Tokyo Weather in January - How Cold is Tokyo in January

January is the coldest month in Tokyo. While the weather is sunny and temperatures rarely drop below freezing, it's still cold enough to require winter coats. Snow may occasionally fall during this month.

January is also a festive time, with New Year celebrations and Coming of Age Day. You'll see people in traditional costumes, adding to the cultural experience. There are also special events that only happen during this time, making it a great month to visit.

Tokyo's Weather and Climate in January

• Temperature: 1–10°C (34–50°F)
• Rainfall: 6 cm (2"), 5 days
• Humidity: 51%

January in Tokyo can be cold, but it's not so chilly that you need to bundle up in heavy layers. Temperatures usually stay above 0°C (32°F). If you stick to the sunny side of the street, a long-sleeved shirt and a sweater should keep you comfortable. The humidity is low, so the air feels crisp and refreshing.

January is also one of the driest months in Tokyo. While it can rain at any time in Japan, this winter month is a good time to leave your umbrella at home. You might see a bit of snow, but heavy snowfall is rare. If it does snow, grab your camera—it's a unique sight! Typically, any snow that falls is light and melts quickly.

Is January a Good Time to Visit Tokyo?

Yes, if you wouldn't mind Tokyo's January weather. The month benefits from low season prices (apart from around events such as New Year) and some unique things to do.

Advantages of Visiting Tokyo in January

January features several exciting events, especially New Year activities that you won't find at any other time. The streets are lively, with many people wearing traditional costumes like kimonos, and winter peonies are in full bloom, adding to the beauty of the city.

Disadvantages of Visiting Tokyo in January

While the atmosphere is vibrant, it can also be quite energetic. New Year celebrations attract large crowds, so be sure to book your accommodation early and be prepared for higher prices. Many businesses, including shops, close during the peak holiday period from December 29th to January 3rd, so you may need to plan ahead for any last-minute purchases. 

Best January Events in Tokyo

January is a vibrant month in Tokyo, filled with unique events that make it an attractive time to visit. The New Year celebrations offer experiences unavailable at any other time, with traditional costumes like kimonos adorning the streets and winter peonies in full bloom.

New Year Festivities

Tokyo hosts a variety of distinctive New Year events in January, which is particularly appealing to visitors. Here are a few highlights:

• Winter Peonies at Ueno Toshogu Shrine: Strongly associated with the New Year, kan-botan or fuyu-botan winter peonies brighten Tokyo's streets, especially in a small garden at Ueno Toshogu Shrine. This garden usually closed to the public, opens for the entire month, allowing visitors to enjoy the vibrant, multi-colored blooms.
• New Year at the Imperial Palace: On January 2nd, you can participate in a unique annual event where visitors are welcomed to the Imperial Palace grounds. This is a rare opportunity to see Japan's Royal Family, including Emperor Naruhito, who makes appearances to bless the gathered crowd. Expect large crowds and lots of flag-waving!
• Conflagration of Decorations at Torikoe Shrine: On January 8th, from 1 PM until the bonfire burns out, locals gather at Torikoe Shrine for a special celebration. They pile up their New Year decorations and set them ablaze. Children circle the fire, banging sticks and participating in ritual chanting and singing. This event, known as tondo-yaki, may also be referred to as dondo-yaki in other parts of Japan, sometimes celebrated on January 15th.

If you arrive later in January, there are still plenty of activities to enjoy:

Coming of Age Day

Celebrated on the second Monday of January, this day honors those who turned 18 in the previous year (or 20 in some regions). Newly minted adults roam Tokyo in traditional kimonos and their finest attire, often capturing Instagram-worthy moments. Traditionally, they would gather at government buildings for speeches, but now they explore both traditional and modern sights.

Daruma Markets

Throughout January, Tokyo hosts three major daruma markets: the Vitality Market in Hamura, the Daruma-ichi Fair in Hino, and another in Ome. Daruma dolls are a unique part of Japanese culture, characterized by their hollow, red spheres with blank white eyes. Visitors set personal goals, painting one eye black upon setting the goal and the other once it's achieved.

Gastronomic Festival at Tokyo Dome City

For ten days in mid-January, the Furusato Matsuri Tokyo Festival takes place at this extensive stadium and leisure center. It's a fantastic opportunity to sample local cuisine, from finger foods to regional beers and wines. Entry is free; you only pay for what you consume. Expect lively entertainment reflecting local traditions, and be prepared for crowds as this event is quite popular!

What to Wear in January in March

When packing for your trip to Tokyo, keep in mind that Japan has plenty of shopping options. If you forget something, you can easily buy clothes when you arrive, which can also serve as a unique souvenir.

January weather is generally cold, with little snow and temperatures rarely dropping below freezing. Be sure to pack warm clothing, including sweaters, long-sleeved shirts, and thicker pants, skirts, or leggings. A scarf and gloves are also a good idea.

Indoors can be much warmer than outside, so consider bringing a coat that's easy to take off. A raincoat might be helpful too, as January has minimal rainfall, but it's good to stay dry just in case.

Japan tends to be more formal, especially when visiting shrines or dining at nicer restaurants. It's a good idea to pack some formal clothing, so you're prepared for any occasion.

FAQs about Tokyo Weather in January

Does It snow in Tokyo in January?

Yes, it can snow in Tokyo in January. However, the snow usually doesn't last long and rarely exceeds five centimeters. The city typically experiences 4 to 5 snow days each year, with most of the snowfall occurring in January and February.

Is January a busy month in Tokyo?

January presents a strong contrast between its beginning and its end in the crowds it attracts. While the early days, the first week to two weeks, are hectic given the New Year celebrations, when those are done with, Tokyo loses its crowds and has one of its quieter periods. Consequently, you will go from paying over the odds for accommodation, for example, to finding many a cheap deal depending upon when you arrive and when you leave.

Are flights to Tokyo expensive in January?

Flights are expensive in very early January given the New Year rush. However, after that, you should be able to get some cheap deals. If you want to experience the New Year specifically, it is perhaps best to fly in in late December, (though not too late).

Which healthcare products should I bring with me?

Given that January in Tokyo is a drier month, hand lotion and lip salve have proved useful to some travelers who have problems with cracking lips. Though it is winter and the sun is not intense, this is one of Tokyo's more sunny months, so sunblock may also be useful if you have delicate skin.

Tokyo Weather Info by Month