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
April begins with the melting of snow, yet the average temperature is around 5°C, making thick coats and scarves still the mainstay of fashion. There are puddles from the melting snow, so waterproof shoes can be useful. Later in the season, temperatures rise sharply, but snow can still fall until late April. Meanwhile, May can see days nearly reaching 20°C, signaling the arrival of spring in Okhotsk with the prime viewing of Shibazakura around mid-month. Even during this period, nights can still drop below 5°C, and as spring progresses, there can be extreme temperature fluctuations, even within a single day. It's a good idea to have an additional layer, such as a hoodie or cardigan, aside from your outerwear.
Useful Items
Jacket / Fleece / Gloves / Knit hat / Hand warmers / Waterproof spray
Summer Clothing
Summer is a busy season with many people heading to the World Heritage site, Shiretoko. By late June, the weather turns to early summer, making long-sleeved shirts comfortable during the day. The highest temperature in July and August is around 25°C, relatively cool, but the Sea of Okhotsk side can experience days exceeding 30°C due to the Foehn phenomenon. However, temperatures drop during the night and on bad weather days, so it's essential to be wary of temperature differences throughout the year. Especially in the Shiretoko Peninsula area, there are days even in August when the maximum temperature is below 20°C. A windbreaker that blocks the wind is recommended when taking a sightseeing boat, and wearing long sleeves and long pants is advisable when heading to mountainous areas to prevent injuries and insect bites.
Useful Items
Hat / Sunglasses / Sunscreen / Insect repellent
Autumn Clothing
September sees the coral grass of Lake Notoro turning fiery red. From mid-month, as the temperature drops, base your outfit on long sleeves and add light sweaters or jackets as needed. September is the wettest month, so don't forget an umbrella. The refreshing autumn weather continues from late September to October, quickly advancing the autumn foliage of the Shiretoko Five Lakes. With the lowest temperatures already falling below 5°C, not only should you keep your upper body warm, but also remember to warm your lower body with thermal inner wear. November sees an average temperature of 3°C, colder than the midwinter of Tokyo, so wear a thick coat or down jacket and bring along items that provide protection against the cold.
Useful Items
Gloves / Knit hat / Scarf / Hand warmers / Waterproof spray / Windbreaker
Winter Clothing
As the onset of winter brings severe coldness, daytime temperatures can drop below freezing, and the lowest temperatures can approach -20°C. Face the cold with maximum precautions such as thick down jackets that cover up to the waist, thermal inner wear, knit hats, and gloves. While the snowfall is not as heavy as in Sapporo, the temperature is about 5°C lower, and it's crucial to wear snow boots with high anti-slip and cold protection properties. From late January, drift ice reaches the coast along the Sea of Okhotsk, turning the sea surface into a white icy plain by February and March, offering unique winter experiences such as icebreaker ships and walking on drift ice. For winter activities, clothes made of synthetic fibers, which are excellent in water absorption and quick drying, is recommended.
