The Complete Guide to Traveling in Hokkaido in December | Temperature, What to Wear, Tips for Driving on Snowy Roads, and Light Displays
How cold is it to travel to Hokkaido in December?
Temperature and snow conditions and travel advisories
Winter is in full swing in Hokkaido in December,Average around 0 degrees Celsius in Sapporo and severe cold below freezing in Asahikawawill be.
On the other hand,Opening of ski slopesand ... andilluminationThere is a wealth of winter attractions such as ☆.
firmlymeasures against coldand to suit the road conditions.Safe TransportationIt's important to choose the right one!
This article is designed to help you comfortably enjoy your trip to Hokkaido in December.Model courses and notes by regionin an easy-to-understand manner.
◆To know the approximate temperature, snow and cold
◆Those looking for a Hokkaido winter sightseeing model course
◆Those who want to eliminate the anxiety of rental car travel and winter roads.
◆If you want to know what to wear and what to bring for a trip to Hokkaido in December.
＼Winter Exclusive☆Click here for experiences to enjoy Hokkaido's snow／
Hokkaido
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Weather and Temperatures in Hokkaido in December
Guidelines for Cold Weather and Snow by Region
In December, Hokkaido is,The time of year when early winter quickly gives way to the depths of winterIt is.
Even within Hokkaido, in Sapporo, Asahikawa, and Hakodate,Both the temperature and the amount of snow vary greatlyThat's why it's important to prepare according to your destination!
Here, we’ll give you a detailed breakdown of December’s weather, temperatures, and snow conditions by region—information you’ll want to know before your trip! ☆
[By Region] Estimated Average Temperatures and Snowfall Amounts for December
Temperatures in December are,Hakodate in southern Hokkaido is relatively warm, while Asahikawa and Biei in the inland regions of northern and central Hokkaido are experiencing particularly severe cold.will be.
The amount of snowfall is,They are more common on the Sea of Japan side (Sapporo, Otaru) and in inland areas, while they are less common on the Pacific side (Hakodate, Kushiro).That's the general trend.
| Area | average temperature | Highest Temperature | Lowest Temperature | Year-End Snowfall Totals |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sapporo (city) | About −1°C | About 1°C | About −4°C | Approximately 20–40 cm |
| small barrel | About −1°C | About 1°C | About −4°C | Approximately 30 to 50 cm |
| Asahikawa | About −4°C | About −1°C | About −8°C | Approximately 40–60 cm |
| Biei and Furano | About −5°C | About −1°C | About −9°C | Approximately 40–70 cm |
| Hakodate | About 0°C | About 3°C | About −3°C | Approximately 5–20 cm |
| Kushiro | About −2°C | About 2°C | About −8°C | Approximately 10 cm or less |
*These are approximate values based on the Japan Meteorological Agency's average data. Since conditions can vary significantly by year and day, please check the latest weather forecast before departure.
◆Asahikawa, Biei, and Furano: Sub-freezing temperatures are expected to continue, with morning and evening lows dropping to around −10°C at times.
◆Hakodate: While temperatures are relatively high for Hokkaido and there is little snow, be careful of icy roads.
◆Kushiro: Although there isn't much snow, the air is dry, and radiational cooling tends to make mornings chilly.
Snow Conditions in December
When will it start snowing? How much will it snow?
In Hokkaido, the first snow falls from late October through November, andThe period from early to mid-December when snow accumulates and remains on the ground without melting, known as “ne-yuki” (persistent snow)...will begin.
In the first half of December,It snows on and off; it melts during the day and freezes at night.This happens quite often, and as the season progresses, the scenery gradually transforms into a full-fledged snowy landscape.
In addition, December snow has the following characteristics:
◆On the Sea of Japan side (Sapporo and Otaru), cold air can cause heavy snowfall to fall all at once in a short period of time.
◆Since temperatures are around 0°C, melted snow tends to freeze overnight, making the roads slippery.
◆In the southern Hokkaido region and along the Pacific coast, "black ice" is the main concern, rather than snow.
The amount of snow varies greatly not only by region but also depending on the atmospheric pressure patterns of the year.
Don't let your guard down just because "there's usually little snow in December"; be sure to take precautions for driving on snowy roads.I recommend doing this. ◎
It's different depending on whether it's the early, middle, or late part of the month!
