Kyoto Prefecture stretches north to south across the Tamba Mountains, creating a clear contrast between its northern and southern climates. Cities in the north such as Fukuchiyama, Maizuru, and Miyazu (home to Amanohashidate) have a Sea of Japan climate with cloudy skies most of the year, short summers, early autumns, and cold winters that often drop below freezing. The Tango Peninsula in particular sees frequent snowfall and high humidity.

In contrast, southern Kyoto, where most sightseeing spots like Kiyomizu-dera and Kinkaku-ji are located, lies in a basin surrounded by mountains. This geography brings hot summers, cold winters, and large temperature differences between day and night. Because the land rises toward the mountains, temperatures vary noticeably even within the city. Locals often note that the top of To-ji Temple’s five-story pagoda (54.8 m) and Kitayama-dori in the north are at similar elevations despite being only 8.5 km apart, resulting in cooler conditions in the north.

Winter in Kyoto can feel much colder than travelers from Southeast Asia might expect. The perceived temperature is often lower than the actual reading, and the dry air makes the chill even more intense. While daytime highs are similar to those in nearby Osaka, Kyoto’s lows are typically about 2°C (3.6°F) lower because of its basin geography. The large gap between day and night temperatures, combined with nighttime radiative cooling, causes the temperature to drop sharply from dusk until early morning.

Since many winter attractions such as evening illuminations and New Year shrine visits take place after dark, visitors should be ready for sudden temperature changes. Carrying essentials like pain relievers, stomach medicine, or cold remedies can help you stay comfortable throughout your trip.

Based on data from southern Kyoto in 2024, the average temperature in December was 7°C (45°F), with average highs around 11.8°C (53°F) and lows near 3.5°C (38°F). Thanks to recent mild winters, the “cold to the bone” feeling is slightly less intense during the day. However, as the year draws to a close, the temperature difference between day and night can exceed 8°C (14°F), so keeping warm should be a top priority when planning your trip. The good news is that December sees very little rain, and clear blue skies are common.

In northern Kyoto near the Sea of Japan, December is often cloudy with strong winds and occasional rain mixed with snow. The perceived temperature tends to feel colder than the actual reading, and even on warmer days, the mercury drops quickly after sunset. Warm clothing is essential to stay comfortable. By late December, the city’s scenery transforms completely, marking the true arrival of winter.

By December, you’ll need a thick wool coat or one with a warm lining. If you’re sensitive to the cold, wear heat-retaining innerwear or use disposable body warmers, and add a scarf or gloves when heading outdoors. For women, wool skirts paired with thick socks and ankle boots are ideal. Since northern Kyoto is colder than the south, it’s best to prepare for true winter conditions early.

From mid-February to late December, the Arashiyama to Kitano-Sagano area is illuminated for the Hanatouro Light Festival. Once the sun sets, the paths glow with dreamy lights, creating a truly magical atmosphere. Start from Hankyu Arashiyama Station and stroll toward Togetsukyo Bridge and Sagano to enjoy this once-a-year spectacle. Nearby temples and shrines also open for special nighttime visits, offering a peaceful glimpse into the quiet beauty of the ancient capital.

As winter arrives, many in Japan think of plum blossoms blooming in the snow. Kyoto’s Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, the deity of learning, begins selling its famous “Daifuku Ume” from December 13. These lucky plums are handpicked, air-dried, and wrapped by shrine maidens, priced at 700 yen per pack. It’s said that drinking tea made with Daifuku Ume on New Year’s Day wards off evil and brings good health for the year ahead: a beloved local tradition for Kyoto residents during the year-end season.

In southern Kyoto, January averages around 6.0°C (43°F), with highs of 10.2°C (50°F) and lows of 2.5°C (36°F). The temperature often feels like it’s on a slippery slope. While rain is rare in the city, sudden weather changes can occur—even on sunny days—sometimes bringing flurries or light snow. When the ancient temples and shrines are covered in white, Kyoto takes on a serene, captivating beauty. However, temperature shifts can cause icy roads, so walk carefully to avoid slipping.

In northern Kyoto, around popular spots such as Amanohashidate, January averages 5.2°C (41°F), with highs of 9.3°C (49°F) and lows of 1.6°C (35°F). Thick winter clothing is essential to stay warm. Wearing a mask can also help protect your face from the biting wind. Although recent mild winters have reduced snowfall, it’s still best to be prepared for snowy conditions.

