Otaru Weather

Otaru is a port city located in the southwestern part of Hokkaido, Japan, characterized by a humid subarctic climate. Winter is cold and prolonged, typically lasting from November to around March of the following year. During this long period, Otaru is generally snow-covered. From April to May, the weather of Otaru gradually warms, and spring scenery revives. Although summer steps further from June to August, the weather remains pleasant without extreme heat. In autumn, from September to October, the climate gradually transitions from warm to cool, and the cityscape quietly transforms into a colorful display of fall foliage.

Temperature

Otaru experiences relatively small temperature variations throughout the year, as its summer is not scorching hot and winter is not excessively cold. Even in August, the hottest month, the maximum temperature rarely exceeds 33 degrees Celsius (91 degrees Fahrenheit), making it bearable without extreme heat. Compared to other popular Japanese cities like Tokyo and Osaka, Otaru’s summer can be described as pleasantly cool and comfortable. In contrast, during January, the coldest month, daytime temperatures generally hover around 0°C (32℉), with the lowest temperatures rarely dropping below -10°C (14℉).

Precipitation

Otaru’s annual precipitation is not particularly high, totaling 1,397mm, primarily manifesting as snowfall in winter and rainfall in summer, autumn, and spring.

Snowfall

Otaru is blanketed in pure white during the winter. Generally speaking, it starts snowing here in November and lasts until mid or late March of the following year. There are no less than 20 snowy days in each winter month. In addition, with the continuous low temperature, the snow in Otaru is very thick, especially during December to February when snowfall is greater, resulting in snow depths of up to two meters on both sides of the road.

Rainfall

There is no obvious rainy season in Otaru, so the overall rainfall is not very high. Relatively speaking, rainfall is concentrated in summer and autumn, especially in August to October. In addition, it is hardly affected by typhoons here, so sustained or heavy rainfall scarcely occurs over each month. Usually, the daily weather features an overcast day mixed with intermittent light rain or sunshine.

Humidity

As a port city, coupled with frequent wet weather, Otaru is relatively humid all year round. Though summer is characterized by high humidity, you won’t feel sticky by virtue of its mild temperature. However, you would feel a bit clammy if you travel during the winter month, so make sure your winter accessories are well prepared. The humidity in April and May of spring is slightly lower than in other months.

Best Time to Visit Otaru

The best times to visit Otaru are during the winter months from December to February and summer from June to August.

From December to February, Otaru boasts stunning snowscapes, where visitors can not only admire the famous “Otaru Snow Light Path” but also enjoy a variety of winter activities such as skiing and ice skating.

Visiting Otaru from June to August allows you to escape the scorching heat and stuffy air of other cities, while enjoying its pleasant summer climate and cool breeze. Additionally, you can experience the unique summer festivals and fireworks displays that are exclusive to Otaru.

See more: Japan Weather & Otaru Attractions

Seasonal Climate of Otaru & Travel Recommendations

Winter: November to March

 Climate

Winter in Otaru is the longest season of the year. Starting in November, temperatures drop significantly, with frequent cold spells and substantial fluctuations. From the beginning to the middle of the month, there may be a few days when the daytime high temperature rises to around 10-15°C (50-59℉), but it quickly drops below 6°C (43℉), while nighttime temperatures fall to around 0°C. By the end of the month, even the maximum temperatures generally stay below 10°C. As freezing weather arrives frequently, Otaru experiences one snowfall after another, with the snow layer gradually accumulating deeper.

From December to February, the entire period is dominated by low temperatures, with daytime temperatures mostly hovering around -3 to 3°C (27-37℉). Nighttime temperatures are rather freezing, dropping to below 0°C generally and sometimes plummeting to as low as -10°C (14℉). Heavy snowfalls frequently blanket the area, and blizzards may occur. In the event of such weather, public transportation could be paralyzed. Therefore, if you are planning a winter trip to Otaru, it is essential to monitor local weather forecasts in real time to ensure a safe and smooth journey.

By March, the temperature shows a gradual upward trend overall, but it remains quite cold. During the day, temperatures typically range between 0-6°C, occasionally rising to around 8-12°C (46-54℉), but nighttime temperatures frequently drop below freezing, though the lowest reaches about -4°C (25℉). Throughout this month, Otaru still has thick snow cover that has not melted. Heavy snowfall will still visit the city, but by the middle to late part of the month, it is more likely to be sleet during the daytime.

