30YearWeather
Sapporo
When to avoid visiting Sapporo, Japan
Seasonal Comparison

Least Favorable Months in Sapporo

Based on 30 years of NASA satellite data, Sapporo enjoys relatively good weather year-round. However, if you're comparing months, January, February, December are the least favorable — though still perfectly visitable.

January59/100February59/100December59/100

Good news: Sapporo has no truly bad months!

With a score of 59/100, even January(the "worst" month) is still a reasonable time to visit. These months are simply the least favorable compared to other months in Sapporo, not objectively bad. Many travelers enjoy visiting during these periods and benefit from lower prices and fewer crowds.

Why January is the Least Favorable (But Still Okay) Time to Visit Sapporo

Is January a Good Time to Visit Sapporo?

👌Worthwhile timing with some trade-offs
Short Answer

Cold but characterful January in Sapporo: -3°C daytime temperatures, fewer crowds, and January-specific atmosphere. Not for sun-seekers, but ideal for cozy indoor experiences.

Decision Factors

Freezing temperatures

-2.9°C highs - pack warm winter gear

Vaccinations required

Yellow Fever

Seismically active region

15 earthquakes recorded in this month (30-year data)

Wind chill makes it feel colder

Feels like -9°C with 22.8km/h wind

Peak tourist season

95% of annual peak - expect crowds and peak prices

Health precautions needed

Be aware of: Leptospirosis, Hantavirus, Tuberculosis (TB)

Good For

  • 💼
    Business travelers

    Climate-controlled meetings unaffected by weather

Who Should Avoid

  • 💰
    Budget travelers

    Peak season means premium prices everywhere

  • 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦
    Families with children

    -9°C too cold for comfortable family activities

  • 👴
    Elderly travelers

    79% humidity creates difficult conditions

  • 💑
    Honeymoon couples

    Wedding score only 0/100 - better months available

930 observations30-year historical data
Confidence: 95%

Key Challenges During These Months

Extreme Cold

Freezing temperatures require specialized clothing and limit outdoor activities

Months to Avoid: Detailed Breakdown

Worst59

January

Freezing temperatures, Peak tourist season

View details
2nd Worst59

February

Freezing temperatures, Peak tourist season

View details
3rd Worst59

December

Freezing temperatures, Peak tourist season

View details

Looking for the Best Time Instead?

Discover the optimal months to visit Sapporo with ideal weather conditions, fewer crowds, and better prices.

Best Time to Visit Sapporo

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I avoid visiting Sapporo?

Based on 30 years of data, the most challenging months are January, February, December. Primary concerns include: freezing temperatures, peak tourist season.

What is the worst month to visit Sapporo?

January is typically the most challenging month, scoring only 59/100 in our travel conditions analysis.

Can I still visit during these months?

Yes, many travelers still visit during challenging months. Come prepared with appropriate gear, flexible bookings, and backup plans. Lower prices and fewer tourists can offset the weather challenges.

Are hotels cheaper during these months?

Often yes. Low season typically means reduced hotel rates, easier reservations, and fewer crowds at popular attractions. Some travelers prefer this trade-off.