<Hokkaido seasonal temperatures and clothing

What are the characteristics of Hokkaido's climate that vary from area to area?

Hokkaido is roughly divided into the Southern Hokkaido area, which includes Hakodate; the Central Hokkaido area, centered on Sapporo; the Northern Hokkaido area, which includes Asahikawa, Furano, and Biei, all rich in nature; and the Eastern Hokkaido area, which includes Kitami, Abashiri, Kushiro, and Nemuro, all large farms.

The climate is also divided into three distinct areas: the Sea of Japan side, the Sea of Okhotsk side, and the Pacific Ocean side. Here we introduce the climates of Sapporo, which is located in central Hokkaido and has the characteristics of the Sea of Japan side, and Asahikawa and Furano, which are located in northern Hokkaido and have the characteristics of an inland climate.

The climate on the Sea of Japan side is relatively sunny in spring and autumn, refreshing in summer, and cloudy or snowy in winter. In winter, the further inland you go, the cooler it gets and the more snowfall there is, so be prepared to dress according to the season.

Spring (March-May) temperatures and clothing in Hokkaido (Sapporo, Asahikawa, Furano)

Even in March, winter still holds sway in Hokkaido. The average temperatures remain bitterly cold, with 3°C in Sapporo, 0.4°C in Asahikawa, and −0.2°C in Furano. In April, the average temperatures are 8.6°C in Sapporo and 6.7°C in both Asahikawa and Furano.Even so, since these temperatures are lower than those in Tokyo in late March, be sure to wear winter clothing when going out in March and April.
The cherry blossom front crosses the Tsugaru Strait in late April. Blooming begins in southern Hokkaido, and the blossoms reach their peak in Sapporo, Asahikawa, and Furano around Golden Week.At famous cherry blossom spots, you can also enjoy cherry blossoms unique to Hokkaido, such as the Ezo-yamazakura and Chishima-zakura. By early May, maximum temperatures in Sapporo rise to around 20°C, and minimum temperatures rarely drop below 10°C.However, Asahikawa and Furano are still a bit chilly, and it isn’t until after mid-May that maximum temperatures reach the same levels as in Sapporo. Even in May, there are many days until mid-month when the minimum temperature drops below 5°C, so be sure to bring a shawl or a lightweight coat that’s easy to put on and take off.

Summer (June-August) temperatures and clothing in Hokkaido (Sapporo, Asahikawa, Furano)

Hokkaido is often thought of as having a refreshing summer without a rainy season, but the weather actually varies depending on atmospheric pressure patterns. Years when the Pacific High extends strongly over Hokkaido tend to bring hot summers, while years with frequent appearances of the Okhotsk High tend to result in cool summers.
The average temperature in June is around 18°C in Sapporo, Asahikawa, and Furano.You’ll be comfortable wearing a long-sleeved shirt with a hoodie or jacket over it. This is the best season to enjoy the flowers. Until mid-June, shibazakura (moss phlox) is in bloom; from mid- to late June, tulips and lilacs bloom; and by late June, lavender is in full bloom.
The average temperature in July is 22.8°C in Sapporo, 22.7°C in Asahikawa, and 22.1°C in Furano. The average high temperature in all three areas is around 28°C, making it warm enough to wear a T-shirt during the day.The average temperature in August is 23.8°C in Sapporo, 22.4°C in Asahikawa, and 21.9°C in Furano. The weather takes on an autumnal feel all at once, and mornings and evenings feel a bit chilly. Be sure to carry a hoodie or jacket with you at all times.

Autumn (September-October) Temperatures and Clothing in Hokkaido (Sapporo, Asahikawa, Furano)

Average temperatures in September are 19.9°C in Sapporo, 17.6°C in Asahikawa, and 17.3°C in Furano. Temperature differences between regions gradually become more pronounced. Precipitation is also high due to the influence of the autumn rain front and typhoons, so we recommend bringing rain gear.The fall foliage begins in early September, with the peak viewing period lasting from early to mid-October. At locations such as Sounkyo and Jozankei, you can enjoy the fall foliage on a grand scale. By October, while Sapporo’s average temperature remains at 13°C, temperatures in Asahikawa and Furano drop to around 10°C, and the season gradually shifts from fall to winter.
In November, when the long winter begins, the average temperature is 6.2°C in Sapporo and about 3.5°C in Asahikawa and Furano. The cold is severe, and snow falls.While snow rarely accumulates in Sapporo, Asahikawa sees about 26 cm of snow and Furano about 30 cm. It’s essential to take precautions against the cold, such as avoiding high heels in favor of boots and wearing heat-generating undergarments.

Winter (December-February) Temperatures and Clothing in Hokkaido (Sapporo, Asahikawa, Furano)

Hokkaido’s winter is packed with events, such as the major “Sapporo Snow Festival” and the Ice Village at “Hoshino Resorts Tomamu,” located near Furano, which opens exclusively during the winter season. Checking the temperature is essential to ensure you can enjoy these events in comfort.
By December, average temperatures in Hokkaido drop below freezing. Sapporo averages -1.2°C, Asahikawa -4.1°C, and Furano -5.2°C. From January to February, the cold becomes even more severe, with Asahikawa and Furano recording average temperatures of around -7°C to -8°C.When going outside, a thick coat isn’t enough—a down coat is recommended. Be sure to wear a scarf to keep the wind from blowing up your neck. Also, be sure to bring ear muffs or a knit hat to keep your ears warm.Also, while it’s extremely cold outside, indoor temperatures are 20°C or higher, resulting in a temperature difference of 30°C or more. To stay comfortable indoors, be sure to wear layers that are easy to put on and take off.