Hanoi Weather in January - Temperature and Activities You Can’t Miss

A Closer Look at Weather & Temperature in Hanoi January

Hanoi weather in January (Source: Holiday-weather)

Average temperature (day & night)

Hanoi in January is characterized by its coolest weather of the year, offering a refreshing break from the tropical heat seen in other months. The average daytime high reaches around 20.7 °C (69 °F), while nighttime lows dip to about 14.4 °C (57.9 °F).

Overall, the city maintains a mean temperature of roughly 17 °C (63 - 65 °F), making it ideal for outdoor activities without the discomfort of heat or humidity. The air feels crisp in the mornings and evenings, so it’s wise to bring light jackets or layers. This pleasant chill creates a cozy, festive atmosphere across Hanoi’s streets and markets.

Rainfall statistics

Rainfall in January is minimal, with the city receiving just around 17 - 20 mm of precipitation for the entire month. Rainy days typically number 10 to 11, but showers are usually light and brief, more like mist or drizzle than downpours.

This low level of rainfall allows visitors to explore Hanoi comfortably on foot without needing umbrellas most of the time. You may occasionally experience damp mornings, but afternoons tend to clear up. Compared to the rainy summer months, January is one of the driest times of the year, making it ideal for sightseeing, photography, and participating in outdoor cultural activities.

Humidity levels

Humidity in Hanoi during January averages about 73%, fluctuating between 68% and 80% throughout the month. Although these levels sound high, the cooler temperatures make the humidity feel much less oppressive than during the summer.

Visitors generally find the air comfortable, especially during midday when humidity levels tend to drop slightly. Indoor spaces and shops remain well-ventilated, and there’s rarely a need for air conditioning. The combination of cool air and moderate humidity creates a pleasant environment for walking tours and market visits. Do note that evenings may feel damp, so layered clothing helps to stay cozy and dry.

Air quality & UV index

January’s UV index in Hanoi typically reaches a moderate level of 5, which means mild sun exposure risk - especially around midday. Sunscreen and light sun protection are advisable if you're out during peak hours.

Air quality, however, can occasionally feel hazy due to winter temperature inversions, where colder air traps pollutants closer to the ground. This may slightly affect those with respiratory sensitivities. While it's not a major concern for most travelers, wearing a mask or staying indoors during haze-heavy mornings can help. Overall, UV and air conditions are manageable and should not disrupt your travel plans significantly.

Typical weather patterns

January weather in Hanoi follows a consistent and mild pattern. Mornings and evenings tend to be cool and damp, often accompanied by light mist or drizzle, while daytime brings clearer skies with limited sunlight - about 3 to 4 hours per day.

Early mornings may appear overcast, but clouds often lift by afternoon, allowing for brighter moments ideal for photography and sightseeing. There’s a noticeable drop in temperature after sunset, so layering is essential for comfort. The overall atmosphere feels calm and crisp, perfect for leisurely walks, market browsing, or temple visits as the city gradually awakens to the festive Tet season.

Is January a Good Time to Visit Hanoi?

Yes, January is a great time to visit Hanoi thanks to its cool, dry weather - ideal for sightseeing on foot. The air is crisp but not freezing, and humidity levels are low, making it one of the most comfortable months to explore.

The city buzzes with energy as it prepares for Tet (Lunar New Year), with colorful markets, festive decorations, and temple rituals adding cultural charm. While some attractions and shops may close during the holiday, visitors can enjoy a deeper look into Vietnamese traditions. Overall, January offers a pleasant climate and vibrant cultural experiences for curious travelers.

Traditional Festivals in Hanoi During January

• Tet Nguyen Dan (Vietnamese Lunar New Year)

Tet is Vietnam’s most important and widely celebrated holiday, marking the arrival of spring and the lunar new year. In Hanoi, the atmosphere turns electric with colorful decorations, bustling flower markets, and traditional foods like Banh Chung and Mut Tet. Expect lion dances, family gatherings, fireworks, and festive events across the city.

The colorful sight of the Old Quarter's Tet Market

• Le Hoi Go Dong Da

Held on the 5th day of the first lunar month, this festival commemorates Emperor Quang Trung’s historic victory over Qing invaders. The event features lively parades, reenactments, martial arts displays, and folk performances. It takes place at the Dong Da Park, turning it into a hub of patriotic spirit and cultural pride.

• Le Hoi Co Loa

Celebrated from the 6th to the 18th of the lunar month, this festival honors King An Duong Vuong and the ancient Co Loa Citadel. It includes traditional processions, offerings at the temple, and folk games that recall the legend of the magical crossbow. The event attracts thousands to the historic Co Loa site, just outside Hanoi.

• Hoi Lang Khe Thuong

Taking place from the 3rd to the 7th day of the lunar new year, this local village festival is a charming display of community traditions. Locals gather for ritual ceremonies, folk games, and cultural performances unique to the area. It offers an authentic, off-the-beaten-path glimpse into rural Hanoi’s festive life.

Best Things to Do in Hanoi, Vietnam Weather January

Celebrate the Vietnamese New Year

If the Vietnamese Lunar New Year falls in January, you can join local people to celebrate with food, firecrackers, fun, and families. They visit pagodas and temples, wishing for a lucky and healthy year to come. At some places, there will be some activities, for instance, lion dances, traditional dances and ceremonies, carnival games, and so much more.

It is considered to be the biggest and most popular festival of the year in Vietnam. It celebrates the arrival of the New Year based on the lunar calendar, and it may fall in January or February. In this festival, Vietnamese people will express their respect for their ancestors and gather with their families to embrace the New Year. The celebration of Vietnamese Tết regularly lasts from 3 days to an entire week.

