Mornings sit near the overnight low around -8°C with clear, cooler light — best for outdoor photos before crowds build.
Sapporo Weather in January
Everything you need to know about Sapporo weather in January
Updated September 10, 2026
Japan · Sapporo
Sapporo Weather in January
January in Sapporo is cold, bright and unmistakably festive. Expect daytime highs around -1°C (30°F), nights at freezing, a first dusting of snow, and the city at its most magical and most crowded Check the full climate tables below for monthly averages and packing cues.
- Avg high / low
- -1°C / -8°C
- 30F / 18F
- Precipitation
- 80mm
- 10 wet days
- Snowfall
- 23cm
- 9.1 in average
- Daylight
- 9.5 hrs
- near the annual low
Sapporo average temperatures through the year
JanuaryRest of the year
-1°
0°
4°
10°
16°
21°
25°
27°
22°
15°
8°
1°
JAN
10 wet
FEB
9 wet
MAR
8 wet
APR
7 wet
MAY
7 wet
JUN
8 wet
JUL
9 wet
AUG
8 wet
SEP
7 wet
OCT
6 wet
NOV
7 wet
DEC
9 wet
Daytime highs in Celsius with wet days per month for Sapporo. January sits at -1°C with 10 wet days.
The short answer
January falls in Sapporo's winter. Daytime highs average -1°C (30°F) with nights near -8°C (18°F). Precipitation totals about 80mm across roughly 10 wet days. Snowfall averages about 23cm (9.1in), usually in brief mid-to-late month windows. Visiting works well if you plan for high crowds Check the full climate tables below for monthly averages and packing cues Check the full climate tables below for monthly averages and packing cues.
January climate in Sapporo
Monthly averages for Sapporo, Japan.
- Day high
- -1°C
- 30°F
- Night low
- -8°C
- 18°F
- Precipitation
- 80mm
- 3.1 in
- Wet days
- 10
- rain or snow
- Snowfall
- 23cm
- 9.1 in, 6–8 snow days
- Sunrise
- 7:15am
- mid-January
- Sunset
- 4:45pm
- near the annual low
- Daylight
- 9.5 hrs
- 3 hrs sunshine
Averages based on long-run monthly climate normals. Last updated September 10, 2026.
Real weeks swing around the -4°C mean. Early January often sits near 0°C while the final week lands closer to -2°C. Pack a spare layer for that 3° drift rather than dressing only for the monthly average Check the full climate tables below for monthly averages and packing cues Check the full climate tables below for monthly averages and packing cues.
Rain and brief snow usually arrive in pulses across the 10 wet days. Dry stretches between systems feel clearer and colder overnight. Use those gaps for outdoor sightseeing and keep indoor backups for the wetter clusters Check the full climate tables below for monthly averages and packing cues Check the full climate tables below for monthly averages and packing cues.
What is the average temperature in Sapporo in January?
The average temperature in Sapporo in January is around -4°C (25°F), combining daytime highs of -1°C (30°F) with night lows of -8°C (18°F). The month cools steadily: the first days average highs near 0°C, while the final week typically tops out around -2°C with nights of -9°C.
Average daily high and low through January. The month cools by roughly 3 degrees start to finish.
How much does it rain in Sapporo in January?
Sapporo gets around 80mm (3.1in) of precipitation in January, spread over roughly 10 wet days, a mix of cold rain early and rain-snow mixes later. Wet spells typically last a day or two and clear to drier stretches in between.
80
72
64
56
56
64
72
64
56
48
56
72
JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEP
OCT
NOV
DEC
Average precipitation by month in millimetres. January's 80mm sits near the annual rhythm.
Average precipitation by hour of day in Sapporo
January precipitation in Sapporo falls fairly evenly around the clock, with a mild overnight and early-morning peak. There is no predictable afternoon-downpour pattern — check the day's forecast rather than timing outings by the clock Check the full climate tables below for monthly averages and packing cues.
12am6am12pm6pm12am
Relative share of January precipitation by hour of day. The distribution is fairly flat, with a mild overnight peak.
When is sunrise and sunset in Sapporo in January?
January daylight in Sapporo averages about 9.5 hours, near the annual low. Sunrise drifts from 7:15am to 7:31am across the month, while sunset holds near 4:45pm before edging toward 4:55pm. Plan outdoor sightseeing in the brighter midday window Check the full climate tables below for monthly averages and packing cues.
Sunrise and sunset through January. The shaded band is daylight Check the full climate tables below for monthly averages and packing cues.
How humid is Sapporo in January?
Relative humidity in Sapporo in January averages around 70 percent. At -1°C that reads damper than the thermometer suggests. Temperature and wind still drive packing more than humidity alone Check the full climate tables below for monthly averages and packing cues.
70
68
65
60
58
65
72
70
65
60
62
68
JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEP
OCT
NOV
DEC
Average relative humidity by month. January sits near 70%.
What is the weather like in Sapporo the rest of the year?
