Last updated: August 21, 2025
In December, Otaru, Japan, experiences a chilly yet captivating winter atmosphere. Temperatures fluctuate from a brisk maximum of 11°C (52°F) to a frosty minimum of -10°C (15°F), with an average hovering around -2°C (29°F). Visitors may find December to be quite a wet month, receiving approximately 147 mm (5.8 in) of precipitation spread over 27 days, resulting in a humidity level of 80% that amplifies the cold. This combination of temperature and moisture creates an enchanting winter landscape, perfect for those eager to embrace Otaru's seasonal charm.
In December, Otaru, Japan, experiences a significant chill as temperatures begin to dip further into winter. With a minimum of -10°C (15°F) and an average hovering around -2°C (29°F), residents and visitors feel the onset of colder weather. The maximum temperature reaches a milder 11°C (52°F), signaling a sharp contrast from the preceding autumn months. This drop reflects a transition from the comparatively mild November, where temperatures lingered between -5°C (23°F) and 15°C (59°F), to the biting cold typical of winter. Snowfall often accompanies this seasonal shift, blanketing the picturesque canals and historic buildings, creating a magical winter wonderland for all who explore Otaru during this time.
In December, Otaru experiences a significant increase in precipitation, with a total of 147 mm (5.8 in) spread over an impressive 27 days of rainfall. This trend marks a continuation of the region's wet cycle, peaking after a series of months where precipitation amounts steadily rose. Following the autumn months, which saw a gradual build-up, December’s conditions deliver a consistent chill, as rain transitions to potential winter snow. Interestingly, the number of precipitation days peaks at 27, indicating that residents and visitors alike often face a damp and gray backdrop, further emphasizing the stark contrast to the drier days of earlier months. The persistent moisture creates a serene atmosphere, enhancing Otaru's winter charm as the city prepares for the colder months ahead.
December in Otaru, Japan, sees a notable drop in humidity to 80%, marking a transition as the year comes to a close. This figure is part of a broader seasonal pattern, with humidity peaking during the summer months; notably, July and August boast levels of 93% and 95% respectively. As the year progresses from the humid warmth of summer to the cooler winter months, humidity tends to decline, particularly evident from September onwards. Despite December's decrease, it remains relatively high compared to the drier November at 79%, reflecting the region's characteristic chill accompanied by a touch of moisture. Overall, Otaru’s climate presents a captivating interplay between seasonal changes and humidity levels throughout the year.
In Otaru, Japan, the December UV Index remains at a low level of 2, indicating a significant drop in solar intensity as winter sets in. This trend echoes the month of January but contrasts sharply with the high values seen during the summer months, where UV exposure was categorized as very high, peaking at 10 in August. With a burn time of 45 minutes, December offers a safe window for outdoor activities without the immediate risk of sunburn, encouraging residents and visitors to enjoy the beautiful winter scenery. As daylight diminishes, the low UV levels remind us to appreciate the protective embrace of winter while still being mindful of our time outdoors. For more detailed information, check the Otaru UV Index.
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As December unfolds in Otaru, Japan, the city experiences a cozy embrace of 162 hours of sunshine, a decline that reflects the waning daylight of winter. This month typically sees a gradual decrease in sunlight hours following the autumn months, with November already offering a modest 178 hours. The pattern becomes even more pronounced as Otaru transitions from the vibrant spring and summer months, where sunshine reached its peak, especially in July with an impressive 320 hours. While winter brings shorter days, the gentle glow of December sunshine continues to infuse the city with a warm charm, reminding residents and visitors alike of the beauty found even in the quieter, colder months.
In Otaru, Japan, December brings a 30% chance of sunny weather, a slight dip compared to the preceding months. As winter sets in, the likelihood of clear skies tends to wane, transitioning from the relatively brighter autumn months. Notably, the sunniest time in the year occurs during the summer with July and June boasting 47% and 48% chances, respectively. However, December's 30% resembles the levels of October and November, hinting at a gradual but intriguing decline in sunshine as the region embraces its colder climate. This trend underscores the seasonal shift, reminding visitors that while December may not shine, it still offers the unique charm of winter in Otaru.
