Mount Fuji Weather in December

 Season: Winter
 In short:
Mount Fuji weather in December features low temperatures and low precipitation, but with enough sunshine hours and high visibility. The climate of the higher elevations is frigid.

Low Temperature

Temperatures in the Mount Fuji foothills are generally low in December. In the early month, the maximum temperature is often around 10 degrees Celsius (50 degrees Fahrenheit), but rarely exceeds 15°C (59℉). By late December, daytime temperatures are generally around 5-8°C (41-46.4℉), which makes you feel quite cold. Nighttime temperatures are freezing, ranging from -5°C to 0°C (23-32℉) in the first half of the month; in the second half of the month, the lowest temperature can occasionally drop to around -10°C (14℉).

The temperature at the 5th Station of Mount Fuji basically remains below 0°C. Specifically, it’s about -4°C (24.8℉) during the day, and at night, the temperature drops sharply to below -10°C (14℉).

Low Precipitation / Humidity

The precipitation in December is the lowest throughout the whole year, with an average monthly precipitation of only 93mm; the precipitation frequency is also the lowest, about 10 wet days in the whole month, during which light fine rain occurs mostly, and snow may cover the foothills of Mount Fuji for several times.

High elevations of Mount Fuji have already seen heavy snowfall this month, with persistent accumulations. The snowline is gradually expanding as time passes. The highest point you can reach is the 5th Station, but the road to the 5th Station may be closed due to ice and snow, so you may only be able to reach the 4th Station or even lower.

The humidity at the foot of the mountain is quite comfortable, about 66%.

High Visibility in Mount Fuji

Daylength & Sunshine Hours

Sunrise time: 06: 36 - 06: 55
Sunset time: 16: 33 - 16: 42

As a month with roughly the latest sunrises and earliest sunsets throughout the year, you’ll only enjoy an average of 9.8 hours of daylight, resulting in a very tight schedule for a day. Therefore, it is recommended that you start your day early. The number of sunny days this month is pleasant, about 15 days, with an average sunshine time of about 6 hours per day. 

The UV rays are moderately weak at the foot of the mountain, with an average UV index of only 2; but if the weather is good and you are going to the 5th Station, it is recommended to apply sunscreen because the UV rays there are stronger.

Is December a Good Time to See Mount Fuji?

Yes, of course. December is characterized as a month with high visibility. The overall viewing ratio is about 77.4%, which means you have a great chance of seeing a full view of the creamier snow-capped Mount Fuji.

Many places around the foothills are optimal view spots: you can watch the snow-capped mountain from the shores of Lake Kawaguchi; at Nagaike Water Park of the north shore of Lake Yamanaka, you can admire the “upside-down” view of the mountain reflected in the lake’s surface; you can also overlook the snow-capped mountain from the Churei Pagoda at Sengen Shrine. Mornings generally enjoy highest visibility, so you can even book a room with a view and wake up to see the beautiful snow-capped Fuji from your warm room.

Tranquil Winter View of Mt. Fuji

What to Wear in Mount Fuji in December?

 Clothing
Most of the time during the day, it’s enough for you to wear a thermal underwear plus a hoodie with thick fleece, and a wool coat for the upper and a pair of long johns inside your thick sweatpants for the bottom. When you stay indoors, you can take off the out layer as heating is provided in restaurants, shops and trams, etc. Considering that you may start your day early or go to the 5th Station, you’d better wear a down coat or a 3-in-1 jacket as your upper outwear. This is also of great help if you return late after dusk.

 Footwear
Snow boots and fleece hiking boots with thick soles can both keep you warm and prevent your feet from getting wet if the ground is covered by snow. Besides, remember to bring several wool socks for extra warmth.

 Others

Wear a scarf and a winter hat when you go out since the perceived temperature is lower when the wind blows. Also, bring some heat packs in your bag so you can use whenever you need.

Seasonal Recommendations & Tips for Mount Fuji Trip in December

Elegant Swans on Lake Kawaguchi

If you plan to visit Mount Fuji in early December 2025, you can still enjoy the stunning autumn foliage at the foot of Mount Fuji. Places like the “maple corridor” near the north shore of the Lake Kawaguchi and the Arakurayama Sengen Park are still quite attractive, as the maple leaves have not yet completely fallen.

When the weather is fine, you can watch the beautiful swans at the Lake Yamanaka and Lake Kawaguchi, where they basically roost in the winter. You can also take a swan-shaped sightseeing boat and enjoy the tranquil lake and mountain scenery.

If you enjoy winter sports, you are highly recommended to visit the southern and northern slopes of Mount Fuji, both of which have ski resorts. Afterward, you can soak in a nearby hot spring to soothe your tiredness. However, please note that ski resort opening hours may change due to weather conditions, and the closing times at hot spring resorts may vary and may be adjusted during certain periods, so it is best to check local announcements in advance to ensure a smooth visit.

Mount Fuji Weather by Month