Jan · Feb
City of snow and ice — a true winter trip
Avg low −7 to −6°C / high −1 to 0°C · Snow/rainy days: 20+ per month / precipitation (mostly snow) 100 mm+
- • Almost every day has falling snow or snow piled on the streets—full winter conditions.
- • Including wind chill, “feels like” temperatures of −10 to −15°C are common, and poor gear makes outings painful.
- • The snowy scenery is beautiful, but you must account for slippery streets and snow removal work.
Suggested outfits
- · Heavy winter parka (long down strongly recommended)
- · Two thermal layers + knit or hoodie
- · Waterproof boots, thick socks, scarf, gloves, ear warmers
A note for travelers
Even if you come mainly for skiing or the snow festival, prepare as if you will be walking long distances in full winter conditions.
Mar · Apr
Drawn-out late winter — real spring arrives late April
Avg low −3 to 3°C / high 4-11°C · Snow/rainy days: 15-20 per month / precipitation 70-90 mm
- • March still feels like winter, with leftover snow and cold air.
- • Even in April, mornings and evenings can be near freezing, and occasional snow is possible.
- • Melting snow and ice make some paths muddy or slippery, so waterproof shoes are ideal.
Suggested outfits
- · Thick coat or padded jacket
- · Knit or hoodie
- · Waterproof, slip-resistant shoes
A note for travelers
Rather than assuming “it’s spring so it must be warmer,” pack as if for January-February in Korea.
May · Jun
Finally feeling like spring — cool but still a bit chilly
Avg low 6-10°C / high 15-20°C · Rainy days: 10-12 per month / rainfall 60-90 mm
- • Snow in the city disappears, and parks and streets start turning green.
- • Days feel warm, but mornings and evenings can still be quite cool, so layering is needed.
- • It’s a great temperature range for relaxed walks and nature sightseeing.
Suggested outfits
- · Light coat or windbreaker
- · Shirts, knits, or sweatshirts
- · Comfortable sneakers
A note for travelers
Warm sunshine can suddenly turn into chilly shade or evening air, so keep an outer layer with you.
Jul · Aug
Short, cool summer — perfect for escaping the heat
Avg low 16-19°C / high 23-26°C · Rainy days: 10-13 per month / rainfall 90-120 mm
- • While other parts of Japan suffer from heat waves, Sapporo is known for its pleasant summer.
- • Humidity is lower, making it ideal for walking, outdoor activities, and beer festivals.
- • Sudden rain or overcast days can still feel a little cool.
Suggested outfits
- · T-shirts or light long sleeves
- · Light shirts or cardigans
- · Light pants or skirts
A note for travelers
If you want to enjoy outdoor walks, cycling, or picnics without extreme heat, July-August is perfect.
Sep · Oct
Crisp air and vivid foliage — highlight of autumn
Avg low 9-12°C / high 18-20°C · Rainy days: 10-12 per month / rainfall around 100 mm
- • September feels like early autumn, while October brings deeper colors and a strong autumn atmosphere.
- • The air is clear and calm—ideal for walks, photography, and hot springs.
- • Mornings and evenings become quite chilly, so you’ll feel cold without a proper outer layer.
Suggested outfits
- · Medium-weight jackets or coats
- · Knits or sweatshirts
- · Warm socks and sneakers
A note for travelers
Autumn is popular for hot springs and nature spots, so allow extra time for travel and reservations.
Nov · Dec
Back into snow and winter — prepare for the cold again
Avg low −4 to 0°C / high 1-5°C · Snow/rainy days: 15-20 per month / precipitation (mostly snow) 80-110 mm
- • Temperatures drop quickly from early November, and snow starts to accumulate from mid-month.
- • By December, Sapporo is fully in winter mode and heavy winter clothing is necessary.
- • There are many icy patches on paths and roads, so footwear really matters.
Suggested outfits
- · Thick padded jacket or coat
- · Fleece or thermal inners and knits
- · Waterproof, anti-slip boots and winter accessories
A note for travelers
Early winter Sapporo “looks” fully wintry in photos—perfect for scenery, but over-preparing your winter gear is better than under-preparing.
