What January feels like in Tokyo
January is the coldest stretch of winter in Tokyo. Days are chilly rather than freezing, and walking is comfortable with a proper jacket. Evenings bring a clear drop in temperature, and nights hover around freezing, so frost is common. The air is damp, which makes cool temperatures feel colder, particularly in wind.
Rain in Tokyo in January
Rain turns up now and then — about one day in 5. Each rainy day adds about 8.8 mm (0.3 in), a proper wetting rather than a sprinkle. That is lighter than the city's yearly norm of about 11.4 mm per rainy day. January is Tokyo's driest month of the year.
Daylight and sunshine in January
Mid-month, Tokyo gets 9 h 59 min of daylight, from sunrise near 6:50 am to sunset near 4:50 pm. The days are stretching out — 13 min more daylight than mid-December. About 81% of daylight hours are sunny; in short, skies are mostly clear.
How January compares to the rest of the year
January is the coolest month of the year in Tokyo. Afternoons run 2.4°C (4.3°F) cooler than in December, with 17 mm less rain. This is the low point, and February starts to warm up. The next month's average high: 9.7°C (49.5°F).
Who January suits
- Sightseeing: less ideal — it is cold for long walks.
- Parks & outdoor: less ideal — too cool to sit outside for long.
- Beach: less ideal — the sea air is too cool.
Tips for visiting Tokyo in January
Versatile Layers
Mornings and evenings are cooler than midday, so dress in layers.
Warm Layers
A proper winter coat, with gloves and a hat for early starts.
Sunglasses
Frequent sunshine — sunglasses and a light hat.
Quick questions
How warm is Tokyo in January?
Afternoons average 8.6°C (47.5°F) and nights about -0.3°C (31.5°F) — chilly by most people's standards. It is the coolest month of the year.
Does it rain a lot in Tokyo in January?
Not especially. There are about 6 rainy days (53 mm), mostly moderate rain.
What should I wear in Tokyo in January?
Pack versatile layers, warm layers and sunglasses. Add a layer for after dark.
Is January or February better for visiting Tokyo?
February scores better on our climate ranking (#11 of 12 vs #12), rated Fair against Fair. February is warmer and has more rainy days.