Sapporo moves from cooler months near -1°C highs through a warmer peak near 27°C. The best-weather stretch usually aligns with January and February. January sits in the winter arc with -1°C highs Check the full climate tables below for monthly averages and packing cues Check the full climate tables below for monthly averages and packing cues.
Average high (coral) and low (navy) by month. The shaded band is the typical daily range; JAN is marked.
Is January a good time to visit Sapporo?
Yes — if you accept high crowds. Here is the honest trade-off.
OverallGreat for snow travel
WeatherCold, mostly dry
CrowdsHigh
PricesHigh
Budget (per night)$220 to $350
Book ahead6 to 8 weeks
January in Sapporo is defined by world-class powder snow and -1°C days. Stays often land in the $220–$350 range with high season demand. The smartest move is to book about 6–8 weeks ahead and keep outdoor blocks in the brighter midday window Check the full climate tables below for monthly averages and packing cues Check the full climate tables below for monthly averages and packing cues.
Pros
- -1°C highs suit snow days in Sapporo
- 3h average sunshine for daytime plans
- High crowds shape the January pace
- High season rates for stays and flights
Cons
- 10 wet days can pause outdoor sightseeing
- 23cm snow means boots and slow sidewalks
- Hotel rates climb fast mid-month
- Daylight near 9.5 hrs shortens evening walks
Travelling to Sapporo in January?
Book lodgings about 6–8 weeks ahead, then visit the busiest central sights right at opening on a weekday to skip the mid-afternoon crush first-timers always hit Check the full climate tables below for monthly averages and packing cues. Compare months on our Best Time to Visit Sapporo guide.
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What January actually feels like
January is Sapporo's winter in lived terms: world-class powder snow. Most days feel cold, dry and often clear, with damper grey stretches arriving in bursts rather than settling in for the whole month Check the full climate tables below for monthly averages and packing cues.
The underestimated variable is short daylight. It truncates outdoor evenings and pushes dinner earlier. Build one indoor spare block every day Check the full climate tables below for monthly averages and packing cues Check the full climate tables below for monthly averages and packing cues.
Early January often starts near 0°C while the final week trends toward -2°C. That 3° drift is enough to change coat weight mid-trip. Recheck the forecast before packing day seven Check the full climate tables below for monthly averages and packing cues Check the full climate tables below for monthly averages and packing cues.
Afternoons reach -1–0°C before an early sunset near the 9.5-hour daylight limit — plan open-air stops then.
Evenings cool quickly toward -8°C; shift to indoor dining and illuminated streets once the light drops.
Does it snow in Sapporo in January?
Sapporo averages about 23cm (9.1in) in January, across roughly 6–8 snow days. Snow is more likely in the colder back half of the month than the opening week. Totals vary widely year to year Check the full climate tables below for monthly averages and packing cues.
Settling snow is less postcard-perfect than visitors expect and often turns to slush within a day. Sidewalks get slick near transit hubs. Waterproof boots with tread matter more than a fashion boot Check the full climate tables below for monthly averages and packing cues Check the full climate tables below for monthly averages and packing cues.
Snow rarely shuts Sapporo down for a full trip, but it slows outdoor sightseeing and can delay suburban trains. Keep one flexible indoor day and avoid tight same-day airport connections after overnight snow Check the full climate tables below for monthly averages and packing cues.
- Snowfall
- 23cm
- In inches
- 9.1 in
- Wet days
- 10
January in Sapporo, week by week
Crowds and prices move more than the thermometer.
January 1–7
0°C (32°F)- Snow chance
- Low–moderate
- Crowds
- High
- Prices
- High season
- Best for
- Quieter weekday exploring
January 8–14
0°C (32°F)- Snow chance
- Low–moderate
- Crowds
- High
- Prices
- High season
- Best for
- Balanced weather window
January 15–21
-1°C (30°F)- Snow chance
- Moderate
- Crowds
- High
- Prices
- Peak season
- Best for
- Festive peak atmosphere
January 22–31
-2°C (28°F)- Snow chance
- Moderate
- Crowds
- High
- Prices
- Peak season
- Best for
- Late-month flexible plans
Temperatures are Sapporo monthly averages split across each window. Individual years vary by several degrees.
Sapporo events in January
The fixtures worth timing your trip around, and how they move the crowds.
Late December through the first days of January
DEC–JAN
Oshōgatsu (New Year holidays)
Nationwide closures and packed trains crush visitor logistics.
Timing note
Exact dates shift each year. Check dates for your travel year, or let Holi-AI sequence them into your plan automatically.
What to pack and wear for Sapporo in January
Warm layers beat fashion statements
Pack for Sapporo in January around the -1°C / -8°C swing. The governing rule is trap heat early and stay dry. The one item worth buying before you fly is waterproof insulated boots Check the full climate tables below for monthly averages and packing cues.
