Last updated: August 21, 2025
Nestled in the heart of Japan, Kusatsu experiences a captivating December characterized by a striking temperature range, with maximums reaching 22°C (72°F), settling into a crisp average of 6°C (44°F), and occasionally dipping to a chilly minimum of -7°C (19°F). The season brings 63 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation over approximately eight days, producing a landscape blanketed in seasonal beauty. With an average humidity of 83%, December's atmosphere in Kusatsu is both refreshing and invigorating, making it a perfect destination for winter enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
As December settles in Kusatsu, Japan, temperatures begin to dip, signaling the arrival of winter. With nighttime lows plunging to a brisk -7°C (19°F), the days offer a modest respite with an average of 6°C (44°F) and highs reaching 22°C (72°F). This month marks the transition from the cool autumnal temperatures of November, where lows hovered around -1°C (31°F) and averages were 12°C (54°F). The notable drop in temperature suggests that winter is well underway, making Kusatsu a perfect destination for enjoying its famous hot springs and cozy, snow-covered scenery. Visitors can experience a refreshing chill in the air paired with the warm hospitality typical of this charming region, encouraging both adventure and relaxation.
December in Kusatsu, Japan sees a notable uptick in precipitation, averaging 63 mm (2.5 in) spread over 8 days, which aligns with the transition into the winter season. This increase comes after a notably dry November, where only 41 mm (1.6 in) fell over just 5 days. The data reveals a consistent trend of rising precipitation amounts as the year progresses, particularly in the summer months, where July peaks at an impressive 253 mm (10.0 in). As Kusatsu shifts toward December, the precipitation likely contributes to the region's picturesque snowy landscapes, making it a captivating destination for winter enthusiasts while highlighting the area's diverse climatic patterns throughout the year.
As December settles in Kusatsu, Japan, the humidity levels remain relatively high at 83%, a continuation of the trend observed throughout the year. Following a gradual decline from 93% in July through to 74% in March, humidity levels see a slight rebound towards the end of the year. January starts with a similar figure of 82%, maintaining a consistent moisture in the air. This pattern underscores Kusatsu's characteristic winter climate, where the humidity hovers in the low to mid-80s, creating a crisp yet humid atmosphere perfect for enjoying the town’s famed hot springs. The relatively stable humidity levels in December highlight the transitional nature of the season, blending the lingering warmth of autumn with the cooler, invigorating chill of winter.
In Kusatsu, Japan, the UV Index experiences a notable decline as the year winds down, with December marking a drop to an index of 3, categorized as moderate. This shift indicates a significant contrast to the intense summer months, where peak values reached 11, corresponding to an extreme exposure category. While January, with a UV Index of 4, also maintains a moderate risk, it becomes vital for residents and visitors to be aware of the lower sun intensity in winter. Consequently, the potential for sunburn extends to 30 minutes of unprotected exposure during both December and January. For those planning outdoor activities, understanding these trends is crucial—ensure you check out the details for the year-round UV levels at Kusatsu UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
As the year draws to a close, December in Kusatsu, Japan, offers a gentle farewell to the bustling hours of sunshine that have characterized the preceding months. With 211 hours of light, December maintains a respectable amount of sun, albeit lower than the vibrant peak of May and August. Interestingly, as winter sets in, sunshine dips from October's 230 hours to nearly 20 hours less, signaling a gradual shift toward the colder season. This trend highlights a steady decline in daylight hours through the fall, balancing between the crisp winter atmosphere and the lingering warmth of autumn's sun. Overall, while December may not boast the brightest days, it gracefully links the sun's fading brilliance to the serene beauty of Kusatsu's winter landscape.
In Kusatsu, Japan, December brings a promising 51% chance of sunny weather, standing out as one of the brighter months in the latter half of the year. Analyzing the patterns, it's intriguing to note that the sunny outlook remains stable when compared to November's 52%, illustrating a slight consistency in clear skies as winter approaches. While the warmer months from May to August show a drop in sunny days, December's resilience reflects a transition back towards clearer weather as the year winds down. This trend hints at opportunities for travelers hoping to enjoy the picturesque winter scenery beneath a cheerful sun.
