Winter brings cool to cold weather across much of Japan with snow in the north and mountainous regions; southern areas stay milder. Tourist traffic is quieter outside of holiday periods, while winter-sport regions remain busy.
Average daily low and high (°C) and monthly rainfall. The badge shows how it feels, allowing for humidity.
Average temperature across Japan in December.
Sapporo, Niseko, Furano, Asahikawa
December returns to full winter: deep snow in Niseko and the mountains, frozen lakes in the interior, and Christmas illuminations in Sapporo. Ski resorts operate fully and onsen become particularly inviting after cold days; airports are generally reliable but blizzard-induced delays can occur on exposed routes. Bring heavy winter gear and allow extra travel time around New Year holidays.
Aomori, Akita, Sendai, Niigata, Kanazawa
December typically marks winter’s return: snowfall accumulates again, especially on the Sea-of-Japan side, and many mountain roads close for the season. Urban centers remain functional and attractive with quiet festivals, but remote rural travel becomes more challenging. Bring warm gear and expect slower connections if moving between coastal and inland towns.
Tokyo, Yokohama, Kamakura, Mt. Fuji approaches
December sees a return to clear, cold weather with festive illuminations and comfortable sightseeing conditions-urban winters are more brisk than frigid. New Year’s preparations cause one of the few major travel spikes in Japan, so plan transportation if traveling around late December. A light but warm coat and comfortable shoes for city walking are recommended.
Nagano, Matsumoto, Takayama, Kamikochi, Mt. Fuji approaches
December returns to winter dominance with reliable snow at elevation; early-season ski openings appear and alpine lodges gear up for the season. Lower valleys feel cold, and driving conditions on mountain roads require winter tires. The combination of snow, hot springs and quiet historic towns makes this a classic off-peak winter escape.
Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, Hiroshima, Okayama, Takamatsu
December turns cool and festive with winter illuminations in urban centers and quieter shrines; the Seto Inland Sea keeps milder temperatures than further inland. Expect fewer tourists outside the New Year holiday rush, making museum and temple visits more relaxed. Pack a warm coat for evening strolls and occasional brisk sea breezes.
Fukuoka, Nagasaki, Kumamoto, Kagoshima, Yakushima, Okinawa main and outlying islands
December cools but stays relatively mild on Kyushu’s coastlines; mountain areas can see snow at higher elevations such as Aso’s caldera rim. Yakushima is cooler and still wet-trail management may close some routes for safety. Okinawa is warm by comparison and a pleasant winter escape, though short daylight and occasional storms can affect diving schedules.
Cities offer winter light displays and preparations for New Year festivities; many cultural events occur in December.
See how December compares with the rest of the year, then read the full guide.