Last updated: August 21, 2025
In December, Hakuba, Japan transforms into a winter wonderland, where the weather is characterized by a striking average temperature of -1°C (30°F), with daily highs reaching up to 16°C (61°F) and plunging to a chilly minimum of -12°C (11°F). Visitors should prepare for a wet month, as the area experiences 237 mm (9.3 in) of precipitation over approximately 23 days, leading to a humid atmosphere with levels around 86%. This combination of temperatures and moisture creates perfect conditions for snow, making Hakuba a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts.
In December, Hakuba, Japan ushers in the heart of winter, with temperatures reflecting the chill of the season. The month sees a minimum of -12°C (11°F), creating a crisp and frosty atmosphere ideal for winter sports enthusiasts. On average, temperatures hover around -1°C (30°F), while the maximum is a milder 16°C (61°F), hinting at the potential for warmer sunny days amidst the cold. This month marks a shift from the autumnal cool of November, which had a minimum temperature of -9°C (17°F) and an average of 6°C (42°F). As the year draws to a close, Hakuba transforms into a winter wonderland, offering breathtaking landscapes and thrilling outdoor adventures that highlight the stunning contrast between biting cold and occasional warmth.
December in Hakuba, Japan, experiences a notable uptick in precipitation, with a total of 237 mm (9.3 in) falling over the course of 23 days. This marks a significant increase compared to the drier months of November, which saw only 158 mm over 17 days. As winter sets in, December's precipitation signifies the transition to the peak snow season, often paving the way for ideal skiing conditions. The consistent rainfall throughout the month not only enhances the region's stunning winter landscape but also establishes a trend of increased moisture leading into the heart of winter, setting the stage for January and February's even heavier snowfall. This pattern highlights Hakuba's unique climate, where the cold months bring ample moisture, shaping an inviting environment for winter sports enthusiasts.
In December, Hakuba, Japan, experiences a humidity level of 86%, marking a slight decrease from the peak summer months but remaining relatively high. This consistent moisture in the air contributes to the region's stunning wintry landscape, enhancing the crispness of the snow. Notably, humidity trends in Hakuba show a gradual decline from January's 88% through April's 78%, followed by a gentle rise during the summer months. The overall pattern indicates a shift towards cooler and drier conditions as the year progresses, with December serving as a bridge between the vibrant autumn and the frigid winter. Travelers can expect a refreshing and invigorating atmosphere as they prepare for an array of winter sports and scenic beauty in this picturesque alpine setting.
In Hakuba, Japan, the UV Index experiences a notable shift as the year progresses. Beginning with a moderate Index of 4 in December, outdoor enthusiasts can expect a burn time of 30 minutes, compared to the heights reached in spring and summer. As the months transition from January through May, the UV Index escalates significantly, peaking at 11 during the summer months—signifying an extreme exposure risk with just 10 minutes required for potential skin damage. As autumn approaches, the Index begins to decline again, ultimately settling back to moderate levels around November and December. This cyclical pattern underscores the importance of being UV-aware throughout the year. For more details, check out the complete Hakuba UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
December in Hakuba, Japan, offers a delightful prelude to the vibrant sunshine of the coming months, showcasing a notable 181 hours of sunlight. This month's sunshine sets the stage for a gradual increase as the year unfolds, with January starting at 140 hours and February surging to 205 hours. As winter progresses toward spring, the daylight hours continue to rise, peaking in April with 273 hours, then transitioning into the lush greenery of summer, where May enjoys 297 hours. The trend reveals a consistent ascent in sunlight as seasons shift, making Hakuba a picturesque destination as the year draws to a close and the promise of brighter days lies just ahead.
While December in Hakuba, Japan, is not the sunniest month, it offers a moderate chance of sun at 26%. This is a drop from the peak of 44% in April, showcasing a trend where sunny days become less frequent as winter approaches. Notably, while November enjoys a relatively higher percentage of sunny weather at 40%, December sees a decline as the ski season kicks into high gear. The overcast skies typical of this time indicate a shift towards colder, wetter conditions, which are essential for the famed snow cover that attracts winter sports enthusiasts to the region. Thus, while sunny days may be limited, the allure of Hakuba in December lies in its winter wonderland ambiance rather than its sunshine.