Vietnamese celebrate the Lunar New Year in January

Visit Duong Lam Ancient Village

Located about 50km northwest of downtown Hanoi, only 1 hour and 30 minutes driving, Duong Lam is a UNESCO-awarded village and a haven for architecture as well as street photography lovers. The village is known for its 300-year-old houses, grand communal halls and pagodas, original fishbone brick roads, and ancient banyan trees, making it a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of Hanoi. Come to the village, you can stroll around the narrow alleys, visit ancient houses, or cycle around the village and green rice fields.

The tranquil vibe of Duong Lam Ancient Village

Shopping in local markets

As the Lunar New Year nears, Hanoi’s markets overflow with color, tradition, and energy. Markets like Dong Xuan and Quang Ba are packed with locals buying festive goods - kumquat trees, peach blossoms, red envelopes, and Mut Tet (candied fruits).

Stalls are brimming with calligraphy scrolls, silk clothes, and local snacks, making it a treasure trove for souvenirs. Bargaining is part of the fun, and the atmosphere is electric with anticipation. January’s market scene offers a cultural experience that goes beyond shopping; it's an immersion into local life and seasonal spirit.

The bustling Hanoi Indoor Market

Visit Tran Quoc Pagoda

Hanoi is the city of pagodas, and the Tran Quoc Pagoda is one of the most charming ones you can visit here. Regarded as a cultural symbol by the local populace, this particular pagoda dominates over an island in the southeastern section of West Lake. The pagoda is the oldest in the city and offers a glimpse into the Buddhist religion through architecture, engravings, sculpture, and artifacts. Visiting Tran Quoc Pagoda in January, you can see how alluring the pagoda is, with many colorful flowers and kumquat trees.

Tran Quoc Pagoda is a highly recommended place to visit in Hanoi.

Local Delicacies Perfect for Hanoi Weather in January

In Hanoi’s chilly January, warming dishes like crab hot pot, grilled pork, banh chung, mut tet, and bamboo shoot soup are seasonal favorites full of flavor and tradition.

• Lau rieu cua: This rich and savory crab noodle hot pot is a winter favorite in Hanoi, especially comforting on chilly January evenings. It’s typically shared among friends or family, bubbling with crab paste, tomatoes, tofu, and fresh greens.
• Thit nuong: Charcoal-grilled pork skewers are a street food staple that’s best enjoyed piping hot in the crisp winter air. The smoky aroma fills Hanoi’s alleys, drawing in locals and visitors alike for a flavorful bite.
• Mut Tet: These colorful candied fruits and roots are traditional Tet treats, sold in abundance at local markets as the holiday nears. From ginger to coconut and tamarind, each variety offers a sweet way to welcome the new year.
• Banh Chung: A symbol of Lunar New Year, Banh Chung is a square sticky rice cake filled with mung beans and fatty pork, wrapped in green dong leaves. It’s hearty, nostalgic, and found on every family’s altar and dining table during Tết.
• Canh mang: This savory bamboo shoot soup, often made with pork ribs, is a warming winter dish traditionally served during family gatherings. Its earthy flavor and hearty broth make it a comforting addition to any January meal.

Banh Chung is an amazing choice to enjoy in January.

Local Tips for Hanoi in January Trips

January in Hanoi is chilly and busy with pre-Tet traffic, so it’s best to dress in layers, enjoy hot dishes on the spot, and use motorbikes for easier travel through the crowds.

• January in Hanoi is typically cool and dry, but temperatures can be unpredictable; some years feel chilly and damp, others surprisingly warm. It’s best to pack a mix of light layers: a few short-sleeved shirts, a thin sweater, and a light jacket should cover most situations. Locals often dress in layers, too, especially in the early morning and late evening.

Local people bundle up for the cold weather. 

• Street food is best enjoyed hot and fresh, so eat directly at the vendor’s stall or roadside eatery instead of taking it to go. Hanoi’s winter specialties, like crab noodle soup or grilled pork skewers, are most comforting when steaming right off the grill.
• As Tet (Vietnamese Lunar New Year) approaches, traffic during business hours can get especially heavy, especially near markets and main roads. To avoid congestion, try moving around early in the morning or later in the evening. When possible, opt for Grab motorbike rides instead of cars, as bikes can weave through traffic more efficiently.
• For photography lovers, January offers a charming side of Hanoi. Head to local flower markets like Quang Ba, traditional Tet markets in the Old Quarter, or visit temples and pagodas where festive decorations are going up in preparation for the New Year.
• Lastly, while Hanoi’s January weather is mostly dry, drizzles can happen - so a compact umbrella might come in handy.

FAQs about weather and temperature in Hanoi in January

1. Is January a cold month in Hanoi?

January is cool but not freezing, with average highs around 20 °C and lows near 14 °C. On some nights, temperatures can dip close to 10 °C, so wearing layers is recommended.

2. Is January a good time to walk around Hanoi’s Old Quarter?

Yes, January offers mild, pleasant weather and fewer tourists, making it ideal for walking tours. The cool air and festive ambiance enhance the experience.

3. Does Hanoi have snow or frost in January?

No, Hanoi does not experience snow or frost in January. However, northern mountain areas like Sapa may see occasional frost.

4. Is January a busy tourist season in Hanoi?

Yes, especially in the lead-up to Tet, when local and international visitors flock to markets and festivals. Booking accommodations and tours early is highly advised.

With cool, dry days and a festive spirit in full bloom, January is an excellent time to visit Hanoi. From colorful flower markets to warming street foods and cultural festivities, the city offers a unique blend of seasonal charm and tradition. Book your trip now to experience Hanoi at its most atmospheric.

You might also want to read about Hanoi weather in February.

Minah Trinh

Image source: Internet