January Weather in Morioka, Japan

Last updated: August 21, 2025

Morioka, Japan, in January experiences a chilly winter climate, where temperatures predominantly hover around an average of -5°C (24°F), with maximums reaching 5°C (40°F) and minimums plummeting to -20°C (-3°F). This month witnesses about 65 mm (2.6 in) of precipitation spread over 12 days, contributing to a humid atmosphere with humidity levels around 80%. The combination of cold temperatures and frequent precipitation creates a distinctive, crisp environment, characteristic of the region during the heart of winter.

January Temperature in Morioka

In Morioka, Japan, January brings a chilly embrace, with temperatures dipping to a frigid -20°C (-3°F) at night and only peaking at 5°C (40°F) during the day. The average temperature hovers around -5°C (24°F), setting the stage for a classic winter landscape. As the month progresses into February, a slight warming trend emerges, with minimums of -18°C (-1°F) and maximums rising to 7°C (45°F). By March, the arrival of spring is hinted at, with temperatures rising to an average of 1°C (35°F), creating a stark contrast to the severe cold of January. This gradual warming trend continues into April, where temperatures can reach a pleasant 22°C (72°F), ushering in a more temperate climate. January serves as a climactic peak in the winter season, around which Morioka's transition from cold to mild begins to take shape.

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

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Morioka, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Morioka, 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).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec242534435562707163524129
Data source: Temperature data for Morioka 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 Morioka

In Morioka, January sees moderate precipitation with an average of 65 mm (2.6 in) over approximately 12 days, laying a solid foundation for the winter season. Compared to the drier months of November and December, January's rainfall begins to increase, hinting at the wet weather that follows in February and March, where precipitation amounts jump to 87 mm (3.4 in) and 103 mm (4.0 in) respectively. This steady rise emphasizes a trend of increasing moisture as winter transitions into spring, foreshadowing the more significant rainfall in the coming months, particularly in July and August when Morioka experiences its peak precipitation.

January Precipitation Trends in Morioka

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Morioka, 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 Morioka, January typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec6587103125991111691461121446689
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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January Humidity in Morioka

In Morioka, Japan, January ushers in a notable humidity level of 80%, setting the tone for the winter months. This humidity remains relatively stable as the year progresses, with a slight dip to 79% in February and then to 77% in March. As spring arrives, conditions begin to dry out slightly with a low of 75% in April, before springing back up to 80% in May. The onset of summer brings a significant jump, with humidity soaring to 87% in June and peaking at a sweltering 92% in both July and August. As autumn approaches, humidity levels gradually decline, settling back to 82% in October and returning to the winter baseline of 80% in December. This trend illustrates the cyclical nature of humidity in Morioka, with distinct wet and dry seasons that characterize its climate throughout the year.

January Average Humidity in Morioka

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Morioka, 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 Morioka is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec80%79%77%75%80%87%92%92%86%82%79%80%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Morioka

In Morioka, Japan, January brings a UV Index of 3, indicating a moderate exposure category, where a burn can occur in about 30 minutes of unprotected sun exposure. As the months progress into February, the UV Index rises slightly to 4, maintaining the same moderate classification. However, a noticeable shift occurs in March, when the UV Index jumps to a high of 6 and burn time decreases to 25 minutes. This upward trend continues into the spring and summer, peaking at an extreme index of 11 in both June and August, with minimal burn times of just 10 minutes. As autumn arrives, the UV levels gradually decline, settling back to moderate levels by December. Overall, Morioka's UV Index reflects a clear seasonal pattern, urging residents and visitors to adjust their sun protection strategies accordingly throughout the year. For more detailed information, visit Morioka UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Morioka for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Morioka 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 Morioka typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec346991110119643
Data source: Morioka 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 Morioka

In Morioka, Japan, January brings a modest 157 hours of sunshine, marking the beginning of a gradual ascent into sunnier months. As winter gives way to spring, February sees a notable increase to 205 hours. This upward trend continues into March, with 252 hours brightening the landscape, leading into the vibrant days of April that capture 257 hours of sun. The peak emerges in May, where residents bask in a delightful 287 hours of daylight. As the summer unfolds, sunshine remains consistent, yet slightly dimmed, with June offering 273 hours and July providing 261 hours. By the time autumn arrives, sunshine begins to decline, starting with 252 hours in August, and tapering off to 188 hours by December. This annual cycle beautifully showcases Morioka’s dynamic climate, highlighting a journey from the subdued light of winter to the radiant exuberance of spring and summer.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Morioka: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Morioka 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec157h205h252h257h287h273h261h252h237h207h202h188h
Data source: Morioka January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Morioka During January

