Winter Travel to Japan from India Rises Fifteen per Cent, Says Cox & Kings

Indian travellers show growing interest in winter itineraries

Cox & Kings reported a shift in travel behaviour among Indian travellers, noting a fifteen per cent increase in demand for winter departures to Japan for December to February travel compared to last year.

The company’s findings indicate growing interest in winter experiences, illumination festivals, and culinary-led itineraries. According to Cox & Kings, winter illumination has become a significant motivator for travel, with events such as Tokyo Midtown’s Illumination Walk and the Nabana no Sato light gardens drawing attention. These evening experiences are gaining traction among couples, families and younger travellers.

Cox & Kings has also noted rising participation in winter activities, including skiing, snow villages, wildlife trails, snowy hikes and open-air onsens. Travellers are engaging with seasonal contrasts such as outdoor hot springs, street-food stalls and quieter neighbourhood walks. These experiences are said to reflect an interest in winter culture and routines.

“Japan in winter has a completely different soul,” said Karan Agarwal, Director, Cox & Kings. “From local food trails to cultural rituals and unhurried neighbourhood days, travellers want depth and winter is when Japan reveals its most authentic side. Already among the top choices for 2025, Japan’s growing winter appeal now makes it a truly all-season destination.”

Winter cultural experiences are also being explored more widely. Cox & Kings reports increased interest in tea ceremonies in Kyoto, food tours in Osaka, kimono workshops, stays in traditional ryokans, and hot spring circuits in Hakone. The company also highlights interest in slow travel, including neighbourhood stays in Kyoto’s Gion district, cooking workshops and local craft programming.

Data from Cox & Kings shows that advance bookings for next year’s cherry blossom itineraries have risen by ten per cent. The company stated that winter demand is not replacing spring travel, but creating an additional seasonal peak.

As 2026 approaches, Cox & Kings noted that Japan remains in high demand among Indian travellers for both cherry blossom and winter itineraries.