January Weather in Akita, Japan

Last updated: August 21, 2025

In January, Akita, Japan experiences cool to chilly temperatures, with maximums peaking at around 10°C (51°F) and dipping as low as -9°C (16°F). The month sees an average temperature of 1°C (35°F), creating a brisk environment perfect for winter activities. With 139 mm (5.5 in) of precipitation spread out over 21 days, residents and visitors alike can expect frequent snowfall and overcast skies. The humidity levels hover around 79%, contributing to the crisp, wintry atmosphere that defines Akita during this time of year.

January Temperature in Akita

In January, Akita, Japan, experiences a chilly embrace from winter, with temperatures ranging from a brisk -9°C (16°F) to a more temperate 10°C (51°F) during the day. The average temperature hovers around 1°C (35°F), marking it as one of the colder months of the year. As January progresses, there's a subtle warmth in February, where the minimum temperature nudges up to -5°C (23°F). This gradual shift hints at the transition towards spring, as March notably brings a rise to an average of 5°C (42°F), showcasing a positive trend with longer days ahead. Overall, this winter month in Akita sets the stage for the seasonal changes that follow, reflecting a pattern of gradual warmth that leads into the vibrant spring and summer months.

January Weather in Akita: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Akita, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Akita, January typically has an average temperature of {2}°C ({3}°F), with highs reaching up to {4}°C ({5}°F) and lows dropping to around {6}°C ({7}°F).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec353542485865747771615140
Data source: Temperature data for Akita generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred temperature unit
The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

January Precipitation in Akita

In January, Akita, Japan experiences an average precipitation of 139 mm (5.5 in) over approximately 21 days, marking the month as relatively wet to start the year. This trend sets the stage for February, which sees an increase in both precipitation, at 157 mm (6.2 in), and rainy days, reaching 23 days—the highest of the winter months. As spring approaches in March, the precipitation slightly decreases to 127 mm (5.0 in), while the number of rainy days drops to 17, indicating a gradual transition towards drier weather. Despite fluctuations, the overall pattern of significant rainfall persists, culminating in the peak precipitation months of October and December, where average totals soar above 200 mm. This consistent precipitation throughout the winter and early spring reflects Akita's characteristic climate, which is marked by a notable amount of rainfall and a distinct seasonal rhythm.

January Precipitation Trends in Akita

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Akita, with values for each month alongside January’s data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the amount of precipitation, providing insights into how January’s conditions compare to those of other months. In Akita, January typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec139157127146144172189229181224204249
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

January Humidity in Akita

In January, Akita, Japan experiences a humidity level of 79%, setting the stage for a winter marked by noticeable dampness. This month stands out as the tail end of a year that generally sees high humidity levels, particularly peaking in the summer months of June and July, where humidity soars to 90% and 93% respectively. Interestingly, as the year transitions from winter to spring, humidity gradually decreases, dipping to 76% by March. However, the onset of May signals a return to higher moisture levels, culminating in a sultry summer that maintains a consistent high, eventually tapering off in the fall. Overall, January serves as a bridge between the cooler, drier months and the steamy, humid season ahead, showcasing Akita's dynamic climate.

January Average Humidity in Akita

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Akita, with January’s data highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the fluctuation in humidity throughout the year, helping you understand how conditions vary by season. In January, average humidity in Akita is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec79%78%76%78%86%90%93%92%84%80%76%78%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Akita

In January, the UV Index in Akita, Japan is measured at a moderate level of 3, indicating a 30-minute burn time for unprotected skin. This trend continues into February, but things quickly change as March ushers in higher UV exposure with an index of 6 and a shorter burn time of 25 minutes. By April, the index rises to a very high 8, further decreasing burn time to just 15 minutes, and reaching its peak in August with an extreme index of 11 and a mere 10-minute exposure limit. As summer fades, the UV Index gently declines, settling back to a moderate 4 in November and a low 2 in December, where skin can tolerate up to 45 minutes of sun without burning. This clear seasonal shift highlights the importance of UV awareness year-round. For more detailed information, visit the Akita UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Akita for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Akita in January, representing the highest UV radiation level. The UVI measures the intensity of ultraviolet radiation from the sun, indicating the potential risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues. In January, the maximum UV index in Akita typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec336891010119642
Data source: Akita January UVI data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

January Sunshine in Akita

In January, Akita experiences a modest 142 hours of sunshine, signaling the deep winter season. As the months progress, the sun shines brighter, with February seeing an increase to 184 hours and March boosting it further to 235 hours. By the time spring arrives in April, residents can bask in 267 hours of sunlight, setting the stage for the lushness of May, which enjoys an impressive 294 hours. The summer months peak in August, where Akita basks in 301 hours of sunshine while the warm glow gradually diminishes in September at 259 hours. As autumn transitions into winter, the sun's presence recedes, with October offering 222 hours, followed by a notable but cool 186 hours in November and 167 hours in December. This trend illustrates a delightful ebb and flow of sunshine, highlighting the unique beauty of Akita's seasonal changes.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Akita: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Akita experiences direct sunlight during the month of January, excluding cloudy or obstructed periods. This chart compares the sunshine duration of January with the other months of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec142h184h235h267h294h287h296h301h259h222h186h167h
Data source: Akita January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Akita During January

