Weather in Asahikawa

Going for a walk or planning your day in Asahikawa? Here you will find the most up-to-date information on weather conditions, as well as detailed forecasts and useful charts.

The climate in Asahikawa, located in Japan, is characterised as continental with four distinct seasons. The city is known for significant temperature fluctuations throughout the year. Winters here are cold and snowy, while summers are warm and relatively humid. Spring and autumn serve as transitional seasons with more moderate temperatures.

The winter months, from December to March, bring sub-zero temperatures, often dropping significantly below freezing, especially in January (average temperature -8.5°C). This period sees heavy snowfall, as evidenced by the high number of days with precipitation. Summer, particularly July and August, offers warm weather with average temperatures around 20.5°C - 20.6°C, making this a comfortable time for outdoor activities. August stands out as the wettest month in terms of precipitation volume.

Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) in Asahikawa are pleasant periods with gradual temperature changes. In spring, nature awakens, while autumn paints the landscape in vibrant colours. Precipitation during these seasons is moderate. Overall, the weather in Asahikawa offers diverse conditions, and choosing the best time to visit will depend on your preferences: whether you love snowy landscapes or warm summers.

The climate in Asahikawa is characterised by distinct seasonal temperature variations, ranging from severe winter frosts to comfortably warm summers. The coldest month is traditionally January, when the average temperature hovers around -8.5°C, and nightly lows can drop to -12.1°C. It is followed by February with an average temperature of -7.3°C. The warmest months are considered to be July and August: the average temperature in July is 20.6°C (with highs up to 24.2°C), and in August it is 20.5°C (with highs up to 23.9°C).

Winter in Asahikawa is frosty and long, with sustained sub-zero temperatures from December to March. Daily highs in the height of winter (January-February) rarely rise above -3°C, and nights are very cold, with temperatures regularly dropping below -10°C. Summer, conversely, brings pleasant warmth, and at times hot weather, especially in July and August, when daytime temperatures often exceed 20°C, reaching an average of 24°C. Nights during the summer period remain relatively warm, around 17°C. Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) are transitional periods with gradual changes in temperature regimes. Diurnal temperature variations throughout the year are moderate, usually amounting to 7-9°C between day and night readings, which ensures a certain freshness in the evenings even during the warm months.

In Asahikawa, precipitation is observed throughout the year, but its intensity and character vary noticeably depending on the season. The winter months, roughly from November to March, are characterised by frequent snowfall. Summer months, on the other hand, bring rain, although a distinct rainy season with torrential downpours is generally not observed; rather, these are periods with moderate amounts of precipitation.

Regarding the amount of precipitation, the wettest month by volume is August, with an average of 7 mm falling. However, in terms of the number of days with precipitation, December leads the way – snow falls for approximately 28 days during this month. The lowest amount of precipitation by volume is recorded from January to April (3 mm monthly). The "driest" month in terms of the number of days with precipitation is September, with about 13 days recorded.

In winter, from December to February, snowfall predominates in Asahikawa. For instance, in January, it snows on average for 22 days, and in December almost daily, although the monthly volume of precipitation remains small. In spring, during April and May, the number of days with precipitation decreases (14-15 days), and snow gradually gives way to rain. In summer, from June to August, rains occur with moderate frequency; July and August see between 15 and 18 rainy days. In autumn, the number of days with precipitation begins to rise again, especially in October (17 days) and November (22 days), when the first snowfalls begin, heralding the arrival of winter.

When planning a trip to Asahikawa, it is important to consider the significant seasonal weather fluctuations. Winters here (from December to March) are very cold, with average temperatures significantly below freezing (January -8.5°C, February -7.3°C) and a high number of snowy days. Therefore, at this time of year, you will need very warm clothing: an insulated waterproof jacket, thermal underwear, fleece or wool sweaters, a hat, gloves, a scarf, and waterproof winter boots. Do not forget wind protection, as the wind can intensify the feeling of cold.

Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-November) are transitional seasons. In April and May, the temperature gradually rises (from 5.2°C to 11.6°C), while in autumn, conversely, it drops (from 16.2°C in September to 2.0°C in November). For these periods, the layering principle is ideal: a light jacket that can be supplemented with a sweater or fleece top, t-shirts, jeans, or thick trousers. Be sure to take a waterproof jacket or umbrella, as the number of days with precipitation remains significant (13-22 days). Comfortable walking shoes will be your best companion.

Summer in Asahikawa (June-August) is warm, with average temperatures around 15.7°C - 20.6°C. At this time, light clothing will come in handy: t-shirts, shorts, light trousers, or dresses. Despite the warmth, evenings can be cool, so a light jumper or cardigan would not go amiss. July and August are the warmest months, but also those with the highest amount of precipitation (especially August – 7 mm and 18 rainy days), so a light raincoat or umbrella is still relevant. Do not forget sunscreen and a hat for sun protection on clear days.