February in Japan is a time of wintery charm, featuring snow-covered landscapes, vibrant festivals, and a mix of traditional and modern experiences.
From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene snow villages of Hokkaido, Japan in February offers a unique blend of cultural and natural beauty. This guide to your vacation in Japan will help you navigate your trip, covering weather conditions, activities, events, and culinary delights.
Chapter Trail
Japan Weather in February
Japan’s weather in February varies depending on the region:
- Tokyo and Central Honshu: Temperatures range from 2°C to 10°C (36°F to 50°F). Expect cold but generally dry weather, with occasional snowfall.
- Kyoto and Kansai Region: Temperatures range from 1°C to 9°C (34°F to 48°F). Cold and crisp, with clear skies and possible light snow.
- Hokkaido (Sapporo): Temperatures range from -8°C to -1°C (18°F to 30°F). Expect heavy snowfall, creating perfect conditions for winter sports.
- Osaka: Temperatures range from 3°C to 10°C (37°F to 50°F). Cold with clear skies, ideal for sightseeing.
- Okinawa: Temperatures range from 13°C to 19°C (55°F to 66°F). Mild and more temperate, offering a winter escape with warm, pleasant weather.
- Nagano: Temperatures range from -5°C to 3°C (23°F to 37°F). Cold and snowy, excellent for skiing and hot springs.
February in Japan: Highlights and Activities
Visit Tokyo
Explore iconic attractions like the Tokyo Tower, Meiji Shrine, and the bustling districts of Shibuya and Shinjuku. Enjoy the winter illuminations and seasonal festivals.
Experience Kyoto
Wander through the historic temples and shrines, including Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) and Fushimi Inari Taisha, with fewer crowds during the winter season.
Ski in Hokkaido
Enjoy world-class skiing and snowboarding in resorts like Niseko and Furano. February is peak season for powder snow enthusiasts.
Relax in Hot Springs
Soak in an onsen (hot spring) in places like Hakone, Beppu, or the mountains of Nagano, where you can unwind in warm, mineral-rich waters surrounded by snow.
Attend the Sapporo Snow Festival
Marvel at the incredible snow and ice sculptures at Japan’s most famous winter festival in Hokkaido.
Explore Osaka
Visit Osaka Castle, Dotonbori, and Universal Studios Japan. Enjoy the local cuisine, including takoyaki and okonomiyaki.
Discover the Snow Monkeys
Visit the Jigokudani Monkey Park in Nagano, where you can see wild Japanese macaques relaxing in hot springs.
February in Japan: Events and Festivals
Setsubun
A traditional festival marking the end of winter, celebrated with rituals to ward off evil spirits, including bean-throwing ceremonies at temples and shrines across Japan.
Sapporo Snow Festival (early February)
Held in Sapporo, Hokkaido, this festival is famous for its massive snow and ice sculptures, drawing visitors from around the world.
Otaru Snow Light Path Festival (mid-February)
A romantic winter event in Otaru, Hokkaido, featuring candle-lit snow lanterns and illuminated paths along the canals.
Yokote Kamakura Festival (mid-February)
Experience traditional snow huts called “kamakura” in Akita Prefecture, where locals offer sweet sake and mochi to visitors.
Tokamachi Snow Festival (mid-February)
A vibrant festival in Niigata Prefecture, known for its snow sculptures, fireworks, and cultural performances.
Sample Packages For Your Trip to Japan
From Tokyo to Osaka in 13 Days
Enjoy this spectacular 13-day trip through Japan starting in Tokyo. Travel on bullet trains to the cities of Hakone, Kyoto, Hiroshima and Osaka, discovering Japanese countryside and urban culture along the way.
Enjoy Japan's Cherry Blossoms
Experience the beautiful Sakura season during this wonderful 9-day tour through Japan! Visit beautiful sites, get to know the country, it’s people & nature!
Discover the Samurai Culture
Dive head first into the world of Japanese swordsmithing! Gain a deeper appreciation of the craft through this exclusive tour that will introduce you to various aspects of creating a Japanese sword, from the spiritual to the practical, all from the masters themselves.
Plan your next dream trip with one of our hand-picked, highly experienced, licensed, and insured Local In-destination Experts!