Hokkaido in December - the holiday hubbub starts to agitate, and the increasing snowfall brings with the city excitement for skiing in the city. With the average temperature from -4°C to 2°C (25°F to 36°F), December marks the official start of winter in Hokkaido. It is one of the best times to visit Hokkaido, as you can experience the snow fun and winter festive atmosphere of northern Japan.
Everyone is flocking to Hokkaido on a guided trip or self-driving travel, yet there’s a chance that flights/trains may be delayed or canceled due to the snowstorms. Wondering how to visit Hokkaido in December? Read on to know more about Hokkaido's Weather in December. Discover what to do, where to go, and the top attractions to explore the unique charm of Hokkaido in December.
Table of Contents
How Is the Weather in Hokkaido in December?
What to Wear in Hokkaido in December?
Is December a Good Time to visit Hokkaido?
Top Things to Do in Hokkaido in December & Where to Go
Tips for Visiting Hokkaido in December
How Is the Weather in Hokkaido in December?
Since December, Hokkaido has officially entered the harsh winter months. In general, the weather is cold, dry, and snowy. Snowfall is common in all cities, with heavier snowfall in the north and inland areas.
So, how cold is Hokkaido in December? The average temperature ranges from -4°C to 2°C (25°F to 36°F), with average daytime temperatures ranging from -2°C to 2°C (28°F to 36°F) and average nighttime temperatures ranging from -10°C to -3°C (14°F to 27°F). In mountainous areas such as Dodong, it can reach -15°C (5°F) at night. Because of the strong winds in December, the body temperature is 4 to 6°C lower than the actual temperature.
The ski season in Hokkaido is officially upon us with widespread snowfall across the region and the official opening of ski resorts. However, the snow may also bring hidden dangers to driving and transportation.
Does Hokkaido Snow in December?
Yes. The snow season is in full swing in December in Hokkaido. The number of snowfall days ranges from 15 to 20. Unlike the central and northern parts of Hokkaido, where snow falls almost every day in the mountainous inland areas, snow falls only intermittently in the coastal cities.
In Sapporo, snow accumulations range from 20 to 40 cm, in Asahikawa and Furano from 50 to 80 cm, and in mountain ski resorts such as Niseko from 100 cm upwards.
All major Hokkaido ski resorts such as Niseko, Furano, and Rusutsu are fully operational after mid-December. Snow conditions are excellent, with dry, fluffy snow that is unique to Hokkaido.
The natural phenomenon of glittering ice crystals that may appear early in the morning on a sunny day after a heavy snowfall.
The Average Temperature of Hokkaido in December
City Minimum temperature Maximum temperature Sapporo -0.5°C (31°F) -6.1°C (21°F) Higashikawa --2°C (28°F) -11°C (12°F) Wakkanai -1°C (30°F) -6°C (21°F) Shiretoko -1°C (30°F) -7°C (19°F) Hakodate 1.8°C (35°F) -3.7°C (25°F) Furano -2°C (28°F) -10°C (14°F)
Is It Windy in December?
According to the historical data, the average wind speed is about 3-6 m/s, with gusts to 8-10m/s in some coastal areas.
Does it Rain in December?
Since Hokkaido is basically dominated by snowfall in December, which means that precipitation is mostly in the form of snow, the frequency of rain is very low. Especially in the inland and northern parts of Hokkaido, such as Sapporo, Asahikawa, Furano, and Niseko, it hardly ever rains. Occasional sleet or short periods of light rain may occur in coastal cities in southern Hokkaido, such as Hakodate and Muroran, but in fact, it is rare.
Therefore, don't worry about rain when traveling to Hokkaido in December. You should prepare anti-snow, anti-ski, and anti-cold equipment, instead of rain gear.
When are Sunrise and Sunset in December?
Because of the onset of winter, Hokkaido has shorter hours of sunshine each day, with only about 9 hours of light. The sun rises at about 6:50 and sets at about 16:00.
What to Wear in Hokkaido in December?
We recommend that you wear a down jacket/ski jacket, wool sweater/fleece, thermal underwear, waterproof boots, non-slip soles, a hat, gloves, and a scarf. If you go skiing, be sure to bring ski goggles and a face shield.
Is December a Good Time to visit Hokkaido?
Absolutely. December is a great month to travel to Hokkaido, especially for those who love winter landscapes, snow sports, and Japanese winter culture.
On your Japan winter trip to Hokkaido, see it covered in snow like a fairytale land. Especially in places like Sapporo, Otaru, Furano, and Asahikawa, the combination of snow scenes and urban lights is breathtakingly beautiful.
Of course, skiing enthusiasts should not miss out on world-class ski resorts in Hokkaido such as Niseko, Furano, Rusutsu, and Tomamu.
And soaking in hot springs in Hokkaido amidst the winter snow is an iconic winter travel experience in Japan.
