What the weather is like in December
December cools fast — daytime 12°C, overnight 4°C. Rainfall returns to dry-season norms (58mm). Christmas illuminations citywide (Roppongi Hills, Tokyo Midtown, Marunouchi, Caretta Shiodome) are major draws. Crowd patterns: heavy through Dec 23, then sharp drop until New Year shutdown (Dec 29 - Jan 3) when most of Tokyo closes.
Against November, December runs 5°C cooler with 38mm less rain and 0.6 hours more sun a day.
These December averages are station normals for Tokyo (Kitanomaru Park) (Japan Meteorological Agency, via Wikipedia, 1991-2020); other parts of Tokyo vary. Full sources below.
Tokyo in December, on the ground
December in Tokyo is cold, dry and very often sunny, with clear views of Mount Fuji on many mornings. The city is lit up with winter illuminations, and late-autumn colour can linger in the gardens into the first week.
Crowds and prices in December
Most of December is relaxed and reasonably priced, but the last days of the year are busy as Tokyo prepares for New Year, and some prices rise for the holiday.
What to do in December
- Shop the Setagaya Boro-ichi, a flea market held on 15–16 December for over 400 years.
- Catch the last of the autumn ginkgo yellows along Icho Namiki in Jingu Gaien in early December.
- Climb a tower or high observation deck on a clear morning for a view of Mount Fuji.
Before you book: From about 29 December to 3 January, many restaurants and small businesses close for the holiday.
What to pack for Tokyo in December
- Warm layers and a proper coat
- A scarf for chilly mornings
What's on in December
- Autumn Leaves (Koyo) (Rikugien · Mt. Takao · Shinjuku Gyoen · Meiji Jingu Gaien) — Tokyo's koyo peaks around November 20-30. Rikugien Garden (designated Special Place of Scenic Beauty) does evening illuminations. Mt. Takao day trip from Shinjuku is the most popular leaf hike.
- Winter Illuminations (Roppongi Hills · Tokyo Midtown · Marunouchi · Caretta Shiodome) — Tokyo runs the world's largest seasonal-illumination program — major districts each install multi-million-light displays from early November through mid-January.
Is December the right month?
Tokyo's best month, April, is four months after December; the toughest, August, is four months before. If your dates can move, November is the nearest best-season month. For the best balance of good conditions and smaller crowds, aim for June. See the full month-by-month breakdown for Tokyo, or where else to go in December.
Where to stay in December
December is shoulder season in Tokyo: good conditions, at lower prices than the peak. Every area is compared on airport access and price in our guide, best area to stay in Tokyo.
- Shinjuku$$First-time visitors, transport accessTokyo's main rail hub — JR Yamanote, multiple subway lines, direct trains to Narita and Haneda. Walking distance to Shinjuku Gyoen (cherry blossoms) and Omoide Yokocho (yakitori alleys). Hotel density highest in the city.See hotels in Tokyo for 12–18 Dec 2026
- Shibuya$$Younger travelers, retail, foodEnergy + retail center for under-35s. Shibuya Crossing, depachika food halls at Hikarie + Scramble Square, dense restaurant + bar scene. Slightly less subway connectivity than Shinjuku but still excellent.See hotels in Tokyo for 12–18 Dec 2026
- Ginza$$$Luxury travelers, central access, refined diningTokyo's flagship luxury district — flagship department stores (Mitsukoshi, Wako), Michelin restaurants, art galleries. Walking distance to Tsukiji outer market, the Imperial Palace, and Tokyo Station. Quieter at night, refined feel.See hotels in Tokyo for 12–18 Dec 2026
- Asakusa$Traditional atmosphere, budget hotels, day-trippersOld-Tokyo (shitamachi) feel. Senso-ji temple, Nakamise shopping street, traditional ryokan. Noticeably cheaper than central Tokyo. Direct train to Narita Airport in 60 minutes. Best for budget-conscious first-timers prioritising atmosphere.See hotels in Tokyo for 12–18 Dec 2026
- Tokyo Bay (Odaiba / Toyosu)$$Families, views, modern resort feelReclaimed-island districts on Tokyo Bay. Toyosu fish market (replacement for Tsukiji), TeamLab Planets, Odaiba beach. Less central but quieter, more family-friendly, with bay views from many hotels.See hotels in Tokyo for 12–18 Dec 2026
Links open a hotel search for 12–18 Dec 2026; you can change the dates there. We may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you.
Before you go
Book the rest of your December trip
Tours and tickets
Day trips, attraction tickets and guided tours in Tokyo.
Browse Tokyo on KlookAirport transfer
A fixed-price car from Tokyo Haneda Airport (HND) to your hotel, booked before you land.
Book a transfer on KiwitaxiMobile data
An eSIM for Japan installs before you fly, so you have data when you land. Check your phone supports eSIM first.
See Japan plans on Airalo
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Frequently asked questions
Is December a good time to visit Tokyo?
How warm is Tokyo in December?
Does it rain in Tokyo in December?
What should I pack for Tokyo in December?
How does December compare with November in Tokyo?
Sources: Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) — Tokyo · Japan Meteorological Agency: Tokyo (Kitanomaru Park), 1991-2020 · U.S. State Department Japan Travel Advisory · Tokyo Convention & Visitors Bureau. Full provenance on the Tokyo guide.
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