Climate by Season and Travel Tips
Even though we’re talking about December as a whole, there’s a difference between the first half and the second half of the monthBoth the temperature and the amount of snow—as well as how you enjoy sightseeing—change significantly.
◆Snow: Snow accumulation is light, so road surfaces tend to be a mix of snow and puddles.
◆ Travel Tips: This is a great time to visit, as there are relatively few tourists and it’s easy to book accommodations and flights. The White Illumination event also begins.
◆Snow: The snow has settled, blanketing the entire town in a winter wonderland. Ski resorts are opening one after another.
◆ Travel Tip: Enjoy the authentic winter atmosphere. Be careful how you walk and choose your footwear, as icy roads become more common.
◆Snow: Snow accumulation increases, transforming the landscape into a winter wonderland. Some days may bring heavy snow or blizzards.
◆ Travel Tips: The number of travelers increases during the Christmas and New Year’s holiday season, leading to crowds. To ensure a smooth trip, book accommodations and transportation early.
If you want to avoid the crowds, visit in early December; if you want to fully enjoy the snowy scenery, visit in mid-December or later.I recommend this☆
Sunrise and Sunset Times, and Estimated Sightseeing Hours
In December, Hokkaido is,The time of year with the least amount of daylightIt is.
In Sapporo, sunrise is around 7:00 a.m., and sunset isAround 4:00 p.m.So, there are only about 9 hours of daylight.
It gets dark sooner than you might think in the evening, so be sure to keep the following points in mind when making your plans.
◆In the evening and after, head to "evening spots" such as light displays, night views, and hot springs
◆ Check in advance the opening hours of facilities with shorter operating hours during the winter, such as Asahiyama Zoo
◆Avoid driving on snowy roads after dark, and head to your lodging early.
"Snowy scenery by day, a landscape of lights by night"By adjusting how you enjoy your trip depending on the time of day, you can have a fulfilling trip even with limited daylight hours. ◎
Watch out for the wind chill!
About Wind, Blizzards, and Whiteouts
You can't judge how cold December is just by looking at the temperature readings.
It is generally said that for every 1 m/s increase in wind speed, the perceived temperature drops by about 1°C.
Even when the temperature is −3°C, if there are strong winds, it feels like −10°C or colder.It can also be a
You should be especially careful in the following weather conditions:
◆Whiteout:A phenomenon in which the surroundings turn completely white due to a blizzard or similar conditions, causing the driver to lose their sense of direction. This is particularly dangerous when driving in the suburbs.
◆Blizzard (during the passage of a low-pressure system):There may be JR service suspensions or flight cancellations
◆Radiative Cooling:Clear mornings are particularly cold, and in Asahikawa and Biei, temperatures can drop to nearly −15°C on some days.
According to the weather forecastOn days when a “blizzard warning” or “heavy snow warning” is in effect, avoid going out unnecessarily and opt for indoor sightseeing instead.That gives me peace of mind.
The temperature difference from Tokyo is about 10°C! The difference from Honshu
The average temperature in Tokyo in December is around 8°C.
Compared to Sapporo,About 9–10°C, a difference of about 12°C from AsahikawaThere are
If you pack based on what you imagine the cold in Tokyo to be like in January and February, you'll be just about right.
However, in Hokkaido,The indoor heating is working well, and it's very warm inside....is its defining feature.
To cope with the temperature difference—where it's midwinter outside but almost too hot inside—Layered Outfits That Are Easy to Put On and Take OffI recommend this☆
The Impact of Weather on Travel
Be Aware of Delays on Flights, JR Trains, and Buses
In December,A time when delays and service cancellations are common on public transportation due to snow and strong windsIt is.
◆JR:On snowy days, delays and service cancellations are common on routes such as the one between Sapporo and New Chitose Airport.
◆Buses and Express Buses:There may be significant delays depending on road conditions.
◆Measures:Avoid itineraries with frequent transfers, and make sure to allow plenty of time on the last day in particular
On the day before and the day of your trip,Service updates from airlines and JR Hokkaido, and weather forecasts from the Japan Meteorological AgencyBe sure to check this.