As December settles over Kusatsu, Japan, daylight hours dip to nine hours, marking the shortest days of the year. This gradual decrease in sunlight is a notable shift from the longer, brighter months of summer, where daylight peaked at fourteen hours in June and July. The transition from the vibrant spring and summer months, characterized by a steady increase in sunlight, to the more subdued winter days illustrates a clear trend of diminishing daylight as the year progresses. As we approach the new year, this cyclical rhythm of fluctuating daylight underscores the beauty of Kusatsu’s seasonal changes, inviting residents and visitors alike to embrace the cozy charm of the winter season.
In Kusatsu, Japan, December ushers in a refreshing breeze with an average wind speed of 2.8 m/s (6 mph), a subtle increase leading into winter. This rise in wind speed, compared to the more sheltered months of summer, hints at nature’s transition as the colder season approaches. Interestingly, the wind remained relatively steady throughout the year, with January marking the year’s peak at 2.9 m/s (6 mph), while the warmer months of June, July, and August experienced their calmest moments with speeds dipping to 2.1 m/s (5 mph). As the year winds down, the gentle December gales serve as a reminder of the dynamic weather patterns in this beautiful region, creating a perfect backdrop for relaxing in the famed hot springs.
Weather in Kusatsu varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares December’s weather to other months in Kusatsu, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
In December, the weather features a wider temperature range with a minimum of -7°C (19°F), an average of 6°C (44°F), and a maximum of 22°C (72°F). This month also brings about 63 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation over 8 days, accompanied by a relatively high humidity of 83%. In contrast, January sees a slight dip in overall temperatures, with a minimum still at -7°C (20°F) but an average of just 4°C (39°F) and a maximum of 15°C (60°F). Precipitation decreases to 52 mm (2.0 in) over the same 8 days, with humidity remaining consistent at 82%. For more details on January weather, you can check Kusatsu weather in January.
In December, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -7°C (19°F) to a warm maximum of 22°C (72°F), with an average temperature of 6°C (44°F). The month experiences approximately 63 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation over eight days, accompanied by high humidity levels at 83%. In contrast, February sees slightly milder temperatures, with a minimum of -6°C (21°F) and a maximum of 19°C (67°F), leading to an average temperature of 5°C (41°F). Precipitation remains relatively low at 59 mm (2.3 in) over the same number of days, while humidity decreases to 79%. For more detailed information about the weather in February, you can visit Kusatsu weather in February.
December and March present contrasting weather patterns. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of -7°C (19°F) to a maximum of 22°C (72°F), with an average of 6°C (44°F). The month sees about 63 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation over 8 days, coupled with a high humidity of 83%. In comparison, March experiences slightly milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -3°C (27°F) to a maximum of 23°C (73°F) and an average of 9°C (49°F). However, it also encounters increased precipitation, totaling 116 mm (4.6 in) across 11 days, and lower humidity at 74%. For more detailed information, you can check Kusatsu weather in March.
December and April present quite contrasting weather conditions. In December, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -7°C (19°F) to a mild maximum of 22°C (72°F), with an average of 6°C (44°F). The month sees around 63 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation over 8 days, coupled with high humidity at 83%. In contrast, April brings warmer temperatures, with a minimum of -1°C (31°F) and a maximum of 27°C (80°F), averaging 14°C (57°F). However, it experiences more rainfall, totaling 138 mm (5.4 in) across 10 days, though humidity is slightly lower at 76%. For more details on weather specifics in April, you can check this link: Kusatsu weather in April.
December and May showcase a striking contrast in weather conditions. In December, temperatures can dip as low as -7°C (19°F) and generally hover around an average of 6°C (44°F), with a maximum of 22°C (72°F). The month experiences around 63 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation across approximately 8 days, all while maintaining a consistent humidity level of 83%. In contrast, May brings a milder climate, with minimum temperatures starting at 6°C (43°F) and averaging 19°C (66°F), peaking at a warm 32°C (89°F). This month is also wetter, receiving about 144 mm (5.7 in) of precipitation over 11 days and maintaining the same humidity level of 83%. For a closer look at the weather specifics in May, you can visit Kusatsu weather in May.
