Weather in Asahikawa, Hokkaido

When it comes to a trip to Hokkaido, Sapporo or Hakodate may be the top choice for most people.
However, did you know you could actually set Asahikawa as a base and visit Furano and Biei?

There is also the Asahiyama Zoo in Asahikawa, making it an ideal place to visit after enjoying the lavender festival in Furano.
Needless to say, there are other great places to enjoy such as many flavorful ramen spots.
Asahikawa makes it an ideal destination to visit not only from the tourism point of view but also a city full of gourmet restaurants.

Have you started to think about planning a trip to Asahikawa?
The first thing that you may wonder is the weather. Should you wear a long sleeve? How could you prepare for the cold in winter?
This article will go over all the weather tips and suggest tour recommendations!

Asahikawa Coldest Weather in Japan?!

Asahikawa is located in central Hokkaido and has a typical inland climate of 25°C (77°F) in summer and -10°C (14°F) in winter.
It has once recorded -41°C (41.8°F) which is the coldest temperature ever recorded in Japan.

Additionally, the highest temperature in Asahikawa records at 36°C (96.8°F) which makes it a whopping 77°C difference when compared to the coldest record.
This difference in temperature is also a national record.
Let’s dig a little deeper into the weather and climate characteristics in Asahikawa. 

Wide Difference Between Day and Night – Spring (March-May)

Typically, March is when the temperatures begin to feel like spring.
March in Asahikawa is a bit different, as there are days below 0°C (32°F) and you won’t be able to see cherry blossoms quite yet.
A warm winter jacket is still a must.

The temperature will gradually rise from April to May and you can walk out in spring clothes.

However, it is still chilly in the morning and evening, so make sure you have winter jackets as well.
This temperature difference is typical in Asahikawa so don’t let your guards down even if it’s nice during the day.

When is the Cherry Blossom Season?

Quoted：公共財団法人旭川市公園緑地協会

The cherry blossom front heads northward and Hokkaido is known to have a late cherry blossom season starting in late April to May.
Asahikawa falls under the same category and the blossoms bloom their peak around Golden Week (a national holiday that takes place in late April for a week).

Asahiyama Park, located adjacent to Asahiyama Zoo is a popular venue as 3500 Ezo Yamasakura all blossom.
Alcoholic beverages are available for purchase so sip your favorite drink to enjoy the beauty of cherry blossoms.
The trees are decorated with lights only during this season as well.

Warm Enough to Sweat – Summer (June-August)

You could probably sense the summer feeling by the time Asahikawa enters June, but a light long sleeve would be nice when going out.
Unlike the rest of Japan, Hokkaido is known to not have the rainy season, but there is a small window (usually several days) of “Ezo rain season” due to the cold damp winds blowing from the Sea of Okhotsk. Carry an umbrella to keep yourself dry!

From July to August, the temperature rises enough to be comfortable wearing short sleeves even in the morning or at night.
There are days that exceed 30°C (86°F) so make sure to stay hydrated during your fun visit.

There are summer events held at the Asahikawa Station Plaza.
Local events include a beer garden so it’s worth checking out. 

Summer Activity – Chubetsu River Rafting

Asahikawa is often considered an urban city, but you can actually enjoy river rafting without traveling for hours.
Chubetsu River is only 20mins away from both Asahikawa Airport and Asahiyama Zoo.
The closeness to the city makes it perfect even for the first day or last day of your itinerary.
The river current is relatively stable so many people try river rafting for the first time. 

List of river rafting activities.

Sudden Drop in Temperature – Fall (Sep-Oct)

The nice and warm weather is short-lived in Asahikawa.
In September, as the autumn leaves begin to change color, the temperature will drop so bring a long sleeve to throw on.
Jackets or coats are necessary for October as snow has been observed in the past.
Come over-prepared for fall and you shouldn’t have any problems.

Speedy Fall – Activities for Maximum Joy

Fall in Asahikawa only lasts for a brief moment and enters the cold winter in the blink of an eye.
There are scenes you do not want to miss despite the short season.

To fully enjoy the natural beauty of Hokkaido, hiking in the mountains of Asahikawa is recommended.
Asahidake is the highest peak in the Daisetsuzan Mountain Range and attracts many mountain lovers from the nation.
The landscape changes to match the 4 distinct seasons in Japan and during fall, the leaves change color to yellow and red. Surround yourself with warm-colored leaves as you walk around the mountain.

List of hiking activities

The Best Season After All? – Winter (Nov-Feb)

The winter in Asahikawa beings in November and some days the temperature drops below 0°C (32°F).
If you’re not used to the cold weather, wearing a down jacket and a scarf to keep your neck warm is recommended.

Constant snow and extremely cold temperature sound like a typical December in Asahikawa.
It’s safe to wear every winter gear you own to stay warm.
Anti-slip ice clips are recommended for your footwear and please don’t have your hands inside the pockets for safety reasons.
The indoor temperatures are kept warm so wear something light for inside clothes. 

“Diamond dust” is a rare natural phenomenon that can only be observed during this time of the year.
Certain conditions such as temperature below -10°C (14F) and early morning with clear sky have to be met in order to see it.
This phenomenon is also known as the “angel’s whisper” and Asahikawa is one of the few places in Japan known for this occurrence. 

In February, the nationally recognized Sapporo Snow Festival is held in Sapporo as the largest snow festival.
Asahikawa is home to the second-largest festival after Sapporo.
Every year, popular comedians will perform on stage, and would be a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the festival loved by the locals.

Unique Experience Exclusive to Winter Hokkaido

If you’re in Asahikawa during the extremely cold season, when not dive into the scenic wonders?
Make your way to Furano for a snowshoeing experience on the Sorachi River.

The world of water and ice in temperatures below freezing is truly breathtaking.
The morning fog and frost flower, a phenomenon of freezing vapor, are all part of the water/ice magic.
Listen to your own footsteps as you walk on snow and enjoy the beautiful silver world.

List of snowshoe experience in Furano (close from Asahikawa)

Furano Sky Activity

Another activity that is highly recommended is powered paragliding.
Needless to say, the silvery landscape of Furano from the sky is absolutely stunning and you may be able to fly over the sea of clouds if you’re lucky. Definitely one of a kind experience. 

Because safety is taken seriously and always comes first, the chance of flying is usually around 50%.
The wind has to be just right, can’t be too strong nor weak.
Pay close attention to the weather conditions and burst into excitement if you’re lucky enough to fly!

Asahikawa Weather Summary

For most of the year, Asahikawa has a large temperature difference between day and night.
Be mindful of the snow in winter, so please don’t force yourself into participating in an activity if it seems dangerous.
We hope you found this article helpful and please enjoy your visit to Asahikawa.
Lastly, we’re hoping for great weather on during your stay.

For Hokkaido activity experiences visit Basho Trip