So that you can respond calmly even if things don't go as planned,Don't cram too much into your dayThat’s the key to enjoying a winter trip to Hokkaido. ◎
Check the weather for your December trip to Hokkaido
Recommended Resources
Since weather and road conditions change from moment to moment,Check reliable sources in advanceIt's a good idea to do this just to be on the safe side.
◆ Snow and Temperature Information from the Sapporo Regional Meteorological Observatory and Other Sources
◆ Road Information from the Hokkaido Development Bureau (Road Closures and Icy Road Conditions)
◆Service Updates from JR Hokkaido and Various Airlines
◆Official Websites of Tourist Attractions (Temporary Closures and Changes to Business Hours)
Enjoy Hokkaido sightseeing in December
Recommended Model Course
Hokkaido in December is the perfect season to enjoy snowy scenery.
Each area of Hokkaido in winter, such as Sapporo, Otaru, Asahikawa, Biei, and Hakodate, has its own unique attractions, so you can choose the one that best suits your purpose.Creating a model courseis important.
Here are some recommended winter courses in popular tourist destinations☆.
Sapporo and Otaru Area
Standard winter sightseeing model course
Sapporo is rich in winter events, and December isSapporo White Illuminationwill be held and the entire city will be enveloped in lights.
Illuminations in Odori Park and Ekimae-dori Avenue are popular among touristsSo, I recommend taking a stroll in the evening or later!
During the daytime, you cannot miss the Sapporo Clock Tower, Odori Park, Maruyama Zoo, and other classic spots, as well as the Sapporo Outside Market, where you can enjoy fresh seafood.
The illumination of the Otaru Canal and the streetscape of historical buildings are a perfect match with the snowy scenery ◎.
Sapporo Clock Tower
The Sapporo Clock Tower, built in 1878, is one of the oldest wooden structures in Hokkaido and is a familiar symbol of Sapporo.
Inside the museum, visitors can see an exhibition of materials from the pioneer days,The building's classic triangular roof and clock tower are popular photo spots!
Located in the center of the city for easy access and shortEasy to stop by tourist attractionsIt's ☆.
Access: Approx. 10 min. from JR Sapporo Sta. to Odori via underground walkway (Exit 9)
5 min. walk from Odori Sta. on Subway Namboku Line, Tozai Line, Toho Line and Shiyakusho (City Hall) side exit.
Odori Park
Odori Park is a recreational area for citizens that stretches more than 1.5 km east to west through the center of Sapporo,A popular tourist spot with beautiful scenery in every season.It is!
In winter, it becomes the site of white illumination and snow festivals, creating a fantastic sight.
It is dotted with fountains, flower beds, and monuments,Great park for strolling and photography.'It's good to be here'
◆Access: Directly connected to Odori Subway Station
Sapporo Maruyama Zoo
Access: 15-minute walk from Maruyama Koen Station on the Subway Tozai Line
Admission: Adults: 800 yen / High school students: 400 yen / Junior high school students and younger: free
◆Opening Hours:opening, either for the day or permanently (e.g. theme park, botanical garden etc.) 9:30 a.m. ~ (after a number N) closing, either for the day or permanently (e.g. theme park, botanical garden etc.) 4:00 p.m. (Last admission at 15:30)
Otaru Canal
The Otaru Canal is lined with historic warehouses,Otaru's representative romantic scenic spotIt is.
You can take a stroll against the backdrop of stone warehouses, a retro townscape by day and lit by gas lamps at night.You can enjoy a fantastic sight☆.
In winter, the snow-covered canals are even more beautiful and make for the perfect photo opportunity. It’s a popular area worth visiting while you’re out shopping or hopping from café to café!
◆Access: 10-minute walk from JR Otaru Station
▼Click here for recommended tours in Otaru.
Sapporo OTC Market
Sapporo Outside Market arrives from all over Hokkaido. Popular market area with fresh seafood and seasonal produceIt is.
More than 60 stores line the streets, offering a wide variety of Hokkaido's typical seafood such as crab, sea urchin, salmon roe, scallops, and more.
Seafood bowls and grilled fish are available in the market. Many cafeterias and a very popular breakfast spot.It is.
It is easily accessible from central Sapporo, making it a great place to stop by between sightseeing tours.
