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Contents
- The climate of Sapporo
- The best time to visit Sapporo
- The worst time to visit Sapporo
- Spring weather in Sapporo
- Summer weather in Sapporo
- Autumn weather in Sapporo
- Winter weather in Sapporo
- Weather in January
- Weather in February
- Weather in March
- Weather in April
- Weather in May
- Weather in June
- Weather in July
- Weather in August
- Weather in September
- Weather in October
- Weather in November
- Weather in December
- Frequently asked questions
- Average temperature
- Average pressure
- Average wind speed
- Average humidity
- Average rainfall
- Average rainfall days
- Average snowfall
- Average snowfall days
- Average daylight
- Average sunshine
- Average sunshine days
- Average UV index
- Average cloud cover
- Average visibility
The climate of Sapporo
Sapporo, Japan dwells in the Koppen climate classification of Dfb, a category known as humid continental, no dry season, warm summer. Positioned in the northern part of Japan, the city experiences a range of weather events and temperatures throughout the year. Snowfall, a hallmark of this climate type, occurs in abundant amounts, especially during the coldest months of the year.
The variation in monthly temperatures is massive, contributing towards the unique weather character of Sapporo. Low temperatures record averages from -10°C (14°F) during winter months to 16.3°C (61.3°F) in the summer period. On the other hand, high temperatures span from the chilly -3.7°C (25.3°F) in the winter to a rather balmy 24.2°C (75.6°F) during summer. The temperature range itself speaks volumes about Sapporo's weather - expect warm summers and rather cold winters.
Rainfall is another weather element that exhibits variation across the year. The city receives rainfall intensively from 51mm (2.01") to 112mm (4.41") monthly, with the peak volume taking place in August with 112mm (4.41"). A lesser rainfall period between April and May also occurs with an average of 51mm (2.01") to 54mm (2.13"). Snowfall dramatically follows suit, with a significant amount of 430mm (16.93") in January declining to 68mm (2.68") in April. From May onwards, the snow ceases completely as summer begins.
In terms of sunlight, Sapporo is revealed to have longer daylight hours in summer, typically 14.7 to 15.3 hours between May and July and less in winter, between 9.1 to 9.8 hours from December to January. This situation coincides with the trend of sunshine hours output, peaking during summer with 8.7 hours in May and reaching the low point in winter with 2.7 hours in December.
The variation in monthly temperatures is massive, contributing towards the unique weather character of Sapporo. Low temperatures record averages from -10°C (14°F) during winter months to 16.3°C (61.3°F) in the summer period. On the other hand, high temperatures span from the chilly -3.7°C (25.3°F) in the winter to a rather balmy 24.2°C (75.6°F) during summer. The temperature range itself speaks volumes about Sapporo's weather - expect warm summers and rather cold winters.
Rainfall is another weather element that exhibits variation across the year. The city receives rainfall intensively from 51mm (2.01") to 112mm (4.41") monthly, with the peak volume taking place in August with 112mm (4.41"). A lesser rainfall period between April and May also occurs with an average of 51mm (2.01") to 54mm (2.13"). Snowfall dramatically follows suit, with a significant amount of 430mm (16.93") in January declining to 68mm (2.68") in April. From May onwards, the snow ceases completely as summer begins.
In terms of sunlight, Sapporo is revealed to have longer daylight hours in summer, typically 14.7 to 15.3 hours between May and July and less in winter, between 9.1 to 9.8 hours from December to January. This situation coincides with the trend of sunshine hours output, peaking during summer with 8.7 hours in May and reaching the low point in winter with 2.7 hours in December.
The best time to visit Sapporo
Sapporo reaches its tourism peak from late April to July. The attractive mild temperature of 8.3°C (46.9°F) to 24.2°C (75.6°F) and the enhanced daylight hours constitute a lively and delightful environment. The rain is also less during these months, reducing the chances of outdoor plans getting interrupted. Visitors in May benefit from experiencing 8.7 hours of daily sunshine.
The worst time to visit Sapporo
While winter can be appealing to enthusiasts of winter sports, it might offer severe conditions for general visitors. From November to March, the city experiences considerable snowfall, frigid temperatures, and shorter daylight hours. The view becomes foggy due to low visibility in January and December when the average visibility decreases to 6km (3.7mi) to 7km (4.3mi).
