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.
Nagano Weather in January
January in Nagano averages 3°C (37°F) during the day and -6°C (21°F) at night. Quite a bit of snow/rainfall is typical this month, with around 155 mm (6.1 in) on average. An umbrella is a good idea.
Rainfall in Nagano in January
Based on our climate data of the past 30 years, about 24 days of snow/rain are anticipated, with 155 mm (6.1 in) on average. This month brings frequent, heavy showers. Both the number of wet days and the rainfall totals are on the high side.
Temperature in Nagano in January
Temperatures in Nagano in January top out at 3°C (37°F) and drop to -6°C (21°F) overnight. The month of January belongs to the winter season. Cold conditions tend to persist from morning through evening, so be prepared for winter weather. Nights are well below freezing at -6°C (21°F). An extra blanket is a good idea if you feel the cold, especially in older or less well-heated accommodation. Since it's the coldest month of the year, you'll want to bundle up with extra layers and winter clothing.
Sunshine in Nagano in January
With about 128 hours of sunshine, the area enjoys a nice balance of sun and overcast, creating a pleasant environment.Our weather planner can help you find worldwide destinations with pleasant weather during this period. May typically offers the best weather for Nagano.
Nagano Temperature in January
Min Temperature
-6°C (21°F)
Max Temperature
3°C (37°F)
Chance of Rain
78%
Precipitation
155 mm (6.1 in)
Rainy days
24 days
Humidity
78%
Sunshine
128 hours
Percentage Sunshine
Nagano Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Nagano - and find the best time to visit.
Daily Historical Temperatures
51-year average (1976-2026)
Based on our historical records, temperatures in Nagano typically stay consistent throughout January, with daily highs averaging around 3°C (37°F). Nights are very cold, with lows typically ranging from -5°C (23°F) to -3°C (27°F).
Average temperatures in January
Daily Historical Precipitation
51-year average (1976-2026)
Average daily rainfall for each day of the month based on long-term records.
Average precipitation in January
Historical weather records for Nagano in January
Browse day-by-day weather records for Nagano spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.
Nagano historical weather extremes in January
Based on 49 years of weather observations (1976-2025), these are the most extreme conditions recorded in Nagano.
- Nagano recorded its highest January temperature of 16°C (61°F) on January 22, 1988.
- Nagano experienced its chilliest January day on January 25, 2023, reaching only -5°C (23°F).
- The coldest night in January in Nagano was on January 2, 2005, with a minimum of -12°C (10°F).
- The heaviest January precipitation occurred on January 27, 2002, when 30 mm (1.2 in) of precipitation fell.
Best Places in Japan in January
Find out more about the weather in Japan and which places have the best travel conditions in this month. See all of Japan in January →
perfect weather
pleasant
tolerable
unpleasant
poor
Perfect weather is subjective. On this map perfect weather has been defined with temperatures between 20°C (68°F) and 29°C (84°F) and not too much precipitation (less than 90 mm (3.5 in) a month).
What to Wear in Nagano in January
Dress warmly and in layers for your trip to Nagano in January. 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. Sunglasses could come in handy during the sunnier parts of your trip.
What To Do in Nagano in January
We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.
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Swimming5/10 -
Cycling3/10 -
Walking3/10 -
Camping1/10 -
Outdoor sports3/10
Nagano 3-Day Forecast
More climate data for Nagano
Temperature Rainfall Sunshine Humidity
See the full Nagano climate overview or explore weather in Japan.
Popular in January
Where to go in January - average daytime high across popular destinations.
Bucket list
Need travel inspiration? Check out our bucket list articles and be inspired.
Chase the autumn leaves in 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.