November weather in Sapporo, Japan - Snow Festival, Maruyama Zoo, Odori Park
Sapporo, located on Japan's northern island of Hokkaido, is known for its picturesque landscapes and winter sports. November marks the transition from autumn to winter, bringing colder temperatures and the first snow. In this post, we'll cover the November weather in Sapporo, including clear days, temperature changes, precipitation and sunlight, and recommend family-friendly travel destinations.
1. Sapporo November Weather - Clear Days
November in Sapporo sees about 10 to 12 clear days as winter approaches, with an increasing chance of snowfall. While early November may still bring a few sunny days, the latter half of the month typically becomes cloudier as snow starts to settle. Clear days allow for beautiful sightseeing, especially in Sapporo's surrounding mountains where autumn foliage can still be seen before winter takes over.
2. Sapporo November Weather - Temperature Changes
The average temperature in Sapporo during November hovers around 3°C (37°F). Early in the month, daily highs can reach 7°C (45°F), while nighttime lows dip to around -1°C (30°F). However, as November progresses, the temperature drops further, and snow becomes more common. It's advisable to pack warm clothing, as November can be chilly with significant temperature variation between day and night.
3. Sapporo November Weather - Precipitation & Sunlight
Sapporo typically experiences an average precipitation of around 90mm in November. Snowfall gradually increases throughout the month, with snow likely to start accumulating by late November. The city experiences shorter daylight hours, averaging around 4 to 5 hours of sunlight per day. As a result, November brings a true sense of winter to Sapporo, perfect for those looking forward to snowy landscapes.
4. Recommended Tourist Spots for Families in Sapporo
November is a wonderful month to explore family-friendly attractions in Sapporo, especially as the city prepares for winter festivities. The Sapporo Snow Festival is one of the most famous events, although the main festival takes place in February; November is a good time to visit the site as snow begins to blanket the area.
Families can also visit the Sapporo Maruyama Zoo, a popular attraction where children can see a variety of animals, including polar bears and native Japanese species. The zoo's natural setting is especially beautiful as snow starts to cover the ground, making it a memorable experience.
Odori Park, located in the heart of Sapporo, is another family-friendly destination that transforms in the winter months. During November, the park often begins setting up for the upcoming White Illumination, a light display that illuminates the park in preparation for the holiday season. This is an enchanting spot for evening strolls with children.
November in Sapporo offers a taste of winter with the first snowfalls and cooler temperatures, making it an exciting time to visit. The weather is generally chilly, and as snow begins to fall, the city takes on a unique charm. With family-friendly attractions like Maruyama Zoo, Odori Park, and the preparations for the famous Snow Festival, there’s no shortage of activities for visitors. Be sure to pack warmly and prepare for a memorable experience in the winter wonderland that Sapporo begins to transform into in November.
