January Weather in Osaka, Japan

Last updated: August 21, 2025

In Osaka, Japan, January presents a chilly yet intriguing atmosphere characterized by a maximum temperature of 18°C (64°F) and a minimum of -3°C (26°F). The average temperature hovers around 6°C (42°F), making warm clothing essential for outdoor explorations. Visitors can expect about 46 mm (1.8 in) of precipitation spread across approximately 6 days, contributing to the region's characteristic 82% humidity. This blend of cool temperatures and occasional rain fosters a unique winter ambiance, perfect for discovering Osaka's rich culture and stunning landscapes.

January Temperature in Osaka

In January, Osaka experiences a crisp winter chill, with temperatures ranging from a frigid -3°C (26°F) at night to a moderate 18°C (64°F) during the day, yielding a cool average of 6°C (42°F). This month serves as a precursor to the gradual warming trend that marks the coming months; in February, the temperatures remain consistent, with similar lows and averages but a slight climb in daytime highs to 20°C (68°F). As spring approaches in March, there's a noticeable shift, with morning lows rising slightly and averages reaching 10°C (51°F), while maximum temperatures can hit 23°C (73°F). This upward trend continues into April, showcasing the awakening of warmer weather, peaking at a delightful 26°C (79°F). Each successive month brings increasing warmth, as May boasts highs of 31°C (88°F) and June hits a balmy 32°C (89°F), leading into the hot summer months of July and August. Transitioning through the seasons, Osaka's temperature pattern illustrates a comforting ascent from winter’s chill to summer's heat, embodying the lively spirit of Japan’s diverse climate.

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

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Osaka, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Osaka, 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).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec424351596874828577675647
Data source: Temperature data for Osaka 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 Osaka

In January, Osaka experiences a relatively dry start to the year, with precipitation measuring 46 mm (1.8 in) over just six days. This modest rainfall is considerably lower than the upcoming months, where precipitation gradually increases. By February, the rainfall rises to 60 mm (2.3 in), setting the stage for March's more significant uptick, where the city sees 109 mm (4.3 in) across 11 days. As winter transitions to spring, precipitation continues to trend upward, peaking dramatically in July with a staggering 282 mm (11.1 in), emphasizing a shift to Osaka’s wettest season. This pattern reflects the city’s climatic rhythm, with January standing out as a brief interlude of relative dryness before the rainy months take center stage.

January Precipitation Trends in Osaka

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Osaka, 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 Osaka, January typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec46601091351501472821831692304457
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

January Humidity in Osaka

In January, Osaka experiences a notable humidity level of 82%, setting the stage for a winter that feels crisp yet damp. While this initial chill is followed by a slight decline in humidity to 79% in February, the atmosphere becomes progressively more humid as spring approaches, with levels rising again to 76% in April. A noteworthy trend emerges as May hits, where humidity spikes to 83%, and the approaching summer brings increasingly saturated air. By June, humidity reaches a substantial 87%, and it peaks in the sweltering heights of July and August, at 93% and 91%, respectively. As the seasons transition, humidity begins to retreat, arriving back at 85% in October and settling at a comfortable 83% in November and December. Overall, the humidity in Osaka reflects the shifting seasons, with winter's chill giving way to the sultry warmth of summer.

January Average Humidity in Osaka

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Osaka, 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 Osaka is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec82%79%74%76%83%87%93%91%87%85%83%83%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Osaka

In January, Osaka experiences a moderate UV Index of 4, indicating that while sun exposure is manageable, protective measures are still advisable, especially with a burn time of 30 minutes. As winter transitions into spring, the UV Index begins to climb; by February, it reaches a high level of 6, shortening the safe exposure time to 25 minutes. The trend continues with a notable spike in March, where the Index jumps to 8—marked as very high, and the burn time decreases to just 15 minutes. This pattern escalates into April and May, where the UV Index peaks at 11, categorizing it as extreme and allowing only 10 minutes of unprotected sun exposure. As summer approaches, values stabilize around 11 to 12, maintaining the extreme classification through July and August. The UV Index begins to taper off in September and October, sliding down to 10 and 7 respectively, while burn times increase to 15 and 25 minutes. Finally, November and December see a return to moderate levels, reflecting a UV Index of 5 and 3, allowing for safer sun exposure with both months offering 30 minutes before the skin risks burning. For more detailed insights, visit Osaka UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Osaka for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Osaka 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 Osaka typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec468111111121110753
Data source: Osaka 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 Osaka

In January, Osaka basks in about 185 hours of sunshine, setting a gentle tone for the year. As winter recedes, the city eagerly embraces the increasing daylight, with February's hours jumping to 229. This upward trend continues into spring, where March delights us with 265 hours, followed by April at 279 and May reaching its peak with 291 hours. The warm embrace of summer sees a slight dip, with June and July offering 268 and 258 hours respectively, but August shines brightly again at 305 hours, marking the sunniest month of the year. As autumn unfolds, sunshine hours gradually taper off—September to 242, October at 237, and November cooling down to 236. Finally, December wraps up the year with 221 hours, reflecting a satisfying cycle of sunlight in Osaka.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Osaka: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Osaka 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec185h229h265h279h291h268h258h305h242h237h236h221h
Data source: Osaka January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Osaka During January

