Sapporo December weather
Sapporo, Japan · December
Snow-covered streets and long stretches of freezing weather
December marks the real start of Sapporo’s winter cityscape. Snow begins to cover streets and parks more consistently, and the city feels properly wintry.
Morning and night lows often fall below −4°C, and daytime highs hover just above or below freezing, so you should be fully prepared for cold.
December averages at a glance
Average low
around −4 to −2°C
Average high
around 1-3°C
Precipitation (mostly snow)
around 110-120 mm
Snowy days
20+ days
What to wear in December in Sapporo
Actual feel will change with wind and rain, but use the suggestions below to build a comfortable layered outfit.
- • Long down coats, multiple thermal layers, and warm knits remain the standard for December.
- • Winter accessories—scarves, gloves, beanies, earmuffs—are all essential, along with strong moisturizers for skin.
- • Anti-slip winter boots are highly recommended for walking safely on snowy and icy streets.
Travel tips for visiting Sapporo in December
- • Christmas and year-end lights pair beautifully with snow, making evening walks very atmospheric.
- • Plan looser schedules to accommodate slower walking speeds and the need for frequent warm-up breaks.
- • Include onsen or sauna time in your itinerary to balance the cold outdoor air with deeply warming experiences.
December weather in Sapporo — FAQ
Q. Is December as cold as January and February in Sapporo?
A. January and February are usually the coldest, but December is already very cold; treat it as full winter and pack accordingly.
Q. Are snow boots absolutely necessary?
A. Specialized snow boots are not mandatory, but footwear with anti-slip soles and some water resistance is practically essential for comfort and safety.
Q. Is Sapporo a good year-end destination?
A. Yes—snowy streets, winter food, and hot springs make it an excellent place for a cozy, atmospheric year-end trip, as long as you are prepared for cold and snow.
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.