Spring weather in Sapporo
The spring months of March through May mark a significant weather transition period for Sapporo. March starts with cold temperatures, but by May, warmth emerges with high temperatures rising to 15.9°C (60.6°F). Rainfall starts to increase from 64mm (2.52") in March to 54mm (2.13") in May, but there is no snowfall from May onwards.
Summer weather in Sapporo
Summers in Sapporo, from June to August, invite warm temperatures ranging between 19.4°C (66.9°F) to 24.2°C (75.6°F). Humidity swells slightly from 77% in May to 86% in July and August. Despite the increased humidity, these months enjoy the longest daylight hours, ranging from 14.7 hours in May to 15.3 hours in June.
Autumn weather in Sapporo
September to November is the autumn season in Sapporo. Temperatures begin to dip, with November witnessing a low average of -0.2°C (31.6°F). The rainfall also peaks in this season with the highest being 112mm (4.41") in August and then tapering off to 66mm (2.6") in November.
Winter weather in Sapporo
Winter in Sapporo comes with a bite, running from December to February. The average high temperature never surpasses 0.8°C (33.4°F) while the lows plunge to -10°C (14°F). Snowfall is most significant in this season, reaching a maximum of 430mm (16.93") in January. These months are quite gloomy, with the least sunshine hours in the year, from 2.2 hours to 4.2 hours. As winter draws to a close in February, the city experiences an increased daylight hour of 10.5 compared to 9.4 in December.
Weather in January
The first month of the year in Sapporo, Japan, brings cold winters. January is host to the Sapporo Snow Festival, celebrating the great amounts of snowfall in this season. The most significant characteristic of the month is the substantial amount of snowfall, registering 430mm (16.93") over 28 days, making it the snowiest month of the year. Weather in January »
Weather in February
As Sapporo transitions from January to February, the cold temperature persists, but the snowfall slightly decreases. Despite this drop, snow-related activities continue to dominate the city's outdoor scene. February stands out as it usually sees the lowest temperature of the year, with mercury levels dipping to -10°C (14°F) at night. Weather in February »
Weather in March
Once March arrives in Sapporo, Japan, an observable change in the weather starts. Winter starts fading away, signified by shorter nights and a substantial decrease in snowfall. The weather is notably milder than February, with temperatures rising to around 0.8°C (33.4°F). Weather in March »
Weather in April
The Spring season fully blooms in April in Sapporo, Japan, with an evident leap in temperatures and longer daylight hours. A significant drop in snow is offset by an increase in rainfall as the city transitions further into the warmer months. Weather in April »
Weather in May
May is a delightful month in Sapporo with characteristic mild weather and nature in full bloom. Compared to April, May sees a significant increase in both daytime high temperatures and sunshine duration. A surge in temperatures up to 15.9°C (60.6°F) makes the ambience comfortable, prompting inhabitants to spend more time outdoors. Weather in May »
Weather in June
Sapporo enters the early summer stage in June, showcased by increasing temperature trends and humidity levels. The city transitions from the relatively dry May to a rainier June, marking the beginning of the monsoon season. June experiences a peak in relative humidity, reaching 83% making it the first among the humid months to follow. Weather in June »
Weather in July
July is defined as a rain-soaked month in Sapporo, which is often known as the heart of the rainy season. The city receives the most substantial amount of rainfall, recording 96mm (3.78") over 19 days. The weather is appropriately warm, enabling residents and tourists to enjoy the ubiquitous matsuri (festivals) in full swing all over the city, which is a Japanese summer tradition. Weather in July »
Weather in August
August in Sapporo, Japan, is similar to July, continuing with the rainy season but represents a transition point in the climate. Rainfall volume is highest and graces the city with an abundance of 112mm (4.41") of rain. As the peak of summer, the month experiences the highest temperatures, with maximum readings touching around 24.2°C (75.6°F). Weather in August »
Weather in September
The arrival of September signals a shift in Sapporo's weather. A decrease in temperatures is noticed as the summer gradually transforms into the cooler autumn. Rainfall begins to diminish, and remarkably, there is no snowfall during this month. Weather in September »
Weather in October
October in Sapporo, Japan, is synonymous with the picturesque views of autumn leaves. Temperatures are noticeably lower than September, indicating the full onset of Autumn. October stands out as having the highest pressure, with barometers registering 1016 mb, resulting in clear skies. Weather in October »
Weather in November
As November commences, the climate in Sapporo starts to bid farewell to autumn and slowly welcomes the advent of winter. It is a transitional period with falling temperatures and the advent of snowfall marking the month's end. Weather in November »
Weather in December
December brings the full swing of winter to Sapporo, Japan, where the city takes on a festive look, beautifully decorated with lights and gleaming with snow. After November, there is a significant increase in snowfall, reaching 427mm (16.81") over the month, creating a frozen landscape. Weather in December »
Updated: Jan 31, 2024
Published by: Weather Atlas | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Published by: Weather Atlas | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Frequently asked questions
What part of the year is the coldest in Sapporo?
