This is a Hokkaido weather and temperature guide. To help people get more ideas for what to wear in Hokkaido in four seasons. And share how the Sapporo weather and temperature are like in seasons.
Hokkaido is the large and northernmost prefecture in Japan. While cold temperature immediately comes to mind when thinking of Hokkaido. The cities in Hokkaido all have four distinct seasons. Therefore, Hokkaido weather and temperature conditions are important to understand before arriving in Hokkaido.
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Hokkaido Location And Area
Temperature and climate vary depending on latitude and mountainous topography. Hokkaido coordinates are 43°N 142°E. It’s on the same coordinates as Italy, southern France, northern Spain, and the Great Lakes of Canada.
The area is 83,456 km2 and equivalent to the size of Austria or twice that of the Netherlands or Switzerland.
In Japan, People simple divide Hokkaido into four areas:
- Central Hokkaido: Sapporo, Noboribetsu, Tomakomai, Yubari, Lake Toya, Otaru, Shakotan…
- Southern Hokkaido: Hakodate, Onuma, Esashi, Mori, Yakumo, Matsumae…
- Eastern Hokkaido: Obihiro, Kushiro, Abashiri, Tokachi, Nemuro…
- Northern Hokkaido: Asahikawa, Wakkanai, Rishiri, Rumoi, Furano, Rebun…
Sapporo city is the capital of Hokkaido. Many foreigners visit it on the first day. It’s close to the international airport. And it’s the center of Hokkaido. Hence, I will share the Sapporo weather and temperature of the writing time. As a baseline, the further north you go, the more cold weather. In the same vein, the further south you go, the more warm weather.
Hokkaido Weather And Sapporo Temperature
In Hokkaido, there is a drastic change in temperature between Winter and Summer. Each season has its feature here.
Spring (March-May)
“From a deep snowy landscape to a flowering field. Seasons that change in a single step.”
At the beginning of spring, there is still snow. The cold air from the north refers to an abrupt temperature drop, resulting in unseasonable snow. Also, when the Okhotsk Sea high pressure appears, a cold surge may refer to a period of several days or weeks.
In this way, spring is a season in which the scenery and weather change drastically.
Therefore, how to keep yourself warm but not too hot is an important clothing key. To know what to wear in Spring Hokkaido. [Click Here]
Summer (June-August)
“A refreshing summer in Hokkaido with the rainy weather.”
Although Hokkaido doesn’t have a rainy season. But it does rain at times. When in good weather, you can do some summer activities.
The temperature rarely exceeds 26°C during the day. And still cools in the morning and night. So, it is good to bring long sleeve shirts with you.
However, the weather and temperature are a bit different in different areas. Here is a guide on what to wear in different areas in Summer Hokkaido. [Click Here]
Autumn(September-November)
“The temperature dropped drastically. Natural hazards frequently occur.”
While during the Autumn-typhoon and gust season, September is the month with the highest rainfall. It’s getting pretty cold from mid-September. The temperature ranges between 14°C to 22°C. I had written a guide for wear tips in Autumn Hokkaido. [Click Here]
From autumn to winter, the temperature drops rapidly. As the season progresses, you will receive the first snow notification.
Winter (December-February)
“Spectacular View of Whiteland by snowy weather. Accidents often occur on the slippery surface.”
In winter Hokkaido, there are many snowy days on the Sea of Japan side, and many sunny days on the Sea of Okhotsk side and the Pacific Oceanside. The average temperature is -1°C. It will snow daily, and the roads will be frozen. To fully enjoy the winter view, you are highly advised to attach snowshoes, to avoid falling and hurting yourself.
What to Wear in Winter Hokkaido>>
