Japan Weather Today日本語Japan weather in January
Mid-winter: cold, dry and sunny on the Pacific side, deep snow in Hokkaido and along the Sea of Japan, and mild in Okinawa.
Average temperatures in January
| City | Average high | Average low |
|---|---|---|
| Sapporo | 0°C | -6°C |
| Tokyo | 10°C | 1°C |
| Osaka | 10°C | 3°C |
| Fukuoka | 10°C | 4°C |
| Okinawa (Naha) | 20°C | 15°C |
Rounded averages from the Japan Meteorological Agency (1991–2020). Actual weather varies from year to year: check the live forecast before you go.
Region by region
Hokkaido
Deep powder snow and freezing days: peak ski season in Niseko and Furano.
Tohoku and the north
Heavy snow on the Sea of Japan side and in the mountains; Aomori and Shirakawa-go are deep in snow.
Tokyo and Kanto
Cold but sunny, around 10°C by day and near freezing at night; clear views of Mount Fuji.
Kyoto and Osaka
Similar to Tokyo, a little colder in Kyoto; snow on temples is rare but possible.
Kyushu
Mild, around 10°C by day; occasional snow showers.
Okinawa
About 20°C by day, often cloudy and windy; whale watching season.
What to pack
A warm coat, layers, gloves and a hat; snow boots for Hokkaido and the mountains.
Highlights in January
New Year at shrines and temples (very busy 1-3 January), snow monkeys in Nagano, skiing, and early cherry blossom in Okinawa from late January.
Watch out for
Heavy snow can delay trains and close roads on the Sea of Japan side; dry air and cold mornings in Tokyo and Osaka.
Questions
Is January a good time to visit Japan?
Mid-winter: cold, dry and sunny on the Pacific side, deep snow in Hokkaido and along the Sea of Japan, and mild in Okinawa.
What should I pack for Japan in January?
A warm coat, layers, gloves and a hat; snow boots for Hokkaido and the mountains.
How warm is Tokyo in January?
On average about 10°C in the day and 1°C at night.
Check the forecast for
