Sapporo weather in December
“Cool and moody. Best paired with warm rooms and long lunches.”
Roughly 19 rainy days across the month, on average.
December in Sapporo is bitterly cold and snowy, with average highs of just 0.3°C (33°F) and lows plummeting to -6.1°C (21°F). Expect around 79mm of precipitation spread across 18-19 rainy days, though much falls as snow rather than rain. Sunshine is limited to about 5.8 hours daily, creating short, dim days typical of Hokkaido's winter season.
This is prime season for winter festivals and snow activities. The famous Sapporo Snow Festival begins in early February, but December offers quieter snow experiences and fewer crowds. Winter illuminations light up parks and shopping districts, creating a festive atmosphere. Tourist numbers are moderate compared to summer, making it ideal for travelers seeking authentic winter charm without peak-season chaos.
Pack heavy winter gear if visiting Sapporo in December 2026. Layers, waterproof outerwear, and insulated boots are essential. The snow and cold make this month best suited for winter sports enthusiasts and those wanting genuine Japanese winter culture rather than casual tourists.
What to pack for Sapporo in December
Sapporo's December weather demands serious winter preparation. Temperatures hover near freezing with frequent snow, so thermal layering and waterproof protection are non-negotiable. Plan for heavy outerwear, insulated footwear, and accessories that shield exposed skin from the cold.
- Insulated winter parka or down jacket
- Thermal base layers (merino wool or synthetic)
- Waterproof snow boots with grip soles
- Wool beanie, gloves, and scarf
- Thermal leggings or snow pants
What to pack for Sapporo in December
- →Merino wool base layerAmazon · shop this
- →Insulated puffer jacketAmazon · shop this
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- →Compact travel umbrellaAmazon · shop this
- →Universal travel adapterAmazon · shop this
- →Compression packing cubesAmazon · shop this
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Where to stay in Sapporo
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Compare hotels on Booking.com→Things worth doing
Skiing and snowboarding at nearby resorts, winter hiking in snowy forests, ice skating at Maruyama Park, exploring Sapporo Snow Museum and winter illuminations.
Other places with a similar climate right now
Sapporo in December — FAQ
Q01Is December a good time to visit Sapporo?
Is December a good time to visit Sapporo?
It is a challenging month — you may want to consider another time of year. In December, Sapporo averages a high of 0°C (33°F) and a low of -6°C (21°F), with 79mm of rainfall across roughly 19 rainy days.
Q02What is the average temperature in Sapporo in December?
What is the average temperature in Sapporo in December?
The average high temperature in Sapporo during December is 0°C (33°F), with an average low of -6°C (21°F). These figures are averaged from ten years of daily records (2015–2024, Open-Meteo Archive).
Q03How many rainy days does Sapporo have in December?
How many rainy days does Sapporo have in December?
Sapporo averages approximately 19 rainy days in December, with a total monthly rainfall of about 79mm. This is based on daily precipitation records where days with 1mm or more of rain are counted as rainy days.
Q04What should I pack for Sapporo in December?
What should I pack for Sapporo in December?
For Sapporo in December, pack a warm winter coat, a merino base layer for evenings, a compact umbrella or waterproof jacket, comfortable walking shoes. These recommendations are based on the ten-year weather averages for this specific month.
Q05How crowded is Sapporo in December?
How crowded is Sapporo in December?
Tourist crowds in Sapporo during December are typically low — winter is off-season, meaning quiet streets and better hotel deals. Consider this when planning accommodation — prices track crowd levels closely.