Last updated: August 21, 2025
In December, Kyoto experiences a notable range of temperatures, from a comfortable maximum of 21°C (71°F) to a chilly minimum of -9°C (17°F). The average temperature hovers around 6°C (43°F), making it essential for visitors to dress in layers. The city sees approximately 66 mm (2.6 in) of precipitation spread over 9 days, contributing to an overall humidity level of 83%. Travelers in this historic city can expect a unique blend of crisp winter air and occasional rain, setting the scene for Kyoto’s enchanting winter beauty.
As December settles over Kyoto, the city transforms into a serene winter landscape, with temperatures dipping significantly. The month starts off with chilly nights, where the mercury can plummet to a brisk -9°C (17°F). Daytime brings a slight reprieve, with average temperatures hovering around 6°C (43°F), making it a refreshing time for locals and visitors alike. The highs may reach a comfortable 21°C (71°F), reflecting a trend of increasing warmth as the month progresses. Despite the cold, December's cool, crisp air creates a magical atmosphere, perfect for exploring the city's stunning temples adorned in their winter garb. The gradual shift from the preceding months marks a transition into the heart of Kyoto's winter charm.
In December, Kyoto experiences a moderate increase in precipitation, with an average of 66 mm (2.6 in) spread across approximately 9 rainy days. This marks a notable jump compared to November's significantly lower total of 47 mm (1.8 in) over just 6 days. While December's rainfall is a welcome shift, it's mild compared to the deluge of summer months like July, which records a substantial 324 mm (12.7 in). The transition into winter results in crisper air and crisp, clear days, making these relatively modest December showers a refreshing complement to Kyoto's serene winter landscape. Overall, the monthly precipitation patterns showcase a steady progression from the drier autumn months to the wetter, cooler winter season, indicating nature's rhythmic cycle in this enchanting city.
In December, Kyoto experiences a humidity level of 83%, consistent with the relatively high humidity seen throughout the year. This month stands out with a slight decrease from the muggy summer peak of 93% in July, but remains comparable to the humidity levels in both November and May. The trend shows that after reaching its highest points in the summer, humidity levels gradually decline approaching winter, before stabilizing in December. As the chill of winter settles in, residents and visitors alike can expect a dampness in the air that reflects Kyoto's lush and vibrant landscape.
December in Kyoto, Japan brings a moderate UV Index of 3, marking a drop from the extreme levels seen in summer months. With a burn time of 30 minutes, it's a period where sun protection remains important, although significantly less urgent than in the peak season of May through August when the UV Index hit highs of 11. As the year closes, the trend shows a gradual decrease in sun intensity, providing a respite from the extreme exposure of the warmer months. While December's index indicates a safer outdoor experience, awareness of UV levels is still crucial. For more detailed information, visit Kyoto UV Index.
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In December, Kyoto experiences a gentle transition into winter, offering 209 hours of sunshine. While this is a dip from the vibrant highs of August with its 295 hours, the month still shines brighter than the gloomy depths of January, which boasts only 176 hours. This gradual decrease reflects a seasonal shift, with the sun’s rays starting to wane after the lush blooms of spring and summer. Notably, December enjoys more sunlight than prior months like October and November, making it a picturesque time to explore the city's historic temples and serene gardens under the soft winter sun. As the year closes, Kyoto welcomes visitors with a charming blend of radiant winter days, inviting them to bask in its tranquil beauty.
In Kyoto, Japan, December brings a 52% chance of sunny weather, reflecting a slight dip from the higher percentages enjoyed in the preceding months of October (51%) and November (54%). Interestingly, while the likelihood of sunny days drops from the peak of autumn, it remains relatively favorable compared to the winter months ahead—February and March both show only a 47% chance. This trend indicates that early winter still offers a pleasant proportion of sunshine, making December a charming time to explore Kyoto’s breathtaking temples and gardens, adorned with their winter beauty. As the year draws to a close, the city's weather still holds on to glimmers of warmth before transitioning into the chillier depths of winter.
