January Weather in Tsuruoka, Japan

Last updated: August 21, 2025

In Tsuruoka, Japan, January brings chilly temperatures with a maximum of 10°C (50°F) and an average around 2°C (36°F), dipping to a minimum of -6°C (22°F). This month is characterized by substantial precipitation, totaling 246 mm (9.7 in) over 22 days, resulting in a humid climate with 79% humidity. These conditions create a dynamic winter atmosphere, perfect for experiencing the unique beauty of Tsuruoka’s landscape during this season.

January Temperature in Tsuruoka

In January, Tsuruoka, Japan experiences its coldest temperatures of the year, with lows dipping to -6°C (22°F) and a modest daytime average of 2°C (36°F). As winter fully settles in, the maximum temperature climbs to 10°C (50°F), offering just a hint of warmth amidst the chill. This pattern of cool weather is consistent as the city transitions into February, where temperatures show a slight upward trend, maintaining a minimum of -5°C (24°F) and an average of 2°C (36°F), with a peak of 11°C (53°F). The gradual shift from the depths of winter leads into March, where the temperature begins to rise, culminating in more moderate conditions as the atmosphere starts to warm, signaling the approach of spring and a significant rise in the average temperature for the coming months.

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

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Tsuruoka, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Tsuruoka, 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).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec353642495966747771615040
Data source: Temperature data for Tsuruoka 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 Tsuruoka

In January, Tsuruoka experiences a notable 246 mm (9.7 in) of precipitation, spread across 22 days, making it one of the wetter months of the year. This heavy rainfall sets the stage for the slightly drier months that follow, as February records 230 mm (9.1 in) over 24 days. Interestingly, the precipitation trend significantly decreases by March, with 172 mm (6.8 in) falling over 19 days, indicating a gradual shift towards drier conditions. As spring approaches, the rainfall continues to taper off, with April and May seeing even less precipitation. However, the late spring and summer months are characterized by peaks, especially in July and August, where the precipitation surges again, demonstrating the region's tendency for seasonal fluctuations. Overall, January's robust rainfall contributes to the vibrant landscape, setting the tone for the months ahead.

January Precipitation Trends in Tsuruoka

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Tsuruoka, 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 Tsuruoka, January typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec246230172162149150259279189214240346
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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January Humidity in Tsuruoka

January in Tsuruoka, Japan, sees a robust humidity level of 79%, setting the stage for a winter that gradually transitions into the more humid months ahead. As the year unfolds, humidity trends illustrate a noticeable increase, peaking in the sultry summer months of July and August at an impressive 93% and 92%, respectively. Following this humid high, there’s a slight decline as fall approaches, culminating in November's 76%. While January may not be the driest month, the steady shift towards higher humidity underscores the region's character, where the chill of winter gives way to a lush, humid environment typical of its warmer months.

January Average Humidity in Tsuruoka

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Tsuruoka, 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 Tsuruoka is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec79%78%76%78%86%90%93%92%84%80%76%78%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Tsuruoka

In January, the UV Index in Tsuruoka, Japan, registers at 3, indicating a moderate exposure level with a burn time of 30 minutes. As the months progress, a noticeable rise in UV levels occurs, peaking in July and August at an extreme 11, where the burn time drops to just 10 minutes. Notably, the spring months see a swift increase, with March at 6 and by April climbing to 8, transitioning to very high exposure. This trend continues robustly into summer, before tapering off in fall and winter, with both November and December reverting back to a moderate 3. This seasonal fluctuation highlights the importance of sun protection, especially during the sunnier months. For more details on UV levels throughout the year, visit Tsuruoka UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Tsuruoka for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Tsuruoka 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 Tsuruoka typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec346891011119643
Data source: Tsuruoka 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 Tsuruoka

In Tsuruoka, Japan, January ushers in the year with a modest 134 hours of sunshine, setting a cool, quiet tone for the winter months. As the seasons transition, February sees a notable increase to 178 hours, hinting at the slow awakening of spring. By March, daylight blossoms further, offering 237 hours of sunlight, while April and May shine brightly with 270 and 303 hours, respectively, ushering in vibrant blooms and warmer weather. As we move into summer, sunshine reaches its pinnacle in August with 307 hours, before gradually fading into autumn with 259 hours in September. The trend showcases a clear seasonal progression, with the sun's presence peaking in the late summer while steadily receding as winter approaches, culminating in a serene 159 hours in December.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Tsuruoka: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Tsuruoka 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec134h178h237h270h303h297h298h307h259h224h197h159h
Data source: Tsuruoka January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Tsuruoka During January

