January Weather in Nikko, Japan

Last updated: August 21, 2025

In January, Nikko, Japan experiences a chilly and humid climate characterized by temperature fluctuations between a maximum of 9°C (49°F) and a minimum of -12°C (11°F), with an average hovering around -2°C (29°F). The month sees about 55 mm (2.2 in) of precipitation spread over 11 days, rendering the area particularly wet and overcast. With humidity levels soaring to 88%, visitors should be prepared for a brisk atmosphere, making it an ideal time for enjoying winter landscapes and cultural sites shrouded in tranquility.

January Temperature in Nikko

In Nikko, Japan, January brings a chilly embrace, with temperatures dipping as low as -12°C (11°F) and averaging around -2°C (29°F). As winter settles in, daytime highs can reach a mild 9°C (49°F), offering a stark contrast to the frosty nights. This month's temperatures set the tone for the subsequent February, which gets even colder, with minimums plunging to -15°C (5°F). However, as spring approaches in March, there's a promising shift, as the average temperature rises to 4°C (39°F), heralding warmer days ahead. By April, the landscape transforms further, with temperatures beginning to break out of the deep freeze to reach an average of 8°C (47°F), signaling that Nikko's stunning natural beauty will soon bloom once again. The gradual warming trend continues through May and into the summer months, painting a vibrant picture of seasonal change in this enchanting region.

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

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Nikko, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Nikko, 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).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec293038465763707365554434
Data source: Temperature data for Nikko 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 Nikko

In January, Nikko, Japan, experiences relatively mild precipitation, totaling 55 mm (2.2 in) over approximately 11 days, setting a tranquil tone for the year. This early winter month serves as a gentle precursor to the wetter seasons ahead, as rainfall slightly increases in February with 53 mm. By the time spring arrives, the precipitation ramps up considerably, highlighted by a significant jump in March and April with 142 mm and 143 mm, respectively. This upward trend continues through the lush months of summer, reaching a peak in July, where rainfall soars to 345 mm (13.6 in) across 27 days. The cycle of rainfall begins to taper off in the fall, leading back to drier months in late autumn and winter. Overall, January marks the beginning of a gradual transition from lower precipitation levels to the wetter, more vibrant seasons that follow.

January Precipitation Trends in Nikko

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Nikko, 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 Nikko, January typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec55531421431762253452732392796168
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

January Humidity in Nikko

In January, Nikko, Japan experiences a notable humidity level of 88%, setting the stage for a winter season that feels both crisp and damp. This high humidity slowly decreases as the month transitions into February, dropping to 86%, while March sees a further decline to 81%. As spring approaches, the trend continues with April and May maintaining a comfortable range around 78% to 81%, creating a refreshing atmosphere. However, the arrival of summer ushers in a shift back towards moisture, with June climbing back up to 88% and both July and August reaching their peak at an impressive 92%. Following this peak, humidity wanes slightly through the autumn months, settling at 89% in September and tapering down to 85-87% from October through December. This cyclical pattern showcases how Nikko's climate transitions from the invigorating chill of winter to the sultry embrace of summer, before easing back into the drier months of fall and winter.

January Average Humidity in Nikko

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Nikko, 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 Nikko is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec88%87%81%79%81%88%92%92%89%87%85%86%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Nikko

In January, the UV Index in Nikko, Japan registers a moderate level of 4, with an estimated burn time of 30 minutes under direct sunlight. As winter transitions to spring, the UV levels rise steadily; by February, the index increases to 6, signifying a high exposure category and a reduced burn time of 25 minutes. This upward trend continues through March and April, where the index reaches 8 and 9, respectively, both classified as very high, allowing only 15 minutes of safe sun exposure. As May approaches, the UV Index peaks at 10, maintaining this very high status, before entering the extreme bracket in June, where it remains through August at a staggering 11, demanding drastic sun protection measures with burn times reduced to just 10 minutes. Following the summer months, a notable decline occurs as the UV Index drops to 10 in September and further decreases to 7 in October. By November and December, the index returns to moderate ranges, reflecting values of 5 and 3, with burn times extending back to 30 minutes. To stay informed about the UV conditions year-round, visit Nikko UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Nikko for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Nikko 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 Nikko typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec46891011111110753
Data source: Nikko 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 Nikko

In January, Nikko, Japan, experiences a modest 184 hours of sunshine, marking the beginning of the year with a gentle glow. As winter progresses into February, the days gradually brighten, boasting 233 hours of sunlight, which hints at the approaching spring. March brings a significant leap, with 266 hours, as cherry blossoms start to hint at their imminent bloom. By April, the sun shines even brighter with 278 hours, fueling the awakening of nature. The trend continues into May, where the sunshine peaks at 284 hours, offering splendid views of lush greenery. However, as summer unfolds, the total hours decrease slightly, with 271 hours in June and 241 hours in July, before recovering in August at 274 hours. The year transitions into autumn with a gradual decline, showcasing 230 hours in September and 209 hours in October. Even as winter approaches, November and December remain relatively sunny with 229 and 224 hours respectively, providing a warm farewell to the year. This sunny narrative not only reflects the scenic beauty but also enhances the charm of Nikko through the seasons.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Nikko: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Nikko 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec184h233h266h278h284h271h241h274h230h209h229h224h
Data source: Nikko January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Nikko During January