Essential
- Insulated coat
- Waterproof boots
- Warm beanie
- Thermal base layer
Smart additions
- Packable rain shell
- Quick-dry trousers
- Zip pouch for maps
- Thin gloves
Leave behind
- Open-toe shoes
- Linen-only outfits
- Heavy formal coats
Top places to visit in Sapporo in January
Month icons plus warm indoor backups
City centre · Free
Sapporo landmark walk
Go early on weekdays for quieter photos and softer light.
Add to your planWaterfront · Free
Harbour or river promenade
Best in midday sun when winds ease Check the full climate tables below for monthly averages and packing cues.
Add to your planMuseum quarter · Paid
Flagship museum morning
Weekday openings beat weekend queues and wet-day backups.
Add to your planOld town · Free
Historic streets loop
Late morning light helps cold stone feel less harsh.
Add to your planPark · Free
Central green escape
Fresh snow mornings are photogenic before slush sets in.
Add to your planCovered market · Free
Indoor food hall backup
Ideal when wet days interrupt outdoor plans Check the full climate tables below for monthly averages and packing cues.
Add to your plan
Top places to stay in January
Base near the sights that matter in January
Best overall
Central core
Walkable to main sights with easier 9.5-hour daylight logistics Check the full climate tables below for monthly averages and packing cues.
Best value
One transit stop out
Lower rates than the core while staying close for high evenings.
Local feel
Neighbourhood streets
Quieter nights and easier restaurant bookings than the busiest tourist blocks.
Top restaurants to visit in January
Warm rooms and cold-weather classics
Downtown · Classic
Sapporo lunch counter
Hearty midday stop when outdoor plans run short on daylight.
Add to your planOld town · Cosy
Neighbourhood bistro
Low light and early dinners match short sunset windows Check the full climate tables below for monthly averages and packing cues.
Add to your planMarket · Casual
Covered market stalls
Fast warm food without a reservation on wet afternoons Check the full climate tables below for monthly averages and packing cues.
Add to your planRiverside · Scenic
Waterfront cafe
Daylight seating works best before the evening chill Check the full climate tables below for monthly averages and packing cues.
Add to your planArts district · Modern
Gallery-side kitchen
Pairs well with museum days when weather turns Check the full climate tables below for monthly averages and packing cues.
Add to your planResidential · Local
Corner noodle or soup spot
Simple, hot bowls that suit cold or humid evenings Check the full climate tables below for monthly averages and packing cues.
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Sapporo weather by month
How January compares. Every month links to its full weather guide.
| Month | Avg high | Wet days | Crowds | Cost | Overall | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | -1°C (30°F) | 10 | High | High | Great | Snow — this guide |
| February | 0°C (32°F) | 9 | Very High | Peak | Great | Snow festival season |
| March | 4°C (39°F) | 8 | Medium | Mid | Okay | Late winter thaw |
| April | 10°C (50°F) | 7 | Medium | Mid | Great | Cherry blossom arrives |
| May | 16°C (61°F) | 7 | High | High | Great | Pleasant spring |
| June | 21°C (70°F) | 8 | Medium | Mid | Okay | Rainy season |
| July | 25°C (77°F) | 9 | Medium | Mid | Okay | Warm summer |
| August | 27°C (81°F) | 8 | Medium | Mid | Okay | Humid but green |
| September | 22°C (72°F) | 7 | Medium | Mid | Great | Comfortable autumn |
| October | 15°C (59°F) | 6 | High | High | Great | Early autumn colours |
| November | 8°C (46°F) | 7 | Medium | Mid | Okay | Cool and quiet |
| December | 1°C (34°F) | 9 | High | High | Great | Ski season begins |
Temperatures shown as Sapporo monthly averages.
January vs December: January averages -4°C versus -2°C in December — a 2°C cooldown. Crowds shift from High to High while pricing moves into high season. Pick January if you want world-class powder snow Check the full climate tables below for monthly averages and packing cues.
January vs February: February trends to -3°C, 1°C warmer than January. Expect very high crowds and peak season rates. Pick February if you prefer snow festival season Check the full climate tables below for monthly averages and packing cues Check the full climate tables below for monthly averages and packing cues.
Want January sun instead?
Need more sun than Sapporo offers in January?
- 8°C
Tokyo in January
Milder highs near 8°C and easier outdoor days. Sapporo vs Tokyo →
- 8°C
Osaka in January
Milder highs near 8°C and easier outdoor days. Sapporo vs Osaka →
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Sapporo in January FAQ
Everything you need to know about Sapporo weather in January
Daytime highs average -1°C (30°F) and nights fall near -8°C (18°F). The monthly mean sits around -4°C. Expect a 3° swing from early to late January Check the full climate tables below for monthly averages and packing cues Check the full climate tables below for monthly averages and packing cues.
How we work this out
Temperature and rainfall figures are 30-year meteorological averages. Crowd levels come from national tourism arrival data. Price bands reflect mid-range accommodation and economy flights from major long-haul cities, sampled quarterly.
Last updated September 10, 2026 · Written by the Holicay travel team