December sees the arrival of winter (December to February) in Japan, with bright skies and cold temperatures throughout the country.

Snowfall typically hits north Japan more frequently in late December when the skiing season is approaching. Meanwhile, central and south Japan stay dry most of the time. Additionally, you can expect warmer temperatures earlier in the month.

Exotic oriental culture, fantastic winter illuminations, and traditional hot spring bathing make Japan an ideal destination for Christmas and New Year celebrations.

Find out about average temperatures, rainfall, and tips on where to go and what to wear in Japan in December below.

Japan Weather in December: How Cold Is It?

December marks the beginning of winter in Japan. Snow is mainly limited to northern and mountainous areas. Central and southern Japan usually have little rain in December, with many sunny days.

Outside Hokkaido, daytime temperatures in most popular cities average around 50°F (10°C). Temperatures drop noticeably at night, often falling below 41°F (5°C).

Table of Cities' Weather in December:

Data Source: Based on Japan Meteorological Agency 10-year average data (2016–2025)

Where to Go in December?

When visiting Japan in December, the main question is not how cold it is, but what kind of winter experience you want.

Great for Atmospheric Winter Celebrations: Tokyo and Central Japan

Amanohashidate in Winter

Central Japan (Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, etc.) is dry and often sunny in December, with daytime temperatures generally above 50°F (10°C).

It is particularly suitable for city sightseeing, food, and winter illuminations.

You would have the highest chance of getting a clear view of spectacular Mount Fuji.

Christmas celebrations, winter illuminations in Tokyo, ryokan inns and hot springs in Hakone, and the Japanese Alps area are other December highlights.

Snow Wonderland: Hokkaido and Northern Japan

View of Otaru Canel in Winter season with sunset, Hokkaido

Major ski resorts begin to fully open, while early-season snow can bring fewer visitors. After skiing, a ryokan stay with a snow-surrounded hot spring adds another classic winter experience.

Snow may affect some roads. You're suggested to take a private tour, which is helpful to eliminate the hassles and flexible to avoid such seasonal disruptions. Learn about 9-Day Best of Japan's Winter – Hokkaido Private Tour.

Winter Getaway: Okinawa and Southern Japan

For a milder winter escape, consider Okinawa and southern Japan.

Unlike the cold central and north, southern Japan (Okinawa) is still cool and pleasant.

December is the driest month of the year in southern Japan with temperatures ranging from 70°F (21°C)

Water activities and sunbathing are still available. If you are a nature lover, you can also go on a whale-watching sea expedition.

Continue to read >> An Insider's Guide to Okinawa

The 5 Best Places to Visit in Japan in December

Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka allow a summative view of Japan. You could discover their highlights with few crowds in the first half of December, but to encounter atmospheric festival celebrations, visit around Christmas and New Year.

Snow and hot springs are the themes of winter in Japan. Nagano and Hokkaido won't disappoint you. Learn more about how long to spend in these cities.

1. Tokyo: Most Festive Celebrations, Winter Illuminations

Lighting-up in Tokyo

Tokyo in December is fairly good for outdoor activities with plenty of sunny days. If you prefer a warmer and less-crowded time in Tokyo, visit in early December.

As it is the time for celebrations, Tokyo is full of festival atmosphere. The streets and shopping malls are decorated with shining illuminations from late November.

You could browse Christmas markets, celebrate Christmas with your favorite Disney Characters, and join in the New Year's countdown parties in late December.

Check out two New Year's events in Tokyo that are definitely worth attending on Dec 31:

• Zōjō-ji New Year prayer meeting: The ceremony starts at 11 p.m. You could burn old lucky charms to express gratitude for the guardianship of the past year. Zōjō-ji is near Tokyo Tower, allowing you to enjoy the Tokyo Tower countdown light show as well.
• Ōji Inari Shrine parade: On the evening of December 31, men, women, and children will paint fox makeup or wear fox masks to celebrate the arrival of the New Year together.

2. Kyoto: Traditional Cultural Experiences in Heated Buildings

Golden Temple of Japan

In Kyoto, the average maximum temperature in December is 54°F (12°C).

As Kyoto is an ancient capital, its traditional cultural experiences are great ways to escape the cold weather. Whether you're on a couple's vacation or a family trip, Kyoto has something to offer.

