January Weather in Hakodate, Japan

Last updated: August 21, 2025

In Hakodate, Japan, January is characterized by chilly weather, with an average temperature hovering around -1°C (31°F). Residents can expect a maximum of 8°C (47°F) and a frosty minimum of -9°C (16°F), making warm clothing a necessity. The month sees precipitation totaling 61 mm (2.4 in) over approximately 13 days, contributing to the crisp winter atmosphere. With an average humidity of 79%, Hakodate's January climate is both refreshing and invigorating, inviting visitors to experience its unique winter charm.

January Temperature in Hakodate

In January, Hakodate experiences a chill that's typical for this northern Japanese city, with minimum temperatures dipping to a brisk -9°C (16°F) and averages hovering around -1°C (31°F). Despite the cold bite, daytime highs can reach a cozy 8°C (47°F), offering glimpses of warmth amid the winter landscape. This pattern of cool temperatures transitions into February, where the mercury continues to drop, hitting a low of -10°C (15°F), yet the average remains steady at -1°C (30°F)—indicating a consistent winter climate. March begins to hint at spring, with temperatures gradually rising to an average of 3°C (38°F), showcasing a notable shift as the chilly grasp of winter starts to relent. The trend of increasing warmth continues into April, where the average temperature climbs to a pleasant 7°C (45°F), paving the way for the more temperate months ahead. With such patterns, January serves as a pivotal month in Hakodate, defining the city's crisp winter character while also hinting at the gradual approach of spring.

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

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Hakodate, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Hakodate, 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).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec303038445258667067584635
Data source: Temperature data for Hakodate 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 Hakodate

In Hakodate, Japan, January ushers in a modest 61 mm (2.4 in) of precipitation, marking the beginning of a gradual increase as the year progresses. With rainfall occurring on 13 days during the month, January typically sets the stage for wetter months ahead. Notably, February sees a spike to 79 mm (3.1 in), followed by an even sharper rise in March, totaling 86 mm (3.4 in). This upward trend continues through spring and into summer, with July peaking at 152 mm (6.0 in). The rainy season reaches its climax in August, where precipitation skyrockets to 254 mm (10.0 in) on 17 days, highlighting the stark contrast between the lighter, wintry beginnings of the year and the lush, wet summer. As such, January serves as both a transitional month and a precursor to the abundant rainfall that characterizes Hakodate's climate as the seasons change.

January Precipitation Trends in Hakodate

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Hakodate, 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 Hakodate, January typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec61798610111612815225416614910389
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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January Humidity in Hakodate

In January, Hakodate experiences a humidity level of 79%, setting the stage for the cold, crisp winter months. As the year unfolds into February and March, humidity slightly decreases to 78% and 77%, respectively, providing a brief respite from the chill. However, as spring approaches in April, levels rise again to 78%. A notable surge occurs in May, where humidity jumps to 86%, signaling the arrival of summer's warmth. The peak of humidity is reached in July and August at a striking 95% and 97%, creating a lush, tropical sensation that contrasts sharply with the winter months. As summer transitions to autumn, humidity begins to decline, landing at 89% in September and returning to more moderate levels by October and November at 81% and 78%. Finally, December rounds out the year with 77% humidity, echoing the patterns from earlier months and preparing Hakodate for the upcoming winter chill once again.

January Average Humidity in Hakodate

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Hakodate, 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 Hakodate is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec79%78%77%78%86%91%95%97%89%82%78%77%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Hakodate

In January, Hakodate experiences a low UV Index of 2, allowing for a burn time of about 45 minutes under the sun. The UV intensity gradually begins to rise in February and March, moving to a moderate index of 3 and 5, with shorter burn times of 30 minutes. By April and May, the UV Index escalates significantly, hitting 8 and 9, marking the transition to very high exposure levels and drastically reducing safe sun exposure to just 15 minutes. This trend continues into the summer months, with June and July maintaining a UV Index of 10, before peaking at an extreme level of 11 in August. As the seasons shift into fall, the index decreases, but September still shows a high index of 8, leading to another period of very high exposure until it drops back to moderate levels in the later months. For more detailed information, check the full report on the Hakodate UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Hakodate for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Hakodate 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 Hakodate typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec235891010118632
Data source: Hakodate 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 Hakodate

In Hakodate, Japan, January greets residents with a modest 154 hours of sunshine, setting the stage for a gradual increase in brightness as the year unfolds. As winter transitions to spring, February brings a notable jump to 202 hours, hinting at the longer days ahead. By March, sunshine hours surge to 257, and by April, residents bask in 282 hours of golden rays, marking the vibrant emergence of nature. As the days grow warmer, May shines the brightest with 299 hours, a perfect prelude to summer's lushness. However, even as summer peaks in July and August with 284 and 270 hours respectively, sunlight begins to wane in September, giving way to the crispness of autumn. The year winds down with November and December experiencing 191 and 182 hours of sunshine, reminding us of the seasonal ebb and flow that characterizes life in this charming city.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Hakodate: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Hakodate 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec154h202h257h282h299h288h284h270h261h231h191h182h
Data source: Hakodate January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Hakodate During January