In January, Tsuruoka, Japan, experiences a modest likelihood of sunny weather, with only an 18% chance of sun gracing the region. This is notably lower than the sunnier months that follow; February sees a significant uptick to 30%, while March maintains a respectable 26% chance of clear skies. As spring approaches, the trend shifts upward dramatically, culminating in April, where the likelihood of sunshine rises to 41%. Interestingly, this peak continues into the summer months, illustrating a clear seasonal pattern. By the fall, chances fluctuate again, with October and November both hovering around 35-36% before settling at 21% in December. Overall, while January may feel gray, a brighter transition is just around the corner as the year progresses.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Tsuruoka

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Tsuruoka 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 Tsuruoka experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec18%30%26%41%32%35%41%26%45%35%36%22%
Data source: Tsuruoka January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Tsuruoka in January

In Tsuruoka, Japan, January ushers in approximately 9 hours of daylight, setting the stage for a gradual increase as winter gives way to spring. By February, daylight extends to 10 hours, and this upward trend continues through March with 11 hours, inviting longer, sunnier days. April brings a delightful 13 hours, while May and June maintain this brightness, peaking with 14 hours of daylight. As summer unfolds, July and August sustain this generous light, but a subtle shift occurs in September, reducing daylight to 12 hours. The gradual decline continues into October and November, where daylight dips back to 10 hours, mirroring the shorter days of winter. By December, daylight returns to its January benchmark of 9 hours, completing a cyclical dance of light that beautifully characterizes the changing seasons in Tsuruoka.

Average Daylight Hours in Tsuruoka for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Tsuruoka throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9h 46m10h 43m11h 57m13h 12m14h 16m14h 48m14h 32m13h 36m12h 24m11h 9m10h 3m9h 29m
Data source: Tsuruoka daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Tsuruoka

In Tsuruoka, Japan, January ushers in a brisk average wind speed of 5.5 m/s (12 mph), setting a lively tone for the year ahead. As the winter chill persists into February, winds pick up slightly to 6.4 m/s (14 mph), marking the month's peak for the season. However, by March, the winds begin to wane, dropping to 4.4 m/s (10 mph), and this downward trend continues through the spring months of April and May, where speeds hover around 4.2 m/s (9 mph). The summer months bring a notable lull, with June and July gusting at just 2.7 m/s (6 mph) and 2.8 m/s (6 mph), creating a calm atmosphere. September sees a gentle uptick to 4.1 m/s (9 mph), while October and November maintain a steady pace of about 4.0 m/s (9 mph) and 4.7 m/s (11 mph) respectively. Interestingly, as the year closes, December experiences a resurgence in wind speed at 5.8 m/s (13 mph), reminiscent of January's energetic start, creating a swirl of anticipation for the season to come.

Average January Wind Speed in Tsuruoka

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Tsuruoka, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec5.5 m/s6.44.44.24.22.72.83.74.14.04.75.8
Data source: Tsuruoka January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Tsuruoka Compares to Other Months

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

January and February present similar weather patterns, with both months experiencing average temperatures around 2°C (36°F). However, January typically sees slightly cooler temperatures with a minimum of -6°C (22°F) compared to February's minimum of -5°C (24°F). Precipitation is slightly higher in January at 246 mm (9.7 in) over 22 days, while February has 230 mm (9.1 in) spread across 24 days. Additionally, humidity levels are fairly consistent, with January at 79% and February at 78%. For more detailed insights, you can visit Tsuruoka weather in February.

January and March exhibit notable differences in weather patterns. January is colder, with average temperatures around 2°C (36°F), and nighttime lows dipping to -6°C (22°F), while March sees a slight warming trend, with average temperatures rising to 5°C (42°F) and maximums reaching 15°C (60°F). Precipitation is more abundant in January, totaling 246 mm (9.7 in) over 22 days, compared to March's 172 mm (6.8 in) over 19 days. Additionally, humidity levels are slightly higher in January at 79%, compared to 76% in March. For more details on the unique weather conditions in March, you can visit Tsuruoka weather in March.

In January, temperatures in Tsuruoka typically range from a chilly -6°C (22°F) to a maximum of 10°C (50°F), with an average temperature of around 2°C (36°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, totaling about 246 mm (9.7 in) over 22 days, resulting in a high humidity level of 79%. In contrast, April brings a noticeable warming trend, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 1°C (35°F) to a pleasant maximum of 21°C (69°F), resulting in an average of 9°C (49°F). Precipitation in April decreases to 162 mm (6.4 in) over 17 days, while humidity remains slightly lower at 78%. For more details on April weather, visit Tsuruoka weather in April.

In January, temperatures in Tsuruoka can be quite chilly, with minimums dropping to -6°C (22°F) and average highs reaching only 10°C (50°F). The month is also marked by significant precipitation, totaling 246 mm (9.7 in) over 22 days, and a relatively high humidity level of 79%. In contrast, May brings much warmer weather, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 7°C (44°F) to an average maximum of 26°C (78°F). While precipitation decreases to 149 mm (5.8 in) over 15 days, humidity rises slightly to 86%. These contrasting conditions highlight the transition from the cold and damp winter weather of January to the milder, more pleasant climate of May. For more detailed information, check out Tsuruoka weather in May.

