A Guide to Hokkaido's Weather and What to Wear from October to December

Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost island, is a land of breathtaking natural beauty. From the vibrant autumn foliage to the pristine white snowscapes of winter, Hokkaido offers a unique and unforgettable experience for every traveler. However, the weather during the transitional months of October, November, and December can be quite varied and requires careful planning, especially when it comes to packing your suitcase. This guide will provide you with an overview of the temperatures you can expect and what to wear to stay comfortable during your autumn and early winter adventure in Hokkaido.

October: The Heart of Autumn

October is a magical time to visit Hokkaido, as the island is ablaze with the fiery colors of autumn. The weather is generally crisp and cool, making it perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and sightseeing.

In Sapporo, the average high temperatures in October range from the low 60s Fahrenheit (around 16°C) at the beginning of the month to the mid-50s (around 13°C) by the end. Nighttime lows can dip into the 40s (4-9°C), so it's important to be prepared for chilly evenings.

Month	Average High	Average Low
October	55°F / 13°C	43°F / 6°C

What to Wear in October:

Layering is your best friend in October. A typical outfit might include:

•A base layer of a long-sleeved t-shirt or thermal top.

•A mid-layer of a sweater, fleece, or light down jacket.

•An outer layer of a windproof and waterproof jacket.

•Comfortable pants or jeans.

•Waterproof shoes or boots are highly recommended, as you may encounter some rain.

November: The Transition to Winter

November in Hokkaido marks a noticeable shift from autumn to winter. The vibrant fall colors begin to fade, and the first snowfall often dusts the landscape, creating a picturesque scene. Temperatures drop significantly throughout the month.

Early November in Sapporo sees average highs in the low 50s (around 10°C), but by the end of the month, they can plummet to the high 30s (around 3°C). Nighttime temperatures will regularly drop below freezing, especially in the latter half of the month.

Month	Average High	Average Low
November	45°F / 7°C	32°F / 0°C

What to Wear in November:

As winter approaches, you'll need to start bundling up. Your packing list for November should include:

•Thermal underwear as a base layer.

•Warm sweaters or fleece jackets.

•A well-insulated, waterproof, and windproof winter coat.

•Warm pants, possibly with a thermal layer underneath.

•A hat, gloves, and a scarf are essential for staying warm.

•Waterproof and insulated boots are a must, as you're likely to encounter snow and ice.

December: The Arrival of Winter

December in Hokkaido is a winter wonderland. The island is blanketed in snow, and the landscape is transformed into a magical, white paradise. This is the perfect time for winter sports enthusiasts to hit the slopes, but it also means you need to be prepared for cold, snowy conditions.

In December, average high temperatures in Sapporo hover around the freezing mark, in the low 30s (around 0°C). Nighttime lows can be frigid, dropping into the teens and even single digits (-5 to -10°C).

Month	Average High	Average Low
December	34°F / 1°C	21°F / -6°C

What to Wear in December:

To enjoy Hokkaido's winter beauty in comfort, you'll need to dress in full winter gear:

•Multiple thermal layers.

•Fleece or wool sweaters.

•A heavy-duty, waterproof, and windproof winter coat or ski jacket.

•Insulated and waterproof snow pants.

•A warm hat that covers your ears, a thick scarf, and waterproof gloves or mittens.

•Insulated, waterproof snow boots with good traction are crucial for navigating snowy and icy streets.

By packing appropriately for the changing seasons, you can fully embrace the stunning landscapes and unique experiences that Hokkaido has to offer from October to December. Whether you're chasing the last of the autumn leaves or building a snowman in a winter wonderland, a little preparation will ensure a comfortable and memorable trip.