Hokkaido Weather in December 2025: The Ski Season Arrives

Although the first snow has begun to appear in various parts of Hokkaido since the end of October, it is not until December that Hokkaido's ski season arrives.

The average temperature in Hokkaido in December is -1°C (30°F), and the abundant snowfall marks the beginning of the ski season and tourist peak season in Hokkaido.

However, due to snowstorms, flights may be delayed or canceled, adding additional risks to self-driving travel. Please plan your trip as far in advance as possible and confirm with your travel consultant.

Hokkaido's Weather and Climate in December

• Average Temperature:  -1°C (30°F)
• Daytime Highs: 2°C (35°F)
• Nighttime Lows:  -5°C (23°F)
• Snowfall: 249mm/9.80″

Hokkaido is cold and snowy in December, with the average temperature dropping from 3°C at the beginning of the month to -4°C. It is mostly cloudy and snowy during the day, and even on windless nights is very cold.

In contrast to the severe cold, there is the blazing enthusiasm of tourists visiting Hokkaido from all over the world. The heavy snowfall in December gradually covered the land with white and fluffy powder snow, and turned Hokkaido into a skier's paradise.

Remember to reserve your bookings 3-6 months in advance for better prices and a hassle-free trip. Or you could simply travel with Japan Highlights, our professional travel consultant will help to plan your Hokkaido journey suits all your needs.

Can I Ski in Hokkaido in Early December?

• Early Ski Season: late November to early December
• Peak Ski Season: from late December to early March

Yes, you can, but the experience may not be at its peak. And it depends on what you are looking for.

Some ski resorts would open from late November to meet the demands of ski enthusiasts, while the snow coverage is still limited and the experience is not good enough since not all the runs are available.

But this could be the perfect period to avoid the crowds and save money for those who just wonder what skiing is like. And spend more time on something that really interests them, such as unwinding in the authentic Japanese hot spring, wandering around snow-covered streets, and doing more sightseeing.

Peak ski season usually starts from late December, when the snowfall increases and most ski resorts are open. Plan your itinerary and bookings in advance to ensure a smooth trip if your trip falls in this period.

Where to Go in December in Hokkaido

Sapporo

• Suggest schedule time: 2 - 3 days

Sapporo in December is cold and snowy, with average temperatures ranging from -3°C  to 3°C  (27°F to 37°F).

Besides making your own dessert with your loved one in the Shiroi Koibito Park, visiting Sapporo Clock Tower to learn about the history of the city, and wandering around the German Christmas Market in Odori Park, consider Sapporo as a transfer to Niseko for skiing.

Furano

• Suggest schedule time: 2 days

While Niseko may be more popular and expensive, Furano could be your cost-effective choice. Furano ski resort usually opens from late November or early December, offering good snow quality and wide runs suitable for beginners and families with children.

To enjoy unique snowy scenes, go to Farm Tomita to see the snow-covered fields, and to Biei for the frozen Blue Pond with only bare trees to keep it company.

Asahikawa

• Suggest schedule time: 1 day

Before embarking on the stunning snowy landscape in Furano or Biei, you could take a stop at Asahikawa Zoo for its various cute animals and winter highlight event- the Penguin Parade. You could see the penguins swaying in formation for about 30 minutes, which is actually a voluntary activity for the penguins to exercise.

Noboribetsu

• Suggest schedule time: 1 day

If you are an onsen fan and want to experience authentic Japanese hot springs and ryokan(inns) in Hokkaido, you would have a good time in Noboribetsu.

Though it is freezing and snowy at the onsen area, there is not much snow in the Noboribetsu Jigokudani Valley due to the volcanic heat and steam. You could wander around the volcanic landscape before enjoying the hot spring while admiring the snow-covered world.

Otaru

• Suggest schedule time: 1 day

Unlike the vibrant summer, Otaru in December is a snow-covered wonderland. You could easily spend a day trip from Sapporo in Otaru to have fun in this storybook atmosphere.

Stroll along the Otaru Canal that illuminated by gas lamps and dusk lights, visit the Otaru Music Box Museum to browse delicate music boxes, and then warm up your body with fresh food at Sankaku Market or Otaru Sushi Street.

