Sapporo Weather in December
December in Sapporo typically sees daytime highs of 2°C (36°F) and nighttime lows of -5°C (23°F). Rainfall is also possible this month, so it's worth packing an umbrella. It falls within the winter season.
Rainfall in Sapporo in December
Typically, you can expect about 27 days of snow/rain this month, with 90 mm (3.5 in) on average. This is a month with many wet days but modest rainfall totals, so showers are generally light and easy to manage.
Temperature in Sapporo in December
Sapporo in December gets highs of 2°C (36°F) during the day and drops to -5°C (23°F) at night. The winter season takes place during December. It stays very cold throughout much of the day, so warm winter clothing is essential. With overnight lows of -5°C (23°F), temperatures fall below freezing at night. An extra thick blanket can make a real difference if your accommodation runs cold. With the coldest weather of the year, this month demands extra warmth. Be sure to layer up to stay comfortable.
Sunshine in Sapporo in December
This month sees fewer sunny days, with about 87 hours of sunshine, perfect for those who enjoy cooler temperatures.If you're looking for dry conditions and comfortable temperatures, December may not be the ideal month to visit Sapporo. Our weather planner can help you explore destinations with more pleasant weather conditions.
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 Sapporo's climate page.
Sapporo Temperature in December
Min Temperature
-5°C (23°F)
Max Temperature
2°C (36°F)
Chance of Rain
91%
Precipitation
90 mm (3.5 in)
Rainy days
27 days
Humidity
71%
Sunshine
87 hours
Percentage Sunshine
Daily Historical Temperatures
50-year average (1976-2025)
Based on our historical records, temperatures in Sapporo typically drop from around 4°C (39°F) at the start of December to approximately 0°C (32°F) by the end. Nights are very cold, with lows typically ranging from -8°C (18°F) to -3°C (27°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 Sapporo in December
Browse day-by-day weather records for Sapporo spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.
Sapporo historical weather extremes in December
Based on 49 years of weather observations in Sapporo between 1976 and 2025, these are the recorded extremes.
- On December 7, 1990, temperatures climbed to 14°C (57°F), marking the warmest December day on record.
- The coldest December day was on December 25, 1984, with a maximum of -10°C (14°F).
- The coldest night in December in Sapporo was on December 17, 1985, with a minimum of -21°C (-6°F).
- The wettest day in December Sapporo was on December 5, 2004 with 63 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation.
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 Sapporo in December
We recommend to layer up for chilly conditions in Sapporo in December. You could start with thermal underwear or a good base layer to keep your core warm on the cooler days this month. Maybe also add a sweater or fleece, and top it off with a windproof jacket. High rain levels are expected, so pack waterproof gear and an umbrella or poncho. Sunglasses aren't essential this month, though you might want them for the occasional bright moment.What To Do in Sapporo 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 Sapporo's climate page.
Temperature Rainfall Sunshine Humidity
See the full Sapporo climate overview or explore weather in Japan.
