If you’ve ever visited Hokkaido—or even just seen photos of its snow-covered towns—you might be surprised to learn how different its seasons are compared to the rest of Japan. While cherry blossoms bloom in Tokyo in late March, Hokkaido is often still blanketed in snow. And by the time Tokyo is sweating through summer, Hokkaido’s brief summer is already winding down.
So why do spring, summer, and fall seem to come and go in a flash in Hokkaido, while winter stretches on for months? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Hokkaido’s seasonal patterns, what causes them, and how they shape life in this northern region of Japan.
Note: This article uses Sapporo (Hokkaido’s largest city) as the seasonal reference point. Weather and timing may vary across southern, central, eastern, and northern parts of Hokkaido.
A Quick Glimpse at Hokkaido’s Short Warm Seasons
Spring (Late April to May): From Snowmelt to New Leaves
In much of Japan, spring begins in March, with cherry blossoms in full bloom by early April. But in Hokkaido, spring doesn’t truly arrive until late April or even May.
- Cherry blossoms usually bloom between late April and early May.
- Snow can linger on the ground into mid-April, especially in colder years.
- New greenery starts to appear in late May to early June.
In short, “spring” in Hokkaido often lasts only a few weeks, and it feels more like a quick transition from winter to early summer.
Summer (Late June to Mid-August): Cool, Pleasant, and Brief
Hokkaido’s summer is often described as the perfect escape from Japan’s sweltering heat. With low humidity and mild temperatures, it’s an ideal time for travel and outdoor activities.
- Average daytime highs range from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F).
- Humidity is low—many homes in Hokkaido still don’t have air conditioning.
- In recent years, climate change has led to occasional heatwaves over 30°C.
But this pleasant season doesn’t last long. By mid-August, cooler winds start to signal the arrival of fall.
Fall (Late August to Early October): Beautiful, But Fleeting
Fall colors arrive earlier in Hokkaido than anywhere else in Japan. In some mountain areas, you can spot red and gold leaves as early as late August.
- Peak foliage: Mid-September to early October
- First snowfall in Sapporo: Late October to early November
The temperature drops quickly after early October, giving fall in Hokkaido a short and dramatic lifespan. Blink, and you’ll miss it.
So Why Is Winter So Long in Hokkaido?
Winter (Late October to Late March): Long, Harsh, and Defining
Hokkaido’s winter is more than just a season—it’s a way of life.
- First snow: Usually late October to early November
- Snow-covered roads (permanent snow): Late November onward
- Coldest period: January to February, often dipping below –10°C (14°F)
- Snow melt: As late as April in colder regions
In many parts of Hokkaido, winter can last for over six months. Roads, homes, and everyday routines are shaped by snow and cold. But with that comes beauty and activity: skiing, snowboarding, hot springs, and events like the Sapporo Snow Festival make winter both challenging and magical.
Seasonal Overview
| Season | Approximate Timing | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | Late April – Late May | Snowmelt and cherry blossoms arrive all at once |
| Summer | Late June – Mid-August | Comfortable, low-humidity, short-lived |
| Fall | Late August – Early October | Brilliant colors, crisp air, quickly turns to snow |
| Winter | Late October – Late March | Long, cold, snow-covered, but rich in seasonal life |
Note: Southern Hokkaido (e.g., Hakodate) tends to have a slightly milder and more “typical” Japanese four-season cycle.
Why Are the Seasons So Different?
1. Northern Latitude (41° to 45° N)
Hokkaido sits much farther north than Tokyo or Osaka. That means:
- Lower sun angles throughout the year
- Shorter daylight hours in winter
- Slower warming in spring
2. Siberian Weather Systems
In winter, cold air from Siberia travels across the Sea of Japan and blankets Hokkaido in snow. This continental air mass is responsible for:
- Heavy snowfalls
- Persistent low temperatures
- Prolonged winter conditions
3. No Rainy Season = Faster Transitions
Most of Japan experiences a rainy season (tsuyu) in June and July. Hokkaido mostly skips this, which causes the shift between seasons to happen suddenly rather than gradually. One day it feels like spring, the next—it’s summer.
Conclusion: In Hokkaido, Winter Is the Main Event
Hokkaido’s seasons are not balanced like a calendar. Spring, summer, and fall are brief flashes of change, while winter is the main act—long, intense, and unforgettable.
If you’re planning a trip or considering moving to Hokkaido, understanding this rhythm is key.
And once you embrace the winter, you might just find that it brings a beauty and quiet strength all its own.