Sapporo's January weather reaches an average high of -3.7°C (25.3°F) and an average low of -9.8°C (14.4°F), making it the coldest month.
What is the most humid month in Sapporo?
The most humid month is January, with an average relative humidity of 90%.
How many days does it rain in Sapporo?
In Sapporo, Japan, during the entire year, the rain falls for 167 days and collects up to 843mm (33.19") of precipitation.
When does it snow in Sapporo?
Months with snowfall in Sapporo, Japan, are January through April, October through December.
When does it snow the most in Sapporo?
The month with the most snowfall is January, when snow falls for 28 days and typically aggregates up to 430mm (16.93") of snow.
How many days does it snow in Sapporo?
Throughout the year, in Sapporo, Japan, there are 111.9 snowfall days, and 1723mm (67.83") of snow is accumulated.
What is the month with the least sunshine in Sapporo?
January has the least sunshine of the year, with an average of 2.2h of sunshine.
What is the month with the lowest UV index in Sapporo?
January through March, November and December, with an average maximum UV index of 1, are months with the lowest UV index.
What are the least humid months in Sapporo?
April and May, with an average relative humidity of 77%, are the least humid months in Sapporo.
What is the driest month in Sapporo?
April is the month with the least rainfall in Sapporo. Rain falls for 15.4 days and accumulates 51mm (2.01") of precipitation.
When it does not snow in Sapporo?
May through September are months without snowfall in Sapporo.
When are the longest days in Sapporo?
With an average of 15h and 18min of daylight, June has the longest days of the year in Sapporo.
What are the months with the highest UV index in Sapporo?
The months with the highest UV index are June through August, with an average maximum UV index of 5.
What is the warmest month in Sapporo?
In Sapporo, August is identified by the average highest temperatures, reaching a peak of 24.2°C (75.6°F) and a low of 16.3°C (61.3°F).
What is the wettest month in Sapporo?
August is the month with the most rainfall in Sapporo. Rain falls for 19.5 days and accumulates 112mm (4.41") of precipitation.
What month has the most sunshine in Sapporo?
With an average of 8.8h of sunshine, August has the most sunshine of the year.
What is the month with the shortest days in Sapporo?
With an average of 9h and 6min of daylight, December has the shortest days of the year.
Is there Daylight Saving Time (DST) in Sapporo?
Sapporo, Japan, does not observe Daylight Saving Time (DST). JST timezone is used throughout the entire year.
Average temperature
Sapporo, Japan
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is August (24.2°C).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is January (-3.7°C).
The month with the highest average low temperature is August (16.3°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is February (-10°C).
Average pressure
Sapporo, Japan
- Average pressure in January:
1013.3mbar - Average pressure in February:
1015mbar - Average pressure in March:
1013.4mbar - Average pressure in April:
1012.3mbar - Average pressure in May:
1010.3mbar - Average pressure in June:
1008.8mbar
- Average pressure in July:
1008.6mbar - Average pressure in August:
1009.7mbar - Average pressure in September:
1013.5mbar - Average pressure in October:
1016mbar - Average pressure in November:
1016.2mbar - Average pressure in December:
1013.1mbar
The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is November (1016.2mbar).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is July (1008.6mbar).