In Nikko, Japan, the likelihood of sunny weather in January stands at 40%, making it a relatively promising month for sunshine compared to the gloomy winter months that follow. While February sees a slight increase to 48%, January offers a decent start to the year before the clouds become more prevalent in March with only 33% sunny days. As spring approaches, the chance of sun fluctuates, peaking in April at 45%, then declining into the summer months. Interestingly, the autumn months of October and November provide notable increases, with 41% and 53% sunny days, respectively, before dipping again in December. Overall, January’s sun probability sets the stage for an optimistic yet variable winter season in Nikko.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Nikko

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Nikko 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 Nikko experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec40%48%33%45%24%17%20%20%20%41%53%46%
Data source: Nikko January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Nikko in January

In Nikko, Japan, January greets the year with a modest 9 hours of daylight, setting a tranquil tone for winter. As the month transitions to February, there’s a welcoming increase to 10 hours, hinting at the approaching warmth of spring. By March, daylight stretches to 11 hours, and this upward trend continues through April, reaching a vibrant 13 hours. The length of daylight peaks in May and June, where residents enjoy a full 14 hours of sunlight, fostering an atmosphere brimming with life and activity. As summer wanes into August, daylight slightly recedes to 13 hours, followed by a gradual decline in September and October, settling back to 11 hours. The cycle continues, with November and December returning to the cozy 10 and 9 hours, respectively. This rhythmic ebb and flow of daylight not only marks the changing seasons but also reflects the unique beauty of Nikko’s natural landscapes throughout the year.

Average Daylight Hours in Nikko for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Nikko throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9h 56m10h 49m11h 57m13h 8m14h 7m14h 37m14h 22m13h 30m12h 23m11h 13m10h 12m9h 40m
Data source: Nikko daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Nikko

In Nikko, Japan, January ushers in a gentle start to the year with an average wind speed of 2.2 m/s (5 mph). As winter lingers into February, the winds pick up slightly to 2.7 m/s (6 mph), bringing a brisk chill that complements the scenic beauty of the snow-dusted landscape. However, as the seasons transition into spring, the winds begin to calm, settling back to 2.3 m/s (5 mph) in March and April before dipping to their annual low of 1.2 m/s (3 mph) in the peak of summer. This trend of decreasing wind speeds continues into mid-year, reflecting the warmer months' stillness. Come autumn, the winds gently stir again, with speeds creeping back up to 2.3 m/s (5 mph) by December, hinting at the cyclical dance of seasons in this picturesque region. Whether brisk or calm, the winds of Nikko offer a whispered harmony to the breathtaking vistas that define this enchanting Japanese haven.

Average January Wind Speed in Nikko

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Nikko, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2.2 m/s2.72.32.31.91.51.21.51.41.71.82.3
Data source: Nikko January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Nikko Compares to Other Months

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

January weather tends to be colder overall, with average temperatures around -2°C (29°F) and a maximum of 9°C (49°F). In contrast, February shows a slight increase in average temperatures, reaching -1°C (30°F) with the potential for warmer highs of 16°C (61°F). Both months experience similar levels of precipitation, around 55 mm (2.2 in) for January and 53 mm (2.1 in) for February, with precipitation occurring on about 11 days each month. Humidity is also relatively consistent, remaining high at 88% in January and slightly lower at 86% in February. For more detailed information, you can explore Nikko weather in February.

In January, the weather is considerably colder, with average temperatures around -2°C (29°F) and minimum lows reaching -12°C (11°F). With a total precipitation of 55 mm (2.2 in) over 11 days, the month experiences high humidity levels at 88%. By March, the climate begins to transition, featuring an average temperature rise to 4°C (39°F) and maximum highs reaching up to 19°C (67°F). However, March sees a significant increase in precipitation, totaling 142 mm (5.6 in) and occurring over 14 days, while humidity decreases slightly to 81%. For more details on March weather, check out Nikko weather in March.

January and April present striking contrasts in weather. In January, temperatures range from a frigid minimum of -12°C (11°F) to a maximum of 9°C (49°F), with an average around -2°C (29°F). The month experiences 55 mm (2.2 in) of precipitation over 11 days, coupled with a high humidity level of 88%. In stark contrast, April sees a significant rise in temperatures, with minimums of -4°C (24°F) and maximums reaching 24°C (76°F), resulting in an average of 8°C (47°F). This month also brings increased precipitation of 143 mm (5.6 in) over 15 days, although humidity drops to 78%. For a more detailed look at the April weather specifics, check out Nikko weather in April.

In January, the weather is markedly colder, with temperatures ranging from a frigid -12°C (11°F) to a maximum of 9°C (49°F) and an average of -2°C (29°F). The month experiences about 55 mm (2.2 in) of precipitation spread over 11 days, coupled with high humidity levels at 88%. In contrast, May brings a significant warming trend, with temperatures soaring from a minimum of 1°C (34°F) to an average of 14°C (57°F) and reaching highs of 28°C (82°F). Precipitation in May is more substantial at 176 mm (6.9 in) over 18 days, although the humidity is slightly lower at 81%. This stark difference highlights the transition from winter's chill to the warmth of early summer. For more details, check out Nikko weather in May.

