Sapporo weather:
Sapporo, located on the northern island of Hokkaido in Japan, is known for its cold winters and mild summers. The city experiences four distinct seasons, each with its own unique weather patterns. The climate in Sapporo is classified as a humid continental climate, with long, cold winters and short, warm summers.
One of the most notable aspects of Sapporo weather is the heavy snowfall that the city receives during the winter months. The city averages around 5 meters (16 feet) of snowfall each winter, making it a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding. The snowfall typically begins in late November and continues through April, with the heaviest snowfall occurring in January and February.
In addition to the heavy snowfall, Sapporo also experiences very low temperatures during the winter. The average low temperature in January, the coldest month of the year, is -8°C (18°F). The average high temperature during this time is around -3°C (27°F). These temperatures, combined with the heavy snowfall, can make for some challenging winter weather conditions.
| Month | Low (°C) | High (°C) | Low (°F) | High (°F) | Rain (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | -8 | -3 | 18 | 27 | 20 |
| February | -7 | -2 | 19 | 28 | 18 |
| March | -4 | 1 | 25 | 34 | 12 |
| April | 1 | 8 | 34 | 46 | 8 |
| May | 7 | 14 | 45 | 57 | 5 |
| June | 11 | 18 | 52 | 64 | 4 |
| July | 15 | 21 | 59 | 70 | 3 |
| August | 15 | 22 | 59 | 72 | 3 |
| September | 11 | 18 | 52 | 64 | 4 |
| October | 7 | 13 | 45 | 55 | 5 |
| November | 2 | 7 | 36 | 45 | 7 |
| December</ | -3 | 1 | 27 | 34 | 10 |
When it comes to deciding the best time to visit Sapporo, it really depends on what you hope to experience during your trip. If you’re looking to enjoy winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding, then the winter months of December through February would be the best time to visit. The heavy snowfall and low temperatures during this time make for ideal conditions for these activities.
On the other hand, if you’re looking to experience the famous Sapporo Snow Festival, which takes place in February, that would also be a great time to visit. The festival features large snow sculptures and ice lanterns, and is a must-see for any winter traveler to Sapporo.
For those looking to experience the milder weather of Sapporo, the summer months of June through August would be the best time to visit. The temperatures during this time are much warmer, with average highs in the low 20s°C (70s°F) and low humidity. This is also a great time to explore the city’s parks and gardens, as many of the flowers and trees will be in full bloom.
Additionally, if you’re looking for a more relaxed and less crowded time to visit Sapporo, the shoulder seasons of April and October would be a good choice. The weather during these months is still quite pleasant, with cool temperatures and low humidity, and the crowds of tourists will be much smaller compared to the peak summer months.
In conclusion, the best time to visit Sapporo depends on your personal preferences and interests. If you’re looking to experience the winter weather and participate in winter sports, the winter months would be best. If you’re looking for a more mild weather and to experience the city’s parks and gardens, the summer months would be ideal. And if you’re looking for a more relaxed and less crowded trip, the shoulder seasons would be a good choice.