In January, Hakodate, Japan, experiences a modest chance of sunny weather, with only 29% of the days typically enjoying sunshine. This percentage is lower compared to the following month, February, which sees a slight uptick at 35%. As winter gives way to spring, the likelihood of sun gradually increases—reaching 35% in March and 46% in April. Interestingly, while May presents a dip to 32%, the trend shifts again in the summer months, with June and July recording 39% and 31% respectively. This pattern reveals that January marks the beginning of a gradual transition towards sunnier days, epitomizing Hakodate's evolving weather landscape as winter wanes into spring.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Hakodate

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Hakodate 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 Hakodate experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec29%35%35%46%32%39%31%25%43%43%41%30%
Data source: Hakodate January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Hakodate in January

In Hakodate, Japan, the transition from winter to spring is marked by a gradual increase in daylight, beginning with 9 hours of daylight in January. As February approaches, the days grow longer, reaching 10 hours of bright light, setting the stage for the awakening of nature. March heralds further elongation with 11 hours of daylight, creating a sense of anticipation for warmer months ahead. April shines through with 13 hours, followed by May’s 14 hours, showcasing a lively transition into the vibrant summer season. June peaks at 15 hours, illuminating the long, sun-soaked days of summer. However, as the season shifts, daylight begins to recede, retreating to 14 hours in July and then back to 13 hours in August. This descent continues into autumn, with September yielding 12 hours, before plunging back to 11 hours in October. As winter returns, daylight dims once again to 9 hours in both November and December, completing the annual cycle of light in this beautiful coastal city.

Average Daylight Hours in Hakodate for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Hakodate throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9h 30m10h 34m11h 56m13h 20m14h 32m15h 8m14h 50m13h 47m12h 27m11h 3m9h 49m9h 11m
Data source: Hakodate daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Hakodate

In Hakodate, Japan, the January winds blow at an average speed of 6.5 m/s (15 mph), setting the tone for the season. This brisk breeze is slightly stronger than in February, which mirrors January’s velocity, but it takes a notable dip in March to 5.1 m/s (11 mph) as the winter chill begins to wane. As spring approaches, the winds continue to soften, reaching their lowest point in May and June at around 4.0-3.9 m/s (9 mph), creating a calm and pleasant atmosphere. The winds pick up slightly again in August and September, hinting at the onset of autumn with speeds around 5.0-4.1 m/s (9-11 mph). Interestingly, the year rounds out with a resurgence of stronger winds in November and December, averaging 6.1 to 6.2 m/s (14 mph), reminding residents of winter's impending return. This cyclical pattern of wind speeds not only shapes the climate but also influences the vibrant seasonal life in Hakodate.

Average January Wind Speed in Hakodate

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Hakodate, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec6.5 m/s6.65.14.44.03.93.95.04.14.46.16.2
Data source: Hakodate January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Hakodate Compares to Other Months

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

January and February exhibit similar temperature ranges, with both months averaging around -1°C (31°F) during the day and reaching a maximum of 8°C (47°F). However, February tends to be slightly colder at night, with a minimum temperature of -10°C (15°F) compared to January's -9°C (16°F). Precipitation levels also rise in February, with 79 mm (3.1 in) recorded over 14 days, making it a wetter month than January, which sees 61 mm (2.4 in) over 13 days. Despite the increase in precipitation, February maintains a similar humidity level at 78%, just below January's 79%. For more details on February weather, you can visit Hakodate weather in February.

January and March in Hakodate present noticeably different weather patterns. In January, temperatures can drop to a chilling minimum of -9°C (16°F), with an average around -1°C (31°F) and a maximum reaching 8°C (47°F). The month is marked by relatively high humidity at 79%, and precipitation occurs on 13 days, totaling 61 mm (2.4 in). In contrast, March offers a slight reprieve from the cold, with minimum temperatures around -5°C (23°F) and an average of 3°C (38°F), peaking at 12°C (53°F). Although March has slightly more precipitation at 86 mm (3.4 in), it falls over just 11 days, and the humidity remains similar at 77%. For more details, you can visit Hakodate weather in March.

In January, weather in Hakodate is significantly colder, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -9°C (16°F) to a maximum of 8°C (47°F) and an average of -1°C (31°F). The month experiences 61 mm (2.4 in) of precipitation over 13 days, and humidity levels hover around 79%. In contrast, April marks the arrival of spring, with temperatures rising to a minimum of 1°C (33°F) and a pleasant maximum of 14°C (58°F), averaging at 7°C (45°F). Precipitation increases to 101 mm (4.0 in), also measured over 13 days, while humidity slightly decreases to 78%. For more details on the climate during this transitional month, visit Hakodate weather in April.

