December is the start of winter across Japan, but what that means in reality varies from north to south and east to west. In the northern island of Hokkaido, expect temperatures below freezing and snow. In southern parts of Kyushu, earlier in the month, you may still see autumnal colors. Here are a few important things to know about visiting Japan in December.
## Japan in December: A Comprehensive Travel Guide
December marks the official arrival of winter across the Japanese archipelago, offering a unique travel experience. While the depths of winter’s chill are yet to fully settle in, it’s crucial to be prepared for cooler temperatures, especially if you plan on exploring beyond the main urban centers. A dependable jacket is an absolute essential for any traveler venturing to Japan during this time. However, the weather in many regions remains conducive to outdoor sightseeing, making it a delightful time to experience the country’s many wonders. Keep in mind that the earlier weeks of December generally boast milder conditions compared to the latter half of the month.
The major metropolises situated on the islands of Honshu and Kyushu, namely Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and Fukuoka, typically enjoy average high temperatures of around 54° F (12° C) during December. Lows tend to hover around 41° F (5° C). In contrast, the Japan Alps region of Honshu experiences considerably colder weather. For instance, the city of Takayama sees average highs of 43° F (6° C) and lows dipping to 28° F (-2° C). Venturing further north to Hokkaido reveals even more frigid conditions. The city of Sapporo, for example, records average highs of 36° F (2° C) and lows of 25° F (-4° C). Interestingly, the subtropical and tropical islands of Okinawa offer a welcome escape from the cold, boasting pleasantly warm, though not scorching, temperatures. In Naha, the average high temperature reaches 70° F (20° C), while the low averages around 61° F (16° C).
When it comes to precipitation, anticipate snowfall in Hokkaido and the northern reaches of Honshu, specifically the Tohoku region. However, other parts of the country generally experience minimal rainfall and abundant sunshine. In particular, Tokyo and Osaka are blessed with remarkably sunny days throughout December, compensating for the cooler temperatures and making it a pleasant time to explore these vibrant urban hubs.
While winter represents the off-season for much of Japan, it also signals the commencement of the ski season in higher altitude and latitude destinations. However, snowfall in December can be somewhat unpredictable in many mountainous areas, with the ski season typically gaining momentum in January. If skiing is a priority during your December trip to Japan, it’s advisable to monitor local, up-to-the-minute conditions to determine if the season is starting earlier than usual at specific resorts.
Toward the end of December, domestic travel within Japan sees a significant surge. Many Japanese citizens embark on holidays leading up to the New Year (and extending slightly beyond), resulting in increased crowds at popular destinations. If your travel plans include late December, it’s crucial to book your accommodation and domestic transportation, such as bullet train tickets, well in advance to avoid disappointment.
If you’re not particularly keen on embracing frigid temperatures and snowy landscapes, consider focusing your itinerary on central and lower Honshu, along with the islands of Kyushu and Shikoku. With the abundance of sunshine in cities like Tokyo and Osaka (which is conveniently located near other notable destinations such as Kyoto, Kobe, and Nara), December presents an opportune time to explore Japan’s major urban centers. Places of cultural and natural beauty, such as Kyoto, possess a particularly enchanting allure during this time of year. Within the cities, you can partake in various outdoor activities, including strolling through gardens and parks. When the cold starts to bite, you can easily seek refuge in a museum, art gallery, or cozy restaurant.
The area surrounding Mt. Fuji makes for a particularly attractive destination in December. The likelihood of witnessing breathtaking views of the snow-dusted mountain is high. Moreover, the region is renowned for its numerous hot spring baths, some of which even offer captivating vistas of Mt. Fuji. These onsen provide the perfect opportunity to unwind and rejuvenate amidst the chilly weather.
For those seeking milder December temperatures, with even a chance to catch the tail end of the autumn foliage earlier in the month, Kyushu is an excellent choice. As Japan’s third-largest island, Kyushu boasts a compelling blend of intriguing cities (Fukuoka, Nagasaki, Kumamoto), majestic mountains and volcanoes, rejuvenating hot spring resorts, and picturesque coastlines.
One of the most quintessential Japanese experiences that can be enjoyed is a visit to an onsen bath. These natural hot springs are scattered throughout the country, and specific onsen resort towns can be fantastic destinations. These towns often boast a diverse array of baths within close proximity, including indoor options, baths with scenic views, and those with unique natural settings, such as being nestled within a cave.
Most travelers will find general sightseeing in Japan’s towns and cities particularly enjoyable in December, as it allows for a flexible mix of indoor and outdoor activities, adapting to the prevailing weather conditions.
While Christmas isn’t widely celebrated as a religious holiday in Japan, and it isn’t observed as a national day off, you’ll find festive Christmas lights and decorated trees adorning cities throughout the country, particularly in major urban centers. Christmas markets with a distinct European flair, often featuring mulled wine, also pop up in various locations. Notable examples include those at Roppongi Hills and Hibiya Park in Tokyo, as well as the Akarenga Christmas Markets in Yokohama.
Beyond the typical countdown celebrations held at bars and clubs in major cities, the New Year is traditionally celebrated at shrines across Japan. Many people brave the cold nighttime temperatures to welcome the new year by offering prayers at their local shrine. At larger shrines, you’ll typically find a variety of food and drink stalls lining the approach pathways, adding to the festive atmosphere.
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