In January, Morioka, Japan experiences a modest chance of sunny weather, with only 28% of the month likely to be bathed in sunlight. This slight dip below the average for the winter months hints at a predominantly overcast skyline, setting the stage for the colder season. Interestingly, as the year progresses, there's a noticeable upward trend, with February and November showing increased chances of sunny days at 35% and 33%, respectively. Meanwhile, April ushers in spring with the highest likelihood of sunshine at 39%, creating a stark contrast to the gloomier winter months. As one navigates through the year, it becomes evident that January's sun-deprived days are just a prelude to brighter skies ahead.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Morioka

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Morioka 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 Morioka experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec28%35%29%39%24%25%22%15%25%28%33%27%
Data source: Morioka January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Morioka in January

In Morioka, Japan, January marks the beginning of a gradual transformation in daylight duration, offering about 9 hours of sunlight, the shortest period of the year. As winter gives way to spring, daylight slowly increases, reaching 10 hours in February and 11 hours in March. By the time April arrives, the days stretch to 13 hours, showcasing a welcoming surge in sunlight that continues through May and into June, where it peaks at 14 hours. This abundant daylight persists throughout the summer months, creating an inviting atmosphere for outdoor activities. However, as the seasons shift towards autumn, sunlight begins to recede, with hours decreasing steadily from 13 hours in August to 11 hours in October, before settling back at 9 hours in both November and December. Overall, Morioka experiences a vibrant ebb and flow of daylight, reflecting the changing seasons and the natural rhythm of life in this beautiful region.

Average Daylight Hours in Morioka for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Morioka 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: Morioka daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Morioka

In Morioka, Japan, January greets visitors with a gentle breeze, characterized by an average wind speed of 2.8 m/s (6 mph), similar to that of May. As the year unfolds, the winds pick up slightly in February, escalating to 3.6 m/s (8 mph), marking the peak for the winter months. However, this briskness gives way to more subdued air currents as spring approaches; March and April both settle back to 3.0 m/s (7 mph). Throughout the warmer months, wind speeds gradually decline, reaching a low of 1.7 m/s (4 mph) in July, before experiencing a mild resurgence in late autumn. Notably, the winter air in January tends to embody a calm before the spring breeze, setting the stage for the shifting patterns of wind that characterize Morioka's climate.

Average January Wind Speed in Morioka

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Morioka, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2.8 m/s3.63.03.02.82.01.72.12.22.12.52.9
Data source: Morioka January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Morioka Compares to Other Months

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

January and February showcase similar winter conditions, but February tends to be slightly milder. In January, temperatures range from a minimum of -20°C (-3°F) to a maximum of 5°C (40°F), with an average of -5°C (24°F) and 65 mm (2.6 in) of precipitation over 12 days. In contrast, February's temperatures shift slightly, with a minimum of -18°C (-1°F) and a maximum of 7°C (45°F), resulting in an average of -4°C (25°F). The month also receives more precipitation, totaling 87 mm (3.4 in) across 16 days. Humidity levels are comparable, with January at 80% and February slightly lower at 79%. For a detailed look at February weather, visit Morioka weather in February.

In January, the weather is quite frigid, with temperatures ranging from a chilly -20°C (-3°F) to a maximum of just 5°C (40°F) and an average of -5°C (24°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 65 mm (2.6 inches) over 12 days, accompanied by high humidity levels at 80%.

March, on the other hand, shows a noticeable warming trend, with temperatures increasing to a minimum of -15°C (4°F) and soaring to a maximum of 16°C (60°F), while the average settles at 1°C (35°F). This month also sees a rise in precipitation, totaling 103 mm (4.0 inches) over 14 days, but the humidity is slightly lower at 77%.

For more specifics on March weather, you can check this link: Morioka weather in March.

In January, Morioka experiences frigid temperatures, with average lows around -20°C (-3°F) and daily highs reaching only 5°C (40°F). The month sees about 65 mm (2.6 in) of precipitation spread over 12 days, contributing to a high humidity level of 80%, which creates a chilly and damp atmosphere. In contrast, April brings a significant warming trend, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -12°C (11°F) and averaging 6°C (44°F) to a pleasant maximum of 22°C (72°F). Additionally, precipitation increases to 125 mm (4.9 in) across 16 days, while humidity slightly decreases to 75%. For more details on the April climate, you can visit Morioka weather in April.

In January, the weather in Morioka is characterized by freezing temperatures, with daily averages around -5°C (24°F) and lows plummeting to -20°C (-3°F). The region receives around 65 mm (2.6 in) of precipitation over 12 days, contributing to a damp and chilly atmosphere, with humidity levels at 80%.

In contrast, May brings a significant transformation with much warmer temperatures; the average rises to 13°C (56°F) and can reach highs of 28°C (83°F). The month experiences slightly higher precipitation at 99 mm (3.9 in) over 13 days, yet the humidity remains constant at 80%. This shift marks a vibrant and lively change in the weather as spring unfolds. For more details, you can explore Morioka weather in May.