Moreover, for foodies, December is the time when seafood such as crabs, oysters, sea urchin, and salmon are at their best.
Top Things to Do in Hokkaido in December & Where to Go
For international travelers who are visiting Hokkaido in winter for the first time or who want to experience Hokkaido's winter charms in depth, here are some great recommendations for what to do and see.
Enjoy Skiing and Other Snow Activities
Niseko is a world-renowned skiing paradise. There have been trails for both beginners and advanced skiers since December. Furano Ski Resort features a night light ski resort that opens after 18:00. The ski slopes, illuminated by the lights, look like a galaxy of falling snow, which is very romantic and especially suitable for couples. If you travel to Hokkaido with kids, you will love Riusudo Resort, a family-friendly snow resort with a children's snow park, snow banana boats, and other programs for parents and children to have fun together.
In addition to skiing, you can also experience snowman making, snow photography, sledding, and ice skating at places like Odori Park.
Immerse Yourself in Hot Springs and Snowy Landscapes
One of the top things to do in Hokkaido in December is to enjoy snowy landscapes while soaking in hot springs. In Noboribetsu Jigokudani (Hell Valley), you are surrounded by white smoke from the volcano and sulfur springs. After soaking in the Noboribetsu Onsen hot springs, you can hike the Jigokudani walking trail and taste the hot spring eggs.
Toyako Onsen is one of the three oldest hot springs in Japan and has a stunning view. While soaking in the hot spring, you can look out over the thin ice of Lake Toya and the volcano in the distance. Josankei Hot Spring is surrounded by virgin forest - the forest is covered with freezing fog during the snowy season.
Experience the Unique Atmosphere of Winter Festivals
Winter festivals are a major tourist attraction in Hokkaido in December. The Sapporo White Illumination is held every year from late November to February in Sapporo Odori Park, Sapporo Station Avenue, and Nanjo Avenue. Started in 1981, it was one of the first light festivals in Japan. Odori Park displays giant light sculptures, Christmas trees, and various fantastic lights, while Sapporo Station Main Street has an extended corridor of lights.
The Munich Christmas Market in Sapporo is held from late November to December 25 at the Sapporo Odori Park 2-chome venue. There are European-style cabin stalls selling Christmas gifts, mulled wine, grilled sausages, gingerbread, and more.
Otaru Christmas Illumination is held around the Otaru Canal, Tenguyama, and Otaru Art Village from the beginning of December to around Christmas time every year. The night view is very romantic with the city lights and snow.
Feast on Winter Seafood Cuisine
At Sapporo Nijo Market, Otaru, Hakodate Asaichi (one of Japan's three largest Asaichi), and Sapporo Ramen Yokocho, foodies can sample Hokkaido's winter delicacies such as crabs (king, hair, and matsuba), clams, oysters, ramen noodles, and wakashimen (stone-kari hot pot).
Recommended 7-day Hokkaido Itinerary in December
Day 1: Arrival in Sapporo, Sapporo: The Sapporo White Illumination Festival in the evening
Day 2: Sapporo to Jozankei Onsen: Hokkaido Jingu Shrine, snowy scenery in Odori Park, Jozankei Onsen Hot Springs
Day 3: Sapporo to Otaru Otaru: JR to Otaru, Otaru Canal, Otaru Hachibako Museum, Glass Craft Experience, Canal Winter Lights in the evening
Day 4: Sapporo to Asahikawa: JR to Asahikawa, Asahiyama Zoo, Asahikawa Ramen Village, hot spring hotel
Day 5: Asahikawa to Furano: Furano Ski Resort, snowmobiling, snowshoeing
Day 6: Noboribetsu, Noboribetsu, or Toyako
Day 7: Return to Sapporo
Tips for Visiting Hokkaido in December
1. December is the peak tourist season in Hokkaido. You’d better make reservations in advance for popular ski resorts such as Niseko and Furano.
2. Ski resorts and hot spring hotels are much more expensive during the peak season. But if you book 2 or 3 months in advance, you may get discounts.
3. Ski equipment is available for rent at each ski resort, so you don't need to bring your own.
4. Snowy roads are slippery; therefore, wear non-slip shoes and walk carefully and slowly.
5. If you plan to travel in Hokkaido by self-driving, you must change to snow tires. Suppose you don’t have experience in snow driving, public transportation is recommended.
6. In winter, flights, trains, and buses may be delayed due to snowfall. It is recommended to keep track of the Hokkaido weather forecast.
Plan Your Hokkaido Tour in December with Hi Five Trip
See below our most popular Hokkaido winter tours, crafted by our local experts, offer hand-picked accommodations & restaurants, and lifetime winter experiences that will charm any traveller.
Looking for more ideas? Please contact one of our Japan travel consultants to discuss your plans.
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