Sapporo Weather

Sapporo, the largest city of Hokkaido, features a humid continental climate with distinct seasonal changes. Spring and autumn are mild, but have a significant temperature gap between day and night, summers are warm and comfortable, and winters are long, cold, and snow-filled. One of the city’s most significant features is its extended snowy season, typically lasting from November to March, attracting numerous visitors to appreciate stunning snow-covered landscapes.

Snowy Landscape

Temperature

Located at a high altitude, Sapporo enjoys a relatively low temperature all year round. Even in summer from June to August, the hottest period of the year, its average temperature does not exceed 27 degrees Celsius (81 degrees Fahrenheit) and the apparent temperature is usually around 30°C (86°F). Therefore, many tourists fly to Sapporo to have a pleasant vacation to escape the summer heat.

The coldest time of Sapporo usually falls in January, and the average temperature ranges from -7 - -1°C (19-30°F). But perceived temperature can drop as low as -10 degrees Celsius (14 degrees Fahrenheit) during the daytime.

High/Low Temperatures of Sapporo

Precipitation

Snowfall

Sapporo, famous for its snowy weather, receives abundant snow in winter. The total annual snowfall is usually over 400 mm. The first snow is usually expected to come in late October, signaling the start of the long winter season. Then, in general, from November to March, Sapporo will averagely experience over 10 snowy days per month. Usually, the snowfall reaches its peak in December, with 136 mm of snowfall and 18 snowy days on average. During nearly the whole winter period from November to March, Sapporo is a snow-covered wonderland.

Rainfall

Influenced by the moist wind from the Pacific Ocean, Sapporo’ weather is generally humid. In months except those in winter that usually experience snow but not rain, Sapporo sees monthly average rainfall from 56 mm to 163 mm. Specifically, rain is quite frequent in summer and autumn from June to October, when rain gear is always advised to bring. August tends to be the wettest month, with 163 mm and 10 rainy days on average.

It’s worth noting that rain or mixed rain may still occur quite occasionally in winter, particularly during transitional periods when temperatures fluctuate around freezing.

Precipitation of Sapporo

Humidity

Sapporo maintains a moderate to high humidity level throughout the year, ranging from 59% to 75%. However, even in summer from June to August, when humidity averages around 73%, visitors don’t find the weather uncomfortable due to the city’s pleasant temperatures, with average highs around 26 degrees Celsius (79 degrees Fahrenheit). Therefore, though Sapporo’s climate is a bit humid sometimes, it rarely makes visitors feel oppressive, making it an ideal destination for outdoor sightseeing.

Humidity of Sapporo

Best Time to Visit: June to August & December to March

The best season to visit Sapporo is June to August in summer and December to March in winter.

From June to August, Sapporo enjoys a climate of mild temperature and moderate humidity, making it perfect to escape from the summer heat found in southern cities of Japan like Tokyo or Kyoto. Plus, various colorful blossoms and diverse festivals enlighten the city, like the fireworks festival and Sapporo Summer Festival

From December to March, Sapporo transforms into a snowy wonderland. The Sapporo Snow Festival creates a fairytale-like atmosphere. Ski sports and hot springs are highlights in winter.

7-Day Sapporo Weather Forecast

Sapporo Weather by Month

January February March April May June July August September October November December

Sapporo Climate - Seasons & Travel Recommendations

Winter Wonderland – November to March

Average Temperatures: -7 - 9°C (19-48°F)
Lowest Temperatures: about -11°C (12°F) in January
Average Precipitation: 81 mm - 136 mm and 12-18 snowy days per month

Weather Summary: Winters in Sapporo are long, cold, and snow-heavy. As the winter proceeds, it snows frequently and relatively constantly in cold air, so accumulated snow becomes deeper, especially in February when the snow depth is about 65-75 cm (26-30 in). Be careful when walking in the snowy white world. In late March, there is still occasional snowfall, but the accumulated snow begins to melt due to the rising temperatures. Rain-snow mixtures may occur.

What to Wear: It’s essential to keep warm, so 3-in-1 jackets, waterproof down coats, fleece-lined leggings, windproof pants, non-slip winter boots, waterproof gloves, thermal hats, and scarves are needed.

Seasonal Highlight: It’s highly recommended to attend the Sapporo Snow Festival in Odori Park, where snow sculptures are illuminated at night. Local ski resorts like Fu’s Snow Area or Mount Moiwa Ski Resort offer natural slopes and stunning views. As for a more relaxing experience, it’s a good way to soak in a traditional hot spring on a snowy day.

Sapporo Snowy Scene

Spring Awakening – April to May

Average Temperatures: 3-19°C (37-66°F)
Average Precipitation: 56 mm - 76 mm and around 10 rainy days per month

Weather Summary: Spring in Sapporo brings a gradual thaw as temperatures rise, and you will feel relatively cozy and warm in the daytime, especially in May. However, the temperature gap between day and night is huge. If you plan to travel at night when the weather is a bit cold, make sure to add thick clothes. Light rainfall and the last traces of snow may still occur.

What to Wear: Sweaters, knitwear, or sweatshirts plus jeans may be suitable in the daytime. In the nighttime, trench coats are needed. Occasional drizzles make rain gear necessary.

Recommended Activities: Late April to early May is the sakura season in Sapporo. Head to Hokkaido Shrine, where over 1,100 sakura trees create a breathtaking scene. It’s also the king crab harvest season – the meat is firm, sweet and incredibly fresh. You can pick them at Nijo Market.

Sakura Blossoms in Sapporo

Pleasant Summer – June to August

Average Temperatures: 14-26°C (57-79°F)
Highest Temperatures: 35°C (95°F) in August, but of quite small probability
Average Precipitation: 73 mm - 163 mm and 7-10 rainy days per month

Weather Summary: Sapporo’s summer is warm but not hot most of the time, and the daily high stays at around 30°C (86°F) even in the hottest August. But on sunny days, UV levels can be strong during midday. As for the rainfall, the only not-so-good news is that August experiences high rainfall, and heavy rains may occur occasionally, so a plan B is recommended to make if you visit Sapporo this month.

What to Wear: Bring breathable and lightweight T-shirts, summer dresses, shorts, summer pants, sandals, and sneakers. Sun protection is necessary, so pack sun hats and sunglasses.

Recommended Activities: Summer in Sapporo is not only pleasant but also colorful – lavender, roses, and hydrangeas bloom vibrantly across the city. Beyond the scenery, Sapporo in summer also brings a festive spirit, with events like the fireworks festival, and Sapporo Summer Festival from July 18th to August 16th in 2025.

Sapporo Fields in Summer

Colorful Autumn – September to October

Average Temperatures: 8-23°C (46-73°F)
Average Precipitation: 119 mm - 128 mm and more than 10 rainy days per month

Weather Summary: Sapporo in autumn sees cooler temperature and frequent rainfall. Considerable rainfall makes outdoor exploration unsuitable, especially in September, so make sure to check weather forecast and plan accordingly. Day-to-night temperature differences can be significant, so remember to pack a jacket in case of cold temperature after sunset.

What to Wear: Layering is necessary: light jackets, hoodies, sweaters, jeans, long skirts with leggings, and comfortable sneakers are recommended to bring.

Recommended Activities: By late September, Sapporo begins its foliage season. One of the best spots to catch the beauty of fall foliage is Hokkaido University, especially in late October, when its golden ginkgo avenue offers a breathtaking sight. Odori Park and Nakajima Park are also good place to enjoy autumn views. Head to Nijo Market, and Pacific Saury is in season.

Fall Foliage View