In Akita, Japan, January brings a mere 18% chance of sunny weather, making it one of the cloudier months of the year. As winter sets in, the likelihood of sunshine is relatively low compared to subsequent months, with February experiencing a notable increase to 33%. This upward trend continues into March, where the chances of clear skies begin to rise further, reaching 26%. As spring approaches in April, residents can look forward to a significant boost in sunshine, with the probability climbing to 43%. Overall, January's lack of sunny days signals the enduring chill of winter, while the gradual increase in sunlight over the following months suggests a welcome transition towards brighter, warmer days ahead.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Akita

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Akita throughout the year, with January highlighted. It highlights the variation in sunshine across each month and provides an overview of the typical frequency of sunny days, offering insights into how often Akita experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec18%33%26%43%33%39%46%28%40%35%35%22%
Data source: Akita January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Akita in January

In Akita, Japan, January offers a modest 9 hours of daylight, marking the height of winter's chill. As the month unfolds, the light gradually begins to stretch, with February bringing 10 hours and March further increasing to 11 hours. This upward trend continues into spring, where April delights in 13 hours of sunlight, paving the way for brighter days in May and June, both boasting 14 hours. The peak of summer maintains this generous light, before slowly transitioning into a gentle decline. By August, daylight begins to retract to 13 hours, and September follows with 12 hours, signaling the approach of autumn. As the year wraps around, daylight diminishes once again, returning to 9 hours in both November and December, completing the cycle through the seasons. This rhythmic ebb and flow of daylight showcases the dynamic interplay between nature and time in Akita.

Average Daylight Hours in Akita for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Akita throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9h 41m10h 41m11h 56m13h 15m14h 21m14h 55m14h 38m13h 40m12h 25m11h 7m9h 59m9h 23m
Data source: Akita daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Akita

In January, Akita, Japan experiences its windiest month, with an average wind speed of 7.2 m/s (16 mph), setting a brisk tone for the new year. Following this, February sees a slight increase to 7.9 m/s (18 mph), creating a spirited atmosphere before the winds begin to mellow in March, dropping down to 5.5 m/s (12 mph). As spring approaches, the wind continues to calm, reaching its lowest speeds in the summer months, with June and July averaging only 3.5 m/s (8 mph) and 3.4 m/s (8 mph), respectively. This tranquil period gives way to a gradual increase in wind speed as autumn arrives, culminating in January once again, where the cycle returns to its brisk beginning. Throughout the year, it’s evident that Akita’s winds transform sharply with the seasons, shifting from refreshing blusters in winter to a gentle breeze by summer, before picking up again in the fall.

Average January Wind Speed in Akita

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Akita, with values for each month shown alongside January's data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It illustrates the average wind speed, offering insights into how January's wind conditions compare to the rest of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec7.2 m/s7.95.55.35.13.53.44.55.04.95.97.2
Data source: Akita January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Akita Compares to Other Months

Weather in Akita varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares January’s weather to other months in Akita, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.

January and February showcase similar temperature ranges, with both months experiencing maximums of 10°C (51°F). However, January is colder overall, marked by a minimum temperature of -9°C (16°F) compared to February's -5°C (23°F). Precipitation is notably higher in February, with 157 mm (6.2 in) spread over 23 days, exceeding January's 139 mm (5.5 in) across 21 days. Humidity levels remain relatively consistent, with January at 79% and February slightly lower at 78%. For more detailed information, you can refer to Akita weather in February.

January and March exhibit noticeable differences in weather, reflecting the transition from winter to spring. In January, temperatures are colder, with a minimum of -9°C (16°F) and an average of 1°C (35°F), while March experiences a milder minimum of -5°C (23°F) and an average of 5°C (42°F). Precipitation is fairly consistent between the two months, with January receiving 139 mm (5.5 in) across 21 days, compared to March’s 127 mm (5.0 in) over 17 days. Additionally, humidity slightly decreases from January's 79% to March's 76%, indicating a gradual shift toward drier conditions. For more detailed information, you can check Akita weather in March.

In January, the weather is notably colder, with temperatures ranging from a chilling -9°C (16°F) to a maximum of 10°C (51°F) and averaging around 1°C (35°F). The month sees considerable precipitation, totaling 139 mm (5.5 in) over 21 days, alongside a high humidity level of 79%. In contrast, April brings a significant warming trend, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 1°C (35°F) to a comfortable maximum of 18°C (65°F), averaging 9°C (49°F). While April also experiences precipitation—146 mm (5.7 in) over 16 days—the humidity remains slightly lower at 78%. For a more detailed look, check out Akita weather in April.

In January, the weather is characterized by cold temperatures, with minimums reaching as low as -9°C (16°F) and an average barely above freezing at 1°C (35°F). The month sees significant precipitation, totaling 139 mm (5.5 in) over 21 days, alongside a humidity level of 79%. In contrast, May brings a refreshing warmth with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 7°C (45°F) to a pleasant average of 15°C (58°F) and a maximum of 23°C (74°F). Although precipitation increases slightly to 144 mm (5.7 in), it occurs over fewer days, totaling just 15. The humidity also rises to 86%, lending a different texture to the air. For more information about the specific weather conditions in May, you can visit Akita weather in May.