Things to Do in December in Hokkaido

Enjoy Early Skiing Before the Peak Season Arrives

• Early December: best for budget travelers, ski beginners, and families.
• Mid to late December: best for ski enthusiasts.

For ski beginners and families who just want to experience skiing lightly, visiting Hokkaido in early December is the best choice.

Since the snow and the main tourist crowds increase after mid-December, and some ski resorts are already open in late November to early December, you could enjoy an early skiing experience with lower prices and fewer crowds.

For ski enthusiasts, early ski season means less snow, fewer crowds, fewer fully opened ski slopes and lifts, and a poorer skiing experience. In order to fully enjoy skiing, visiting Hokkaido after mid-December may suit you more. And please book your itinerary, transportation, and hotel three to six months in advance to ensure a smooth trip.

Attend Winter Festival and Activities

If you like going out at night, remember to attend the Sapporo White Illumination. From late November to mid-March of the following year, Sapporo's attractions will be lit up with colorful lights after dark, showing a cheerful festival atmosphere.

For a day trip to Otaru, you could enjoy strolling around after sunset and seeing the whole city covered with the glow of candlelight. What's more. You could walk along the famous canal, lighted by warm street lamps, and indulge in the romantic atmosphere.

Soak in a Hot Spring with Winter Views

Besides visiting Noboribetsu Onsen for its famous sulfur-rich hot springs, another great option is Sounkyo Onsen in Sounkyo Gorge, located in Daisetsuzan National Park. Some ryokan (traditional inns) offer daytime baths for a fee of around 1,000 yen.

However, it's highly recommended to stay overnight for a more relaxing experience, soaking in an outdoor hot spring surrounded by quiet snowy scenery.

Crowds and Costs in December in Hokkaido

December is a good time to visit Hokkaido for skiing and snowy scenery, especially from mid to late December when the snowfall is heavier.

Though the snow coverage is thinner during early December, you could enjoy lighter crowds and cheaper prices. Crowds increase along with abundant snowfall and reach their peak during the Christmas holidays.

After mid-December, all runs of ski resorts are open, hotel prices will be higher and in short supply, attractions will be crowded, and waiting times will increase. So it is recommended that you book your favorite hotel and flight tickets three to six months in advance to ensure a comfortable and smooth trip.

Insider tips: Some business premises may close early near the New Year holiday (January 1-3), but this normally will not affect your travel arrangements.

What to Pack and Wear in December in Hokkaido

Hokkaido in December is freezing cold with heavy snowfall, and indoors are usually heated, so it is recommended that you wear layers of thick clothing that are easy to put on and take off when entering and leaving the room.

Most ski equipment can be rented at the ski resort. Bring your waterproof ski jacket, goggles, and boots for off-slope activities. And don't forget to bring your sunscreen and lip balm for Hokkaido's strong UV rays.

FAQs About Trip to Hokkaido in December

How Long are the Daylight Hours in Hokkaido in December?

It should be noted that days are short around 9 hours in Hokkaido in December. You could expect sunrise around 7 am and sunset by 4 pm. Keep your plan straight and clean to tighten up, and embark on outdoor activities from midday for a better view.

How Can I Celebrate the New Year in Hokkaido?

It depends on the way you prefer.

Since most bars and restaurants are closed during the New Year holiday, you could participate in the countdown event on New Year's Eve at Sapporo TV Tower, featuring live music and crowds to welcome the New Year.

For a cultural taste, you could get up early and join locals for Hatsumode (first shrine visit) at Hokkaido Shrine to wish for good luck for a whole year.

Let Us Help You Plan Your 2025/2026 Trip

Are you expecting to travel to Hokkaido in 2025/2026? See below for some of our most popular tour itineraries that include Hokkaido:

• 8-Day Hokkaido Summer Vacation
• 9-Day Best of Japan's Winter
• 14-Day Japan Highlights and Skiing in Hokkaido

Contact us and we'll help you to plan your Hokkaido itinerary based on your personal preferences.