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Japan Weather in January

It is perhaps the coldest month in Japan with an average high temperature of 9℃ (48.2℉) in the daytime and the average low temperature of 2℃ (35.6℉). The north is much cooler than the southern regions, in particular, Hokkaido is the coldest area throughout the country. Remember to keep warm when going outdoors in January around Japan. Besides, there might be more rainfall or snowfall in the northern region, especially the northwest coasts, because of the northwest monsoon over Sea of Japan.


Winter, Shirakawa-go


The coldest cities in Japan in January:
Asahikawa: -8℃ (17.6℉), Kushiro: -5℃ (23℉), Sapporo: -4℃ (24.8℉), Aomori: -3℃ (26.6℉)  
The warmest cities in Japan in January:
Naha: 17℃ (62.6℉), Kagoshima: 8℃ (46.4℉), Nagasaki: 7℃ (44.6℉)

Averages for Japan Weather in January

High Temperature
9°C (48°F)
Low Temperature
2°C (36°F)
Rainfall
66 mm (2.6 in)
Sunrise
06:42 ~ 06:51
Sunset
16:39 ~ 17:07



January Temperatures in Japan


What to Wear
As the temperature is low in January, you can wear sweater, woolen overcoat, down coat, padded trousers, winter pants, and boots in Japan. Padded hat, scarf, and gloves are also useful to keep warm during the frigid days. The further north you go, the thicker clothes put on.
 
January Travel Guide – Where to Go & Tips
Tourism Rate: 
If you persist going to Japan in January in 2025 under such cold weather, then the below places are more recommended. 

1. Hokkaido

Hokkaido is a perfect to enjoy winter fun in Japan, with beautiful snow landscapes. You can also immune yourself in winter sports like skating, skiing, and snowboarding. Keep warm when enjoying yourself.


2. Tokyo: New Year Celebrations

Tokyo is great to experience the best New Year Celebrations in Japan. You can join in the countdown carnival since New Year Eve, Oji Fox Parade, New Year visits to Meiji Jingu Shrine or Senso-ji Temple, and more traditional activities. Take good care of yourself and your family in the crowds.

Japan New Year First Temple Visit
New Year First Visit to A Temple

Shirakawa-go
Gassho Houses in Shirakawa-go


3. Shirakawa-go

Shirakawa-go, a rural village with unique cottages, is a famous world heritage site in Japan. Covered by thick snow, it looks like a fairytale world completely with enchanting illuminations.
Shirakawa-go
Shirakawa-go

4. Hakone

Hakone is a good place to go to enjoy the Japanese onsen bath while catching the best views of Mt. Fuji nearby. You can get warmed up in a private hot spring during the cold days, meanwhile enjoy the snow-capped Mt. Fuji when it’s clear.


January Weather of Major Cities in Japan
January Temperature Sunrise / Sunset Humidity
(%)
High Low
Aomori
0°C / 32°F -5°C / 23°F 06:59 / 16:35 82
Asahikawa
-4°C / 24.8°F -12°C / 10.4°F 06:52 / 16:13 82
Fukuoka
10°C / 50°F
3°C / 37.4°F
07:23 / 17:34
65
Hiroshima
9°C / 48.2°F 2°C / 35.6°F 07:16 / 17:24 63
Kagoshima
13°C / 55.4°F
4°C / 39.2°F
07:18 / 17:38
64
Kanazawa
7°C / 44.6°F 0°C / 32°F 07:04 / 17:02 72
Kochi
11°C / 51.8°F 2°C / 35.6°F 07:10 / 17:21 56
Kyoto
9°C / 48.2°F 1°C / 33.8°F 07:05 / 17:08 63
Nagoya
9°C / 48.2°F 1°C / 33.8°F 07:00 / 17:04 64
Naha
20°C / 68°F
15°C / 59°F
07:18 / 18:00
65
Nara 8°C / 46.4°F
1.5°C / 34.7°F
07:04 / 17:07
63
Niigata
5°C / 41°F 1°C / 33.8°F 06:58 / 16:49 74
Osaka
9°C / 48.2°F 3°C / 37.4°F 07:05 / 17:10 57
Sapporo
0°C / 32°F -7°C / 19.4°F 07:03 / 16:26 68
Sendai
6°C / 42.8°F -2°C / 28.4°F 06:52 / 16:41 63
Tokyo
9°C / 48.2°F 4°C / 39.2°F 06:50 / 16:52 44