In Otaru, Japan, daylight duration experiences a captivating rhythm throughout the year. Beginning in December, the days are relatively short, with just 9 hours of daylight, mirroring November's chill. As winter unfolds, the sun gradually begins to rise higher in the sky, leading to a steady increase in daylight hours until March, when the length of day extends to 11 hours. April ushers in a remarkable transformation, with daylight reaching 13 hours, and May peaking at 14 hours—the days are long, bright, and vibrant. This summer revelry continues into June with 15 hours of daylight, before slowly tapering off. By the time the calendar heads back towards winter, daylight narrows back to 12 hours in September, and then sharply declines again to 9 hours by November and December. This annual cycle not only shapes the local landscape but also deeply influences the lifestyle and activities of Otaru's residents and visitors alike.
As winter settles in Otaru, December brings a noticeable increase in wind speed, averaging 5.4 m/s (12 mph)—the same brisk pace noted in the preceding February. This uptick marks a shift from the relative calm of June and July, where the winds dipped to their lowest, averaging just 2.9 m/s (6 mph). Following a gradual rise from the tail end of autumn, December’s winds usher in the chill of winter, echoing the dynamics seen throughout the year. The lingering breeze serves as a reminder of nature's transition, blending the remnants of autumn with the crispness of the new season. Otaru's winds, while not the most forceful, add a distinctive character to this picturesque coastal town, inviting both residents and visitors to embrace the beauty of the season.
Weather in Otaru varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares December’s weather to other months in Otaru, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
In December, temperatures in Otaru typically range from a minimum of -10°C (15°F) to a maximum of 11°C (52°F), with an average temperature of -2°C (29°F). The month experiences considerable precipitation, totaling 147 mm (5.8 in) over 27 days, with a humidity level around 80%. In contrast, January is slightly colder, featuring temperatures that vary from a minimum of -12°C (10°F) to a maximum of 4°C (40°F), and an average temperature of -4°C (25°F). This month sees less precipitation, with a total of 87 mm (3.4 in) over 20 days and a humidity level that rises to 84%. For more detailed information, you can check Otaru weather in January.
In December, the weather is milder compared to February, with average temperatures hovering around -2°C (29°F) and max temperatures reaching up to 11°C (52°F). In contrast, February experiences colder temperatures, with an average of -3°C (26°F) and maximums only reaching 6°C (44°F). Precipitation in December is more frequent, occurring over 27 days and totaling 147 mm (5.8 in), while February sees less overall precipitation at 99 mm (3.9 in) over 22 days. Additionally, humidity levels are slightly higher in February at 83%, compared to 80% in December. For more detailed information, you can check out Otaru weather in February.
In December, Otaru experiences colder temperatures, with a minimum of -10°C (15°F) and an average of -2°C (29°F), leading to a wintry atmosphere. The month is characterized by high humidity at 80% and frequent precipitation, totaling 147 mm (5.8 in) over 27 days, making it a notably wet month. In contrast, March offers slightly milder weather, featuring minimum temperatures of -7°C (19°F) and averaging around 1°C (34°F). Despite having less precipitation at 95 mm (3.7 in) over 16 days, March maintains a similar humidity level at 81%. For more details on what to expect, you can check Otaru weather in March.
December and April present contrasting weather conditions, highlighting the transition from winter to spring. In December, temperatures typically range from a frigid -10°C (15°F) at night to a maximum of 11°C (52°F) during the day, while April brings milder temperatures that shift from a low of -3°C (26°F) to a warm high of 17°C (63°F). Precipitation is more frequent in December, with rain or snow falling on about 27 days, totaling 147 mm (5.8 in), compared to April's 11 days of precipitation and 76 mm (3.0 in) of total rainfall. Despite the slightly higher humidity of 81% in April, the overall climate is much more temperate, making it a more welcoming month. For specific details on what to expect during April, you can refer to Otaru weather in April.
December and May present stark contrasts in weather. In December, temperatures can plunge to a minimum of -10°C (15°F) with an average of -2°C (29°F) and a maximum of 11°C (52°F). This winter month is characterized by significant precipitation, totaling 147 mm (5.8 in) over 27 days, and high humidity at 80%. In contrast, May brings a refreshing warmth, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 3°C (38°F) to a maximum of 26°C (80°F) and an average of 11°C (51°F). Precipitation in May is less, with around 90 mm (3.6 in) falling over 13 days, accompanied by slightly increased humidity of 86%. To explore more about the weather conditions in May, you can check Otaru weather in May.
