Osaka January weather
Osaka, Japan · January
Mild coastal winter compared to Seoul, but wind makes it feel colder
January in Osaka rarely drops far below freezing the way it does in Seoul, but cold wind between buildings makes it feel sharper than the numbers suggest. Think of it as a “city-style winter” rather than a heavy-snow destination.
Daytime highs are usually around 8-10°C, with mornings and evenings near 2-4°C. It is technically milder than a Korean mid-winter, but weaker indoor heating often makes it feel similar or even colder, especially if you sit still in cafés or restaurants.
January averages at a glance
Average low
around 2°C
Average high
around 9°C
Average rainfall
around 40 mm
Rainy days
about 4-6 days
What to wear in January in Osaka
Actual feel will change with wind and rain, but use the suggestions below to build a comfortable layered outfit.
- • Base layer (heat-tech or thermal) + knit or hoodie + thick coat or padded jacket is a solid basic combo.
- • Because wind chill is strong, bring at least one or two of these: scarf, gloves, or beanie.
- • Indoor heating is not very strong, so many people keep their coat on in cafés and restaurants. One warm outer layer over simple inner layers is easier to manage than many thin layers.
Travel tips for visiting Osaka in January
- • If you are visiting Universal Studios Japan (USJ), it can feel especially cold while queuing in the morning. A long padded coat plus scarf and gloves makes a big difference.
- • Areas near rivers or the bay, such as around the Yodo River or the port, feel much colder than downtown. Pack hand warmers if you plan to watch night views outdoors.
- • Underground shopping streets in Namba and Umeda are shielded from the wind and feel warmer, but if your itinerary involves frequent above-ground walks, a hood or hat helps with wind chill.
January weather in Osaka — FAQ
Q. Do I really need a long padded coat in January?
A. Compared with mid-winter in central Korea it is a bit milder, but if you plan to walk a lot or stay outside for long periods, a long padded coat is still the most comfortable choice, especially around USJ and bayside areas.
Q. Will I see snow in Osaka in January?
A. Snow that actually accumulates on the ground is rare in central Osaka. If you want guaranteed snow scenery in the Kansai area, plan a side trip toward northern Kyoto, around Lake Biwa, or into the mountains near Kobe.
Q. Does it rain a lot in January?
A. It does not rain as much as in the rainy season, and it is uncommon to have continuous heavy rain for multiple days. However, wind often makes it feel much colder when it does rain, so a water-resistant outer layer or hooded jacket can be more practical than a plain umbrella.
Authored by Jiheon Bang
Updated: 2025-12-01
Reviewed using Visual Crossing Weather data and reorganized from a traveler’s perspective.
Weather data is designed to be refreshed roughly every 10 minutes.