Inside heated premises, taste traditional Japanese tea with a geisha, try on a kimono, go for an interactive ninja experience session, and take a swordsmanship lesson.

With a magical atmosphere, the bell-ringing ceremonies in Kyoto's temples are a special way to welcome the New Year in Japan.

You could attend a New Year event at Chionin Temple. The festivities start at 10:40 p.m. on December 31. Seventeen monks will perform 108 bell-ringing ceremonies, praying for the elimination of sin and stability in the world. As the final bell tolls, the New Year officially begins.

3. Osaka: Mouthwatering Food and Super Nintendo World

Playing games in the Super Nintendo World

Osaka in December is generally sunny and dry, with some occasional rain or snow.

During the cold days, sampling authentic Japanese food is ideal for warming up and learning about local life. As much as Tokyo is popular for its fancy Michelin cuisine, Osaka is well-known for affordable street food.

The holiday season is also celebrated in Osaka. Winter illuminations are easily found everywhere, and don't miss the eye-catching Osaka Castle Illumination. You and your kids can experience a Christmas extravaganza in Universal Studios and play games in its Super Nintendo World.

Experience the Universal Studios Osaka New Year Carnival from December 31 at 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. on New Year's Day. Enjoy 26 hours of super-long New Year activities, including special performances, countdown fireworks, and dancing together. The atmosphere is the best in Japan.

4. Nagano: Encounter Snow Monkeys

Snow Monkeys are bathing in a hot spring

In December, Nagano experiences cold and snowy weather conditions, with average temperatures ranging from 28°F to 43°F (-2°C to 6°C). Blanketed by snow, you could fully immerse yourselves in winter fun.

Your Nagano trip would not be complete without a hot spring experience. You could also capture iconic pictures in Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park: photograph snow monkeys soaking in the hot springs. Skiing among the breathtaking scenery is exciting as well.

5. Hokkaido: Winter Fun in a Snow World

Furano, Hokkaido, Japan town skyline in winter at twilight

Travelling to Hokkaido, you'll step into a world of snow. Go skiing — ski resorts in Niseko, Rusutsu, and Furano are recommended in December.

If you want to experience an ice village, visit the beautifully lit riverside paths in Otaru, Hakodate, or Sapporo. During Christmas, you'll also find festive light shows with holiday themes.

If you're travelling with kids, don't miss the winter penguin walk at Asahiyama Zoo after mid-December. You'll get to see the penguins waddle along their snowy path.

To learn more about winter festivals in Hokkaido, read our guide to Japan Winter Snow Festivals.

When to Visit Japan in December: Early or Late?

Early and late December differ mainly in crowds, availability, and cost.

Early December is generally quieter and more budget-friendly, with fewer crowds and flights and accommodations that are easier to book and often cheaper.

From around December 20, demand rises for the Christmas and New Year holidays. Flights and hotels can fill up quickly, with prices increasing by 30–50%, especially in major cities and ski areas.

For holiday travel, book your private trip at least half a year in advance to secure your preferred arrangements, lock in the price, and enjoy early-booking benefits.

What to Wear in December

Tourist Visiting Niseko and sightseeing Yotei Mountain with Snow in winter season in Hokkaido, Japan

For most city trips, layers are more practical than one heavy winter outfit. In Tokyo, Kyoto, or Osaka, you may move between chilly streets and well-heated restaurants, museums, and other indoor attractions throughout the day.

A practical city outfit includes:

In Snow Areas

For Hokkaido and mountainous areas, prepare for snow and colder outdoor conditions. Waterproof footwear, a warmer outer layer, gloves, a hat, scarf, and heat packs are useful.

In Southern Japan

On warmer southern islands, light layers are usually enough to adjust to temperature changes between day and night.

Sun protection is also recommended, as December often brings plenty of sunny days.

Can Snow Affect Your Travel Time?

It depends on where you travel. Major city trains in Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka generally run on schedule in December, so winter alone should not cause major delays.

Snow can slow travel in Hokkaido and mountainous areas, affecting mountain roads and winter driving, especially during heavy snowfall.

Leave extra time for airport-to-ski-resort transfers, private transfers, and mountain sightseeing in case of weather-related delays.

Monthly Weather and Travel Information for Japan

Learn about the weather in Japan for 12 months and find out the best places to visit each month.