Sendai Weather in January

 Season: Winter
 What is the weather like in Sendai in January? 
Sendai weather in January is very cold during the day, and freezing cold during nighttime. Snowfall is likely to occur, covering the city in pure white. Although the snow cover is not very thick and melts away quickly in downtown areas, it’s spectacular in mountainous areas like Miyagi Zao and Akiu.

Snowy Weather in Sendai

Coldest Month in Sendai

Average high temperature: 5 degrees Celsius (41 degrees Fahrenheit)
Average low temperature: -2 degrees Celsius (28 degrees Fahrenheit)

In Sendai, there’s a distinct temperature difference between daytime and nighttime in January. During the day, the temperature generally stays above 0°C (32℉), fluctuating at 2-6°C (36-43℉) most of the time, with occasional highs reaching around 8°C (46℉). At night, the temperature often drops below freezing point, typically hovering between -2°C (℉) and -4°C (25℉), with occasional lows dropping to -6°C (21℉).

Precipitation & Humidity

Frost-covered Trees in Sendai

Sendai is located near the sea, and the ocean provides a lot of water vapor, so it is comfortably humid even in the coldest January, with an average humidity of about 66%.

January is characterized as a month with the lowest precipitation of the year in Sendai, averaging 35mm from 9 wet days. The precipitation is mostly snowfall. According to historical weather data, there is an average of 8 days with snowfall. It’s necessary to point out that the snow-covered landscape in mountainous areas is much more splendid than that of downtown areas where the snow accumulation is thinner and melts quickly.

In spite of the low precipitation, Sendai is comfortably humid by virtue of its location near the sea that provides a lot of water vapor, with an average humidity of about 66% in January.

Daylength & Sunshine Hours

Sunrise time (1st – 31st): 06:54 – 06:44
Sunset time (1st – 31st): 16:27 – 16:58

Sunset is very early throughout January, meaning daylight hours are short, ranging from 9.5 to 10 hours from the beginning to the end of the month. Fortunately, the month enjoys a high probability of sunshine, with approximately 17 clear days and an average of 5 hours of sunshine per day, making it ideal for outdoor sightseeing.

Although UV rays are very weak this month, with an index of only 2, if there are large areas of snow accumulations, it’s best for you to wear sunglasses to prevent glare from the snow reflection.

Local Restaurant in Sendai

Warmth Measures for Sendai Trip in January

 Clothing

To withstand the cold climate of Sendai in January, a must to bring is a down jacket or thick coat with warm linings, preferably a mid-length one for greater warmth. Inner layer can be a sweater, or thermal underwear plus a vest. For the lower body, wearing thick woolen trousers with a pair of thermal pants underneath would be enough. Winter dress can be a stylish option for female tourists, but make sure you wear a pair of comfortable thermal tights.

 Footwear
Sendai in January is likely to be covered in ice and snow, so it is best to wear high-top boots with non-slip and waterproof features to ensure safety when walking around the city. In addition, mid-calf wool socks are advised.

 Other Items
When going out, a woolen hat, scarf, and gloves are essential, especially when sunshine is absent. Also, pack a few warming pads in your carry-on bag and apply them to your back, waist, or soles of your feet for instant warmth.

Travel Recommendations for 2026 Sendai Trip in January

1.    January is a great time to enjoy snowy scenery, especially in the mountainous areas surrounding Sendai, such as the Miyagi Zao region, where spectacular “frost-covered trees” are displayed each winter. Skiers can also enjoy themselves at the large ski resorts there.

2.    In this cold weather, soaking in a warm hot spring is a very enjoyable thing. Akiu Onsen and Sakunami Onsen are both famous hot spring resorts with a long history, only a 30-minute drive from Sendai downtown.

Enjoy Hot Spring of Sendai

Travel Tips

1.    If you want to visit more places within the limited daytime, it’s best to start your day early to avoid missing out some famous attractions, such as Zuihoden, which closes at around 4:30 p.m because of early sunset.

2.    To ensure a smooth viewing experience in the Miyagi Zao region, you’d better check the weather forecast in advance especially if you want to take the cable car, which will be stopped during snowstorms.

Sendai Weather by Month