What to pack for Kyoto in January
- a warm coat, hat and gloves
- a packable rain layer
Humidity averages 76%; max daily wind around 16 km/h.
How January compares
Best months in Kyoto: April–June & October–November. See the full best time to visit Kyoto guide.
Kyoto in January: the details
In January, Kyoto sees average daytime highs of 8°C (47°F) and overnight lows of -1°C (31°F). Rainfall totals roughly 53 mm across 7.8 rainy days, and the sun shines about 6.9 hours per day with 9.9 hours of daylight mid-month. Relative humidity averages 76%.
In context: January is the coldest month of the year and the 11th-wettest in Kyoto. The sunniest month is August (10.1 h/day).
| Metric | January average |
|---|---|
| Daytime high | 8°C / 47°F |
| Overnight low | -1°C / 31°F |
| Rainfall | 53 mm over 7.8 rainy days |
| Sunshine | 6.9 h/day (9.9 h daylight) |
| Humidity | 76% |
| Travel score | 4.0 / 10 |
These figures are climate normals computed from the ERA5 weather reanalysis (2019–2024) for Kyoto, Japan (35.02, 135.75) — see our methodology. Actual conditions vary year to year.
Not set on Kyoto? Browse the best places to visit in January ranked by travel score.
Frequently asked questions
How hot is Kyoto in January?
Daytime highs in Kyoto in January average 8°C (47°F); nights drop to about -1°C.
Does it rain in Kyoto in January?
Expect around 7.8 rainy days and 53 mm of rainfall in January.
Is January a good time to visit Kyoto?
January is a challenging month to visit Kyoto — consider April–June & October–November instead. Overall travel score: 4.0/10. The best months are April–June & October–November.
Where should you go next month?
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