In Kyoto, Japan, December marks the shortest month for daylight, with only 9 hours of sunlight compared to the longer days of summer. As the year progresses, daylight peaks around June and July, reaching 14 hours, before gradually diminishing through autumn into winter. Remarkably, while January and February maintain 10 hours of daylight, the shift to December signals a distinct reduction as the year closes. This seasonal ebb and flow not only reflects the natural rhythm of the sun but also sets a tranquil, introspective tone for the festive season in this culturally rich city.
As December settles in Kyoto, the average wind speed of 2.7 m/s (6 mph) brings a gentle yet noticeable chill, reminding residents of the winter season's arrival. The winds pick up slightly from November, which, along with the calmer summer months, reveals a trend of soft breezes leading into the colder period. Unlike the peak gusts of spring, where winds hovered around 3.1 m/s, December’s winds are more subdued, inviting cozy moments by the hearth as the last of the autumn leaves dance to the ground. As the year draws to a close, these crisp December gusts paint a serene picture, perfectly complementing Kyoto's tranquil beauty amidst the temples and traditional architecture.
Weather in Kyoto varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares December’s weather to other months in Kyoto, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
December and January in Kyoto exhibit similar characteristics, though January tends to be slightly cooler overall. December experiences a wider temperature range with minimums dipping to -9°C (17°F) and maximums reaching up to 21°C (71°F), while January has a milder maximum of 16°C (60°F) and a minimum of -7°C (19°F). Precipitation levels are also similar, with December receiving 66 mm (2.6 in) and January seeing slightly less at 56 mm (2.2 in), both marked by about 9 days of rain. Humidity remains consistent, with December at 83% and January slightly lower at 82%. For more details about January weather, you can check Kyoto weather in January.
December and February both showcase chillier temperatures, but February tends to be slightly milder overall. In December, temperatures can dip to a minimum of -9°C (17°F) with an average of 6°C (43°F) and a maximum of 21°C (71°F), while February has a minimum of -8°C (18°F), an average of 4°C (40°F), and a maximum of 19°C (67°F). Additionally, precipitation levels are fairly close, with December seeing 66 mm (2.6 in) and February slightly lower at 62 mm (2.5 in), both spread over nine days. The humidity in both months is relatively high, but December is slightly more humid at 83% compared to February's 79%. For a more detailed look at February's weather, you can visit Kyoto weather in February.
In December, temperatures can dip as low as -9°C (17°F) but typically average around 6°C (43°F), with a maximum of 21°C (71°F) during warmer days. The month experiences about 66 mm (2.6 in) of precipitation over roughly 9 days and holds a high humidity level of 83%. In contrast, March sees a slight increase in temperatures, with minimums around -3°C (27°F) and averages rising to 9°C (48°F), peaking at 23°C (73°F). This month is notably wetter, with 125 mm (4.9 in) of rainfall spread over approximately 12 days, and a lower humidity of 74%. For more specific insights on the weather in March, you can check out this link: Kyoto weather in March.
December and April present contrasting weather characteristics. In December, temperatures can drop as low as -9°C (17°F), with an average of around 6°C (43°F) and a maximum of 21°C (71°F). This month experiences moderate precipitation of 66 mm (2.6 in) over 9 days, accompanied by high humidity at 83%. In stark contrast, April sees much milder temperatures, ranging from a minimum of 0°C (33°F) to a pleasant average of 13°C (56°F), peaking at a warm 26°C (80°F). Rainfall also increases in April, totaling 157 mm (6.2 in) over 11 days, but humidity is slightly lower at 76%. For more detailed information on the weather in April, you can visit Kyoto weather in April.
December and May present striking contrasts in weather conditions. December typically sees colder temperatures, ranging from a minimum of -9°C (17°F) to a maximum of 21°C (71°F), with an average temperature of 6°C (43°F). In contrast, May offers a much warmer climate, with temperatures starting at a minimum of 4°C (39°F) and soaring up to 31°C (88°F), and an average temperature of 18°C (66°F). Precipitation levels also differ significantly; December experiences 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain over 9 days, while May receives a substantial 154 mm (6.1 in) over 12 days. Despite the increased rainfall, the humidity remains constant at 83% in both months. For more details on what to expect during May, check out Kyoto weather in May.
