Wakayama Weather in December

Season: Winter
In short: cold and windy; not much rainfall; see fall leaves in early December; fewer people in other times

Step into Cold Winter

Wakayama in December sees cold weather, with an average temperature of 7-13℃ (45-55℉). In the first half of the month, the daily maximum is around 10-18℃ (50-64℉), and sometimes exceeds 20 degrees Celsius (68 degrees Fahrenheit); later, it drops markedly to 7-13℃ (45-55℉) in the second half of the month. The trend of the daily minimum is quite similar: it ranges from 4-8℃ (39-46℉) at the beginning of December to 0-4℃ (32-39℉) by the end of December. 

Close to the Pacific Ocean, it gets windy in Wakayama - especially in the evening, often resulting in lower apparent temperatures. Particularly if you plan to go to the seaside during your visit in this period of 2025, please take adequate wind-protective measures, since strong sea winds usually cause headaches.

However, the positive aspect is that you still have a chance to appreciate vibrant colored autumn leaves in early December.

Rain a Little

It rains a little during this month, when the rain over 13 days only brings 54 mm (2.1 in) average precipitation. The prefecture sees mostly light showers with occasional moderate rain - its daily rainfall is normally less than 15 mm (0.6 in), and it possibly occurs around late December. In general, rainy conditions don’t disrupt your travel. 

In some colder years, the first snow may be seen in the second half of the month, and it often snows lightly and sparsely. Though mountainous areas are more likely to have snow cover, providing beautiful snowy scenery, it only forms a thin layer.

The monthly humidity is relatively high, at around 66%, but coupled with cold temperatures, you feel neither humid nor dry when sightseeing outdoors.

Daylight Hours & Sunshine Hours

Sunrise Time: 6:46 - 7:04
Sunset Time: 16:50 - 17:01
Average Daylight Hours: around 10 hours per day

December has the shortest daylight hours in a year, leading to a hectic schedule. So, if you plan to visit faraway scenic spots, it’s better to check their opening hours early and arrive as soon as they open.

Owing to the different terrains in the huge prefecture, the sunshine hours of the south, such as Shingu and Kushimoto, tend to be longer than those of the north like Wakayama City: approximately 7.4 hours in the former versus 6.2 hours in the latter.

What to Wear in Wakayama in December

 Upper Body: In December, indoor heating is already on, causing warmer temperatures than outdoors, so onion-layered dressing is essential to navigate these fluctuations. For example, wear a thin sweater, topped with a long down jacket or padded coat. For individuals getting cold easily, add a down vest as a middle layer.

 Lower Body: Fleece jeans or sweatpants are enough to adapt to the cold climate of Wakayama in December. Warm and comfy hiking shoes are highly recommended.

 Accessories: Thick scarves, gloves, beanies and facial masks are must-haves, and raincoats or umbrellas are both okay. Warmer pads can cope with suddenly falling temperatures in rainy days.

Must-do Activity: See Autumn Foliage

In urban areas, the top attractiuons include Momijidani Teien Garden, where you can immerse yourself more easily by strolling through the stone-paved paths; and Kimiidera‌ Temple, offering a fascinating mix of colorful autumn leaves, row upon row of the buildings and distant mountains and the sea. 

In the mountains, besides Mount Koya and Kumano Kodo, Negoro-ji Temple, enjoying old-timey architectures decorated with red, yellow and green leaves, is a nice spot to feel the unique charm of  ancient culture blended with nature.

Bonus Tip: Early morning is a great period for stunning photos under soft sunlight.

Other Recommendations for Wakayama in December

Enjoy hot springs

The direct method to escape the winter chill is soaking in a hot spring. Hailed as one of Japan’s birthplaces of top-tier onsen, Wakayama boasts open-air spas adjacent to the Pacific Ocean, time-honored natural onsens and large hot springs embraced by the nature. Here are two ones worth a try: one is Shirahama Onsen, where the sweeping ocean views around you merge your soul and nature together; the other is Ryujin Onsen, hidden in the deep mountains. Its silky water, rich in sodium bicarbonate, nourishes your skin.

Savor yummy local specialities 

Arida’s mandarin oranges and Kudoyama’s persimmons are both bestsellers at home, and December is your last chance to taste their superb flavor. Besides, tuna and tiger grouper stand out as Wakayama’s most famous seafood, and their fresh, tender texture in winter makes them must-try delicacies. For a local staple worthy of pride, undoubtedly it’s piping-hot Wakayama Ramen, perfect for cold winter. Whether the light soy sauce broth or rich pork bone soy sauce broth is definitely satisfying.

Practical Information for Wakayama Trip in December

1. Outside of autumn foliage season, Wakayama sees fewer tourists, so if you prefer a quieter atmosphere, it’s adsolutely an ideal destination. 
2. Since lots of stores and restaurants may close for New Year holidays at the end of December, remember to check if your intended one opens in advance.
3. For hikers, some parts of Kumano Kodo pilgrimage routes are quite steep and hard to hike, so alpenstocks are very necessary. People with dodgy keens had better prepare knee pads. 

Wakayama Weather by Month