December and June present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In December, temperatures range from a chilly -7°C (19°F) at night to a pleasant 22°C (72°F) during the day, with an average of 6°C (44°F). The month also sees 63 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation over 8 days, coupled with high humidity at 83%. In contrast, June brings milder nights with temperatures starting at a minimum of 11°C (52°F) and peaking at a warm 32°C (90°F), averaging 22°C (72°F). The precipitation in June is significantly higher at 141 mm (5.6 in) over 12 days, contributing to a humidity level of 87%. For a closer look at the June climate, you can check out this link: Kusatsu weather in June.
In December, the weather in Kusatsu is much cooler with average temperatures ranging from a chilly -7°C (19°F) at night to a mild 22°C (72°F) during the day. The month sees about 63 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation over approximately 8 days, paired with a relatively high humidity of 83%. In contrast, July is significantly warmer, boasting average temperatures between 19°C (66°F) and a scorching 37°C (98°F), contributing to an average of 26°C (80°F). The precipitation in July is much higher, totaling 253 mm (10.0 in), and occurs over 19 days, with even greater humidity at 93%. For more details about July weather, you can visit Kusatsu weather in July.
When comparing the weather in December and August, the two months present stark contrasts. December experiences much cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -7°C (19°F) and an average of 6°C (44°F), making it a chilly time of year. In contrast, August boasts significantly warmer temperatures, ranging from a minimum of 18°C (65°F) to a maximum of 38°C (101°F), with an average of 28°C (83°F). Precipitation also differs notably; December sees about 63 mm (2.5 in) over 8 days, while August has a much heftier 168 mm (6.6 in) over 12 days, resulting in higher humidity levels in both months—83% for December and 91% for August. For more detailed insights into the climate during the summer month, check Kusatsu weather in August.
December and September exhibit striking differences in weather conditions. December experiences a much colder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -7°C (19°F) to a maximum of 22°C (72°F) and an average of 6°C (44°F). In contrast, September boasts milder temperatures, ranging from a minimum of 14°C (57°F) to a maximum of 35°C (96°F) and an average of 24°C (75°F). Additionally, precipitation levels are significantly higher in September, accumulating 136 mm (5.4 in) over 13 days, compared to December's 63 mm (2.5 in) over just 8 days. Both months have high humidity, with September slightly higher at 87% versus December's 83%. For more detailed information about Kusatsu's weather in September, visit Kusatsu weather in September.
In comparing the weather between October and December, significant differences emerge. October features a more moderate climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 7°C (45°F) to a maximum of 33°C (92°F) and an average of 18°C (65°F). It also sees considerable rainfall, with 227 mm (8.9 in) of precipitation over 13 days and a humidity level of 85%. In stark contrast, December is much colder, with temperatures dipping as low as -7°C (19°F) and an average of 6°C (44°F), while the maximum reaches 22°C (72°F). Additionally, December has lower precipitation at 63 mm (2.5 in) over 8 days, albeit with slightly lower humidity levels at 83%. For a closer look at October's conditions, you can explore Kusatsu weather in October.
In comparing the weather of December and November, December typically experiences colder temperatures, with a minimum of -7°C (19°F) and an average of 6°C (44°F), while November's temperatures are more moderate, ranging from a minimum of -1°C (31°F) to an average of 12°C (54°F). Additionally, December sees an increase in precipitation, with 63 mm (2.5 in) falling over 8 days, compared to just 41 mm (1.6 in) over 5 days in November. Despite the chillier conditions, both months maintain a similar humidity level of 83%. For a more detailed look at November's weather in the region, you can visit Kusatsu weather in November.
As December settles over Kusatsu, the weather undergoes a notable transformation, making it a unique month in the region's climate tapestry. With cooler temperatures and increased humidity, the crisp air is a refreshing change from the warmer months. The average chill of the month invites cozy apparel, while the likelihood of precipitation adds a touch of winter charm, often enveloping the landscape in a soft, white blanket. Unlike the balmy conditions of summer, December's weather creates a serene atmosphere perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat. For further insights into how these winter conditions contrast with other months, visit Kusatsu Climate.