Wakkanai Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Wakkanai.
Climate overview of Wakkanai
Temperatures in Wakkanai, Hokkaido, Japan, vary greatly throughout the year. August is the hottest month at 23°C (73°F), while January is the coldest at -1°C (30°F).
With around 1103 mm (43 in) of annual rain/snowfall, Wakkanai has a notably wet climate. However, this rain/snowfall is not evenly distributed — the city has warm summers and very cold winters. The wettest month is September. Sunshine peaks in May, when the city sees around 6.2 hours of sunshine per day.
Wakkanai Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Wakkanai - and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in Wakkanai
The climate in Wakkanai is known for significant temperature differences throughout the year, making the weather dynamic. Average daytime temperatures reach a comfortable 23°C (73°F) in August. In January, the coolest month of the year, temperatures drop to a very cold -1°C (30°F).
At night, temperatures range from around 18°C (64°F) in August to -7°C (19°F) in January.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Wakkanai
Wakkanai has a notably wet climate with abundant precipitation, recording 1103 mm (43 in) of rain/snowfall per year. Wakkanai experiences moderate seasonal variation in rainfall, with monthly averages ranging from 130 mm (5.1 in) in September, the wettest month, and 66 mm (2.6 in) in April, the driest month. For more details, please visit our Wakkanai Precipitation page.
The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow
The average number of days each month with precipitation
Sunshine Hours in Wakkanai
Wakkanai can be enjoyed more throughout the sunniest month of May under a blue sky, with approximately 6.2 hours of sunshine daily. In contrast, the city experiences much darker days in December, with only 1.2 hours of sunlight per day.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Daily hours of sunshine
Best Time to Visit Wakkanai
Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.
- Best overall: July, August and September
- Warmest weather: August
- Most sunshine: May and September
- Seasonal pattern: Warm summers and very cold winters
- Coldest conditions: January, with freezing nights around -7°C (19°F).
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Wakkanai
What is the best time to visit Wakkanai?
July, August and September typically offer the most optimal weather in Wakkanai. In contrast, January, February, March, April, November and December tend to have less optimal conditions. Wakkanai has warm summers and very cold winters.
What temperatures can I expect in Wakkanai?
Daytime highs range from -1°C (30°F) in January to 23°C (73°F) in August. Nighttime lows range from -7°C (19°F) to 18°C (64°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.
How much rain does Wakkanai get?
Annual rainfall is around 1103 mm (43 in). September is the wettest month with 130 mm (5.1 in), while April is the driest with 66 mm (2.6 in).
How sunny is Wakkanai?
Wakkanai receives around 1,507 hours of sunshine per year. May is the sunniest month with 186 hours, while December is the cloudiest with just 37 hours.
Wakkanai 3-Day Forecast
Wakkanai 3-Day Forecast
Wakkanai on the map
Wakkanai is highlighted - select any city to see its climate.
Popular this month
Where to go in July - average daytime high across popular destinations.
Osaka
32°C (90°F) Tokyo30°C (86°F) Naha
30°C (86°F) Kyoto31°C (88°F) Hakone28°C (82°F) Hakuba26°C (79°F) Sapporo24°C (75°F) Niseko24°C (75°F) 
Bucket list
Need travel inspiration? Check out our bucket list articles and be inspired.
Chase the autumn leaves in Japan
Japan is one of these cases which turns into a gold, yellow and orange fairy tale starting from September. And we can honestly say: We cannot imagine a more beautiful season to visit Japan.
Walk the 88 temple circuit
We recommend walking the 88 temple circuit from April til October. Although June, July and August can be a bit wet, hot and humid.
The famous bamboo forests of Arashiyama
The famous bamboo forests of Arashiyama lie just outside the city center of Kyoto and is unique in the world. If you look at photos of this bamboo forest, it looks like you have landed in a fairy-tale world.
10 reasons why you should visit Japan in winter
Here are 10 reasons why you should plan a winter trip to Japan. During this period, popular sights are less busy and prices for flights and hotels much cheaper.