Tokyo December weather
Tokyo, Japan · December
Cool to cold days with plenty of lights and year-end atmosphere
December marks the real start of winter in Tokyo. Daytime highs around 11-12°C and mornings and nights near 3-4°C mean coats and padded jackets become daily essentials.
Snow is rare, but crisp air plus Christmas and year-end lights create a distinctly wintery Tokyo mood.
December averages at a glance
Average low
around 3-4°C
Average high
around 11-12°C
Average rainfall
around 50-60 mm
Rainy days
about 5-6 days
What to wear in December in Tokyo
Actual feel will change with wind and rain, but use the suggestions below to build a comfortable layered outfit.
- • Thermal inner + knit or sweatshirt + thick coat or light padded jacket, plus a scarf, works as a standard.
- • If you plan to spend a long time outside for illuminations, gloves and a beanie make a big difference.
- • Indoor heating exists but is not as strong as in Korea, so many people keep a light outer layer on even inside cafés and restaurants.
Travel tips for visiting Tokyo in December
- • Major shopping and fashion districts like Ginza, Shibuya, and Omotesando decorate their streets with lights, so simple evening walks offer plenty to see.
- • Because daylight is very short, plan daytime activities tightly and shift to night views, dinners, and shopping after about 5 pm.
- • It is also peak shopping season with many sales and limited items, so leaving extra suitcase space is wise if you like to shop.
December weather in Tokyo — FAQ
Q. Is December in Tokyo much warmer than Korean winter?
A. It is milder than the coldest period in Seoul, but wind and differences in heating make it feel only a step warmer in practice. Pack one level lighter than full Korean mid-winter gear and you will be fine.
Q. Can I expect a white Christmas?
A. Snowy, white-Christmas scenes are very rare in central Tokyo, but illuminations and decorations provide plenty of festive mood without snow.
Q. Will crowds be overwhelming at year-end?
A. Core shopping districts and major sights do get crowded, but smaller neighborhood streets and local cafés remain more relaxed. Mixing “big spots + local walks” keeps the experience balanced.
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.