Hokkaido Weather 2026: Otaru Rain, Hakodate Sunshine

Hokkaido Weather Report: Otaru, Hakodate, and Noboribetsu

Beyond Sapporo, the rest of Hokkaido offers a diverse range of weather experiences. While the general climate across the island tends to be similar in terms of temperature and humidity, my recent trip in 2026 showed some distinct differences. For instance, even though it rained in Sapporo, it never felt particularly cold. Otaru, however, was quite chilly, especially when the rain absolutely poured down and I got soaked to the bone. Its slightly more northern location likely plays a role in this cooler feel.

First up, let's talk about Otaru's weather.

Even when it wasn't actively raining, the humidity hovered around 96%...

I only stayed for one night, but it rained continuously throughout my entire visit.

It started drizzling as soon as I arrived (it was lighter then)...

...then it began to absolutely pour.

I probably should have just headed back to my accommodation, but I was determined to visit a specific pub I'd missed last time. Big mistake! I ended up completely drenched, haha.

The rain started coming down so hard...

I waited for it to stop, but it showed no signs of letting up even as the pub's closing time approached. So, I just gave up and braved the downpour back to my room.

While you could argue it had a certain charm, I think a snowy Otaru definitely has more atmosphere. When I visited in winter 2025, it was a snowy wonderland, which was incredibly picturesque.

Anyway, I somehow made it back to my hotel, soaking wet, and the next day dawned...

...with more persistent drizzle.

My next destination, Noboribetsu, greeted me with bright sunshine.

Honestly, if it had to rain, Otaru was the better place for it, at least it has that melancholic charm. Noboribetsu, with its famous Jigokudani (Hell Valley), would have been incredibly inconvenient to explore in the rain.

Thankfully, the sun shone brightly, as if understanding my wish. It was quite warm walking around the open areas of Jigokudani, but as I ventured deeper into the forest trails, the shade provided relief, and it didn't feel overly hot.

While the overall temperature was similar to other Hokkaido regions, Noboribetsu felt the warmest out of the three, perhaps because of the lack of rain, unlike Otaru.

Finally, let's look at Hakodate's weather.

During my stay here, there was no rain, and the weather was generally cool and pleasant.

This town is genuinely tranquil. There aren't many people walking the streets, giving it a serene, almost rural village feel.

Overall, the streets and the town itself are simply beautiful. It's perfect for a leisurely stroll, and Hakodate's agreeable weather certainly helped. Both the scenery and the comfortable temperature made for wonderful walks.

Because there are so few people around, it was a bit tricky to capture local fashion. The streets were just too empty, haha!

While this fresh, clear atmosphere was lovely, I still think Hakodate is even more enchanting when blanketed in snow, with the soft glow illuminating the night paths. It creates a truly magical vibe.

Honestly, if you're going to Biei and Furano for the lavender and other flowers, summer is the time to go. Otherwise, winter is fantastic. If you can visit during both seasons, even better! Each season in Hokkaido truly has its own unique charm.

So, that's a quick rundown of the weather I experienced in Noboribetsu, Hakodate, and Otaru. It's definitely less sweltering than many places in August 2026, offering a refreshing escape.