Asahikawa Weather

Characterized by a humid continental climate, Asahikawa is regarded as the coldest city in Hokkaido, Japan. Its winter is long and snowy from November to December, and summer temperate mostly and humid from June to August. Comparatively speaking, spring and autumn is very short.

Temperature

Asahikawa is located inland in Hokkaido, experiencing relatively significant temperature variations between winter and summer. Generally, summer gives you a pleasant and comfortable feeling. Based on the temperature data in recent years, there are occasional hot days, typically occurring between mid-July and August, with peak temperatures potentially reaching 34 degrees Celsius (93 degrees Fahrenheit). However, Asahikawa weather in winter is consistently frigid, with daytime temperatures usually remaining below freezing. At night, temperatures can drop as low as about -20°C (-4℉), which usually happens during January to mid-February.

Precipitation & Humidity

Winter features frequent, heavy snowfall while other three seasons’ precipitation is mainly in form of rainfall.

Snowfall

The first snow usually falls in mid-November, and by mid-December, the amount of snowfall increases and the snow accumulation becomes thicker and thicker. The snowy weather basically would last till around mid-March to early April of the following year; by then, there is still a large amount of thick snow in scenic areas near the mountains. However, the snow on the streets of the city center begins to melt quickly.

Rainfall

Since Asahikawa is rarely affected by the rainy season and typhoons, its rainfall is not particularly abundant or continuous. Throughout the year, July to October sees relatively higher precipitation levels, while the lowest rainfall occurs in April and May during spring. 

Humidity

Asahikawa enjoys a humid climate in winter, summer, and autumn, with the humidity in spring months of April and May being slightly lower. As many spring flowers starts to blossom during these two periods, combined with winds, pollen are easy to spread in the air. Therefore, travelers who have sensitive noses are recommended to wear a mask when hanging out near the areas with a lot of flowers.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Asahikawa? 

For snow lovers, December to early March is the best time for a visit when charming snow scenery covers all over the city, and various winter activities are available. June to August is the best time for tourists to escape the muggy climate of other cities and enjoy a comfy and vibrant summer here.

Early May in Spring and late September to mid-October are also nice times to visit Asahikawa. This is because during these two periods, not only is the climate pleasant, but there are also splendid seasonal landscapes to enjoy, such as cherry blossoms and colorful autumn leaves, respectively.

See more about Hokkaido Weather and Japan Weather.

Asahikawa Climate by Month: Seasonal Features & Travel Guidance

November to March: Snowy Landscape

 Weather

Asahikawa steps into winter from November when the weather gets colder and colder, with the maximum temperatures drops from 10°C (50℉) at the beginning to below 0°C (32℉) at the end, accompanied by increasing snowfalls. 

During December to February, the frigid winter months, maximum temperatures range from -7 to 0°C (19-32℉), and minimum temperatures roughly fluctuate at -15 to -5°C (5-23℉); and heavy snowfalls are commonly seen, transforming this city into a snow wonderland. 

In March, Asahikawa witnesses a slowly ascending trend of its temperatures which, nevertheless, remain at a very cold level: while the maximum temperatures grow from freezing to about 7°C (45℉), the minimum temperatures are basically at -10 to 0°C (14-32℉). As a result, thick snow accumulations linger till mid-March.

The snow scenery is certainly beautiful and captivating, but it should be noted that blizzards can also strike sometimes, causing difficulties in travel and the closure of some scenic spots. Therefore, remember to closely monitor the weather forecast to ensure smooth travel. What’s more, strong wind is prone to occur during the winter, coupled with constant snowfalls, the perceived temperature is rather lower. Thus, winter travelers must make sure to take thorough measures to keep warm.

 Clothes

Thermal underwear, sweater, and windproof overcoat together with a base layer plus fleece-lined pants are basic outfits. Shoes are better to be warm, water-resistant and nonslip, such as leather boots with thick linings. Besides, extra accessories like winter hat, scarf, gloves, and earmuff are essential to bring, which are particularly helpful when cold wind blows. It’s also necessary to bring a raincoat since constant snowfalls would make your clothes wet. Moreover, don’t forget to bring your sunglasses to protect your eyes from snow glare.

 Travel Recommendations

1.    For tourists who want to see snow in Asahikawa in 2026, we strongly recommend that you participate in the Asahikawa Winter Festival, which takes place from 10:00 to 20:00 every day from February 6th to 11th. The location is Tokiwa Park, where not only are exquisite snow sculptures on display, but there are also stage performances, winter markets, winter fireworks, and various local cuisine options available. The most interesting thing is that there are expected to be cute Pok é mon appearing.

