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.
Niigata Weather in January
Niigata in January averages 7°C (45°F) during the day and 2°C (36°F) at night. This is part of the winter season, and quite a bit of rainfall is expected this month.
Rainfall in Niigata in January
Expect around 29 days of rain based on historical data, with 191 mm (7.5 in) average. This month brings frequent, heavy showers. Both the number of wet days and the rainfall totals are on the high side.
Temperature in Niigata in January
Temperatures in Niigata in January top out at 7°C (45°F) and drop to 2°C (36°F) overnight. During January, the winter season is in full swing. Expect a cold feel throughout the day, not just in the mornings and evenings. Warm layers are essential. Nights drop to 2°C (36°F). Cold nights like these are actually great for sleeping well, as long as you have a warm enough duvet. Being the coldest month of the year, it's a good idea to bring your heaviest winter gear.
Sunshine in Niigata in January
The month has fewer sunny days, with around 58 hours of sunshine.January in Niigata 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.
Niigata Temperature in January
Min Temperature
2°C (36°F)
Max Temperature
7°C (45°F)
Chance of Rain
97%
Precipitation
191 mm (7.5 in)
Rainy days
29 days
Humidity
72%
Sunshine
58 hours
Percentage Sunshine
Niigata Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Niigata - and find the best time to visit.
Daily Historical Temperatures
51-year average (1976-2026)
Based on our historical records, temperatures in Niigata typically stay consistent throughout January, with daily highs averaging around 7°C (45°F). Nights are cold, with lows around 1°C (34°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 Niigata in January
Browse day-by-day weather records for Niigata spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.
Niigata historical weather extremes in January
The extremes listed below come from historical weather data collected in Niigata from 1976 through 2025.
- The hottest January day on record in Niigata reached 15°C (59°F) (January 8, 1979).
- The lowest daytime temperature in January was -2°C (28°F), recorded on January 25, 1990.
- The coldest night in January in Niigata was on January 19, 1977, with a minimum of -8°C (18°F).
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 Niigata in January
Cold weather calls for smart layering in January. A thermal base layer makes a huge difference in staying warm. Add a wool sweater or fleece, then a wind-resistant outer jacket. Heavy rain is guaranteed, please bring a good poncho and waterproof everything! With limited sunshine expected, sunglasses aren't a priority for packing.
What To Do in Niigata in January
We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.
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Swimming4/10 -
Cycling4/10 -
Walking4/10 -
Camping3/10 -
Outdoor sports4/10
Niigata 3-Day Forecast
More climate data for Niigata
Temperature Rainfall Sunshine Humidity
See the full Niigata 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.