12月 · Japan Travel Guide
Japan in December
Temperature
3–12°C (37–54°F)
Crowds
Moderate
What to Wear
Heavy jacket
Weather in Japan in December
Temperature
3–12°C (37–54°F)
Conditions
Cold and dry in most regions. Snow possible in Tohoku and Hokkaido. Clear winter skies in Tokyo.
What to Wear
Heavy jacket, warm sweater, scarf, and gloves. Thermal layers for Hokkaido and northern Japan.
Tokyo
3–12°C
Rain: Low
Kyoto
2–11°C
Rain: Low
Osaka
3–12°C
Rain: Low
Crowd Level
Moderate
Beautiful winter illuminations with fewer international tourists — Dec 28–31 is very busy for domestic travel
Hotel Prices
Medium prices early December; significantly higher Dec 28–31 (year-end holiday period). Book year-end stays well in advance.
Top Events in December
All December · Nationwide
Winter Illuminations
Spectacular LED light shows at Nabana no Sato (Mie, 8M LEDs), Kobe Luminarie, Tokyo Midtown, and Roppongi Hills — Japan does winter lights better than almost anywhere
Dec 24 · Nationwide
Christmas Eve
Japan's most romantic night — couples fill illuminated parks and restaurant bookings sell out months ahead; KFC Christmas chicken is a beloved nationwide tradition
Dec 31 · Nationwide
New Year's Eve (Joya no Kane)
Temple bells ring 108 times at midnight to clear worldly desires — join the midnight crowd at Sensoji (Tokyo) or Chion-in (Kyoto) for a magical cultural experience
Local Tip
Dec 24–25 is Japan's most romantic experience for couples; for New Year's Eve, arrive at temple bell ceremonies by 11pm for the best atmosphere
What to Pack for December
Book Hotels for December in Japan
Compare hotels in Tokyo with dates pre-set for December travel. Free cancellation on most bookings.
Dates pre-set: 2026-12-15 → 2026-12-22 · Tokyo