As temperatures in Hokkaido vary from region to region, it is important to choose the right clothing for your destination. Here are some recommendations for clothing and useful items for each season, based on the temperature data collected around Hokkaido’s major airports.
※Source: Japan Meteorological Agency (average data covering the period 2013-2022)
What to Wear
Spring Clothing
In April, as temperatures gradually rise and snow begins to melt in Kushiro, the average temperature hovers around 5°C, marking the end of days with temperatures below freezing even during the day. However, spring in Kushiro is still cold, requiring down jackets or thick coats, and snow boots or other waterproof and cold-proof footwear. The average temperature in May is 10°C, about 5°C lower than in Sapporo, and with many windy days, it's advisable to wear outerwear that is as wind-resistant as possible. Having accessories like scarves can also provide reassurance. The true spring arrives in the latter half, making it one of the areas where you can enjoy Japan's latest blooming cherry blossoms, with full bloom typically occurring around late May.
Useful Items
Knit hat / Scarf / Hand warmers / Windbreaker / Umbrella / Waterproof spray
Summer Clothing
Summer in Kushiro comes with sea fog. From June to August, about half of each month is covered in fog, characterizing the summer with a cool climate. If it's sunny, short sleeves are fine during the day from July, but a jacket or hoodie is essential in the cool mornings and evenings. Especially on foggy days, when the temperature can drop suddenly, it's good to add a long-sleeved shirt. While coastal areas like Kushiro and Akkeshi facing the Pacific Ocean have days in August with temperatures below 20°C, inland areas like Shibecha, where the terminal station of the Kushiro Shitsugen Norokko Train is located, can experience hot summer days above 30°C. Be mindful of the significant temperature differences between nearby towns.
Useful Items
Hat / Sunglasses / Sunscreen / Cardigan
Autumn Clothing
While Tokyo still experiences lingering summer heat in September, Kushiro is already in autumn. Base your attire on long sleeves, adjusting with light sweater or jackets as needed. From late September, the temperature drops further, and trees begin to change color early. September also has the most rain of the year, so don't forget an umbrella. From October, sunny days gradually increase, and the shores of Lake Akan reach their peak autumn foliage. The average temperature is 11°C, but it can feel colder due to the sea breeze. By November, the cold intensifies, with an average temperature of 5°C, similar to Tokyo's midwinter. Add thick coats or down jackets, gloves, and scarves to ensure proper cold protection.
Useful Items
Knit hat / Windbreaker / Boots
Winter Clothing
Kushiro is one of the areas in Hokkaido with relatively little snow, receiving about a quarter of Sapporo's annual snowfall. The days are mostly sunny, but the temperature persistently hover below freezing. The air is dry, necessitating thorough cold protection measures. Especially during the severe cold of the mornings and evenings, temperatures can approach -20°C in the coldest month, January. Stay warm with hooded, waist-length, thick down jackets, thermal innerwear, gloves, and earmuffs. Additionally, anti-slip spikes for shoe soles are a must due to icy roads. Despite its frigid climate, winter unveils the enchanting allure of Lake Mashu, where its serene blue surface starkly contrasts against the snow-covered landscape. However, the inland areas are colder and receive more snow, requiring extra caution.
Useful Items
Scarf / Knit hat / Hand warmers / Thick socks / Anti-slip spikes for shoe soles
