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Is December a Good Time to Visit Japan? Yes, It's Magical!
If you've ever wondered whether December is too cold or too quiet for Japan, the answer is a resounding no. In fact, it's one of the most underrated times of year to visit—full of surprises you won't find in spring or autumn. Here's what makes it so special:
1.You Can Catch the Last of Autumn's Fiery Colors
While everyone else thinks they missed it, early December is your surprise chance to see the vibrant reds and golds autumn leaves in western Japan. You get all the stunning scenery of the peak season, but without the peak season crowds. It's a huge win.
- You Get to Witness a Dazzling Winter Wonderland
Once the leaves fall, the lights come on. December is the absolute peak of Japan's famous winter illuminations. Cities and even entire parks are transformed into breathtaking spectacles of light that feel like walking through a fairy tale.
- You Can Enjoy World-Class Skiing and Snow
The country is famous for having some of the best and most abundant powder snow on the planet. Head to the northern island of Hokkaido or the Japanese Alps in Nagano to ski or snowboard in a true winter paradise.
- Your Wallet Will Thank You (in Early December!)
Let's be practical: the first two to three weeks of December are a fantastic "shoulder season." Because it's after the autumn rush and before the New Year's holiday, you'll often find much better prices on flights and hotels.
The Weather in December: A Month of Two Halves
Think of December in Japan as a two-part story: first comes a crisp, colorful autumn encore, and then winter sweeps in with full force.
Early December (First 1–2 Weeks)
Kyoto, Osaka & Western Honshu: This is the sweet spot. Days are cool but comfy for walking around in just a jacket, and the autumn leaves are often at their fiery peak—or just gracefully fading. Snow? Not a chance.
Tokyo: A touch cooler than Kyoto, with autumn colors mostly gone, but plenty of blue skies and sunshine. Bonus: the city's winter illuminations are already twinkling to life.
Hokkaido & The Japanese Alps: Winter doesn't wait here—it's already snowing. Higher elevations are getting their white blankets, and ski resorts are opening for business.
Late December (Last 2 Weeks)
Kyoto, Osaka & Tokyo: Now you'll really feel winter. Bring a proper coat—it's cold, though usually dry and sunny. The leaves are gone, leaving behind a quiet, wintry glow. Holiday lights, Christmas cheer, and New Year vibes make up for the bare branches.
Hokkaido & The Japanese Alps: Snow lovers, rejoice. This is deep winter, with serious snowfall and powder-perfect conditions for skiing, snowboarding, or just sipping hot cocoa while everything outside turns postcard white.
Average December Temperatures in Japan
| Destination | Early December | Late December |
|---|---|---|
| Tokyo | 14-6°C (57-43°F) | 10-3°C (50-37°F) |
| Kyoto | 13-4°C (55-39°F) | 9-1°C (48-34°F) |
| Osaka | 14-6°C (57-43°F) | 10-3°C (50-37°F) |
| Nara | 13-4°C (55-39°F) | 9-1°C (48-34°F) |
| Mount Fuji (Kawaguchiko) | 10-2°C (50-36°F) | 6- -2°C (43-28°F) |
| Hakone | 11-3°C (52-37°F) | 7- -1°C (45-30°F) |
| Kanazawa | 11-4°C (52-39°F) | 7-1°C (45-34°F) |
| Hiroshima | 14-6°C (57-43°F) | 10-3°C (50-37°F) |
| Nagoya | 13-4°C (55-39°F) | 9-1°C (48-34°F) |
| Sapporo | 3- -3°C (37-27°F) | -1- -7°C (30-19°F) |
| Okinawa (Naha) | 22-18°C (72-64°F) | 19-15°C (66-59°F) |
Best Places to Visit & Things to Do in December
December in Japan is like a moving slideshow—autumn's fiery farewell in the south, winter's snowy wonderland in the north. Here's where you'll find the magic:
1. Kyoto & Nara: For the Final Blaze of Autumn (Early December)
Think of this as your last chance to catch Japan's world-famous temples, shrines, and gardens wrapped in fiery reds and golds.
Unlike November, when tourists pack in shoulder-to-shoulder, early December is blissfully calmer. Strolling through Nara Park or Kyoto's Kiyomizu-dera at this time feels like having a front-row seat to autumn's grand finale.
2. Tokyo: For Dazzling Lights and Urban Festivities
As autumn colors fade, Tokyo flips the switch—literally. The city turns into an open-air light show, with entire streets glowing under millions of LEDs.
Don't miss the polished elegance of Marunouchi's illuminations or the creative, artsy vibes of Roppongi Hills.
Add in Christmas markets and holiday shopping, and you've got all the festive energy of December in one mega-city.
3. The Japanese Alps (Nagano & Gifu): For Snow Monkeys & Old-World Charm
By mid-to-late December, the mountains are pure magic. Watch the famous snow monkeys of Jigokudani soaking in steaming hot springs like little locals who know how to beat the cold.
Then wander the snowy lanes of Shirakawa-go, where thatched-roof houses look like they've been lifted straight from a winter fairytale.
For an off-the-beaten-path adventure, head to Togakushi Shrine, where towering cedar trees dusted in snow line the path like nature's cathedral.
4. Hokkaido: For a True Winter Paradise
For snow lovers, Hokkaido is the jackpot.
Niseko and Furano's legendary powder snow makes it paradise for skiers and snowboarders, while Sapporo is the place to feast on steaming bowls of miso ramen and melt-in-your-mouth winter crab.
