Tokyo edges it in January. Tokyo averages 1–10°C with very low crowds; Kyoto 2–9°C with low crowds.
By Daan · Last reviewed October 2026
Tokyo and Kyoto
The verdict for January
Clear, cold, quiet and cheap
+Dry blue skies, the lowest rates of the year and almost no queues.
–Cold mornings and a near-shutdown during the first days of the month.
Crisp light, empty museums and easy reservations at the hard tables.
Quiet shrines, crisp winter air
+Few crowds and low prices
–Cold, and some places close in early January
After the New Year rush of 1-3 January, Kyoto empties out and settles into a calm, cold rhythm. Temples are peaceful and hotel rates are among the lowest of the year. Snow is rare but possible.
Scores and crowd levels are my own judgement; temperatures are monthly averages. Higher scores are better: quieter, cheaper and more pleasant.
Another month