Kyoto Weather in January

Curated by Ruru Zhou Updated Nov. 2, 2026
I turn my journeys into guides that help you travel better.

Temperatures in Kyoto in January are cold, with a high of 9°C (48°F). This makes it comfortable to go around the city, particularly for people who do not like the heat.

There is little rain, with most days being dry. There is a slight chance of snow if the temperatures remain lower.

Kyoto Weather in January—Temperatures and Actual Feels 

Source: Japan Meteorological Agency, Kyoto Observatory (No. 47759), 1991–2020 normals;

The number lies. Don't let a forecast of 9°C fool you into thinking it's mild.

Winter mornings can feel colder than the forecast suggests. Kyoto sits in a basin surrounded by mountains. Cold air settles here overnight. About 1/3 of January mornings drop below freezing.

Temples are not heated. You'll take off your shoes and walk on cold wooden floors. It feels much colder than walking outside.

Wear your warmest layer in the morning. You can take it off around lunchtime. Trains, museums, shops, and restaurants are often heated to 20°C (68°F) or above. When visiting temples, wear thick socks and bring gloves. 

Snow in Kyoto: 16 Days of Snowfall, but Only 1 Day of Snow Cover

It is easy to see snow falling in Kyoto, but not easy to see snow-covered scenery. 

January gets about 16.3 days of snowfall based on the 30-year average. But snow actually covers the ground on only 1.3 days. Even then, it's usually just 2–3 cm (about 1 inch). It often melts by early afternoon.

February has more days with snow on the ground (2.0), while it has fewer snowy days (14.2).

So, if you want to see snowflakes falling, try January. If you want to see Kyoto covered in white, February gives you a slightly better chance.

Tips on Seeing Snow in Kyoto

1. Aim for late January to early February.

The deepest snowfall of the season happened in January 8 times according to the last 12 winters' data. Five of those were in the last 10 days of the month. Some of the most famous snowy photos of Kinkaku-ji are taken in February, too. 

2. Get there before 8:30 a.m.

 If you want a quiet temple after snowfall, go early.

 Fresh snow in a temple garden is beautiful. By mid-morning, you may find slush, footprints, and crowds instead.

This is where a flexible private itinerary helps. If snow arrives overnight, we can move your temple visit to the early morning and adjust the rest of your day around the weather.

3. Head for the hills, not just the city center.

Snow can stay on mountains for weeks after central Kyoto has turned bare.

One lovely route is to take the Eizan Railway to Kurama, then walk over the ridge to Kibune. You'll pass through cedar forests and may see snow along the trail. At the end, see the beautiful contrast of red lanterns against the winter scenery at Kibune.

4. One note: heavy snow can disrupt the whole city. But with our private tour, we will adjust your itinerary; no worries. 

Kyoto During New Year: What You Should Know

January 1–3 is Japan's biggest holiday. Kyoto's main shrines become crowded with people making their first shrine visit of the year (hatsumode). Many restaurants, shops, and museums close or have shorter hours.