sapporo Snowy Cityscape
雪に包まれた札幌シティ

Witness Sapporo’s iconic nightlife in a snowy wonderland, where neon lights meet crisp winter streets.

A skier in a tan jacket raises a ski pole while standing on a snowy mountain with another large peak in the background.

Powder Paradise
パウダースノー楽園

Ski down powdery slopes with Mt. Yōtei watching over you, Hokkaido’s winter playground at its finest.

At night, an illuminated Christmas tree with gold ornaments stands beside a blue-lit lattice tower displaying the time.

Sapporo Illumination Night
札幌イルミネーションナイト

Celebrate the season with dazzling illuminations at Sapporo TV Tower, a winter night straight out of a fairytale.

People walk on a snowy path at night lined with glowing snow lanterns next to a canal and illuminated city buildings.

Canal Candle Walk
キャンドルの運河散歩

Stroll through glowing candle paths that transform the snowy harbor into a magical evening landscape.

An illuminated snow sculpture of two figures leaning closely together is covered in fresh snow as it falls at night.

Frozen Artistry
氷雪アートの世界

Discover breathtaking snow sculptures that turn frost into emotion, storytelling, and artistry.

Frequently Asked Questions about Winter Japanese 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.