As December settles in Hakuba, Japan, daylight begins to dwindle, offering just 9 hours of sunlight. This decrease mirrors a broader trend as the year progresses from more illuminated months; January also shares this commonality with 9 hours, while February begins the gradual ascent with 10 hours. Throughout the spring and summer, daylight flourishes, peaking at 14 hours from May to July, providing ample time for outdoor adventures in this picturesque resort town. As autumn arrives, daylight recedes once more, with hours tapering off to 11 hours in October and further to 10 hours in November. The cycle culminates again in December, reminding residents and visitors alike of the rhythmic ebb and flow of sunlight throughout the seasons in Hakuba.
As December unfolds in Hakuba, Japan, the average wind speed begins to rise, reaching 2.2 m/s (5 mph), a refreshing breath that hints at the wintery chill ahead. This slight increase from November mirrors a seasonal trend where the winds are gentler during the summer months, often declining to around 1.2 to 1.4 m/s (3 mph) in July and August. However, as the calendar turns to winter, the wind picks up just enough to complement the region's stunning snow-covered landscapes. This invigorating breeze serves as a precursor to the exhilarating winter sports that Hakuba is renowned for, inviting both adventurers and nature lovers to embrace the magic of the snowy season.
Weather in Hakuba varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares December’s weather to other months in Hakuba, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
In December, the weather averages a milder temperature range with a minimum of -12°C (11°F) and a maximum of 16°C (61°F), leading to an overall average of -1°C (30°F). It experiences a significant amount of precipitation, totaling 237 mm (9.3 in) over 23 days, and maintains a high humidity level of 86%. In contrast, January sees slightly colder conditions with a minimum temperature of -13°C (10°F) and a maximum of 7°C (45°F), resulting in an average of -4°C (25°F). The precipitation in January is marginally lower at 216 mm (8.5 in) across 22 days, coupled with a slightly higher humidity of 88%. For more details on January conditions, you can check Hakuba weather in January.
December and February weather exhibit notable differences in temperature and precipitation trends. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of -12°C (11°F) to a maximum of 16°C (61°F), with an average of -1°C (30°F). The month is characterized by significant precipitation, totaling 237 mm (9.3 in) over approximately 23 days, while humidity remains high at 86%.
In contrast, February sees colder temperatures, with minimums dropping to -15°C (6°F) and a maximum of 10°C (50°F), averaging -4°C (26°F). Although February experiences slightly lower precipitation at 206 mm (8.1 in) across 21 days, the humidity remains constant at 86%. For a more detailed look at February's climate, you can explore Hakuba weather in February.
December and March present distinct differences in weather patterns, despite their proximity in the winter season. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of -12°C (11°F) to a maximum of 16°C (61°F), with an average around -1°C (30°F). This month also experiences significant precipitation, accumulating to 237 mm (9.3 in) over 23 days, coupled with high humidity levels at 86%. In contrast, March sees slightly milder temperatures, with a minimum of -10°C (14°F) and a maximum of 14°C (58°F), averaging around 1°C (34°F). Precipitation in March is lower, totaling 195 mm (7.7 in) over 19 days, and humidity decreases to 81%. For a more detailed look at the weather trends in March, you can visit Hakuba weather in March.
December and April present contrasting weather conditions, showcasing the transition from deep winter to the cusp of spring. In December, temperatures range from a frigid minimum of -12°C (11°F) to a mild maximum of 16°C (61°F), with an average temperature of -1°C (30°F). The month is characterized by high humidity at 86% and significant precipitation totaling 237 mm (9.3 in) spread across 23 days. In contrast, April offers a more temperate climate, with temperatures starting at a minimum of -8°C (18°F), reaching an average of 6°C (43°F), and peaking at a comfortable 23°C (73°F). Precipitation in April is slightly lower at 214 mm (8.4 in) over 18 days, and humidity decreases to 78%. For more detailed insights into the weather in April, you can refer to Hakuba weather in April.
December and May present contrasting weather patterns. In December, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -12°C (11°F) and average around -1°C (30°F), with a maximum reaching 16°C (61°F). The month is characterized by high humidity at 86% and significant precipitation, totaling 237 mm (9.3 in) over 23 days. In comparison, May experiences milder conditions, with minimum temperatures starting at 0°C (32°F) and averaging 13°C (56°F), peaking at 26°C (79°F). The overall precipitation is slightly lower at 234 mm (9.2 in) but occurs over 19 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 81%. For a closer look at the climate during May, you can check out Hakuba weather in May.