2.    Asahiyama Zoo is well worth a visit. From late December to mid-March, you can watch the “Penguin Parade” at 11:00-14:30 per day.

3.    Skiing is also one of the must try options for tourists visiting Asahikawa. There are multiple natural ski resorts here, with open ski slopes that are also suitable for beginners. Don’t forget to wear your goggles if you’re going.

April to May: Spring Awakening

 Weather

Early April is cold, with highs at around 5°C (41℉), and lows falling below 0°C, so light snowfall or sleet is still possible during this period. From mid-April on, the weather shows signs of warming, with highs up to 15-20°C (59-68℉) sometimes, but on wet days, the maximum temperatures can drop to 5-10°C (41-50℉). Other than that, the temperature varies widely from day to night, with the maximum difference reaching up to 15°C. 

In May, spring fully awakens from its slumber, with overall warm and pleasant weather, ranging between 15-25°C (59-77℉), though nights can still be relatively cool.

 Clothes

Sweater, wool coat, and thick sweatpants are needed in April. By May, you can wear a hoodie plus a light jacket together with jeans. As for shoes, casual sneakers are suitable.

 Travel Highlights

1.    Tokiwa Park is the most renowned cherry blossom viewing spot in Asahikawa, preserving vast stretches of natural forests where visitors can admire the vibrant spring scenery around them. By early to mid-May, approximately 3,500 cherry blossom trees in full bloom transform the entire park into a romantic pink hue. As night falls, the Night Cherry Blossom Lighting Festival is held. Visitors attending the event are advised to dress warmly to prevent catching a cold.

2.    If you want to enjoy the spring scenery in a more tranquil setting, Kaguraoka Park is an excellent choice, with over 500 cherry blossom trees showcasing their charm and awaiting your visit!

June to August: Summer Resort

 Weather

Summer here is temperate in general, with daily high temperature ranging at 20-30°C (68-86℉) mostly. During mid-July to August, Asahikawa may experience hot noon for several times, and the UV rays intensify accordingly, with the highest UV index reaching 7-8. In early mornings and late afternoons, it’s comfortably cool at approximately 13-24°C (55-75℉). Rainy and overcast weather would occur from time to time, but basically won’t last for an entire day.

 Clothes

Given the overall mild weather, T-shirts, light pants/ summer dress, and breathable walking shoes are enough and appropriate. Bring a light coat in case you feel too cool in early or late hours.

 Travel Advice

1.    By virtue of adequate daylight hours and vibrant natural scenery of summer months, you are recommended to take a stroll around the city for sightseeing. The Ueno Farm is a good place to go for there are full of diversified plants and blooming flowers in this season.

2.    Always take an umbrella and prepare a plan B for your itinerary as you may encounter occasional intense rainfalls. Under such circumstances, top indoor visits like Asahikawa City Museum and Taisetsu Beer House are recommended, where you can enjoy appreciating local historical heritage and high-quality cool beer, respectively.

3.    Tourists who want to experience traditional Japanese folk festivals don’t miss the Asahikawa Summer Festival, which takes places in late July or early August annually. Thousands of fireworks adorn the night sky, creating a dreamy summer atmosphere.

September to October: Splendid Autumn Hues

 Weather

In autumn, the climate steadily cools down. During early to mid-September, daily high temperatures hover around 20-27°C (68-81℉), so it’s still very warm during daytime. Although the temperatures fall quickly after sunset, it feels comfortably cool with lows about 12-18°C (54-64℉). 

In late September to mid-October, chills frequently sneak in Asahikawa, making highs drop from approximately 22°C (72℉) to 13°C (55℉), and lows from 12°C (54℉) to 5°C (41℉). By late October, it’s already very chilly about 2-10°C (81℉), heralding the coming of winter.

This season has slightly more frequent rainfall than the previous months, but heavy rainfall scarcely occurs, so your travel can proceed as normal.

 Clothes

Summer outfits are okay in early to mid-September. Long-sleeved shirt and cardigan paired with thin sweatpants are enough in late September to October. Considering you’re going to admire the outdoor autumn foliage, better choose hiking shoes and make sure they are waterproof and non-slip.

 Top Things to Do

1.    Autumn foliage gradually change colors since mid-September, and by the late month to mid-October, places like the Tokiwa Park, Kaguraoka Park, and Sounkyo have already been painted with colorful autumn hues. If you plan to go, it is recommended that you check the bus operation schedule in advance and set off early to allow sufficient time for the return journey.

2.    After autumn leaves admiration, why not watch a beautiful sunset and enjoy hot ramen to warm yourself up? The Asahikawa Ramen Village has many ramen shops where you can try whatever flavors you like.