January Weather in Kusatsu, Japan

Last updated: August 21, 2025

In January, Kusatsu, Japan, transforms into a winter wonderland characterized by chilly temperatures and ample precipitation. The maximum temperature hovers around 9°C (49°F), while the average temperature dips to a brisk -2°C (29°F), with nights reaching a frigid minimum of -12°C (11°F). This month sees 74 mm (2.9 in) of precipitation spread over 16 days, creating a humidity level of 88% that emphasizes the crisp, cold air. As the snow blankets the landscape, Kusatsu becomes a picturesque destination for winter enthusiasts.

January Temperature in Kusatsu

In January, Kusatsu, Japan experiences a chilly spell, with temperatures ranging from a frosty -12°C (11°F) to a mild 9°C (49°F), resulting in an average of -2°C (29°F). This month marks the heart of winter, where the cold tends to linger, making way for a gradual warming trend as the season transitions into February. Notably, February shows only a slight increase in average temperature, peaking at 17°C (63°F) by the end of the month. As winter slowly ebbs, March heralds a shift with temperatures beginning to rise, showcasing daily variations and hinting at the warmth to come in the spring months.

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

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Kusatsu, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Kusatsu, 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).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec293139475964717465554434
Data source: Temperature data for Kusatsu generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

January Precipitation in Kusatsu

January in Kusatsu, Japan, typically sees 74 mm (2.9 in) of precipitation over 16 days, setting a steady tone for the winter months. This consistent rainfall continues into February, maintaining the same amount but slightly reducing the frequency of rainy days, dropping to 14. As spring approaches, a notable shift occurs, with March and April marked by increases in both precipitation and days of rainfall, illustrating a gradual thaw and the transition to a wetter season. The trend escalates sharply in the summer months, particularly in July, where Kusatsu experiences a dramatic spike with 278 mm (10.9 in) of rain over 25 days, showcasing the area's pronounced monsoon-like patterns. This pattern emphasizes the region's shift from cold, relatively dry winters to hot, humid summers, painting a vivid picture of Kusatsu's dynamic climate across the year.

January Precipitation Trends in Kusatsu

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Kusatsu, 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 Kusatsu, January typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec74741111121391682781771682175076
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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January Humidity in Kusatsu

In Kusatsu, Japan, January sets the tone for a humid winter, boasting an average humidity of 88%. This high level is characteristic of the colder months, with February not far behind at 86%. As spring approaches, the humidity gently declines, reaching its lowest point in April at 78%. However, as the temperature rises in May and June, humidity levels rebound, hitting another peak at 88%. The summer months of July and August see the highest humidity levels, both at a steamy 92%, making the air feel thick and heavy. As autumn sweeps in, humidity gradually tapers off, with September at 89% and October at 87%, before settling into the cooler, yet still damp, months of November and December. Overall, the trend in Kusatsu shows a distinct seasonal ebb and flow, with winter and summer marked by consistently high humidity levels, creating a unique climate that's both refreshing and invigorating.

January Average Humidity in Kusatsu

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Kusatsu, 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 Kusatsu is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec88%87%81%79%81%88%92%92%89%87%85%86%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Kusatsu

In Kusatsu, Japan, January heralds a moderate UV Index of 4, with a burn time of just 30 minutes, making it a relatively safe period for sun exposure. However, as winter gives way to spring, the UV levels begin to rise significantly: February sees an increase to 6 (high), and by March, the Index escalates to 8 (very high), where exposed skin can burn in only 15 minutes. This upward trend continues, peaking in the summer months with a staggering UV Index of 11 (extreme) from May to August, where just 10 minutes of sun can lead to skin damage. Even as autumn approaches, September's Index remains high at 10 (very high), before tapering off in October and November. By December, the UV Index drops to a mild 3, allowing for more comfortable outdoor activities. For detailed information on monthly trends, visit Kusatsu UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Kusatsu for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Kusatsu 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 Kusatsu typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec46891111111110753
Data source: Kusatsu 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 Kusatsu

In January, Kusatsu, Japan, experiences 183 hours of sunshine, marking the start of a gradual increase in daylight as winter transitions towards spring. As February arrives, this figure climbs to 231 hours, followed by a notable spike to 261 hours in March, signaling the approach of warmer days. The trend continues, peaking at 287 hours in May, when Kusatsu basks in its sunniest month. However, the summer warmth begins to wane in June with 267 hours, transitioning into the varied light patterns of the latter half of the year. The sunshine plateaus somewhat during the peak summer months, with 237 hours in July, before rising again in August. As autumn sets in, sunshine hours fluctuate, with September offering 228 hours and November dipping slightly to 227 hours. Ultimately, December closes the year with 219 hours, reflecting the cyclical nature of light in this serene mountain town. This overall pattern highlights the vibrant and shifting beauty of Kusatsu’s climate throughout the year.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Kusatsu: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Kusatsu 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec183h231h261h279h287h267h237h278h228h209h227h219h
Data source: Kusatsu January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Kusatsu During January