In Osaka, Japan, the likelihood of sunny weather in January stands at a promising 49%, making it one of the brighter months during the winter season. As we transition into February, the chances incrementally increase to 52%, hinting at a sunnier outlook. Interestingly, the sunshine begins to wane in the spring months, with March and April showing 40% and 45%, respectively. This trend continues into the summer, where the chances dip as low as 24% in June. However, the sunshine begins to bounce back in the fall, hitting 53% in October and maintaining a steady percentage through November and December. Overall, January offers a delightful mix of sun amidst the cooler temperatures, making it a favorable time for outdoor exploration in the city.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Osaka

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Osaka 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 Osaka experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec49%52%41%45%29%24%32%28%30%53%52%57%
Data source: Osaka January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Osaka in January

In Osaka, Japan, the daylight duration gradually transforms through the year, mirroring the flow of the seasons. Starting in January, residents enjoy around 10 hours of daylight, a number that remains steady into February. As March arrives, daylight begins to extend, offering an additional hour, which signals the advent of spring. By April and May, the days lengthen to 13 hours, inviting blossoming cherry trees and outdoor activities. The peak of summer shines brightly in June and July, where daylight reaches a generous 14 hours, perfect for enjoying late evening strolls. As August wanes, the daylight slightly dips to 13 hours, giving way to September’s 12 hours. Following this seasonal transition, the days continue to shorten, dropping back to 10 hours in November and eventually down to 9 hours by December. This rhythmic ebb and flow of daylight not only defines the seasons in Osaka but also enriches the city’s vibrant culture and lifestyle.

Average Daylight Hours in Osaka for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Osaka throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec10h 5m10h 54m11h 58m13h 3m13h 58m14h 25m14h 12m13h 24m12h 21m11h 16m10h 20m9h 51m
Data source: Osaka daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Osaka

In Osaka during January, the wind makes its presence known with an average speed of 2.9 m/s (7 mph), setting a brisk tone for the month. As winter unfolds into February, winds slightly intensify to 3.1 m/s (7 mph), marking the peak of the season before beginning a gentle decline. By March, the average wind speed dips to 2.7 m/s (6 mph), maintaining a consistent, mild breeze that continues through April and May. As summer approaches, June brings a noticeable calm, with winds decreasing to 1.8 m/s (4 mph), revealing a pattern of diminishing wind strength that persists into the hotter months of July and August. By autumn, this tranquil trend persists, with speeds tapering off to around 2.2 m/s (5 mph) as the year draws to a close. This cyclical variation illustrates how Osaka's wind reflects the changing seasons, from the refreshing gusts of winter to the lighter air of summer and fall.

Average January Wind Speed in Osaka

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Osaka, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2.9 m/s3.12.72.72.71.82.02.42.22.22.32.8
Data source: Osaka January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Osaka Compares to Other Months

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

January and February weather in the region exhibit some notable similarities and differences. Both months experience a minimum temperature of -3°C (26°F) and an average temperature of around 6°C (42°F for January and 43°F for February). However, February tends to be slightly warmer, with a maximum temperature reaching 20°C (68°F), compared to January's 18°C (64°F). Precipitation increases in February, totaling 60 mm (2.3 in) over 6 days, while January sees 46 mm (1.8 in) of precipitation over the same number of days. Additionally, February experiences a slightly lower humidity level at 79%, compared to January's 82%. For more detailed information, check out Osaka weather in February.

January and March in Osaka showcase a noticeable shift in weather patterns. In January, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -3°C (26°F) to a mild maximum of 18°C (64°F), with an average of 6°C (42°F). The month sees approximately 46 mm (1.8 in) of precipitation over about 6 days, coupled with high humidity levels at around 82%. In contrast, March brings a warmer climate, with minimum temperatures around -1°C (31°F) and maximums reaching 23°C (73°F), averaging 10°C (51°F). However, March is also wetter, experiencing 109 mm (4.3 in) of rainfall across 11 days and lower humidity at 74%. For more details about the specific weather conditions, you can check Osaka weather in March.

January and April exhibit stark contrasts in weather conditions. January is characterized by colder temperatures, with a minimum of -3°C and an average of 6°C, compared to April's milder minimum of 3°C and a significantly warmer average of 15°C. The maximum temperatures in January reach up to 18°C, while in April, they soar to 26°C. Precipitation is also notably higher in April, with 135 mm over 10 days, compared to January's 46 mm over just 6 days. Additionally, January sees a higher humidity level at 82%, whereas April's humidity is slightly lower at 76%. These factors contribute to a much more inviting climate in April. For more details on the weather in April, visit Osaka weather in April.