December and June present a stark contrast in weather conditions. In December, temperatures can drop to a minimum of -9°C (17°F), with an average of around 6°C (43°F) and a peak of 21°C (71°F). The month experiences moderate precipitation of 66 mm (2.6 in) over approximately 9 days, accompanied by high humidity levels at 83%. In contrast, June sees a milder range, with minimum temperatures around 11°C (52°F) and averages of 22°C (72°F), peaking at 32°C (89°F). This month is significantly wetter, receiving 161 mm (6.3 in) of rain across 14 days, while humidity slightly increases to 87%. For more detailed insights into the conditions, check out Kyoto weather in June.
December and July in Kyoto present stark contrasts in weather. December features milder temperatures, with averages around 6°C (43°F) and maximums reaching 21°C (71°F), while July is much warmer, showcasing an average of 26°C (79°F) and highs that can soar to 37°C (98°F). Precipitation also varies greatly; December experiences 66 mm (2.6 in) over 9 days, whereas July is much wetter, with 324 mm (12.7 in) falling over 22 days. Humidity levels are high in both months, peaking at 93% in July compared to 83% in December. For a deeper dive into Kyoto's July climate, check out Kyoto weather in July.
December and August showcase contrasting weather patterns, highlighting the stark differences between winter and summer. In December, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -9°C (17°F) to a milder average of 6°C (43°F), with a maximum of 21°C (71°F). The month sees 66 mm (2.6 in) of precipitation over 9 days and maintains a humidity level of 83%. In contrast, August delivers a much warmer climate, with temperatures starting at a minimum of 17°C (63°F) and peaking at an average of 28°C (82°F), reaching highs of 37°C (98°F). This summer month experiences substantially higher precipitation, totaling 228 mm (9.0 in) over 14 days, while humidity levels rise to 91%. For further details on August conditions, visit Kyoto weather in August.
December and September showcase contrasting weather patterns. In December, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -9°C (17°F) to a mild maximum of 21°C (71°F), with an average of 6°C (43°F). Precipitation is moderate at 66 mm (2.6 in) over about 9 days, accompanied by a high humidity of 83%. In contrast, September experiences significantly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 12°C (54°F) and a maximum of 34°C (94°F), averaging 23°C (75°F). The month is also wetter, with 172 mm (6.8 in) of rainfall across 15 days, and humidity slightly higher at 87%. For more detailed information, check out Kyoto weather in September.
December and October showcase stark contrasts in weather conditions. In December, temperatures drop significantly, with a minimum of -9°C (17°F) and an average of 6°C (43°F), while October enjoys a much milder average of 18°C (64°F) and a maximum of 32°C (89°F). Precipitation levels also differ markedly; December sees 66 mm (2.6 in) over 9 rainy days, compared to October's more substantial 246 mm (9.7 in) over 13 days. Humidity remains relatively high in both months, at 83% in December and slightly higher at 85% in October. For more specifics on October's weather patterns, you can visit Kyoto weather in October.
December weather shows a marked drop in temperatures compared to November, with average highs of 6°C (43°F) in December versus 12°C (53°F) in November and maximums reaching only 21°C (71°F) in December compared to 24°C (76°F) in November. The minimum temperature in December dips to -9°C (17°F), while November's minimum is a milder -1°C (31°F). Additionally, December experiences more precipitation, with 66 mm (2.6 in) over 9 days, compared to November's 47 mm (1.8 in) over 6 days; however, both months maintain a high humidity level of 83%. For more specific details, you can check out Kyoto weather in November.
As December unfolds in Kyoto, the weather takes a noticeable turn, contrasting with the milder conditions of previous months. While daytime temperatures can reach a pleasant 21°C, the nights dip dramatically to around -9°C, highlighting the seasonal chill. The city experiences an average temperature of 6°C, creating a crisp atmosphere perfect for enjoying the serene beauty of winter. With 66 mm of precipitation over about 9 days, December is not the driest month; however, the higher humidity levels, around 83%, can make the cold feel even more pronounced. For those planning a trip, experiencing Kyoto's unique December climate offers a beautiful and tranquil setting that is rich in cultural charm. For more detailed insights, check out Kyoto Climate.