January and June present stark contrasts in weather. In January, temperatures are frigid, ranging from a minimum of -12°C (11°F) to a maximum of 9°C (49°F), with an average temperature of -2°C (29°F). The month sees about 55 mm (2.2 in) of precipitation over 11 days, accompanied by high humidity levels of 88%. In contrast, June offers a much warmer climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 7°C (44°F) to a maximum of 27°C (81°F), and an average of 17°C (63°F). This month experiences significantly more rainfall, with a total of 225 mm (8.8 in) over 21 days, while humidity remains the same at 88%. For more detailed information, you can visit Nikko weather in June.

January and July present starkly contrasting weather conditions. In January, temperatures can drop as low as -12°C (11°F), with an average temperature of -2°C (29°F) and a maximum reaching 9°C (49°F). The month typically experiences 55 mm (2.2 in) of precipitation over 11 days, accompanied by high humidity at 88%. In contrast, July sees much milder temperatures, with a minimum of 14°C (57°F), an average of 21°C (70°F), and a maximum soaring to 31°C (88°F). However, it also brings significantly more rain, accumulating 345 mm (13.6 in) over 27 days, and maintaining a slightly higher humidity level of 92%. This comparison illustrates the dramatic seasonal shifts experienced in Nikko, Japan. For more detailed insights on the weather during this peak summer month, you can refer to Nikko weather in July.

January and August present stark differences in weather conditions. January typically experiences much colder temperatures, with averages around -2°C (29°F) and a minimum reaching down to -12°C (11°F). In contrast, August showcases a warm climate, with average temperatures soaring to 23°C (73°F) and peaks of 32°C (89°F).

Additionally, precipitation patterns vary significantly; January records 55 mm (2.2 in) over about 11 days, while August is considerably wetter, experiencing 273 mm (10.7 in) over 26 days. Humidity levels remain high in both months, with January at 88% and August slightly higher at 92%. For more detailed insights on the weather in August, visit Nikko weather in August.

January and September present stark contrasts in weather patterns. In January, temperatures can drop as low as -12°C (11°F), with an average of -2°C (29°F) and a maximum of 9°C (49°F). The month is relatively dry, with precipitation totaling 55 mm (2.2 in) over 11 days and humidity at a high 88%. In contrast, September boasts much milder temperatures, ranging from a minimum of 6°C (43°F) to a comfortable average of 18°C (65°F), peaking at 29°C (84°F). However, September experiences significantly higher precipitation, with 239 mm (9.4 in) spread over 25 days, and humidity remains high at 89%. For a detailed view of September weather, check out Nikko weather in September.

In January, the weather is quite frigid, with temperatures ranging from a chilly -12°C (11°F) at night to a maximum of 9°C (49°F) during the day, accompanied by an average of 55 mm (2.2 in) of precipitation over 11 days and a high humidity of 88%. In contrast, October brings a much milder climate, with temperatures starting at a minimum of 0°C (33°F) and reaching up to 25°C (78°F) in the warmest parts of the day. However, October is notably wetter, experiencing 279 mm (11.0 in) of rainfall over 19 days, while humidity remains slightly lower at 87%. For more details on October's weather specifics, you can check out Nikko weather in October.

January and November exhibit contrasting weather patterns. In January, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -12°C (11°F), with an average of -2°C (29°F) and a maximum reaching 9°C (49°F). The month experiences higher humidity at 88% and sees precipitation on 11 days, totaling around 55 mm (2.2 in). In stark contrast, November offers milder temperatures, with a minimum of -4°C (25°F), an average of 7°C (44°F), and a maximum soaring to 18°C (64°F). Although November has slightly higher precipitation at 61 mm (2.4 in), it falls over fewer days—just 7. The humidity is also slightly lower at 85%. For a more detailed look at November weather forecasts, check out Nikko weather in November.

In comparing January and December weather, January typically experiences colder conditions with average temperatures around -2°C (29°F) compared to December's milder average of 1°C (34°F). December also sees slightly higher maximum temperatures, reaching up to 16°C (61°F), while January's highs cap at 9°C (49°F). Both months have about 11 days of precipitation, but December records a total of 68 mm (2.7 in) compared to January's 55 mm (2.2 in), suggesting a wetter month overall. Humidity levels are fairly similar, with January at 88% and December at 86%. For more details on December weather, you can check Nikko weather in December.

Compare Nikko's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Nikko

January in Nikko offers a unique contrast to the milder months ahead, showcasing a colder climate with frequent precipitation and high humidity. With average temperatures hovering around freezing, visitors can expect crisp, frosty air and the enchanting beauty of winter landscapes. This month’s chill, characterized by maximum temperatures of just 9°C and lows plummeting to -12°C, creates a serene atmosphere ideal for enjoying the scenic beauty of Nikko's historic sites blanketed in snow. For more comprehensive insights into how January weather fits into the broader climatological picture, explore Nikko Climate.