Hirosaki Weather in January
Season: Winter
Overview: The weather of Hirosaki is freezing cold over January, combined with frequent and heavy snowfalls. Also because of short sunlight duration, plus high humidity and strong winds, you need to take good measures to keep warm.
Temperature: Coldest throughout the Year
As the coldest month of Hirosaki, January features freezing climate every day. Even during the day, the maximum temperature rarely exceeds 4-6 degrees Celsius (39.2-42.8 degrees Fahrenheit), mostly hovering between -5 and 2℃ (23-35.6℉). Therefore, it is very important to take precautions to stay warm when going out. The temperature drops even more sharply at night, mostly below -2℃ (28.4℉), and sometimes can drop to below -10℃ (14℉). It is recommended that you wear thermal windproof clothing as well as hat, scarf, and gloves if you want to enjoy night activities.
Precipitation: Mainly Heavy Snow, Occasional Rain
This month’s precipitation is mainly snow, with an average of 26 snowy days; and the snowfall is very heavy, with an average monthly snowfall of 483 mm (19 inch). Thus, it is not hard to imagine that thick snow accumulations, with a depth of more than 1 m (39 inch), can be seen in many places.
Historical records show an average of 6 days of rain throughout the month. It is likely that the snow turned into rain due to the temperature rising above freezing point around noon. This situation is more prone to cause icy and slippery roads.
High Humidity & Strong Wind
With abundant snowfall, the air is quite humid, with an average humidity of 89%. What’s worse, January is characterized by strong winds, which couples with high humidity, make you feel even colder.
Daylight Duration & Sunshine Hours: Both Short
Sunrise time (1st-31st): 07:03 - 06:50
Sunset time (1st-31st): 16:22 - 16:54
Average daylight duration: 9.6 hours
Average sunny days: 2 days
Average sunshine duration: 1 hour per day
Dominated by snowy and overcast days, Hirosaki scarcely enjoys sunny weather. However, you need to be aware of the glare reflected by large areas of snow. To deal with this problem, you’d better wear sunglasses when staying outdoors for long.
Packing Guide for Hirosaki Trip in January, 2026
Upper: It’s recommended to wear a thermal close-fitting underwear as the inner layer so as to prevent the penetration of cold air, and then add a wool sweater or fleece-lined hoodie. As for the outer wear, long down jacket is the best option for outdoor sightseeing. This layered style of dressing is quite convenient because most indoor spaces are heated, where you can just keep the inner layers.
Bottom: Thermal underpants plus thick sweatpants or fleece-lined cargo pants are suitable for most circumstances. Female tourists who want to wear in a more stylish way can choose thick winter dress together with thermal tights.
Footwear: Given thick snow accumulations and common icy grounds, it’s advisable that you wear ankle-high hiking boots with non-slip features or waterproof snow boots. In addition, bring a few pairs of winter socks.
Other things to bring:
1. To cope with the frigid climate, other winter accessories like knitted hat, scarves, and gloves are essential.
2. Bring a few heating pads when you go out. You can use them to keep your body warm and also as a backup if your phone turns ineffective because of the low temperatures.
3. What’s more, don’t forget to bring your sunglasses for snow glare protection.
Travel Advice & Tips
1. During winter months, the Snow Lantern Festival is usually held in Hirosaki Park. The lighting event usually lasts from sunset until 21:30. If you want to experience it, be sure to take proper precautions for warmth.
2. Due to the short daylight hours, you’d better make the best of it and start your itinerary early. However, January marks the slack season for tourism in Hirosaki, meaning you can enjoy a more peaceful trip as well as more favorable travel costs.
3. When the weather is calm, you can enjoy the snow scenery outdoors. The red Saishoin Temple Five-Story Pagoda and Shunyo Bridge stand out against the white snow. Hirosaki Castle also presents a solemn atmosphere quite different from that of the cherry blossom season. However, please note that Hirosaki Castle Donjon is closed from November 24th to mid-April. If it snows heavily or there is strong wind, it’s best to choose indoor attractions, such as the Aomori Bank Museum, Hirosaki Museum of Contemporary Art, and Tsugaru-han Neputa-mura Village, which offer both warm spaces and unique experiences of local history, culture, and art.
4. The operation of Shinkansen, and even buses, can easily be affected by heavy snow. They may be delayed or even canceled on those days. Therefore, to ensure you have a smooth travel experience, especially smooth arrival and departure, be sure to check the weather forecast in advance and avoid traveling in bad weather.
5. The thick snow piles are quite beautiful, but for safety reasons, do not step on them carelessly as it could cause injury from the sharp branches or hard objects hidden inside.
