Get the excitement going indoors! Winter activities that both kids and adults can enjoy
Precisely because it’s a cold winter, it’s nice when kids and adults alike can gather and enjoy games that warm both body and soul.
There are plenty of ideas—from lively activities you can play indoors with a big group while staying cozy, to games that incorporate winter-only experiences.
Here, we’ll introduce a wide range of options: from classic tag, to family-friendly venues, to indoor ways to enjoy winter traditions.
Spend a special time with friends and family, making the most of what only winter can offer!
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Get the party going indoors! Winter activities for kids and adults to enjoy (31–40)
Building a snow hut (kamakura)
In recent years, extreme weather has continued, and even regions that don’t usually get much snow sometimes see heavy snowfall.
When the snow paralyzes transportation and you can’t go anywhere, why not try building a kamakura (a snow hut)? It’s not widely known, but the inside of a kamakura is actually quite warm.
If you manage to make a big one, it might be nice to put a kotatsu inside and get cozy.
kite flying
Kite flying is a New Year’s tradition.
You have to run to get the kite up, so like it or not your body warms up.
There are many kinds of kites, so it’s fun to agonize over which one to choose.
If possible, you want to send it far and high, right?
Winter Canoe
Winter canoeing is all about paddling down a river in the colder months.
The paddling motion engages your whole body, warming you up nicely.
Enjoy the winter to the fullest while taking in the beautiful scenery! If there’s a place nearby where you can try it, definitely give it a go.
Airboard
It’s an activity where you ride a boat-shaped sled down a snowy slope.
You can enjoy a different sense of speed and thrill from skiing or snowboarding.
It’s a fresh, winter-only sport—give it a try!
Curling
Curling is a winter sport that has been attracting attention as an Olympic event.
Because it’s not an intense physical activity, even elementary school children can enjoy it.
The thrill of sliding a stone exactly where you aim is quite something.
Forming a family team and entering a tournament also sounds like fun.
skiing
Isn’t this something many people look forward to as a classic winter activity? Even if you can’t make it to a ski resort, you can play as long as there’s snow.
You might think it’ll be cold since you’re playing in the snow, but if you properly gear up with ski wear and warm clothing, you’ll warm up—so make sure to prepare well.
Snow rafting
Snow rafting is a game where you ride in a boat and glide over the snow.
You’re towed by a snowmobile to move around.
The sense of speed and the jostling sensation are experiences you don’t often get.
Try finding a facility that offers it and give it a go!
Parapara Snow Festival
With just a sheet of construction paper, an empty tissue box, scissors, and crayons, you can make a pretend Snow Festival to enjoy at home.
Snow flutters down from a handmade cloud.
It’s perfect for those cold winter days when you don’t want to go outside but still want to enjoy the snow.
It’s easy enough for small children to make, so parents and kids can have fun with a snow festival together.
long rope jumping
A group challenge where everyone syncs their timing: long rope jumping (jump rope with a big rope).
It’s great exercise for both the jumpers and the turners.
Once you get the hang of it, try speeding up and increasing the difficulty.
It’d be nice to gather as many people as possible.
Using two ropes for double dutch could be a good option too.
astronomical observation
A lot of people probably spend all their time looking at their smartphones and don’t look up at the night sky, right? Winter has clear air and is the perfect season for stargazing.
You don’t need any special telescopes or cameras.
Just make sure to dress warmly when you go stargazing.