In Kusatsu, Japan, the likelihood of sunny weather in January stands at 33%, a figure that reflects the chilly winter season. As the year progresses, we see fluctuations in sunshine with February offering a more promising 45% chance of clear skies, before returning to the earlier rate of 33% in March. Notably, the trend shifts in the approaching spring months, with April peaking at 42%, but as summer nears, the chances dip again, hitting a low of 20% in June. This pattern of variability emphasizes that while January may be on the cooler side, February hints at a brighter outlook, suggesting that as winter wanes, opportunities for sunnier days emerge.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Kusatsu

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Kusatsu 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 Kusatsu experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec33%45%33%42%24%20%27%21%21%37%46%41%
Data source: Kusatsu January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Kusatsu in January

In January, Kusatsu, Japan experiences 9 hours of daylight, marking the beginning of a gradual increase as the months progress. This short daylight duration steadily extends through February to 10 hours, and continues to grow, reaching a pleasant 11 hours by March. The upward trend peaks in late spring and early summer, with daylight extending to a maximum of 14 hours from May to July. As summer wanes, daylight begins to taper off, slipping back to 13 hours in August and descending further to 12 hours in September. The decline persists into October and November, showcasing 11 and 10 hours of daylight respectively, before returning to its winter lows of 9 hours in December. This cyclical pattern not only highlights the rhythmic nature of seasons but also creates a captivating backdrop for outdoor activities throughout the year.

Average Daylight Hours in Kusatsu for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Kusatsu throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9h 57m10h 49m11h 57m13h 7m14h 6m14h 36m14h 21m13h 30m12h 23m11h 13m10h 12m9h 41m
Data source: Kusatsu daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Kusatsu

In Kusatsu, Japan, January ushers in a gentle breeze with an average wind speed of 2.1 m/s (5 mph), setting the tone for the winter months. This mild wind continues its soft dance through February, slightly increasing to 2.5 m/s (6 mph), before tapering off again in March and April, reflecting a subtle ebb and flow that characterizes this period. As spring approaches, the winds generally calm, reaching their lowest averages in the warmer summer months of June and July, often dipping as low as 1.3 m/s (3 mph). However, the winds pick up again towards the end of the year, with December showcasing a refreshing return to 2.2 m/s (5 mph), enveloping Kusatsu in a familiar winter embrace. Overall, this data reveals a seasonal rhythm, where the winds are at their most active in early winter and late autumn, making for a constantly evolving atmospheric experience.

Average January Wind Speed in Kusatsu

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Kusatsu, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2.1 m/s2.52.22.42.01.51.31.61.71.81.92.2
Data source: Kusatsu January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Kusatsu Compares to Other Months

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

January and February exhibit relatively similar temperatures, with January recording minimums around -12°C (11°F) and averages of -2°C (29°F), while February sees slightly warmer minimums at -11°C (12°F) and an average of -1°C (31°F). Notable is February's maximum temperature, which can reach 17°C (63°F), a significant increase compared to January's maximum of 9°C (49°F). Both months receive the same amount of precipitation—74 mm (2.9 in)—but January experiences rainfall on 16 days, compared to just 14 days in February. Humidity remains high throughout both months, with January at 88% and February slightly lower at 86%. For more detailed insights about the weather in February, you can visit Kusatsu weather in February.

In January, the weather is considerably colder, with temperatures ranging from a brisk -12°C (11°F) to a maximum of 9°C (49°F) and an average temperature of -2°C (29°F). This month experiences high humidity at 88% and sees around 74 mm (2.9 in) of precipitation over 16 days, making it a rather damp month. In contrast, March brings a notable shift, with temperatures rising to a minimum of -8°C (19°F) and peaking at 21°C (70°F), resulting in a more comfortable average of 4°C (39°F). Although March has slightly more precipitation at 111 mm (4.4 in), it occurs over just 14 days, accompanied by a lower humidity of 81%. For more details about the weather in March, you can visit Kusatsu weather in March.

January and April present stark contrasts in weather, highlighting the shift from winter to spring. In January, temperatures can plunge as low as -12°C (11°F), with an average of -2°C (29°F) and a maximum of only 9°C (49°F). This month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 74 mm (2.9 in), and high humidity levels at 88%, contributing to a cold and damp atmosphere. In comparison, April sees a marked rise in temperatures, with a minimum of -5°C (24°F) and an average of 9°C (48°F), reaching a pleasant maximum of 27°C (81°F). Precipitation increases slightly to 112 mm (4.4 in), occurring over 15 days, while humidity drops to a more comfortable 78%. For more information on the specific conditions of April, you can check Kusatsu weather in April.

The weather in January is quite cold, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -12°C (11°F) to a maximum of 9°C (49°F), creating an average chill of -2°C (29°F). This month experiences significant moisture, with 74 mm (2.9 in) of precipitation over 16 days and high humidity at 88%. In contrast, May ushers in a warmer climate, featuring temperatures that range from a minimum of 0°C (32°F) to a maximum of 30°C (87°F), with an average of 15°C (59°F). Although May sees more precipitation—139 mm (5.5 in) over the same number of days—humidity is slightly lower at 81%. For a closer look at the weather conditions during May, you can check out Kusatsu weather in May.