But the real hidden gem? Otaru, a charming port town just outside Sapporo. Its canal, lit with soft lamps and framed by snow, might be the most romantic snowy scene in all of Japan.
5. Hakone: For Onsen and the Clearest Views of Mt. Fuji
December's crisp, clear skies mean Mt. Fuji is at its photogenic best—and Hakone is the perfect viewing spot. Warm up in Owakudani Onsen, with steaming volcanic springs and views of the iconic peak.
Then mix in some fun: ride the Hakone Tozan train through mountain valleys, glide over the landscape on the ropeway, and even sail across Lake Ashi on a colorful pirate ship.
Wrap it all up with a night in a ryokan, and Hakone becomes the ultimate winter getaway.
Christmas in Japan: A Spectacle of Lights and Romance
Not a Holiday, But Definitely a Party
Christmas in Japan isn't about religion—it's about sparkle, shopping, and straight-up joy. The 25th isn't even a day off work, but that doesn't stop Japan from decking itself out like it's the North Pole meets Shibuya.
Streets glow, stores blast Mariah Carey on loop, and everyone's in the mood for a little extra magic.
The Great Date Night
Forget family dinners—here it's all about romance. Christmas Eve is basically Valentine's Day 2.0.
Couples book fancy dinners weeks in advance, stroll hand-in-hand under glowing trees, and snap way too many photos under the lights.
And yes, the rumors are true: lining up for KFC bucket chicken on Christmas Eve is a thing. Don't knock it till you've tried it.
The Main Events: Lights, Lights, and More Lights
This is where Japan really flexes. Tokyo Midtown glitters in neon blues, Roppongi Hills turns into an artsy wonderland, and Shibuya practically glows brighter than Times Square. Osaka's Midosuji Boulevard? Pure magic, with trees lining the entire avenue in colorful lights.
And if you're in Kobe, the Luminarie is one of the most jaw-dropping winter light displays in the country. Add in European-style Christmas markets with hot wine, pretzels, and ornaments, and you've got the coziest December nights ever.
What to Pack for Your December Trip
Packing for Japan in December isn't about stuffing your suitcase with the bulkiest coat you own—it's about mastering the art of layering. Think thermal innerwear, long-sleeved shirts, and a cozy fleece or wool sweater, all topped off with a warm jacket that can handle wind (and maybe snow if you're heading north).
Accessories that Save the Day
Don't underestimate the little things: a beanie or warm hat, gloves, a snug scarf, and thick socks will make chilly mornings and late-night illumination walks way more enjoyable.
Shoes Matter More Than You Think
If you're venturing into snowy regions like Hokkaido or the Japanese Alps, waterproof, insulated boots are your best friend. In big cities like Tokyo or Kyoto, comfy, water-resistant sneakers or walking shoes will do the trick.
Local Hack: Heat Packs (Kairo)
Here's a secret from the locals: grab some kairo (disposable heat packs) at any convenience store. Slip them into your pockets, shoes, or gloves, and they'll keep you toasty for hours. Trust us—you'll wonder how you ever traveled in winter without them.
Suggested December Itineraries in Japan
December isn't one-size-fits-all—you can chase the last of the autumn leaves, dive straight into snowy adventures, or do a little of both. Here are a few tried-and-true routes to inspire your trip:
1. Early December: Autumn's Grand Finale (7–10 Days)
Kyoto & Nara (3–4 days): Catch the final blaze of red and gold leaves at temples like Kiyomizu-dera and Tōfuku-ji, or stroll Nara Park with the deer while the maples are still glowing.
Osaka (1–2 days): Mix street food heaven with festive illuminations along Midosuji Boulevard.
Tokyo (3–4 days): Wrap up with Tokyo's early Christmas sparkle—Marunouchi and Shibuya are glowing, and shopping streets are buzzing.
2. Mid-December: Lights, Monkeys & Mountains (8–10 Days)
Tokyo (3 days): Dive into the city's best illuminations and Christmas markets.
Nagano (2–3 days): Visit Jigokudani to see snow monkeys chilling in hot springs, and walk the snowy path to Togakushi Shrine.
Shirakawa-go & Takayama (2–3 days): Experience old-world charm as the thatched houses turn into storybook snow cottages.
3. Late December: Snow & Sparkle for the Holidays (12–14 Days)
Tokyo (3–4 days): Spend Christmas among the city lights and Christmas markets.
Hakone (2 days): Relax in an onsen with crisp Mt. Fuji views.
Hokkaido (4–5 days): Ring in the New Year in Japan's true winter wonderland—ski Niseko's legendary powder, eat your way through Sapporo's seafood markets, and take a romantic stroll along Otaru's snowy canal.
Travel to Japan in December with Asia Odyssey Travel
Ready to experience the best of Japan's December with a partner who knows all the insider secrets? We're not just planners—we're storytellers. We design journeys that feel like you've unlocked a magical, secret version of Japan.
From the final blaze of autumn to the glittering countdown to the New Year, we'll take you beyond “here's the famous spot” and into “this is exactly how I imagined it.”.
We handle the details, you enjoy the moments:
- Private transfers and local guides to show you the easiest—and most beautiful—way from Tokyo's neon glow to Hakone's pirate-boat lake rides.
- Cozy insider tips like where to pick up kairo (Japanese heat packs) for long evening strolls or where to find the best local hot chocolate in Hokkaido.
- Thoughtful pacing, so you can soak up winter drama without ever feeling rushed.
Ready to unwrap your ultimate December adventure in Japan? Let's make your winter dreams come true!
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