Average wind speed
Sapporo, Japan
- Average wind speed in January:
12.2km/h - Average wind speed in February:
12.4km/h - Average wind speed in March:
12.2km/h - Average wind speed in April:
12.8km/h - Average wind speed in May:
11.8km/h - Average wind speed in June:
10.1km/h
- Average wind speed in July:
8.9km/h - Average wind speed in August:
8.8km/h - Average wind speed in September:
9.7km/h - Average wind speed in October:
12.1km/h - Average wind speed in November:
12.1km/h - Average wind speed in December:
12.8km/h
The windiest months (with the highest average wind speed) are April and December (12.8km/h).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is August (8.8km/h).
Average humidity
Sapporo, Japan
The month with the highest relative humidity is January (90%).
The months with the lowest relative humidity are April and May (77%).
Average rainfall
Sapporo, Japan
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is August (112mm).
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is April (51mm).
Average rainfall days
Sapporo, Japan
- Average rainfall days in January:
6.5 days - Average rainfall days in February:
5.3 days - Average rainfall days in March:
11.2 days - Average rainfall days in April:
15.4 days - Average rainfall days in May:
14.6 days - Average rainfall days in June:
16.5 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
19.3 days - Average rainfall days in August:
19.5 days - Average rainfall days in September:
17 days - Average rainfall days in October:
16.9 days - Average rainfall days in November:
14.8 days - Average rainfall days in December:
10 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is August (19.5 days).
The month with the least rainy days is February (5.3 days).
Average snowfall
Sapporo, Japan
The month with the highest snowfall is January (430mm).
The months with the least snowfall are May, June, July, August and September (0mm).
Average snowfall days
Sapporo, Japan
- Average snowfall days in January:
28 days - Average snowfall days in February:
22.6 days - Average snowfall days in March:
19.4 days - Average snowfall days in April:
4.9 days - Average snowfall days in May:
0 days - Average snowfall days in June:
0 days
- Average snowfall days in July:
0 days - Average snowfall days in August:
0 days - Average snowfall days in September:
0 days - Average snowfall days in October:
0.7 days - Average snowfall days in November:
11.5 days - Average snowfall days in December:
24.8 days
The month with the highest number of snowfall days is January (28 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are May, June, July, August and September (0 days).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Sapporo, Japan
- Average daylight in January:
9h and 2min - Average daylight in February:
10h and 3min - Average daylight in March:
11h and 5min - Average daylight in April:
13h and 2min - Average daylight in May:
14h and 4min - Average daylight in June:
15h and 2min
- Average daylight in July:
15h and 0min - Average daylight in August:
13h and 5min - Average daylight in September:
12h and 3min - Average daylight in October:
11h and 1min - Average daylight in November:
9h and 5min - Average daylight in December:
9h and 1min
The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 15h and 18min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 9h and 6min).
- Average sunshine in January:
2h and 1min - Average sunshine in February:
2h and 2min - Average sunshine in March:
4h and 1min - Average sunshine in April:
8h and 1min - Average sunshine in May:
8h and 4min - Average sunshine in June:
8h and 0min
- Average sunshine in July:
7h and 5min - Average sunshine in August:
8h and 5min - Average sunshine in September:
7h and 5min - Average sunshine in October:
6h and 4min - Average sunshine in November:
4h and 0min - Average sunshine in December:
2h and 4min
The month with the most sunshine is August (Average sunshine: 8h and 48min).
The month with the least sunshine is January (Average sunshine: 2h and 12min).
Average sunshine days
Sapporo, Japan
- Average sunshine days in January:
2.8 days - Average sunshine days in February:
4.7 days - Average sunshine days in March:
7.2 days - Average sunshine days in April:
10.8 days - Average sunshine days in May:
13.4 days - Average sunshine days in June:
11.2 days
- Average sunshine days in July:
8.6 days - Average sunshine days in August:
9.3 days - Average sunshine days in September:
9 days - Average sunshine days in October:
10.7 days - Average sunshine days in November:
6.2 days - Average sunshine days in December:
2.7 days
The month with the most sunshine days is May (13.4 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is December (2.7 days).
Average UV index
Sapporo, Japan
The months with the highest UV index are June, July and August (UV index 5).
The months with the lowest UV index are January, February, March, November and December (UV index 1).
Average cloud cover
Sapporo, Japan
The month with the most cloud cover is January (Cloud cover 78).
The month with the least cloud cover is September (Cloud cover 41).
Average visibility
Sapporo, Japan
The months with the highest visibility are April, May and October (9km).
The month with the lowest visibility is January (6km).
Sapporo, Japan
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