January and June present stark contrasts in weather. In January, temperatures are significantly lower, with a minimum of -12°C (11°F) and an average of -2°C (29°F), while the maximum reaches 9°C (49°F). The month experiences 74 mm (2.9 in) of precipitation over 16 days, accompanied by high humidity at 88%. In contrast, June offers much warmer conditions, featuring a minimum temperature of 6°C (43°F) and an average of 18°C (65°F), peaking at 30°C (87°F). Rainfall increases to 168 mm (6.6 in) over 18 days, but humidity remains constant at 88%. For more specific details on weather during this month, check out Kusatsu weather in June.

January and July present markedly different weather conditions. In January, temperatures are quite low, ranging from a chilling -12°C (11°F) to a maximum of 9°C (49°F), with an average temperature of -2°C (29°F). This month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 74 mm (2.9 in) over 16 days, accompanied by a high humidity level of 88%. In stark contrast, July's weather is warm and humid, with temperatures fluctuating from a minimum of 14°C (58°F) to a scorching maximum of 33°C (91°F) and an average of 22°C (72°F). Additionally, July sees a substantial increase in precipitation, with 278 mm (10.9 in) spread over 25 days, and humidity levels slightly higher at 92%. For more detailed information on July weather, you can visit Kusatsu weather in July.

January and August present striking contrasts in weather conditions. In January, temperatures can plummet to a chilling minimum of -12°C (11°F), with an average hovering around -2°C (29°F) and a maximum of just 9°C (49°F). The month experiences considerable precipitation of 74 mm (2.9 in) over 16 days, coupled with high humidity levels at 88%. In stark contrast, August offers a warm and inviting climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 11°C (52°F) to an average of 23°C (74°F), peaking at a maximum of 34°C (93°F). The month sees more rainfall, totaling 177 mm (7.0 in) across 22 days, and humidity remains high at 92%. For more detailed weather information, check out Kusatsu weather in August.

In January, the weather is cold, with temperatures ranging from a frigid -12°C (11°F) to a maximum of 9°C (49°F) and an average of -2°C (29°F). This month experiences considerable precipitation, with 74 mm (2.9 in) over 16 days, and a high humidity level of 88%. In contrast, September offers a much milder climate, with temperatures starting at a minimum of 7°C (44°F) and peaking at 29°C (85°F), averaging around 19°C (66°F). The month is wetter, receiving 168 mm (6.6 in) of precipitation over 19 days, and maintains a similar humidity level of 89%. For more details on September weather, visit Kusatsu weather in September.

January and October present strikingly different weather experiences. In January, temperatures plunge, ranging from a frigid minimum of -12°C (11°F) to a maximum of just 9°C (49°F), with an average around -2°C (29°F). This winter month also sees a significant amount of precipitation, totaling 74 mm (2.9 in) over 16 days, accompanied by high humidity at 88%. In contrast, October offers a much warmer climate, with temperatures varying from a minimum of 1°C (34°F) to a pleasant maximum of 26°C (80°F), averaging around 13°C (55°F). Additionally, October experiences a higher level of rainfall, reaching 217 mm (8.5 in) over 17 days, and maintains a similar humidity level of 87%. For a closer look at October's weather specifics, you can visit Kusatsu weather in October.

January and November present quite contrasting weather patterns. In January, the temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -12°C (11°F) and only reach an average of -2°C (29°F), with a maximum of 9°C (49°F). This month also experiences higher precipitation levels, with around 74 mm (2.9 in) spread across 16 days and humidity soaring to 88%. In comparison, November offers a milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -4°C (24°F) to an average of 7°C (44°F) and peaking at an inviting 20°C (68°F). Precipitation is lower in November at 50 mm (2.0 in) over 10 days, accompanied by slightly lower humidity levels at 85%. For more details about the weather specifics in November, you can visit Kusatsu weather in November.

In January, the weather is notably colder than in December, with average temperatures dipping to -2°C (29°F), compared to December's milder average of 1°C (35°F). While both months experience similar levels of precipitation—74 mm (2.9 in) in January and 76 mm (3.0 in) in December—the number of rainy days is slightly higher in January, occurring over 16 days compared to December's 15 days. Additionally, January maintains a higher humidity level at 88%, compared to December's 86%. For a detailed look at the weather patterns in December, you can visit Kusatsu weather in December.

Compare Kusatsu's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Kusatsu

January in Kusatsu is a month characterized by chilly temperatures and high humidity, creating a distinct winter atmosphere that sets it apart from other months. With frequent snowfall and significant precipitation over half the month, visitors can expect a true winter wonderland, ideal for those seeking a cozy retreat in thermal hot springs. The average temperature hovers around freezing, making it a time for warm clothing and snug indoor activities. For those looking to plan their winter experience in this scenic locale, detailed weather insights can be found at Kusatsu Climate.