Tokyo vs Kyoto

Tokyo and Kyoto are closely matched in December. Neither city has a clear advantage across all metrics. Your decision should come down to personal preference, cultural interests, and travel logistics rather than weather alone.

Tokyo is on the cooler side at 11°C, requiring warmer clothing. Kyoto is cooler at 10°C.

For travelers who prioritize dry weather, Tokyo is the stronger choice in December. Kyoto receives 1 more hour of sunshine per day, which matters for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Tokyo reaches an average high of 11°C (52°F) and drops to 3°C (37°F) at night during December. The daily temperature range is 8°C, meaning moderate variation throughout the day.

Kyoto averages 10°C (50°F) for the high and 2°C (36°F) for the low, with a daily range of 8°C. The two cities feel quite similar in terms of temperature.

Both cities are in the Northern Hemisphere, so they share the same seasonal pattern in December.

Tokyo receives approximately 59 mm of rainfall across 7 rain days during December. Rain is occasional, so a light rain jacket should suffice.

Kyoto sees 66 mm over 8 rain days. That makes Tokyo the drier option by 1 rain day and 7 mm of total precipitation.

Both cities share similar humidity levels at 65%.