January Weather in Tokyo, Japan

Last updated: August 21, 2025

In January, Tokyo experiences a dynamic winter climate characterized by a maximum temperature of 18°C (65°F) and an average of 5°C (41°F). The city can face chilly nights, with temperatures dipping to a minimum of -8°C (18°F). During this month, residents and visitors alike can expect about 46 mm (1.8 in) of precipitation over approximately 5 days, contributing to an overall humidity level of 76%. This combination of cool temperatures and occasional rain creates a unique atmospheric charm that is quintessentially Tokyo in the heart of winter.

January Temperature in Tokyo

In January, Tokyo experiences a brisk winter chill, where temperatures can plunge to a minimum of -8°C (18°F) and reach an average of 5°C (41°F). The month showcases impressive highs of up to 18°C (65°F), hinting at the occasional mild day amidst the cold. As winter progresses, February shows a slight increase, with lows easing to -3°C (26°F) and a marginally warmer average of 6°C (43°F). Notably, the maximum temperatures nudge upward, peaking at 20°C (69°F). This gradual warming trend continues into March, where the temperature range reflects even more significant changes. The shift from winter to spring becomes evident as average temperatures rise to 10°C (51°F), and the potential for warmer days increases. Overall, January sets the stage for Tokyo’s transition from the depths of winter to the early signs of spring, marked by a diverse temperature range that keeps the city vibrant and lively.

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

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Tokyo, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Tokyo, 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).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec414351586773798375665646
Data source: Temperature data for Tokyo 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 Tokyo

In January, Tokyo experiences relatively modest precipitation, with 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain falling over just 5 days. This marks the end of the drier winter season, before a noticeable increase in rainfall begins in the spring months. As February approaches, precipitation slightly decreases to 41 mm (1.6 in), setting the stage for the wetter conditions of March, which sees a dramatic rise to 132 mm (5.2 in). This trend continues into the warmer months, where June often brings the heaviest rainfall, peaking at 152 mm (6.0 in). Notably, the frequency of rainy days gradually increases from January to July, highlighting Tokyo’s transition into a more humid and stormy climate as the year progresses.

January Precipitation Trends in Tokyo

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Tokyo, 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 Tokyo, January typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec46411321171111522211031862737756
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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January Humidity in Tokyo

In January, Tokyo experiences a humidity level of 76%, marking the onset of a gradual shift towards the more humid months ahead. As winter gives way to spring, humidity begins to decrease slightly, dipping to 74% in February and further to 70% in March. However, as spring blooms, the humidity again climbs, rebounding to 74% in April and soaring to 81% in May. This trend sets the stage for the peak summer months, where humidity levels skyrocket, reaching an astounding 93% in July and remaining high throughout August at 90%. As the seasons transition into autumn, a gradual decrease is noted, with levels at 86% in September and tapering off to 78% by December. This cyclical pattern showcases Tokyo's dynamic and often muggy climate, particularly during summer, creating a rhythm that residents and visitors alike have come to anticipate.

January Average Humidity in Tokyo

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Tokyo, 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 Tokyo is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec76%74%70%74%82%88%93%90%86%83%80%78%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Tokyo

In January, Tokyo experiences a moderate UV Index of 3, with a burn time of 30 minutes under direct sunlight. As winter transitions to spring, the UV Index gradually rises; notably, by February, it reaches 5, prompting the same burn time of 30 minutes. March heralds a stark increase, soaring to 8 and categorizing the exposure as very high, reducing safe sun exposure to just 15 minutes. This trend continues through April, peaking at 9, before hitting an extreme level of 11 in May and persisting throughout the summer months. By early fall, the index dips to 10 in September and then lowers to 7 in October, ultimately settling at 4 in December, demonstrating a clear seasonal variance. It’s wise for residents and visitors alike to stay informed about these changes to safeguard against harmful UV radiation. For more detailed insights, check out the Tokyo UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Tokyo for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Tokyo 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 Tokyo typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec35891111111110754
Data source: Tokyo 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 Tokyo

In January, Tokyo experiences 191 hours of sunshine, marking the beginning of the year with a gentle glow. This sets the stage for a gradual increase in daylight as the months progress, with February bringing 233 hours and March further brightening the skyline to 260 hours. The city's sunshine peaks in May, basking in 285 hours, as spring transitions into summer. As Tokyo shifts into the warmer months, June sees a slight decline with 262 hours, but July maintains a robust 234 hours. The sun shines its brightest in August, shining for an impressive 288 hours. As fall approaches, daylight begins to recede once again, with September at 235 hours and October at 202 hours, before stabilizing at 231 hours through November and December. This rhythmic dance of light throughout the year showcases Tokyo's vibrant climate and the changing seasons, inviting both locals and visitors to embrace the city's sunny disposition.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Tokyo: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Tokyo 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec191h233h260h273h285h262h234h288h235h202h231h231h
Data source: Tokyo January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Tokyo During January

