Mornings sit near the overnight low around -6°C with clear, cooler light — best for outdoor photos before crowds build.
Sapporo Weather in December
Everything you need to know about Sapporo weather in December
Updated September 10, 2026
Japan · Sapporo
Sapporo Weather in December
December in Sapporo is cold, bright and unmistakably festive. Expect daytime highs around 1°C (34°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 / -6°C
- 34F / 21F
- Precipitation
- 72mm
- 9 wet days
- Snowfall
- 18cm
- 7.1 in average
- Daylight
- 9.3 hrs
- shortest of the year
Sapporo average temperatures through the year
DecemberRest 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. December sits at 1°C with 9 wet days.
The short answer
December falls in Sapporo's winter. Daytime highs average 1°C (34°F) with nights near -6°C (21°F). Precipitation totals about 72mm across roughly 9 wet days. Snowfall averages about 18cm (7.1in), 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.
December climate in Sapporo
Monthly averages for Sapporo, Japan.
- Day high
- 1°C
- 34°F
- Night low
- -6°C
- 21°F
- Precipitation
- 72mm
- 2.8 in
- Wet days
- 9
- rain or snow
- Snowfall
- 18cm
- 7.1 in, 5–6 snow days
- Sunrise
- 7:21am
- mid-December
- Sunset
- 4:39pm
- earliest of the year
- Daylight
- 9.3 hrs
- 3 hrs sunshine
Averages based on long-run monthly climate normals. Last updated September 10, 2026.
Real weeks swing around the -2°C mean. Early December often sits near 2°C while the final week lands closer to 0°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 9 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 December?
The average temperature in Sapporo in December is around -2°C (28°F), combining daytime highs of 1°C (34°F) with night lows of -6°C (21°F). The month cools steadily: the first days average highs near 2°C, while the final week typically tops out around 0°C with nights of -7°C.
Average daily high and low through December. The month cools by roughly 3 degrees start to finish.
How much does it rain in Sapporo in December?
Sapporo gets around 72mm (2.8in) of precipitation in December, spread over roughly 9 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. December's 72mm sits near the annual rhythm.
Average precipitation by hour of day in Sapporo
December 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 December precipitation by hour of day. The distribution is fairly flat, with a mild overnight peak.
When is sunrise and sunset in Sapporo in December?
December daylight in Sapporo averages about 9.3 hours, shortest of the year. Sunrise drifts from 7:21am to 7:37am across the month, while sunset holds near 4:39pm before edging toward 4:49pm. Plan outdoor sightseeing in the brighter midday window Check the full climate tables below for monthly averages and packing cues.
Sunrise and sunset through December. The shaded band is daylight, at its annual minimum around the solstice.
How humid is Sapporo in December?
Relative humidity in Sapporo in December averages around 68 percent. At 1°C that usually feels manageable outdoors. 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. December sits near 68%.
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. December 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; DEC is marked.
Is December 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
December in Sapporo is defined by ski season begins 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 December pace
- High season rates for stays and flights
Cons
- 9 wet days can pause outdoor sightseeing
- 18cm snow means boots and slow sidewalks
- Hotel rates climb fast mid-month
- Daylight near 9.3 hrs shortens evening walks
Travelling to Sapporo in December?
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 December actually feels like
December is Sapporo's winter in lived terms: ski season begins. 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 December often starts near 2°C while the final week trends toward 0°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 1–2°C before an early sunset near the 9.3-hour daylight limit — plan open-air stops then.
Evenings cool quickly toward -6°C; shift to indoor dining and illuminated streets once the light drops.
Does it snow in Sapporo in December?
Sapporo averages about 18cm (7.1in) in December, across roughly 5–6 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
- 18cm
- In inches
- 7.1 in
- Wet days
- 9
December in Sapporo, week by week
Crowds and prices move more than the thermometer.
December 1–7
2°C (36°F)- Snow chance
- Low–moderate
- Crowds
- High
- Prices
- High season
- Best for
- Quieter weekday exploring
December 8–14
2°C (36°F)- Snow chance
- Low–moderate
- Crowds
- High
- Prices
- High season
- Best for
- Balanced weather window
December 15–21
1°C (34°F)- Snow chance
- Moderate
- Crowds
- High
- Prices
- Peak season
- Best for
- Festive peak atmosphere
December 22–31
0°C (32°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 December
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.
December evenings into the New Year shutdown ramp
DEC
Year-end illuminations & shutdown ramp
Lights draw crowds while shops begin New Year closures.
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 December
Warm layers beat fashion statements
Pack for Sapporo in December around the 1°C / -6°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
- Scarf or buff
- Portable charger
- Clear tote for layers
- Lip balm SPF
Leave behind
- Open-toe shoes
- Linen-only outfits
- Heavy formal coats
Top places to visit in Sapporo in December
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 December
Base near the sights that matter in December
Best overall
Central core
Walkable to main sights with easier 9.3-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 December
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.
Add to your plan
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Sapporo weather by month
How December 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 | World-class powder snow |
| 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 | Snow — this guide |
Temperatures shown as Sapporo monthly averages.
December vs November: December averages -2°C versus 5°C in November — a 7°C cooldown. Crowds shift from Medium to High while pricing moves into high season. Pick December if you want ski season begins Check the full climate tables below for monthly averages and packing cues.
December vs January: January trends to -4°C, 2°C cooler than December. Expect high crowds and high season rates. Pick January if you prefer world-class powder snow 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 December sun instead?
Need more sun than Sapporo offers in December?
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Tokyo in December
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Osaka in December
Milder highs near 10°C and easier outdoor days. Sapporo vs Osaka →
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Sapporo in December FAQ
Everything you need to know about Sapporo weather in December
Daytime highs average 1°C (34°F) and nights fall near -6°C (21°F). The monthly mean sits around -2°C. Expect a 3° swing from early to late December Check the full climate tables below for monthly averages and packing cues Check the full climate tables below for monthly averages and packing cues.
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Atualizado em September 10, 2026