Sendai Weather in December

 Season: Winter
 What is the weather like in Sendai in December 2026? 

Sendai has a cold climate in December, with temperatures dropping to under freezing point sometimes. Precipitation is mainly reflected on several mild rainfalls and occasional snowfalls. Although the daylength is very short, you can enjoy your trip in fine sunny weather mostly.

Travelers in Early December

Cold Temperature

Coldness runs through December of Sendai mostly, with the maximum temperatures fluctuating at 5-10 degrees Celsius (41-50 degrees Fahrenheit), and minimum temperatures at 0-6℃ (32-43℉). Therefore, you will feel much colder in the early morning and at night, which requires you to add a thicker overcoat when you hang out. 

However, at the beginning or middle of the month, there may be a few days with daytime temperatures exceeding 12°C (54°F), when you won’t feel particularly cold. For example, the highest temperature in December 2023 reached 16°C (61°F). But by the end of the month, the situation is very different, as even daytime temperatures can plummet below freezing, not to mention nighttime ones. So, to make sure that you pack proper clothes, you’d better check the Sendai weather forecast before departure.

Precipitation & Humidity

The average precipitation in December is 71mm, a low level of the year in Sendai. The average monthly humidity is about 66%, so you won’t feel too dry, and basic skin moisturizing measures will be sufficient. Over the month with an average of 10 wet days, you will hardly meet intense rainfall. Nevertheless, what you should pay attention to is that roads may be frosted during late hours after the rain, which happens more commonly in late December.

Does Sendai Snow in December? 

Yes. Historical records suggest there are 4 snowy days on average. However, the snowfall in Sendai city center is much less than in the suburbs like the Akiu and the Miyagi Zao region. At the beginning of the month, the city center only receives light snow.

Light Snowfall in December

Short Daylength, Abundant Sunny Days

Sunrise time (1st – 31st): 06:35 – 06:54
Sunset time (1st – 31st): 16:18 – 16:26

You will have a tight trip schedule given that there are only about 9.6 hours of daylight. Despite that, you’ll most likely have a smooth trip every day thanks to the abundant sunny days, which occurs for averagely 17 days throughout the month!

Sunset View from Sendai Train Station

Dressing Guide for Keeping Warm

 Clothing
Upper body: For inner layers, you can wear a close-fitting underwear plus a wool sweater or a fleece-lined hoodie. For the outer wear, choose a jack with thick linings or a down coat.

Lower body: It’s best to add a pair of thermal underpants beneath your thick sweatpants.

 Footwear

You need to pack a few pairs of winter cotton socks so that your feet will feel more comfortable when wearing winter shoes such as snow boots or hiking boots with fur linings. At the same time, it’s best to ensure that your shoes are non-slip to prevent falling down on icy roads.

 Additional Items for Warmth 

Winter accessories, such as earmuffs, scarves, hats, and gloves, are especially needed when the sun is dim and the wind is biting.

Can I Still See Autumn Foliage in Sendai in December?

Generally, there’s still a chance to see some autumn leaves that haven’t completely fallen in the first few days of December. If the autumn foliage season is delayed that year, you might even see them as late as mid-December, when places like Zuihoden still have many maple trees that in completely red, while Nishi Park offers a beautiful blend of fiery red maple leaves and golden ginkgo leaves. Rinnoji Temple might also have a few maple leaves remaining. However, if there is a rainfall, coupled with cold winds, the autumn leaves will quickly fall and disappear. Therefore, it’s recommended to check the real-time situation of the autumn leaves before going.

Autumn Colors in Early December

Travel Recommendations and Advice

1.    Every year from early to late December, Sendai hosts the “Sendai Pageant of Starlight” event on Jozenji Avenue, between Nishi Park and Sendai Kotodai Park. During the event, hundreds of beech trees along the street are adorned with warm-colored glowing lights, transforming the area into a dreamlike world of light. In addition, there will be a Christmas market, street performances, and other lively activities nearby in the Nishikicho Park. If you plan to join and have fun, be sure to dress warmly as the temperature can get quite low at night; it’s also a good idea to bring some heating pads just in case you need.

2.    If you’d like to enjoy spectacular snow scenery, consider visiting the Miyagi Zao region on the outskirts of the city. It boasts stunning ice trees and spacious ski slopes, making it a paradise for winter sports enthusiasts. However, the wind is strong and the temperature is much lower than in the city center, so be sure to dress warmly. After enjoying the scenery or other activities, you can relax in a hot spring to warm up, followed by a delicious hot meal at a restaurant – a truly worthwhile experience!

Snowy Suburb of Sendai

Sendai Weather by Month