Kyoto Weather in December
Thinking of visiting Kyoto in December? Expect low temperatures reaching 11°C (52°F) during the day, dropping to 2°C (36°F) at night, with the driest conditions of the year.
Rainfall in Kyoto in December
Expect fewer clouds and less rain as the month goes on. This makes it an ideal time for outdoor activities, even though the temperatures are on the cooler side. On average, there are about 18 days with rain during this month, averaging 71 mm (2.8 in). Rain is frequent but mostly light this month, with brief showers more common than heavy downpours.
Temperature in Kyoto in December
In December, Kyoto sees low temperatures, with highs of 11°C (52°F). Nights drop to around 2°C (36°F). December is part of winter. Cold conditions persist throughout the day, so warm clothing is important from the moment you head outside. At 2°C (36°F) overnight, it gets properly cold after dark. On the bright side, cold nights tend to make for excellent sleeping conditions.
Sunshine in Kyoto in December
The month brings about 138 hours of sunlight, offering a comfortable mix of sun and overcast.If your ideal day consists of dry skies and pleasant temperatures, May and October typically offer the best circumstances for Kyoto.
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 Kyoto's climate page.
Kyoto Temperature in December
Min Temperature
2°C (36°F)
Max Temperature
11°C (52°F)
Chance of Rain
60%
Precipitation
71 mm (2.8 in)
Rainy days
18 days
Humidity
68%
Sunshine
138 hours
Percentage Sunshine
Daily Historical Temperatures
50-year average (1976-2025)
Based on our historical records, temperatures in Kyoto typically drop from around 13°C (55°F) at the start of December to approximately 10°C (50°F) by the end. Nights are cold, with lows typically ranging from 2°C (36°F) to 6°C (43°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 Kyoto in December
Browse day-by-day weather records for Kyoto spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.
Kyoto historical weather extremes in December
Based on 49 years of weather observations in Kyoto between 1976 and 2025, these are the recorded extremes.
- The hottest December day on record in Kyoto reached 23°C (73°F) (December 4, 2018).
- Kyoto experienced its chilliest December day on December 25, 1995, reaching only 2°C (36°F).
- Kyoto registered its coldest December night on December 31, 2020, with temperatures dropping to -6°C (21°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 →
perfect weather
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unpleasant
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What to Wear in Kyoto in December
The weather can be unpredictable in December, so pack clothes you can easily mix and match. You could bring jeans, other long pants, and a few t-shirts. A light jacket or light sweater will be pleasant for the cooler moments. Rain is likely on several days, so bring a good rain jacket. Bring sunglasses since you'll have some sunny periods throughout the monthWhat To Do in Kyoto 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 Kyoto's climate page.
Temperature Rainfall Sunshine Humidity
See the full Kyoto climate overview or explore weather in Japan.