December and June present starkly contrasting weather conditions. In December, temperatures can drop as low as -12°C (11°F), with an average hovering around -1°C (30°F) and highs reaching 16°C (61°F). The month is marked by significant precipitation, totaling 237 mm (9.3 in) over 23 days, and a high humidity level of 86%.
In contrast, June offers milder temperatures, with a minimum of 6°C (43°F), an average of 16°C (62°F), and a maximum of 25°C (77°F). Precipitation is slightly higher at 270 mm (10.6 in), albeit over fewer days (20), and humidity remains high at 88%. These differences highlight December's cold, potentially snowy weather compared to June's warmer and wetter conditions. For more details on June weather in this region, visit Hakuba weather in June.
December and July present starkly contrasting weather conditions. In December, temperatures can plunge as low as -12°C (11°F), with averages hovering around -1°C (30°F) and highs reaching 16°C (61°F). This month is characterized by significant precipitation, totaling 237 mm (9.3 in) over 23 days, and the air is notably humid at 86%. In contrast, July experiences a much milder climate, with minimum temperatures of 14°C (58°F) and average highs around 30°C (87°F). The month sees even more rainfall, with 510 mm (20.1 in) spread across 26 days, accompanied by a high humidity level of 92%. For a closer look at the warm and wet July weather, check out Hakuba weather in July.
December and August present notably different weather conditions. In December, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -12°C (11°F) to a mild maximum of 16°C (61°F), with an average of -1°C (30°F). This month experiences considerable precipitation totaling 237 mm (9.3 in) over 23 days, and humidity levels are quite high at 86%. In contrast, August brings much warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 12°C (53°F) and a maximum reaching 30°C (87°F), averaging 23°C (73°F). This summer month is also marked by higher precipitation, totaling 355 mm (14.0 in) across 25 days, and an even higher humidity level of 92%. For more detailed information, refer to Hakuba weather in August.
December weather in Hakuba is significantly colder than in September, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -12°C (11°F) to a maximum of 16°C (61°F) and an average of -1°C (30°F). In contrast, September boasts much milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 8°C (46°F) to a maximum of 29°C (85°F) and an average of 18°C (65°F). Both months experience substantial precipitation, but September is slightly wetter, with 324 mm (12.7 in) over 22 days compared to December’s 237 mm (9.3 in) over 23 days. Additionally, humidity levels remain high in both months, with December at 86% and September at 89%. For more details on September weather, you can visit Hakuba weather in September.
In comparing the weather of December and October, December presents a much colder climate, with average temperatures hovering around -1°C (30°F), whereas October enjoys a milder average of 12°C (55°F). The maximum temperatures in December can reach up to 16°C (61°F), but this is significantly lower than October's peak of 26°C (79°F). Precipitation is also notable in both months; December receives 237 mm (9.3 in) over 23 days, while October has a slightly higher total of 283 mm (11.1 in) across 20 days. Humidity levels barely differ, with December at 86% and October at 87%. For more insights into October weather, you can check Hakuba weather in October.
December's weather is notably colder than November's, with average temperatures dropping from 6°C (42°F) in November to around -1°C (30°F) in December. The minimum temperatures also hit lower extremes, dropping to -12°C (11°F) in December compared to -9°C (17°F) in November. Additionally, December experiences more precipitation, totaling 237 mm (9.3 in) over 23 days, compared to November's 158 mm (6.2 in) over 17 days. Despite the increase in precipitation, both months maintain similar humidity levels, hovering around 86% in December and 85% in November. For more detailed information on November weather, check out this link: Hakuba weather in November.
As December unfolds in Hakuba, a dramatic shift in weather sets the stage for winter adventures. The crisp air and the flurry of snowfall contrast sharply with the milder conditions of earlier months, inviting winter enthusiasts to embrace the season's charm. While the average temperatures hover around freezing, the abundant precipitation transforms the landscape into a snow-laden wonderland, perfect for skiing and snowboarding. With about 23 days of precipitation and a notable increase in humidity, December is a month of enchantment, where the anticipation of snow-filled days fills the air. For those seeking to understand this seasonal transition in greater detail, explore the insights provided at Hakuba Climate.