In January, the weather is quite cold, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -6°C (22°F) to a maximum of 10°C (50°F), and an average temperature of around 2°C (36°F). This month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 246 mm (9.7 in) over approximately 22 days, coupled with a high humidity level of 79%. In contrast, June brings much warmer weather, with temperatures starting at a minimum of 9°C (49°F) and peaking at 28°C (83°F), settling around an average of 19°C (66°F). Rainfall decreases to 150 mm (5.9 in) over just 13 days, while humidity rises slightly to 90%. For more detailed insights, you can check Tsuruoka weather in June.

In January, Tsuruoka experiences chilly temperatures with a minimum of -6°C (22°F) and an average of 2°C (36°F), peaking at a maximum of 10°C (50°F). The month is marked by significant precipitation, totaling 246 mm (9.7 in) over 22 rainy days, and a relatively high humidity level of 79%. In contrast, July brings much warmer weather, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 17°C (62°F) to an average of 24°C (75°F), and reaching up to 32°C (91°F). Although July has slightly more precipitation at 259 mm (10.2 in), it occurs over fewer days (17 days), accompanied by even higher humidity at 93%. For more detailed insights, check out Tsuruoka weather in July.

January and August present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In January, temperatures range from a chilly -6°C (22°F) to a mild 10°C (50°F), with an average of 2°C (36°F). The month is characterized by significant precipitation, totaling 246 mm (9.7 in) over 22 days, and humidity sits at a relatively high 79%. In comparison, August boasts a much warmer climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 17°C (64°F) to a maximum of 34°C (93°F) and an average of 25°C (78°F). Although August experiences slightly more precipitation at 279 mm (11.0 in), it falls over fewer days—only 17—while humidity peaks at 92%. For a deeper look into August weather, visit Tsuruoka weather in August.

January and September present contrasting weather conditions. In January, temperatures are notably low, with a minimum of -6°C (22°F) and an average around 2°C (36°F), peaking at 10°C (50°F). This month also sees significant precipitation, totaling 246 mm (9.7 in) spread over 22 days, accompanied by high humidity at 79%. In stark contrast, September experiences much warmer temperatures, ranging from a minimum of 13°C (56°F) to a maximum of 33°C (92°F), with an average of 21°C (71°F). Precipitation is comparatively less, totaling 189 mm (7.4 in) over 17 days, and humidity rises slightly to 84%. For a detailed look at the weather in September, visit Tsuruoka weather in September.

In January, the weather tends to be quite cold, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -6°C (22°F) to a maximum of 10°C (50°F), and an average temperature hovering around 2°C (36°F). The month also sees significant precipitation, averaging 246 mm (9.7 inches) over 22 days, paired with a humidity level of 79%. In contrast, October offers a much milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 8°C (47°F) to a comfortable maximum of 27°C (80°F), and an average temperature of 16°C (61°F). Precipitation in October is slightly lower at 214 mm (8.4 inches) over 17 days, with humidity at 80%. For a more detailed look at October's climate, you can check out Tsuruoka weather in October.

January and November present notable contrasts in weather. January is much colder, with average temperatures hovering around 2°C (36°F), while November enjoys a milder average of 10°C (51°F). The minimum temperature in January can drop to a chilly -6°C (22°F), compared to November's minimum of 0°C (33°F). Both months experience significant precipitation, with January recording 246 mm (9.7 in) over 22 days, slightly higher than November's 240 mm (9.4 in) over 20 days. Humidity levels are relatively close, with January at 79% and November at 76%. For more specific insights on November weather, you can check Tsuruoka weather in November.

In comparing the weather between January and December, January tends to be slightly colder, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of -6°C (22°F) to a maximum of 10°C (50°F), while December experiences slightly milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -4°C (26°F) to a maximum of 16°C (61°F). Precipitation is notably higher in December, with 346 mm (13.6 in) over 27 days compared to January's 246 mm (9.7 in) over 22 days. Despite the increase in rainfall during December, humidity remains relatively steady, with January boasting a humidity level of 79% compared to December's 78%. For more detailed insights on December weather, visit Tsuruoka weather in December.

Compare Tsuruoka's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Tsuruoka

January in Tsuruoka presents a stark contrast to the other months, plunging temperatures and a significant uptick in precipitation create a unique winter atmosphere. With chilling averages around 2°C and frequent dips into negatives, the month stands out as one of the coldest periods of the year. The high humidity of 79% coupled with nearly 23 days of rain transforms the landscape, often blanketing it in a serene layer of frost. This distinct weather pattern not only distinguishes January but also wraps Tsuruoka in a picturesque winter wonderland, making it an enchanting time for both residents and visitors alike. For more insights on the climate throughout the year, check out Tsuruoka Climate.