 Dressing Guide

Whether you are going to visit Otaru in December 2025 or during the winter months of 2026, thick clothes like thermal underwear for both upper and bottom, wool sweater, and fleece-lined pants are significant. As for the outer wear, bring a long down coat and a wool overcoat for flexible adjustment according to the temperature changes. Also, accessories such as hat, scarf, gloves, and earmuff are essential to pack. It’s equally important to make sure your winter shoes are both waterproof and slip-resistant because there are many slopes covered with ice and snow in the city.

 Winter Splendors
The shore along Otaru Canal is a must-visit place for winter visitors, as the snowy night atmosphere here is particularly beautiful and romantic. The lights along the coast are illuminated as night falls, highlighting the snow on the trees and street buildings. Especially during Christmas, New Year’s Day, and the Otaru Snow Light Path Festival in early to mid-February, it is not only a great time to enjoy the snow, but also an opportunity to experience various performances and food activities. The Mountain Tenguyama’s snow scenery is also unique, and it is a ski resort. Ski enthusiasts will never be disappointed!

Spring: April to May

 Climate
In April, the temperature gradually rises and the ice and snow melt. By mid-month, the daytime temperature rises to 10-15°C (50-59℉), and cherry blossom trees slowly grow flower buds. In May, the daytime temperature is around 12-20°C (54-68℉), making you feel warmer than before. But the chill still lingers in these two months, especially in the morning and evening periods; Moreover, drizzly weather is prone to occur, causing the temperature to fluctuate.

 Dressing Guide
Knitwear or light hoodie are needed. Besides, you’re recommended to pack a thicker outer layer like 3-in-1 jacket and lighter one such as a trench coat to cope with big temperature gap between the day and night and occasional temperature fluctuations.

 Spring Delights 
Cherry blossoms are generally in full bloom in late April to early May. Temiya Park, Otaru Park, Suitengu, the shore along Otaru Canal, and Tenguyama are top 5 viewing spots.

Summer: June to August

 Climate 
Otaru in June gradually transitions to the comfortable early summer season, with daytime temperatures around 20°C (68℉), which makes you feel very warm. In July and August, the temperature further rises, around 22-28°C (72-82℉), but without unbearable heat, and the temperature in the morning and evening is very cool. However, summer rainfall is somewhat frequent, especially in the months of July and August. To your relief, there are rarely heavy rainfall events, and the rainfall usually does not last long, so travel is basically not affected.

 Packing Guide
In June, a light shirt together with jeans or casual trousers are appropriate during daytime. It’s better to bring a light jacket in case you need it during early and late hours or when temperature drops on rainy day. Summer T-shirt, shorts, and dress are more suitable in July and August.

In addition, you are recommended to bring sunscreen and umbrella for UV protection and rain protection, respectively.

 Summer Activities
Otaru’s pleasant summer climate and lush green scenery are perfect for outdoor sightseeing. You can stroll through the Otaru Sakaimachi Street, experiencing the charming atmosphere and refreshing summer breeze. You can also take a sightseeing boat on the Otaru Canal, admire the red brick warehouse complex and historical buildings from the water, and enjoy the coolness of the sea breeze. It is worth mentioning that in late July, there is a very lively event called the Otaru Tide Festival. During this period, not only can you experience the local folk customs, but you can also enjoy the wonderful fireworks at night.

Autumn: September to October

 Climate
The weather in autumn is dropping steadily. In early September, it’s still very warm with the maximum temperatures of 20-26°C (68-79℉). By late October, it turns very cool, with the maximum temperatures falling to around 10-15°C, and minimum temperatures about 5-10°C (41-50℉). The precipitation occur frequently as rainy days are no less than 18 per month.

 Packing Guide
Light shirt together with thin trousers are suitable in September, and don’t forget to bring a light jacket if you go out in the early morning or return late. In October, thicker clothes like hoodie, sweatshirt, and windproof jacket are more appropriate. Additionally, rain gear and waterproof shoes are necessities.

 Autumn Vibrancy
The autumn in Otaru is colorful and splendid. Starting from mid-October, the autumn foliage becomes spectacular. Places like Temiya Park, Otaru Park, and Nakano Botanical Gardens are all excellent spots for enjoying the autumn scenery.