Is January a bad time to go to Tokyo?

January tends to be clear and cold. It rains or snows a few times during the month. The snow usually doesn't stick. Most businesses are closed from December 29th to January 3rd for the shogatsu (New Year's) holiday.



January is widely considered a good time to visit Tokyo, particularly for those looking to avoid the massive crowds and sweltering humidity of the summer months. While it is the coldest month in Tokyo, the weather is typically dry, crisp, and sunny with clear blue skies, which provides the best visibility of the year for viewing Mount Fuji from the city's observation decks. Average daytime temperatures range from 6°C to 11°C (42°F to 52°F), making it quite manageable with a warm coat. Travelers visiting in early January can experience unique cultural traditions like Hatsumode (the first shrine visit of the year), though be aware that many businesses and museums close for the first few days of the month. As it is the "low season" for tourism, you can often find significantly lower airfare and hotel rates. The city also hosts spectacular winter illumination displays and New Year sales, making it a high-fidelity destination for budget-conscious culture seekers.

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The remainder of January is a good time for visiting Japan, as the weather is usually sunny and dry and sightseeing spots are not very crowded (except possibly around Chinese New Year). Only in northern Japan and along the Sea of Japan coast, there is lots of snowfall, and conditions are good for winter sports.

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The weather is usually cool, dry and sunny during January and sites are much less crowded than later in the year. In northern Japan there is heavy snowfall making conditions good for skiing.

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We think you'll be surprised by all the exciting things to do in Japan in winter. Plus, we'll let you in on average winter temperatures around the country, as well as what to pack for the winter months. With powdery snow and plenty of things to do indoors and outside, Japan makes the perfect winter destination.

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What time of year is best to visit Japan? In short, you'll have the best chance of comfortable weather and fewer crowds in early spring (March – early April) and in autumn (late October – November).

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The best time to visit Japan is between March and May and between September and November as it's both warm and dry between these periods. However, the joys of springtime and the iconic blooming of the cherry blossoms in Japan are no secret, which means you'll be sharing the space with plenty of other travelers.

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Low season (December to February and June to July) is the best time for avoiding the crowds. Tokyo is quiet during the winter period, with the exception of the latter half of December when locals head out to end-of-year work parties and get-togethers.

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There is no closing schedule for gardens and castles, some close all days or only on some days, while others on a specific day, and some don't close at all. However, temples and shrines do not close over the New Year. Shops and restaurants traditionally close one or two days over the holiday, typically on January 1st.

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