In Tokyo, the likelihood of sunny weather in January stands at a moderate 54%, suggesting a fair share of sunshine to brighten the winter days. This marks a transition from the following month, February, which boasts a notably higher 69% chance of sun, indicating that the city experiences gradually improving weather as winter wanes. Notably, March dips again to 42%, hinting at the more unpredictable transition into spring. Overall, the sunny outlook in January presents a pleasant opportunity for outdoor activities, especially when compared to the subsequent months, where cloudy skies become more prevalent, especially from May to July, dropping to as low as 22% sunny days during the peak of the rainy season. As the year unfolds, Tokyo's weather demonstrates an interesting ebb and flow, with January nestled among more favorable winter months while still promising some sun-filled moments.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Tokyo

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Tokyo 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 Tokyo experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec54%69%42%48%24%23%31%35%26%49%59%65%
Data source: Tokyo January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Tokyo in January

In January, Tokyo experiences around 10 hours of daylight, setting the tone for a winter that gradually transforms as the days lengthen. By February, daylight remains steady at 10 hours, but as spring approaches in March, there's a slight increase to 11 hours, hinting at brighter days ahead. The most notable change occurs in April and May, where daylight expands to 13 and 14 hours respectively, ushering in the vibrant blooms of spring. This trend continues into June and July, maintaining a generous 14 hours of daylight that encourages outdoor exploration. As summer wanes into August, daylight begins to decline slightly, settling at 13 hours, and this gradual fade continues into the fall with 12 hours in September and 11 hours in October. The cycle returns full circle with November and December, where daylight shrinks back down to 10 and a mere 9 hours respectively, marking the return of winter's embrace. Overall, Tokyo's daylight duration reflects a captivating rhythm of nature, shifting from the cozy confines of winter to the lively brightness of summer.

Average Daylight Hours in Tokyo for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Tokyo throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec10h10h 51m11h 57m13h 5m14h 3m14h 31m14h 17m13h 27m12h 22m11h 15m10h 16m9h 45m
Data source: Tokyo daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Tokyo

In January, Tokyo experiences a gentle breeze with an average wind speed of 3.1 m/s (7 mph), setting a tranquil tone at the start of the year. As winter transitions into spring, winds gradually pick up, reaching a peak of 4.2 m/s (9 mph) in May before settling again. Interestingly, February and March show a slight increase, with winds picking up to 3.8 m/s (8 mph) and 4.0 m/s (9 mph) respectively, enhancing the crispness in the air. As summer approaches, the winds soften, dipping to a low of 2.6 m/s (6 mph) in July. By December, Tokyo's winds return to a moderate 3.4 m/s (8 mph), illustrating the city's cyclical climate shifts. Overall, the January winds mark the beginning of a gradual trend toward briskness that characterizes the early months of the year.

Average January Wind Speed in Tokyo

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Tokyo, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3.1 m/s3.84.03.84.23.12.63.83.23.42.83.4
Data source: Tokyo January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Tokyo Compares to Other Months

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

January and February exhibit relatively mild winter weather, but there are notable differences between the two months. January's temperatures range from a minimum of -8°C (18°F) to a maximum of 18°C (65°F), with an average of 5°C (41°F), while February brings slightly warmer conditions with a minimum of -3°C (26°F) and a maximum of 20°C (69°F), averaging 6°C (43°F). Precipitation levels are fairly comparable, with January receiving 46 mm (1.8 in) over 5 days and February slightly less at 41 mm (1.6 in) but spread over 7 days. Humidity remains consistent, with January at 76% and February slightly lower at 74%. For more detailed insights, check the Tokyo weather in February.

January typically experiences colder weather compared to March, with minimum temperatures plummeting to -8°C (18°F) and averaging around 5°C (41°F). In contrast, March sees a milder minimum of -2°C (28°F) and a significantly warmer average temperature of 10°C (51°F), with maximums reaching up to 23°C (73°F). Precipitation in January is lighter, with 46 mm (1.8 in) falling over just 5 days, while March is considerably wetter, accumulating 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain over 12 days. Notably, humidity levels are slightly lower in March at 70%, compared to January's 76%. For a detailed overview of the conditions to expect, check out Tokyo weather in March.

January weather is characterized by colder temperatures, with a minimum reaching -8°C (18°F) and an average around 5°C (41°F). While precipitation is relatively low at 46 mm (1.8 in) over just 5 days, the humidity is high at 76%, creating a rather brisk atmosphere. In contrast, April brings a significant warm-up, featuring a minimum of 3°C (37°F) and an average of 14°C (58°F), with highs reaching up to 27°C (80°F). However, it also sees increased rainfall of 116 mm (4.6 in) across 10 days, contributing to a slightly lower humidity level of 74%. These changes reflect a transition from winter's chill to the mildness of spring. For more details, check out Tokyo weather in April.

In January, Tokyo experiences chilly temperatures with a minimum of -8°C (18°F) and an average of 5°C (41°F), while the maximum can reach up to 18°C (65°F). The month is relatively dry, with only 46 mm (1.8 in) of precipitation over approximately 5 days and a moderate humidity of 76%. In contrast, May brings a significant rise in temperatures, featuring a minimum of 8°C (46°F) and an average of 20°C (68°F), soaring to a maximum of 31°C (88°F). This month is also wetter, with 111 mm (4.4 in) of precipitation spread over about 11 days, coupled with higher humidity at 81%. For a detailed look at May weather in Tokyo, check out Tokyo weather in May.