January and June present a striking contrast in weather conditions. In January, temperatures can drop as low as -9°C (16°F), with an average of 1°C (35°F) and a maximum of 10°C (51°F). This winter month sees considerable precipitation, averaging 139 mm (5.5 in) spread over 21 days, contributing to a relatively high humidity of 79%. Conversely, June offers a more temperate climate, with minimum temperatures of 11°C (52°F) and an average of 19°C (66°F), peaking at 26°C (80°F). Although it experiences higher precipitation than January at 172 mm (6.8 in) over 13 days, the humidity rises slightly to 90%. For a closer look at June's climate specifics, check out Akita weather in June.

In January, the weather is characterized by chilly temperatures, with averages hovering around 1°C (35°F) and nighttime lows dipping as low as -9°C (16°F). This month sees considerable precipitation, with about 139 mm (5.5 in) spread over 21 days, contributing to a relatively high humidity level of 79%. In stark contrast, July boasts a much warmer climate, with average temperatures reaching 23°C (74°F) and highs peaking at 31°C (87°F). Although July experiences slightly more precipitation at 189 mm (7.4 in) over 14 days, the humidity rises to 93%, indicating a more sultry atmosphere. For those interested in the specifics of summer weather, check out Akita weather in July.

January and August present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In January, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -9°C (16°F) to a maximum of 10°C (51°F), with an average temperature of just 1°C (35°F). The month is characterized by relatively high humidity at 79% and considerable precipitation, totaling 139 mm (5.5 in) over 21 days. In contrast, August offers a warm climate, with minimum temperatures of 18°C (65°F) and maximums reaching up to 33°C (91°F), averaging around 25°C (77°F). Humidity increases to 92%, and while it has more total precipitation at 229 mm (9.0 in), rain falls over fewer days, totaling only 15. For more details on August weather specifics, you can check Akita weather in August.

In January, temperatures in Akita can be quite frigid, ranging from a chilly -9°C (16°F) to a maximum of 10°C (51°F), with an average temperature of around 1°C (35°F). The month is characterized by significant precipitation, totaling 139 mm (5.5 in) across 21 days, and a humidity level of 79%. In stark contrast, September experiences much warmer weather, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 14°C (58°F) to a steamy maximum of 31°C (89°F) and an average of 22°C (71°F). While September also sees considerable rainfall at 181 mm (7.1 in) over 17 days, the humidity increases slightly to 84%. For more details about the weather in Akita during September, you can refer to Akita weather in September.

January and October present quite a contrast in weather conditions. In January, temperatures are frigid, with lows reaching -9°C (16°F) and an average of around 1°C (35°F), making it one of the coldest months of the year. Despite the chill, it is relatively dry with 139 mm (5.5 in) of precipitation over 21 days and humidity at 79%. In stark contrast, October enjoys much milder temperatures, ranging from a minimum of 9°C (48°F) to a maximum of 26°C (78°F), with an average temperature of 16°C (62°F). Additionally, October is wetter, receiving 223 mm (8.8 in) of rainfall over 16 days, and maintaining a humidity level of 80%. For a detailed look at how the weather behaves during October, you can visit Akita weather in October.

January and November exhibit contrasting weather patterns. In January, temperatures can plummet as low as -9°C (16°F), with an average of 1°C (35°F) and a maximum of 10°C (51°F), creating a cold and often biting environment. The month sees significant precipitation, totaling 139 mm (5.5 in) over 21 days, resulting in a damp chill with humidity levels reaching 79%. In stark contrast, November experiences milder temperatures, with lows around 1°C (34°F), an average of 10°C (51°F), and highs up to 20°C (68°F), offering a more pleasant climate. November also has higher rainfall, totaling 204 mm (8.0 in) over the same number of days, but with slightly lower humidity at 76%. For a more detailed look at November weather, you can visit Akita weather in November.

January's weather is characterized by colder temperatures, with a minimum of -9°C (16°F) and an average of 1°C (35°F), compared to December, which sees milder conditions with a minimum of -4°C (26°F) and an average of 4°C (40°F). While both months experience considerable precipitation, January receives 139 mm (5.5 in) over 21 days, whereas December is wetter, with 249 mm (9.8 in) over 28 days. In terms of humidity, January remains slightly more humid at 79%, while December's humidity is slightly lower at 78%. For more detailed insights into December's climate, you can check Akita weather in December.

Compare Akita's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Akita

As winter fully embraces Akita in January, the weather starkly contrasts with the milder months, showcasing a chilly landscape characterized by average temperatures lingering around freezing. With maximums reaching only 10°C and minimums plunging to -9°C, this month is marked by a noteworthy chill that captures the essence of the season. Additionally, January brings significant precipitation, with rainfall occurring on more than two-thirds of the days, enveloping the region in a damp embrace, while the air holds a constant 79% humidity. The unique climate conditions of January set the stage for activities that celebrate the beauty of winter. For more in-depth information, explore the full details in our guide on Akita Climate.