Nagano Weather in December

Season: Winter
In Brief: Cold Weather & Short Daytime Hours

December marks the full onset of winter in Nagano. Low-altitude areas, such as plains and foothills, offer a picturesque view of tree foliage that still retains some color, though the chill is still palpable. As the month progresses, Nagano transforms into a snowy paradise, ideal for winter sports enthusiasts. 

Nagano in December

Temperature

Avg. Temperature Range: -3~4℃/27~39℉

Nagano's December weather is characterized by its cold temperatures, ranging from about 4℃ (39.2℉) to 8℃ (46.4℉) during the day and from -4℃ (24.8℉) to 0℃ (32℉) at night. The cold intensifies particularly during early mornings and nights, as well as in the mountains.

Precipitation

Snowfall: 450mm
Rainfall: 46mm
Avg. Rainy/Snowy Days: 16

December sees abundant precipitation in Nagano, transiting from a mix of rain and snow to predominantly snow as temperatures drop. Expect snowy days for about half the month in downtown areas. For the true essence of winter, head to the mountains, where pristine and long-lasting snow transforms Nagano into a serene snow world. 

Sunrise & Sunset

Sunrise in Nagano during December occurs between 6:40 and 6:59, while sunset falls between 16:31 and 16:41, resulting in daylight hours of limited 10 hours. Early starts are recommended for outdoor activities.

Packing List

Upper Body

Begin with a moisture-wicking base layer like wool undershirts. A mid-layer down vest adds insulation, and a waterproof outer shell like a ski jacket deflects snowstorms common in Nagano’s alpine regions.

Lower Body

Pack thermal leggings and windproof softshell pants over them, ensuring you stay comfortable during outdoor activities.

Footwear

Pack waterproof hiking boots to tackle wet and icy conditions on trails, and versatile sneakers for dry urban streets.

Tip: You can also buy waterproof shoe covers at local stores, or rent high-top snow boots at some attractions.

Accessories

Essential accessories include a windproof scarf to block gusts, ski goggles to prevent snow blindness during activities, and a knitted hat covering ears for warmth.

Tip: A Santa hat will enhance the festive atmosphere of your photos if you arrive around Christmas Day.

Top Things to Do in December in Nagano

Experience Zenkoji Omotesando Light Festival

In winter, the main road Omotesando in Zenkoji Temple comes alive during the Zenkoji Omotesando Light Festival. Here, hundreds of handcrafted washi lanterns, adorned with phoenix and butterfly motifs, cast a mesmerizing amber glow through snowflakes on the ancient 1,000-year-old stone path. If February’s long nights in Nagano bore you, don’t miss the dream-like lanterns here.

In 2025, the festival is expected to span from December to early February.

Zenkoji Temple Omotesandou

Spend New Year’s Eve at Hakuba Goryu Ski Resort

On the night of December 31, Hakuba Goryu Ski Resort welcomes the coming year with various activities, including a taiko drums performance, a New Year’s feast, lotteries, and a midnight fireworks show. In addition, the resort extends the operating time of ski slopes to 23:30, allowing visitors to enjoy the unique delight of night skiing.

Snowy Forests in Hakuba

Onsen Retreat in Shibu/Yudanaka

Nestled close by, Shibu and Yudanaka are two enchanting hot spring towns, each with its own allure. In Shibu Onsen, public baths like Kokuya boast original stonework. Meanwhile, Yudanaka's springs are renowned for their healing properties, with a story of curing the arrow wounds of a samurai (ancient Japanese warrior). 

As December's winter nights descend, the snow-covered streets glow under vintage lampposts, inviting visitors to stroll in geta (Japanese wooden sandals) and immerse themselves in the timeless charm of these towns.

Cozy Japanese Onsen Hotel

Tips

1. In December, the weather in Nagano’s mountains can be unpredictable, with sudden snowstorms possible at any time. These storms can make outdoor activities challenging by adding chilliness and reducing visibility, so it's crucial to be prepared with warm and wind-proof clothing as well as walk cautiously.

2. Be prepared for delays, too: heavy snow often causes shuttle buses to arrive late and drive slowly at attractions like Togakushi Shrine, so expect at least a 30-minute wait in the snow and a longer journey to your destinations.

3. Budget accommodations dating around Christmas and New Year’s Day might be limited in Nagano, so book in advance if you want affordable hotels that time.