Hirosaki Weather in December

 Season: Winter
 Key points:
1.    Hirosaki is very cold in December, with temperatures often dropping to below freezing point.
2.    It snows heavily and frequently over the month, contributing to large areas of snow accumulations.
3.    Winter Sakura Illumination begins from early December.

Very Cold Temperatures

The cold weather persists throughout December in Hirosaki. Even on a cloudy day or during sunshine hours, the high temperature rarely exceeds 6 degrees Celsius (43 degrees Fahrenheit). For most of the daytime, the sky is overcast, and the temperature hovers between -4 and 4℃ (25-39℉), making you feel very cold. Therefore, if you plan to explore outdoor attractions, be sure to dress warmly. 

The temperature is even more biting in the mornings and evenings, generally below freezing, occasionally dropping to as low as -8℃ or -10℃ (18℉ or 14℉). Thus, if you’re going out early or returning late, the three essential winter items, namely, hat, scarf, and gloves, are indispensable.

Mainly Heavy Snowfall

This month sees a large quantity of precipitation, with an average monthly precipitation of 486 mm, distributed over 20 days. In early December, short period of light rainfall probably would occur for a few times. Yet, most of the month features snowy weather, and it usually snows heavily and intermittently throughout the day. As a result, you can see large areas of snow covers in Hirosaki. In the early morning when the visibility is higher, you can even see the splendid snow-capped Mount Iwaki in distance from Hirosaki Park.

High Humidity & Strong Wind

Hirosaki’s climate in December is never dry because of frequent, heavy snowfalls, and the humidity maintains at a high level of around 85%. Furthermore, the winds should not be underestimated: strong winds are common throughout the month, and combined with the high humidity, your body, especially exposed areas like your face, will feel intensely cold. In case you encounter strong winds when you are outside, you’d better bring a mask and an earmuff to prevent frostbite.

Daylight Duration & Sunshine Hours: Both Very Short

Sunrise: at around 06:55
Sunset: at around 16:13
Average daylight duration: about 9.3 hours
Average sunshine hours: about 2 hours

As you can see that the daylength is really limited, leading to a quite tight schedule for you daily itinerary. If your stay is short, then you’re recommended to prioritize visiting top attractions such as the Hirosaki Castle, Hirosaki City Museum, Aomori Bank Museum, Tsugaru-han Neputa-mura Village, and Fujita Memorial Garden. These spots are very close to each other, so you won’t need to worry about spending too much time on the way.

If your stay is longer and you want to explore additional attractions, consider the Hirosaki Museum of Contemporary Art, Saishoin Temple Five-Story Pagoda, and Zenringai. To ensure a smooth trip, we suggest that you set off early so that you can catch the late-hour bus and return before it gets too late.

How to Keep Warm for Hirosaki Trip in December 2025?

 Upper
A close-fitting thermal underwear plus a wool sweater or fleece-lined hoodie as the middle layer are suitable when you stay indoors because most indoor places are equipped with heating system. For outdoor sightseeing and visits, you’re recommended to add a warm, windproof outer wear like a long down garment enough to cover your thighs or even your knees.

 Bottom
Keeping your legs warm is also very important, since the air near the ground is much colder. Consider wearing thermal underwear inside your thick fleece pants. 

 Footwear
You need to wear thick shoes to insulate against the cold air. More importantly, you must ensure that your shoes are waterproof and slip-resistant because the snow on the road is quite deep. Besides, it’s better to wear a pair of wool stockings for extra warmth. 

 Accessories 
1. Rain gear is crucial because heavy snow can make your clothes wet. Considering that it’s not convenient to hold an umbrella in cold, snowy weather, rain coat is much better.
2. Winter accessories like knitted hat and scarf can keep your top warm. What’s more, you’d better bring gloves so that you can put them on to prevent your hands from getting cold if you use the umbrella to shield the heavy snow.

Travel Delights in Hirosaki in December: Winter Sakura Illumination

While the daytime hours are relatively short, Hirosaki Park offers an extra surprise at night. From December 1, 2025 to February 28, 2026, the Winter Sakura Illumination event will be held in the park. The Hirosaki Castle Outer Moat is particularly beautiful, as pink lights illuminate here as night falls, making the bare cherry trees covered in thick snow and ice glow like cherry blossoms; when snow falls, it’s as if cherry blossom petals are dancing in the air, creating a truly romantic scene.

Tip: The illumination event generally takes place from sunset to 21:30 each night, but the schedule may be subject to change on some days. Please check official announcements for updates.

Travel Advice

1.    While the scenery is exceptionally beautiful when it snows heavily, you need to be aware that it can also cause traffic disruptions, such as the suspension of Shinkansen trains or delays in buses. Therefore, it is best to check the weather forecast before you set off.

2.    Your phone may drain faster or shut down due to consistently low temperatures. We recommend that you bring some warm pads, which may come in handy in a pinch.

Hirosaki Weather by Month