In January, the weather is characterized by much colder temperatures, with a minimum of -8°C (18°F) and an average of 5°C (41°F), making it a chilly and somewhat dry month with only 46 mm (1.8 in) of precipitation over about 5 days. In stark contrast, June experiences significantly warmer conditions, with minimum temperatures of 15°C (58°F) and an average of 23°C (73°F), peaking at 33°C (92°F). This summer month also brings increased precipitation, totaling 152 mm (6.0 in) over approximately 13 days, accompanied by higher humidity levels of 88%. For more detailed information about the weather in June, you can visit Tokyo weather in June.

January and July in Tokyo present quite contrasting weather conditions. In January, temperatures are chilly, with a minimum of -8°C (18°F) and an average around 5°C (41°F), making it a time for warm clothing. The month experiences about 46 mm (1.8 in) of precipitation over approximately 5 days, accompanied by a relatively high humidity level of 76%. In stark contrast, July brings a significant rise in temperatures, with lows of 18°C (64°F) and an average of 26°C (79°F), peaking at a scorching 39°C (103°F). Additionally, the rainfall is much more substantial, reaching 221 mm (8.7 in) over 17 days, and the humidity climbs to a steamy 93%. For more detailed information, check out Tokyo weather in July.

January and August present stark contrasts in weather. In January, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -8°C (18°F) to a mild maximum of 18°C (65°F), with an average of 5°C (41°F). The month receives about 46 mm (1.8 in) of precipitation over just 5 days, accompanied by a relative humidity of 76%.

Conversely, August is characterized by warm weather, with temperatures soaring from a minimum of 18°C (65°F) to a scorching maximum of 36°C (98°F), averaging around 28°C (83°F). The month sees significantly more precipitation at 103 mm (4.1 in) spread over 12 days, and humidity rises to 90%. For more in-depth details on the weather, visit Tokyo weather in August.

January and September exhibit stark contrasts in weather. In January, temperatures range from a chilly -8°C (18°F) to a mild average of 5°C (41°F), with a maximum of 18°C (65°F). The month sees relatively low precipitation of 46 mm (1.8 in) over only 5 days, while humidity levels rest around 76%. In contrast, September brings much warmer conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 13°C (56°F) to a much hotter average of 24°C (75°F), peaking at a high of 35°C (96°F). This month is notably wetter, with precipitation accumulating to 186 mm (7.3 in) across 16 days and a higher humidity level of 86%. For more detailed insights, visit Tokyo weather in September.

January and October present two contrasting weather profiles. In January, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -8°C (18°F) to an average of 5°C (41°F), with a maximum of 18°C (65°F). The month experiences 46 mm (1.8 in) of precipitation over about 5 days, with humidity sitting at 76%. In stark contrast, October boasts much warmer conditions, with temperatures fluctuating between a minimum of 8°C (47°F) and an average of 19°C (66°F), peaking at a high of 31°C (88°F). This month is also significantly wetter, receiving a total of 273 mm (10.7 in) of rain over 15 days and exhibiting higher humidity at 83%. For more detailed insights, you can check Tokyo weather in October.

In January, temperatures in Tokyo range from a chilly minimum of -8°C (18°F) to a milder maximum of 18°C (65°F), with an average temperature around 5°C (41°F). The month sees around 46 mm (1.8 in) of precipitation over about 5 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 76%. In contrast, November experiences relatively warmer weather, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 1°C (34°F) to a maximum of 24°C (75°F) and an average of 13°C (56°F). Rainfall in November is higher, totaling 77 mm (3.0 in) over about 9 days, while humidity slightly increases to 80%. For more information on the conditions during this month, check out Tokyo weather in November.

In January, temperatures tend to be cooler, with a minimum of -8°C (18°F) and an average high of only 18°C (65°F). In contrast, December experiences milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -2°C (28°F) to a maximum of 21°C (70°F). Additionally, January sees slightly less precipitation at 46 mm (1.8 in) over 5 days compared to December's 56 mm (2.2 in) across 7 days. Humidity remains relatively high in both months, with January at 76% and December slightly higher at 78%. For more detailed information on December's climate, you can check Tokyo weather in December.

Compare Tokyo's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Tokyo

In January, Tokyo experiences a distinct chill that sets it apart from the milder months of the year. With average temperatures hovering around 5°C (41°F) and minimums occasionally dropping to -8°C (18°F), this month invites a cozy embrace of winter wear. While there are only a few days of rain, contributing a modest 46 mm (1.8 in) of precipitation, the higher humidity levels at 76% can make the cold feel more biting. Compared to the warmer, more humid months that follow, January offers a refreshing, albeit brisk, experience for those visiting or living in the city. For a deeper dive into Tokyo's weather patterns throughout the year, check out Tokyo Climate.