Japan in January 2024: Here is What You Need to Know!

Japan in January is cold and gloomy, as it is the middle of winter. Nothing but love and joy are present in the city. Throughout the entire year, Japan is a fantastic destination for Japan tourism. After visiting Japan, you can only depart physically because your spirit stays behind. The nation represents both contemporary and historically-rooted modern love. The following are some important considerations if you’re thinking about visiting Japan in January. Experience the captivating beauty and rich cultural heritage of Japan with our all-inclusive Japan tour packages.

Weather in Japan in January 2024

January is typically a cold month, with temperatures varying depending on the region. Here are some general characteristics of Japan during the month of January

Winter season: January is right in the middle of the winter season in Japan. The winter season starts in December and lasts until February.
Cold temperatures: Japan can be quite cold in January, especially in the northern parts of the country. In places like Sapporo, temperatures can drop to around -5°C (23°F) or even lower. Even in Tokyo, temperatures can be around 5-10°C (41-50°F) on average.
Snow: Some parts of Japan, especially in the northern regions experience heavy snowfall in January. Places like Hokkaido, Aomori, and Niigata are known for their heavy snowfalls and winter festivals.

City	Average High (°C)	Average Low (°C)
Tokyo	10	2
Kyoto	9	0
Osaka	9	1
Sapporo	-2	-8
Hiroshima	10	2

Weather in Japan in January

Events and festivals in Japan in the month ofJanuary 2024

New Year’s Day – New Year’s Day is one of the biggest holidays in Japan, and it’s a time for families to gather, eat traditional foods, and visit temples and shrines. Many people also watch the first sunrise of the year.
Coming of Age Day (second Monday of January) – This holiday celebrates young adults who have turned 20 years old in the past year, which is the age of majority in Japan. There are ceremonies held throughout the country, and many young people wear traditional Japanese clothing.
Sapporo Snow Festival (early February) – Although it technically takes place in February, this festival usually starts in late January. It’s one of the biggest winter festivals in Japan, and it features huge snow sculptures, ice skating, and other winter activities.
Setsubun (February 3rd or 4th) – Setsubun is a traditional event that marks the end of winter and the beginning of spring. People throw roasted soybeans and shout “Oni wa soto, fuku wa uchi!” (Demons out, fortune in!) to drive away evil spirits.
Hatsuichi (January 1st) – Hatsuichi is a traditional market that takes place on the first day of the year, and it’s a great place to buy traditional Japanese goods and food.
Tondo Matsuri (January 14th-15th) – This festival, held in Kyoto, involves burning wooden prayer sticks to pray for good health and good fortune in the new year.

Top 3 Things to do in Japan during the month of January

1. Experience Hatsumode

While on your Japan tour, January is an excellent time to immerse yourself in Japanese New Year festivities. Hatsumode is the first Shinto visit of the year in Japan and it adds a cultural touch to your trip. Popular temples such as Meiji Shrine in Tokyo or Fushimi Inari Shrine located in Kyoto are visited by people to pray for good fortune. The environment is energetic and you can witness cultural performances while relishing traditional Japanese cuisine from the local food stalls.

2. Skiing in Hokkaido

January is ideal for indulging in winter sports. Hokkaido, an island in northern Japan is where you have to be if you want to try skiing. The snow in Hokkaido is so soft and apt for skiing. Also, don’t forget to relax in the hot springs after a day on the snow.

3. Witness the Sapporo Snow Festival

The Sapporo Snow Festival is held annually during late January or at the start of February. You can witness installations and enjoy the snow sculptures in Odori Park and Susukino in Sapporo, Hokkaido. The festival exhibits incredible ice and snow carvings, some of which are lit during the night, thus creating a magical winter experience. It is a unique event that attracts visitors to Japan.

Average Expenses to visit Japan in January

Item	Average Cost in INR
Accommodation	7,000-11,000
Food (per day)	1,500-2,500
Transportation	1,500-2,500
Entrance fees	500-1,000
Shopping (souvenirs)	2,000-3,000

Average expenses in Japan in January

Overall, January is a cold and wintry month in Japan, but it can also be a beautiful time to visit if you’re prepared for the weather. There are multiple winter activities that one can indulge in. Embark on an unforgettable journey with our curated Japan Tour Packages, offering a seamless blend of cultural immersion, scenic beauty, and extraordinary experiences.”

Frequently Asked Questioons

What’s the weather like in Japan in January?

Japan experiences winter in January. It is generally cold, especially in northern regions like Hokkaido, with temperatures ranging from 0°C to 10°C (32°F to 50°F). Southern areas, such as Okinawa, are more temperate.

Are there any festivals or events in Japan in January?

Yes, there are a number of events, including the New Year celebrations (Oshogatsu), where you can participate in traditional customs such as visiting temples, eating special foods, and watching cultural performances.

Are tourist attractions open in Japan during January?

The majority of attractions remain open, though some may have shorter hours or be closed on specific days around New Year’s.

Is it a good time for onsen (hot springs) in Japan in January?

Yes! In Japan, taking advantage of hot springs during the winter is a popular pastime. The contrast between cold air and warm water is quite enjoyable.

Can I see cherry blossoms in January in Japan?

Cherry blossoms typically bloom from late March to early April. January is too early for cherry blossoms; however, plum blossoms may begin in some warmer regions.

Akshaya Manoharan

101 Posts Published.

Akshaya is our very own proactive content writer. She is creatively driven with the will to seize and explore every opportunity provided. She has traveled to almost all major tourist hotspots in India and has also visited Dubai, Bali, Singapore, and Malaysia. On her non working days, she loves to write short stories and poetry. She says, " I am not lost, but rather exploring the world through words, one journey at a time......"

View all posts