When comparing the weather in December and June, it's clear that these months represent starkly different climates. December sees much colder temperatures, with averages around -2°C (29°F) and a minimum that can drop to -10°C (15°F). In contrast, June offers a milder experience, with average temperatures around 14°C (58°F) and highs reaching up to 24°C (75°F).
Precipitation also differs, as December tends to have more frequent rain or snowfall, accumulating to 147 mm (5.8 in) over 27 days, while June has 112 mm (4.4 in) of precipitation over just 12 days. Additionally, June exhibits slightly higher humidity at 87%, compared to December's 80%. These contrasts highlight the seasonal shifts that characterize Otaru's weather. For more details on the pleasant conditions in June, visit Otaru weather in June.
In December, Otaru experiences a chilly climate, with temperatures ranging from a frigid -10°C (15°F) to a mild 11°C (52°F), and an average temperature of -2°C (29°F). December is quite wet, with 147 mm (5.8 in) of precipitation spread over 27 days, leading to a high humidity level of 80%.
In stark contrast, July brings much warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 9°C (49°F), an average of 20°C (68°F), and a maximum of 28°C (82°F). The month sees less precipitation, totaling 101 mm (4.0 in) over just 12 days, along with higher humidity at 93%. For more details about Otaru's summer weather, visit Otaru weather in July.
Comparing the weather in December and August reveals stark contrasts in temperature and conditions. In December, temperatures can drop to a chilling minimum of -10°C (15°F), with an average around -2°C (29°F), while the maximum reaches only 11°C (52°F). This month sees significant precipitation at 147 mm (5.8 in) over 27 days, accompanied by high humidity levels of 80%.
In contrast, August boasts much warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 14°C (58°F), an average of 21°C (70°F), and a maximum of 29°C (85°F). Though it has slightly higher precipitation at 169 mm (6.7 in), it only occurs over 14 days and features even higher humidity at 95%. For more details on August weather, visit Otaru weather in August.
December and September present strikingly different weather conditions. December sees much colder temperatures, with a minimum of -10°C (15°F) and an average of -2°C (29°F), compared to September's mild temperatures that range from a minimum of 10°C (50°F) to a maximum of 26°C (80°F). While December experiences considerable precipitation with 147 mm (5.8 in) over 27 days, September has slightly less at 117 mm (4.6 in) across only 14 days. Additionally, December's humidity sits at a notable 80%, while September is slightly higher at 88%. For more detailed insights, you can explore Otaru weather in September.
In comparing the weather between December and October, it's clear that October boasts milder conditions. With average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 4°C (39°F) to a maximum of 22°C (71°F), October is significantly warmer than December, which sees a stark drop to an average of -2°C (29°F) with nighttime lows plummeting to -10°C (15°F). Additionally, while both months experience considerable precipitation, December has slightly less at 147 mm (5.8 in) compared to October's 152 mm (6.0 in), albeit spread over more days in December (27 days vs. 17 days in October). This results in a more humid atmosphere in both months, with October at 83% and December at 80%. For a closer look at what to expect in October, visit Otaru weather in October.
In comparing the weather between November and December, we observe significant shifts in temperature and precipitation. December sees lower minimum temperatures, dropping to -10°C (15°F) compared to November's -5°C (23°F), while the average temperature also decreases to -2°C (29°F) from November's 5°C (42°F). The maximum temperature in December reaches only 11°C (52°F), unlike November's warmer 15°C (59°F). Additionally, December experiences slightly less precipitation, with 147 mm (5.8 in) over 27 days, whereas November has 167 mm (6.6 in) over 22 days. Humidity levels remain similar in both months, with December at 80% and November at 79%. For more details about November weather in Otaru, you can visit Otaru weather in November.
As December unfolds in Otaru, it ushers in a notable chill that differentiates it from the milder months of the year. With temperatures plunging to a chilly average of -2°C (29°F), this month is a stark contrast to the warmer seasons, typified by increased humidity levels reaching around 80%. Precipitation is also abundant, with rain or snow gracing the area for nearly 27 days, contributing to a total of 147 mm of moisture. This wet and cold atmosphere coaxes the city into a winter wonderland, perfect for those who revel in frosty landscapes and cozy indoor settings. For a deeper understanding of Otaru's climatic nuances throughout the year, be sure to check out Otaru Climate.