Japan weather in December marks the beginning of winter, with temperatures dropping across most of the country. However, the weather can feel very different depending on where you are travelling. Hokkaido is already deep into winter, while Tokyo and Osaka are usually cold and relatively dry. Okinawa remains much milder.
December can be a great time to visit Japan for winter illuminations, seasonal food, hot springs and the start of the ski season. Japan's weather in December is also generally drier in many popular cities, although snowy conditions are common in northern and mountainous areas.
If you are planning a trip to Japan in December, here is what to expect from the weather, temperature, rainfall and snowfall in different parts of the country.
December is officially the start of winter in Japan. Temperatures vary considerably from north to south, so there is no single temperature range that applies to the entire country.
In general, northern Japan is cold and snowy, central Japan is cold with relatively dry weather, and southern Japan is milder. The Japan National Tourism Organization notes that weather conditions can vary greatly across the country because of Japan's long north to south geography.
Tokyo's December climate normals show a monthly mean temperature of around 7.7°C, while Sapporo's is around minus 0.9°C. Naha in Okinawa is much warmer, with a December monthly mean of around 19°C.
For reference, December climate conditions in several popular destinations are approximately:
Destination | December temperature | Typical December conditions |
Sapporo | Around minus 0.9°C mean | Very cold, frequent snow |
Tokyo | Around 7.7°C mean | Cold, generally dry and sunny |
Osaka | Around 8°C mean | Cold, generally dry |
Kyoto | Around 7°C mean | Cold, especially mornings and evenings |
Fukuoka | Around 9.1°C mean | Cool to cold |
Naha, Okinawa | Around 19°C mean | Mild and comfortable |
Hokkaido is one of the coldest parts of Japan in December and is the best choice if you want a proper snowy winter experience.
Sapporo has a December climate normal of around minus 0.9°C, while December precipitation averages around 114.5 mm. Snow is common, and many ski resorts begin operating during December.
Popular winter destinations include Sapporo, Niseko, Furano and Rusutsu. Hokkaido is particularly famous for its powder snow, with mountainous areas receiving substantial snowfall throughout winter.
If you are visiting Hokkaido in December, prepare for freezing temperatures, snow covered streets and potentially icy surfaces.
Tokyo is cold in December but usually does not have the heavy snow associated with Hokkaido.
The December climate normal for Tokyo is around 7.7°C, with average precipitation of approximately 57.9 mm. This makes December one of the drier periods of the year in Tokyo.
December is a popular time to explore Tokyo's winter illuminations, shopping districts and attractions. Sunny winter days can feel pleasant during the afternoon, but temperatures drop quickly after sunset.
Snow is possible but relatively uncommon in central Tokyo, so you should not plan a Tokyo trip expecting a snowy cityscape.
Osaka experiences a cold but generally manageable winter in December.
Average daytime temperatures are around 12°C, while nighttime temperatures can fall to around 5°C. Snow is uncommon in the city, although temperatures can feel colder on windy days.
December is a good time to explore Osaka's shopping streets, food districts and winter illuminations without the hot and humid conditions experienced during summer.
Kyoto can feel surprisingly cold in December, especially in the early morning and evening.
The city's inland location means temperatures can feel colder than expected compared with nearby Osaka. If you plan to visit temples and gardens early in the morning, bring proper winter layers rather than relying on a light jacket.
Snowfall is possible in Kyoto, but consistent snow cover is not guaranteed. If seeing snow is a major priority, northern Japan or mountainous areas are a more reliable choice.
Northern Honshu becomes increasingly wintry in December, particularly along the Sea of Japan side and in mountainous areas.
Snow generally begins earlier in northern Japan, Tohoku and mountainous regions. However, conditions vary significantly even within the same region because the Pacific side and Sea of Japan side experience different winter weather patterns.
Cities and destinations such as Aomori, Akita and Yamagata are good options for travellers looking for snowy scenery and winter experiences.
Kyushu is warmer than Hokkaido and northern Honshu, although December is still a cool to cold month.
Fukuoka has a December climate normal of around 9.1°C, with average precipitation of approximately 67.5 mm.
Southern Kyushu is warmer, making destinations such as Kagoshima more comfortable for travellers who want to experience Japan in winter without extremely cold temperatures.
Okinawa is the warmest part of Japan in December.
Naha has a December climate normal of around 19°C, while average December precipitation is around 110 mm.
You will still want a light jacket, particularly in the evenings, but Okinawa does not have the freezing winter conditions experienced in Hokkaido or northern Japan.
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What you should wear depends on the destination.
For Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto, pack a warm winter coat, sweaters, long sleeved tops, long trousers and comfortable closed shoes. A scarf can also be useful, particularly in the morning and evening.
For Hokkaido and snowy destinations, you will need much warmer clothing. A proper insulated winter jacket, thermal layers, gloves, a scarf, beanie and warm socks are recommended. Waterproof shoes or winter boots with good grip are especially useful when walking on snowy or icy surfaces.
For Okinawa, you can pack lighter clothing. A jacket or sweater should be enough for cooler evenings, although the weather can still feel breezy.
If you are travelling between several regions, layering is the easiest option because indoor areas such as shopping malls, restaurants and trains are often heated.
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Tokyo is a great choice for a winter city break, with cold but generally dry weather and plenty of seasonal activities.
Tokyo's winter illuminations are one of the highlights of December, with major displays across areas such as Marunouchi and Tokyo Midtown.
Kyoto can feel particularly cold in December, but the cooler weather makes it a lovely time to explore its temples, shrines, and traditional neighbourhoods.
Kyoto's winter season is also a good opportunity to enjoy its temples, shrines and countryside areas while winter onsen experience offer a warm escape from the cold.
Osaka is a good option if you want winter sightseeing combined with food, shopping and nightlife. December brings festive illuminations and end of year events across the city.
For travellers who want to experience snow in Japan in December, Sapporo and the wider Hokkaido region are among the best choices. Hokkaido is famous for its powder snow and winter resorts including Niseko, Rusutsu and Furano.
However, Sapporo Snow Festival takes place in February not December so don't list it as a December attraction.
If you want to escape the colder winter weather, Okinawa is one of the warmest parts of Japan in December. It is a better choice for travellers who prefer mild weather beaches, and outdoor activities rather than snow.
Okinawa remains considerably milder than northern and central Japan during winter, making it a good alternative if you are not looking for a traditional snowy winter trip.
Japan's weather in December is cold, dry and distinctly wintry in much of the country but conditions vary greatly from region to region.
Tokyo and Osaka are cold without usually having heavy snow, Hokkaido offers a true snowy winter and Okinawa remain comparatively mild.
For Singaporeans who want to experience winter, December is particularly attractive time to visit Japan.
Whether you are hoping to see snow in Hokkaido, enjoy winter illuminations in Tokyo or explore Kyoto crisp winter air, choose the right destination that will make a memorable trip for you.
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