Cold winds sweep down from the mountains into Kyoto’s southern basin, while chilly gusts from the Sea of Japan hit the north, making it truly winter across the region. Choose clothing that provides solid warmth, such as long-sleeve heat-retaining innerwear layered with shirts, turtlenecks, and a thick coat or down jacket. For women, pairing skirts with thick tights and boots is common. Scarves, gloves, masks, and earmuffs help protect against the biting wind, and although rain is rare, carrying a folding umbrella is handy in case of light snow.

During the New Year season, Kyoto’s shrines are filled with visitors making their first prayers of the year. One highlight is the grand festival held from January 8 to 12 at Kyoto Ebisu Shrine in Gion, one of Japan’s three major Ebisu shrines. On January 9, a lively parade called the Hoe Kago Procession travels from Uzumasa to the shrine. On January 10, film actresses present lucky bamboo branches, followed by maiko offering “fukuzasa” branches or “fuku mochi” rice cakes on January 11, bringing festive energy to the winter streets.

On January 15, Kyoto locals celebrate “Koshogatsu,” the Little New Year, by eating red bean porridge to ward off misfortune and pray for a peaceful year ahead. At the UNESCO World Heritage site, Shimogamo Shrine, red bean porridge is also offered to the deities on this day. After the ceremony, visitors can purchase a bowl blessed by the gods for 300 yen each. Quantities are limited, so those wishing to start the year with divine good fortune should arrive early.

In southern Kyoto, February averages 7.6°C (46°F), with highs of 11.8°C (53°F) and lows of 4.3°C (40°F), not much different from January. However, due to Kyoto’s geography, conditions can vary greatly across the region. While the southern areas around Kyoto Station or To-ji Temple may enjoy sunshine, the northern districts such as Ohara and Kurama can still be blanketed in snow. Travelers moving between the north and south should be mindful of changing weather conditions.

In northern Kyoto, February temperatures are similar to January and remain very cold. However, rainfall more than doubles, greatly increasing the chance of snowfall and possible snow accumulation. If you plan to drive in northern Kyoto during this season, be sure to equip your car with winter tires, keep a safe distance from other vehicles, and avoid sudden acceleration or braking to prevent skidding.

Although spring is just around the corner, February in Kyoto still calls for full winter clothing. Most people layer heat-retaining innerwear, shirts, and sweaters, topped with a long coat or down jacket. For women, long pants are recommended, and those sensitive to the cold can wear wool tights underneath for extra warmth.

Kyoto’s chill often seeps up from the ground, so wear thick socks or fur-lined boots, and consider ankle warmers. Scarves, gloves, body warmers, and earmuffs are must-haves. Gloves that cover the wrists are especially useful, and it’s a good idea to keep a folding umbrella handy in case of light snow.

From early February, plum blossoms begin to bloom across Kyoto, with the most famous viewing spot being Kitano Tenmangu Shrine. Around 1,500 plum trees—white, red, single, and double-petaled—decorate the grounds in full splendor. On February 25, the shrine hosts the Plum Blossom Festival to honor Sugawara no Michizane, the deity of learning. Visitors can also experience tea service by geiko from nearby Kamishichiken. The crisp winter air adds a sense of solemn beauty to the visit.

February is also the time for Japan’s Setsubun Festivals, held at famous Kyoto shrines such as Yasaka Shrine and Heian Jingu Shrine. The largest celebration takes place at Yoshida Shrine, drawing over 500,000 visitors each year. Highlights include the ancient “Tsuinashiki” demon-expelling ritual, which dates back to the Heian period, and the “Hirosai” ceremony, where old charms are burned in a grand bonfire. More than 800 food stalls line the shrine grounds, creating a lively and festive atmosphere filled with food, laughter, and excitement.

Even though recent years have brought milder winters, Kyoto’s cold should not be underestimated. While shopping areas, public transport, and commercial facilities are well-heated, most shrines and temples are outdoors, so proper winter wear is essential. You can easily find hot drinks in vending machines along the streets—there’s nothing better than holding a warm drink in your hands while feeling the crisp winter air.

(Data reference: Japan Meteorological Agency / Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism)