Shirakawa-go Weather in January
Season: Winter Overview: 1. January brings cold weather in Shirakawa-go, with a huge day-night temperature difference.
2. The snowfall is abundant for over 15 days, mainly in the form of heavy snow.
3. This period is recommended to admire winter scenery, but receives more tourists.
Coldest Month in Shirakawa-go
In January, Shirakawa-go experiences a chilliest climate throughout the year, with its average temperature of -4 - 2℃ (24.8 - 35.6℉). Early mornings and late evenings are much colder, as the lows range from -5 - 0℃(23 - 32℉), at times dropping to nearly -10 degrees Celsius (14 degrees Fahrenheit). But the chill abates somewhat during the daytime, when temperatures are usually around 2 - 10℃(35.6 - 50℉). Particularly on sunny days, you feel pleasant while bathed in the sunlight.
Abundant Snowfall
Average Precipitation: 223mm (8.8 in)Average Rainy & Snow Days: 2 - 4 days, 17 - 19 days
Though it rains for few days, it’s mostly sleet. Heavy snow is common during this month, so snowbanks often reach more than 2 meters. Owing to its mountain terrain, weather here is changeable and the snow doesn’t last long. Be aware that snowstorms cause low visibility and traffic congestion on some roads, and in severe cases, the whole village might be closed. Therefore, if you plan to visit Shirakawa-go in January 2026, please monitor closely snowfall information before your departure.
Sunshine Hours & Daylight Hours
Sunrise Time: 6:54 - 7:03Sunset Time: 16:48 - 17:17
Sunshine Hours: around 4 hours per day
Daylight Hours: 9 hours 44 minutes - 10 hours 23 minutes
Though the sunset time gets later and later and daylight hours increase in January, it still gets dark early, resulting in short travel time, so arrange your itinerary effectively. Some attractions shut down early - for example, Wada House and Shiroyama Tenshukaku Observation Deck are closed at 17:00 and 15:30 respectively. It’s advised to start your journey early and leave additional time for walking, as frozen and slippery roads make movement difficult and you take longer than usual.
Is Shirakawa-go worth visiting in January?
Of course, yes. In this month, Shirakawa-go with gassho-zukuri style houses is blanketed in thick snow, taking on a tranquil scene alongside white mountains in the distance. What’s more, its winter lighting event, starting from mid-January, when the lights come on at night, the village looks as breathtaking as a fairyland, drawing large numbers of visitors:What to wear in Shirakawa-go in January?
Upper: Keeping warm is a top priority. You’re advised to wear three layers: for the innermost layer, choose light and closefitting long-sleeved shirts; clothes of the mid-layer like fleece jackets or sweaters are acceptable; long and waterproof down jackets or overcoats are highly recommended as outer ones.Lower: Pack fleece-lined snow pants, along with woolen high-ankle socks and high-top boots. You had better prepare crampons to prevent slipping on icy roads.
Others:
1. Thick hats, gloves, scarfs and facial masks are indispensable items, and heating pads are super practical. Since snow reflects UV rays, wear sunglasses to protect your eyes, when you stay outdoors for an extended period.
2. Take a lightweight thermos and regularly drink warm water to maintain body heat.
3. Raincoats are more helpful than umbrellas on rainy and snowy days.
Top Things in Shirakawa-go in January
Admire winter scenery
Shirakawa-go shows distinct charm in its snowy landscapes both day and night. It’s better to head for Ogimachi Castle Observation Deck and Shiroyama Tenshukaku Observation Deck in early mornings to secure a superb spot and see the full view of the snowcapped village. Lighting events at 17:30 - 19:30 every Sunday, when you can admire the one-of-a-kind houses with enchanting atmosphere under the brilliant lights.Enjoy natural onsen
Enjoying hot springs in winter is a perfect way to improve blood circulation and warm up your body. Oshirakawa Shiramizu-no-yu Onsen offers 100% natural hot springs, whose variety is extensive: cypress baths, open-air baths and bubble baths. Shirakawago no Yu Hotel, the only one with natural onsens in the village, is also a good choice. Its open-air baths allow you to soak in comfort while appreciating the snowy scenery of the Hakusan mountain range and the Shō River.Travel Suggestions & Tips
1. As a well-known winter resort, Shirakawa-go receives lots of visitors in January: restaurants are full of people, causing a long queuing time, so it’s better to have meals early or late; early reservation is wise, as hotels and bus tickets are hard to get.2. To celebrate the New Year, locals take time off and some restaurants and stores tend to close in early January. Therefore, remember to check ahead of time whether ones you visit are open.
3. The lighting activity operates by reservation only, meaning individual travelers need to focus on its information. On the day of the event, those without a pass should leave the village before 17:00.