◆Access: 7-minute walk from Exit 5 of Nijushiken Station on the Subway Tozai Line
9 minutes walk from the left exit of the west ticket gate of JR Kuwazono Station.
Touring Asahikawa and Biei Area
Model courses with spectacular winter scenery
Asahikawa is one of the coldest regions in Hokkaido, but the clear air is beautiful and offers spectacular winter scenery.
At Asahiyama Zoo, the animals can only be seen in winter.Behavioral Exhibits in Snow and Ice."is a point of interest.
especiallyPenguin Walkingis a winter specialty from December onward.
It takes about 30 to 40 minutes by car to get to Biei, where the vast hills are covered with snow,No matter where you point your camera, you'll find picturesque scenery all around!
Click here for recommended tours ▼
Asahiyama Zoo
Asahiyama Zoo offers "behavioral exhibits" that allow visitors to observe the true behavior of the animals up close.One of the most popular spots in Hokkaido, famous throughout Japan.It is!
In winter, you can see penguins walking and seals swimming, which are lively and unique to the cold region◎.
The facility is compact but worth seeing,Families and couples alike can enjoy the park!
Access: 40 minutes from Asahikawa Station by local bus.
◆Admission fee: Adults: 1,000 yen (Citizens: 700 yen) / Junior high school students and younger: Free
◆Opening hours: 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. from November 11 to December 29 (last admission at 3:00 p.m.)
Opening hours vary depending on the season, so please check the official website in advance.
Click here for recommended tours ▼
Shirogane Blue Pond
The blue pond in winter is different from the bright blue of summerMysterious beauty is its charm.It's ☆.
The lights are on from November to the following March, and the snow and the blue pondFantastic sightIt creates a
Because temperatures can drop below -10°C,Warmth is essential for strong cold weather.It is.
◆Access:20 minutes by car from JR Biei Station / 20 minutes by Dohoku Bus
Click here for recommended tours ▼
Enjoy to the fullest in Hakodate area
Christmas Travel Model Course
Hakodate is a popular destination in December,Perfect area for those who want to get in the Christmas mood.'It's good to be here'
The Red Brick Warehouse is decked out with Christmas lights, and you can enjoy shopping and dining there, too!
Also,Night View of Mount Hakodate" is one of the top three night views in JapanThe clear winter air makes it shine brighter.
Kanamori Red Brick Warehouse
Kanamori Red Brick Warehouses are a group of historical buildings that symbolize the Hakodate Bay Area,Shopping and sightseeing spot utilizing red brick architecture from the Meiji periodIt is.
With a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants lining the street, you can enjoy a leisurely stroll while taking in the seaside scenery!
It is illuminated at night,Popular area with romantic atmosphere.It's ☆.
◆Access: 15-minute walk from JR Hakodate Station
Mount Hakodate Observatory
Mount Hakodate is a 334-meter-high mountain known as a landmark of Hakodate City,The greatest attraction is the breathtaking night view, one of the "World's Three Greatest Night Views.It is.
From the mountaintop, you can see the city lights spreading out around the bay, and in winter especially, when the air is crisp, they shine even more beautifully!
It is easily accessible by ropeway,Popular spot for daytime scenery and nature walks.It is.
Access: From Hakodate AirportMount Hakodate Ropeway to the base stationApproximately 30 minutes by car
Hokkaido in December is noted for snow and cold weather!
Is it safe to rent a car for transportation?
It is possible to travel by rental car in Hokkaido in winter, though,If you have no experience driving on snowy or icy roads, it can be risky.
Road conditions vary greatly from day to day, especially in December, when temperatures are low and snowstorms can suddenly turn into blizzards.
The main roads are well plowed, though,Careful driving is required in the suburbs and at night when the road tends to become icyIt is.
Click here for recommended tours ▼
When using a rental car in Hokkaido in winter
Road conditions and precautions
The roads in December areCharacterized by the occurrence of hard-to-see icy patches called "black ice burns."It is.
especiallyBe careful on bridges, in the shade, and at tunnel exits.
In addition, blizzards can cause poor visibility and a complete whiteout, which is a whiteout of the world.
◆not driving too fast
◆Avoid sudden braking and steering
◆ Early light-up to indicate the vehicle's position.