In January, the weather is quite chilly, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -3°C (26°F) to a maximum of 18°C (64°F), averaging around 6°C (42°F). The month experiences moderate precipitation, totaling 46 mm (1.8 in) over about six days, with humidity levels at 82%. In contrast, May brings significantly warmer conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 8°C (47°F) to a maximum of 31°C (88°F), averaging 20°C (69°F). Rainfall is more pronounced in May, accumulating to 150 mm (5.9 in) across ten days, while humidity remains similar at 83%. For more detailed insights, you can visit Osaka weather in May.

In January, the weather is quite chilly, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -3°C (26°F) to a maximum of 18°C (64°F) and an average of 6°C (42°F). The month experiences relatively low precipitation, totaling 46 mm (1.8 in) over just 6 days, while humidity levels are at a moderate 82%. In stark contrast, June brings much warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 14°C (58°F) and a scorching maximum of 32°C (89°F), averaging 24°C (75°F). This month also sees a significant increase in precipitation, totaling 147 mm (5.8 in) over 12 days, and humidity rises to 87%. For more detailed insights into the weather during this time, you can refer to Osaka weather in June.

January and July present stark contrasts in weather. In January, temperatures can drop as low as -3°C (26°F), with an average of 6°C (42°F) and a maximum of 18°C (64°F), along with 46 mm (1.8 in) of precipitation spread over 6 days and humidity levels at 82%. In contrast, July experiences significantly warmer conditions, with minimum temperatures around 20°C (69°F), an average of 28°C (82°F), and highs soaring up to 37°C (99°F). Precipitation also increases dramatically to 282 mm (11.1 in) over 18 days, accompanied by higher humidity levels at 93%. For a closer look at what this means for outdoor activities and travel, check out Osaka weather in July.

January weather is characterized by cooler temperatures, where minimums dip to -3°C (26°F) and average highs reach only 18°C (64°F). The month sees 46 mm (1.8 in) of precipitation over approximately 6 days, with an average humidity of 82%. In contrast, August experiences much warmer conditions, with minimum temperatures starting at 19°C (66°F) and average highs soaring to 38°C (101°F). August is also considerably wetter, receiving 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain over about 12 days, and the humidity rises to 91%. For more details on August weather, you can check out Osaka weather in August.

January and September present contrasting weather conditions. In January, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -3°C (26°F) to a mild maximum of 18°C (64°F), with an average of 6°C (42°F). This month experiences relatively low precipitation, totaling 46 mm (1.8 in) over approximately 6 days, accompanied by high humidity at 82%. In sharp contrast, September boasts much warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 15°C (59°F) and a maximum soaring to 37°C (99°F), averaging around 25°C (78°F). This month also sees significantly higher rainfall, accumulating 169 mm (6.7 in) over about 15 days, and a slight increase in humidity to 87%. For more details, check out Osaka weather in September.

January and October present quite contrasting weather experiences. In January, temperatures range from a chilly -3°C (26°F) to a mild average of 6°C (42°F), with maximums reaching up to 18°C (64°F). Precipitation is relatively low, with about 46 mm (1.8 inches) spread over 6 days, and humidity sits at 82%. In stark contrast, October boasts much warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 8°C (46°F) and an average of 20°C (67°F), peaking at a sweltering 33°C (91°F). Precipitation increases significantly to 230 mm (9.0 inches) over 12 days, along with a slight rise in humidity to 85%. For more details on the October climate, you can visit Osaka weather in October.

The weather in January contrasts significantly with November. While January typically experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -3°C and an average of 6°C, November offers a milder climate, featuring a minimum of 2°C and an average of 13°C. Precipitation levels are quite similar in both months, with January receiving 46 mm and November slightly less at 44 mm, and both months seeing rain on approximately six days. Humidity levels remain high in both months, at 82% in January and 83% in November. For a more detailed look at the November climate, you can check out Osaka weather in November.

January typically experiences slightly cooler temperatures compared to December, with an average of 6°C (42°F) compared to December's average of 8°C (47°F). While January has a minimum temperature of -3°C (26°F), December's minimum is just a degree higher at -1°C (30°F). Precipitation in January measures 46 mm (1.8 in) over 6 days, which is somewhat less than December's 57 mm (2.2 in) during the same number of days. Humidity levels remain fairly steady, with January at 82% and December at 83%. For more detailed insights into December weather, you can visit Osaka weather in December.

Compare Osaka's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Osaka

January in Osaka marks a significant transition in the city's climate, offering a cooler atmosphere compared to the milder months that precede and follow it. With average temperatures dropping to around 6°C (42°F) and sometimes reaching a brisk -3°C (26°F) at night, visitors should be prepared for a chilly experience. Although rainfall does occur, with about 46 mm (1.8 in) distributed over 6 rainy days, the humidity remains high at 82%, adding a unique crispness to the air. This makes January distinct, as it contrasts with the warmer, more humid conditions prevalent during most of the year. Embracing the winter season, January invites travelers to enjoy a quieter Osaka, where they can explore the city’s numerous cultural attractions without the usual crowds. For a deeper understanding of how the weather shapes Osaka throughout the year, check out Osaka Climate.