Shizuoka Weather in January

Season: Winter
In short: cold but not severely; huge day-night temperature gap; rain a little; Atami cherry flowers bloom; high visibility to see snowcapped Mount Fuji

Coldest Period in a Year

Average Temperature: 2-12℃ (36-54℉)

Overall, Shizuoka’s weather in January is the coldest throughout the year, but not unbearably. During the daytime, the temperature can easily exceed 10℃ (50℉), even reaching 16℃ (61℉) or more at midday and early afternoon on sunny days. Because of this, Atami Sakura flowers start to bloom in late January. However, there is a large day-night temperature difference, so you often feel much chillier in early mornings and evenings with the lowest temperature staying around 0-5 degrees Celsius (32-41 degrees Fahrenheit).

Also the Driest Month

Monthly Humidity: roughly 60%

On average, January in Shizuoka receives the lowest precipitation of 70 mm (2.8 in) over the year, mainly from 10 rainy days. The rain is often light and lasts very short with the daily rainfall of below 5 mm (0.2 in), so there is no need to worry about it disrupting your journey. Snowfall is very rare: in the past five years, only in 2022 did it snow. However, close to the sea, Shizuoka’s humidity is not very low; instead, it’s at a relatively comfortable level.

Wind

There are often high winds along the coast and in the mountains, making apparent temperature lower, so be sure to wear more. For tourists who plan to visit Mount Omuro during your trip in January of 2026, check early whether its cable car service is suspended, because it may be closed due to strong winds.

Shortest Daylight Hours, Longest Sunshine Hours

Sunrise Time: 06:48 - 06:57
Sunset Time: 16:48 - 17:17
Daylight Hours: 9 hours 51 minutes - 10 hours 29 minutes
Average Sunshine Hours: around 6.6 hours each day

Because of late sunrise and early sunset, daylight hours in this month are the shortest throughout the year, reminding you to start your day early and make good use of time. However, a bright side is that sunny climate dominates January in Shizuoka, leading to the longest sunshine hours in a year. It offers you more opportunities to take stunning pictures of natural and cultural landscapes.

One of the Best Months to See Snowcapped Mount Fuji

Thanks to frequent sunny days, January is one of the periods with the highest visibility throughout the year, making it a great time to capture the snow-covered Mount Fuji. Miho no Matsubara is a popular location for admiration, where Mount Fuji, large expanses of pine trees and the deepening blue sea all unfold before your eyes. The ideal period to come here is early morning, since the summit tends to be covered by clouds in the afternoon.

What to Wear in Shizuoka in January

Layering is a very effective solution to adapt to the weather in January. For instance, a thin sweater or fleece hoodie is suitable as inner clothing, and add a down jacket on top. For the lower body, medium-thickness sweatpants are acceptable for males, while females can wear long dresses paired with warm leggings. A pair of hiking shoes, which do not hurt your feet after walking a lot, is always a great option.

Bring along winter gear such as beanies and scarves, especially when you go for coastal and mountainous areas. Plus, Shizuoka comes into the pollen dispersal period from late January on. For individuals who suffer from hay fever, don’t forget to prepare a facial mask. A light raincoat is also needed in rainy days.

Seasonal Highlights in Shizuoka in January

Beautiful Natural Landscapes including Atami Cherry Flowers

The best time to admire Atami cherry flowers is from late January to early February, when Itokawa Promenade, a riverbank path, is flanked by around 60 pink cherry flower trees. And Atami Cherry Blossom Ito River Festival lasts from mid-January to early February along the promenade. Late December to January is the period when narcissus flowers bloom. Cape Tsumekizaki Natural Park is a nice destination where the whole hillside is blanketed in white blossoms, with the air full of the scent of flowers. With any luck, you have a chance to see taiko drumming.

Hot Spring

There’s nothing cozier than enjoying a hot spring in cold January. Atami boasts rich hot spring resources, and its high-salinity water not only relieves nerve pain but also improves excessive cold intolerance. Ocean-view onsens give you an unforgettable experience that soak in a hot spring while admiring distant seascapes.

Seasonal Delicious Food

January is one of the best times to savor eels with tender texture, because they store large amounts of fat for spawning. Eat a bowl of steaming-hot oden to warm up your body quickly. Shizuoka’s oden is famous for its dark broth made with beef tendon and rich soy sauce. Aoba Oden Street and Aoba Yokocho are recommended by local residents.