Tips for traveling on snow-covered roads and visiting tourist attractions
Hakodate is an area with relatively little snow, though,Slippery conditions due to freezing in December are a problem.will be.
Efficient sightseeing by tramIt is also safe for those who are anxious about driving.
When going to see the three major night views, take the ropewaystatus of operationsAlso check the
studless winter tire (tire)
The need for four-wheel drive and how to choose it
If you want to use a rental car in Hokkaido in winter,Studless tires are a must.It is.
Most car rentals areStudless are already installed for the winter period, but confirm at the time of reservation.
Four-wheel drive (4WD) vehicles are used on snow-covered roads.stabilityis high, especially if you plan to go to suburban areas such as Biei and Furano, it is safer to choose this option.
However, even with four-wheel drive, it is slippery on icy road surfaces.Don't be overconfidentIt is important to
Comparison of benefits of public transportation and car rental
Public transportation such as JR and buses are available for winter travel in Hokkaido,You can definitely enjoy the major tourist destinations—such as Sapporo, Otaru, and Hakodate—using only public transportation!
On the other hand, public transportation in Biei and Furano is scarce, and the convenience of a rental car stands out.
No need to drive on snowy roads
Delayed but safe
Strong city center tourism
Advantages of renting a car
Highly flexible in terms of time
Easy access to regions and scenic spots
Convenient for people with a lot of luggage
Points for choosing a safe means of transportation even on snowy days
The weather is not stable in December,"Can I move around safely?"The first priority should be to
If you are not confident in your driving ability, it is better to take the easy way out and use public transportation.
In addition, the latest information is available from the Japan Meteorological Agency and Hokkaido's traffic information website.road informationIt is safe to act while checking the
Hokkaido trip in December
Basic winter protection items needed
The basic attire isWarmth."and"Wind protection."The emphasis will be on
Especially on windy days, the temperature is much lower,Ideally, wear clothing that avoids exposing skin.It is.
Knit caps, gloves, and scarves
Moisture-absorbing, heat-absorbing innerwear such as HEATTECH
Fleece, sweaters, and other intermediate clothing
Waterproof shoes
Dressing points and recommended coordinates for women
Women should use lined tights or leggings for enhanced protection against the cold when wearing skirt styles.
Pants style is more secure,Boots with non-slip soles are best.
Recommendation,Long down + knit one-piece + lined leggings + non-slip short bootsA combination of the two.
By warming the neck, wrists, and ankles, which tend to get cold easilyamenitywill vary greatly.
Winter accessories for comfortable sightseeing and photography
Cameras and smartphones because the cold drains batteries quickly,Mobile battery is a mustIt is.
Warmer, in particular, not only warms the body but alsoCold FingertipsIt is also useful for
Waterproof spray
Hand cream (anti-drying)
Sunglasses (to protect against snow glare)
Snow day footwear and shoe selection
Hokkaido in December has many icy roads and it is easy to fall over.Shoe selection is very importantIt is.
Boots with non-slip soles, waterproofing, and ankle coverageYou may want to choose the
Non-slip spikes that can be retrofitted to the soles of shoes are also useful and can be purchased at convenience stores in the city.
Especially on days when there is a lot of snow.waterproof bootsis safe.
FAQ for December travel to Hokkaido
Depending on the region, Sapporo is about -1 to -4°C and Asahikawa is about -5 to -8°C, making it feel even colder.
It is especially cold in the mornings and evenings, so warm outerwear and windproof measures are essential.
It is possible, but care should be taken if you are not used to snowy or icy roads.
Black ice slopes are especially dangerous, so choose a vehicle with four-wheel drive and studless tires and plan for a reasonable distance.
Long down, knit hat, gloves, scarf, inner lining, waterproof boots, etc. "Full winter protection" is the basic rule.
Women in particular tend to get cold easily, so layering leggings or tights is also recommended.
summary
Hokkaido in December can be the most enjoyable winter trip by taking measures against cold and snow.
The charm of each area is further accentuated by the snowy scenery,There are plenty of seasonal highlights to enjoy, such as holiday lights, hot springs, and local cuisine!
If you plan according to the model course and take the proper precautions against cold and traffic, you will never forget your trip to Hokkaido in December!memorieswill be ☆.
▼Click here for columns to read in conjunction with this article.