January and June present stark contrasts in weather characteristics. In January, temperatures can plunge as low as -20°C (-3°F), with an average of -5°C (24°F) and a maximum of 5°C (40°F), making it the coldest month of the year. The city experiences around 65 mm (2.6 in) of precipitation over 12 days, accompanied by relatively high humidity levels of 80%.

In contrast, June brings a significant rise in warmth, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 6°C (42°F) to a maximum of 28°C (83°F) and an average of 17°C (62°F). This month also records increased precipitation at 111 mm (4.4 in), again over 12 days, but the humidity climbs slightly to 87%. For a more detailed look at the weather in June, you can visit Morioka weather in June.

In January, the weather is significantly colder, with temperatures ranging from a frigid minimum of -20°C (-3°F) to a maximum of just 5°C (40°F). This month experiences about 65 mm (2.6 in) of precipitation over 12 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 80%. In contrast, July brings a dramatic shift, with temperatures soaring from a minimum of 12°C (55°F) to a maximum of 32°C (89°F) and an average of 21°C (70°F). During this summer month, precipitation increases to 169 mm (6.7 in) across 16 days, and humidity rises to 92%. For more specifics on the summer climate, you can check Morioka weather in July.

In January, the weather in Morioka is characterized by cold temperatures, with a minimum of -20°C (-3°F) and an average of -5°C (24°F). With maximum temperatures reaching only 5°C (40°F), this month experiences significant chill and persistent humidity at around 80%. The overall precipitation totals 65 mm (2.6 in) over approximately 12 days, contributing to a wintry atmosphere.

In contrast, August brings a dramatic rise in temperatures, boasting a minimum of 9°C (48°F) and an average of 22°C (72°F), with maximum temperatures soaring to 33°C (91°F). Humidity levels increase slightly to 92%, and precipitation is more pronounced, totaling 146 mm (5.8 in) over about 16 days. This shift creates a hot and humid summer environment, making it a notable departure from the frigid conditions of January. For more detailed insights, check out Morioka weather in August.

In January, Morioka experiences frigid temperatures, with a minimum of -20°C (-3°F) and an average of -5°C (24°F), peaking at just 5°C (40°F). The month sees about 65 mm (2.6 in) of precipitation over approximately 12 days, accompanied by high humidity at 80%. In contrast, September brings a much milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 2°C (36°F) to a comfortable average of 17°C (64°F), and reaching a maximum of 30°C (87°F). Precipitation increases to 112 mm (4.4 in) over the same number of days, while humidity rises slightly to 86%. For more detailed information on September weather, visit Morioka weather in September.

When comparing the weather in January and October, a stark contrast is evident. January is characterized by much colder temperatures, with averages hovering around -5°C (24°F) and daily maximums reaching only 5°C (40°F). In contrast, October enjoys milder conditions, with average temperatures of 11°C (53°F) and highs that can soar to 25°C (78°F). However, October also brings increased precipitation, totaling 144 mm (5.7 in) over 12 days, compared to January's 65 mm (2.6 in) across the same number of days. Humidity levels remain relatively similar, with January at 80% and October slightly higher at 82%. For more specific details about October weather, you can check this link: Morioka weather in October.

January and November present contrasting weather conditions, showcasing the transition from the heart of winter to late autumn. In January, temperatures dip significantly, with minimums reaching as low as -20°C (-3°F) and an average of -5°C (24°F), while November enjoys milder temperatures, ranging from a minimum of -11°C (12°F) to a comfortable maximum of 18°C (64°F). Both months receive similar precipitation, around 65 mm (2.6 in), though January tends to be colder and more humid, with humidity at 80%, compared to November's 79%. For a detailed look at November's conditions, you can check out Morioka weather in November.

In January, temperatures remain quite chilly, with average lows around -5°C (24°F) and highs peaking at 5°C (40°F), making it colder than December. The month also sees slightly less precipitation, with 65 mm (2.6 in) falling over 12 days, compared to December’s 89 mm (3.5 in) over 17 days. Both months share a consistent humidity level of 80%. For a more detailed look at December's weather, you can visit Morioka weather in December.

Compare Morioka's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Morioka

As January settles over Morioka, the weather presents a stark contrast to the milder months that precede it. With its bitter cold temperatures averaging around -5°C and occasional dips to -20°C, this month is the heart of winter. Rainfall, too, takes on a different character, with approximately 65 mm expected over about 12 days, enveloping the city in a chill that is often punctuated by an 80% humidity level. Unlike the more temperate and often sunnier months of spring and autumn, January's climate is defined by its sharp, frosty allure, inviting visitors to experience the beauty of a snowy landscape. For those planning a visit or curious about seasonal shifts, more detailed insights can be found at Morioka Climate.