January and May present strikingly different weather conditions. In January, temperatures can plummet to as low as -9°C (16°F), with an average temperature around -1°C (31°F) and a maximum of 8°C (47°F). The month experiences around 61 mm (2.4 in) of precipitation over approximately 13 days, coupled with a relatively high humidity of 79%. In contrast, May welcomes warmer temperatures, with minimums of 6°C (42°F), averages of 11°C (52°F), and maximums reaching 20°C (68°F). Although May sees a higher total precipitation of 116 mm (4.6 in) over 11 days, it feels distinctly milder and more pleasant with a humidity level of 86%. For more details about the weather in May, you can check Hakodate weather in May.

January and June present a stark contrast in weather conditions. In January, temperatures are quite frigid, with a minimum of -9°C (16°F) and an average around -1°C (31°F), while June enjoys milder temperatures, ranging from a minimum of 9°C (49°F) to a pleasant average of 15°C (59°F). Precipitation also varies; January receives 61 mm (2.4 in) over 13 days, whereas June sees a higher total of 128 mm (5.0 in) across 12 days, accompanied by increased humidity levels of 91%. If you're looking to explore more about June weather, you can find additional details here: Hakodate weather in June.

January weather in Hakodate is characterized by cold temperatures, with daily averages hovering around -1°C (31°F) and maximums reaching only 8°C (47°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, averaging 61 mm (2.4 in) over 13 days, accompanied by relatively high humidity at 79%. In contrast, July brings a dramatic shift, with milder temperatures where the average reaches 19°C (67°F) and maximums can soar up to 27°C (80°F). Precipitation also increases in July, totaling 152 mm (6.0 in) over 16 days, and humidity rises to 95%. For more detailed information about July weather, you can check Hakodate weather in July.

January and August present quite contrasting weather conditions. In January, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -9°C (16°F) to a maximum of 8°C (47°F), with an average temperature of -1°C (31°F). The month experiences significant humidity at 79% and sees about 61 mm (2.4 in) of precipitation over 13 days. In stark contrast, August boasts much warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 16°C (61°F), an average of 21°C (71°F), and a maximum of 28°C (83°F). The summer month is also much wetter, with 254 mm (10.0 in) of rain falling over 17 days and humidity levels soaring to 97%. For more details on the summer weather, you can visit Hakodate weather in August.

In January, the weather is quite cold, with minimum temperatures dropping to -9°C (16°F) and an average around -1°C (31°F). Precipitation is moderate at 61 mm (2.4 in) over 13 days, accompanied by a relatively high humidity of 79%. In stark contrast, September offers much warmer conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 14°C (57°F) to a maximum of 28°C (83°F), and an average of 20°C (68°F). However, September experiences significantly higher rainfall, totaling 166 mm (6.5 in) spread over 12 days, and a slight increase in humidity to 89%. For more specific details on September’s climate, you can visit Hakodate weather in September.

In January, the weather is notably colder, with temperatures ranging from a frigid minimum of -9°C (16°F) to a maximum of 8°C (47°F), while October presents a much milder climate with temperatures ranging from 6°C (42°F) to a warm maximum of 23°C (74°F). Precipitation is higher in October, with 149 mm (5.9 in) compared to January's 61 mm (2.4 in), although both months experience precipitation on about 13 days. Humidity levels are slightly higher in October at 81% compared to January's 79%, adding to the more humid feel of the fall season. For more detailed insights, you can check Hakodate weather in October.

January and November present notably different weather conditions. In January, temperatures drop significantly, with a minimum of -9°C (16°F) and an average of -1°C (31°F), keeping the days chilly and often gray. Precipitation is relatively moderate at 61 mm (2.4 in), spread over 13 days, while humidity hovers at 79%, contributing to a frigid atmosphere. In contrast, November enjoys milder weather, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -3°C (28°F) to a maximum of 17°C (62°F) and an average of 8°C (47°F). Although November receives more precipitation at 103 mm (4.1 in), it maintains a similar number of rainy days as January, accompanied by slightly lower humidity at 78%. For a closer look at November weather specifics, you can visit this link: Hakodate weather in November.

In January, the weather is typically colder than in December, with average temperatures hovering around -1°C (31°F) compared to December's average of 2°C (35°F). January also sees a broader range of temperatures, with a minimum of -9°C (16°F) and a maximum of 8°C (47°F), while December's temperatures range from -7°C (20°F) to 14°C (57°F). Precipitation is slightly lower in January at 61 mm (2.4 in) over 13 days, whereas December experiences 89 mm (3.5 in) across 18 days, indicating a wetter month. Humidity remains quite similar, with January at 79% and December slightly lower at 77%. For more details on December weather, you can check Hakodate weather in December.

Compare Hakodate's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Hakodate

January in Hakodate presents a unique blend of winter charm, characterized by cooler temperatures and a higher likelihood of precipitation compared to other months. With an average chill that dips below freezing, January sets itself apart as one of the colder times of the year, when the beautiful landscapes are often cloaked in snow. The 79% humidity adds a crispness to the air, making the frosty atmosphere even more pronounced. This month sees rain and snow showers on about half the days, contributing to a total precipitation amount that enhances the region's wintry allure. For those looking to explore or experience the winter wonderland, January offers a distinctive climate that is anything but ordinary. To learn more about how Hakodate's climate varies throughout the year, visit Hakodate Climate.