Shirakawa-gō and Gokayama Weather in December
December in Shirakawa-gō and Gokayama averages 5°C (41°F) during the day and -4°C (25°F) at night. December is part of the rainy season, with around 220 mm (8.7 in) of snow/rainfall and frequent showers.
Rainfall in Shirakawa-gō and Gokayama in December
As part of the rainy season, Shirakawa-gō and Gokayama sees around 26 days of rain in December, with an average of 220 mm (8.7 in). The rainy season here brings regular, substantial showers. It's worth being prepared for rain on most days you're out.
Temperature in Shirakawa-gō and Gokayama in December
December in Shirakawa-gō and Gokayama brings low temperatures, with highs of 5°C (41°F) and nights around -4°C (25°F). December is part of the winter season. It stays very cold throughout much of the day, so warm winter clothing is essential. Nights are well below freezing at -4°C (25°F). An extra blanket is a good idea if you feel the cold, especially in older or less well-heated accommodation. The month is chilly, so ensure you're equipped and dress warmly. Preparation becomes key in these temperatures.
Sunshine in Shirakawa-gō and Gokayama in December
The month has fewer sunny days, with around 71 hours of sunshine.December in Shirakawa-gō and Gokayama has its charm. However, if you're seeking pleasant, dry and sunny weather, our weather planner can help you explore other destinations in the world.
Check the conditions for any month of the year.
For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit Japan, check out our Shirakawa-gō and Gokayama's climate page.
Shirakawa-gō and Gokayama Temperature in December
Min Temperature
-4°C (25°F)
Max Temperature
5°C (41°F)
Chance of Rain
86%
Precipitation
220 mm (8.7 in)
Rainy days
26 days
Humidity
81% *
Sunshine
71 hours *
Percentage Sunshine
*
Daily Historical Temperatures
50-year average (1976-2025)
Based on our historical records, temperatures in Shirakawa-gō and Gokayama typically drop from around 11°C (52°F) at the start of December to approximately 6°C (43°F) by the end. Nights are cold, with lows typically ranging from 0°C (32°F) to 4°C (39°F).
Average temperatures in December
Daily Historical Precipitation
50-year average (1976-2025)
Average daily rainfall for each day of the month based on long-term records.
Average precipitation in December
Historical weather for Shirakawa-gō and Gokayama in December
Browse day-by-day weather records for Shirakawa-gō and Gokayama spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.
Shirakawa-gō and Gokayama historical weather extremes in December
Our historical data for Shirakawa-gō and Gokayama spans 1976 to 2025, revealing these weather extremes.
- The hottest December day on record in Shirakawa-gō and Gokayama reached 22°C (72°F) (December 4, 2018).
- On December 26, 1995, Shirakawa-gō and Gokayama saw its coldest December day with temperatures maxing out at -2°C (28°F).
- The coldest night in December in Shirakawa-gō and Gokayama was on December 27, 2012, with a minimum of -9°C (16°F).
Best Places in Japan in December
Find out more about the weather in Japan and which places have the best travel conditions in this month. See all of Japan in December →
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What to Wear in Shirakawa-gō and Gokayama in December
Dress warmly and in layers for your trip to Shirakawa-gō and Gokayama in December. A good base layer system works wonders. Start with good thermal underwear, add something warm like a fleece sweater, then finish with a waterproof jacket on top. It's going to pour! Pack a good poncho and prepare for very wet conditions. With limited sunshine expected, sunglasses aren't a priority for packing.What To Do in Shirakawa-gō and Gokayama in December
We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.
Check the conditions for any month of the year.
For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit Japan, check out our Shirakawa-gō and Gokayama's climate page.
Temperature Rainfall Sunshine Humidity
See the full Shirakawa-gō and Gokayama climate overview or explore weather in Japan.
