Japan in February: Winter Charm & Onset of Spring

The snow-blanketed landscape beneath the sunny days, a bit chilly but ready to welcome the coming spring colors. Packed with festivals and events, traveling to Japan in February offers plenty of surprises to the sleepy winter, making it another ideal time for your unique winter Japan tour.

Japan's Weather in February

Compared to December and January, February, the last month of winter, offers relatively warmer daytime temperatures, making it an ideal time for your winter adventure. Although the average temperature in Japan is still low, the increase in sunny days and the decrease in humidity means that you can enjoy outdoor activities without much worry.

Northern Japan

The high latitude makes the northern area the coolest part of Japan in February, with average temperatures ranging from -5℃ to 0℃. So be sure to bundle up before heading north to capture the inspiring snow sculptures and excellent skiing in Sapporo, Otaru and Niseko.

Central Japan

Central Japan, home to renowned cities such as Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, offers much more comfortable weather in February. Although nighttime temperatures remain chilly, you can make the most of the warming daytime temperatures, which can reach up to 10°C, thanks to long er hours of sunshine.

Southern Japan

The spring-like weather in the southern regions, particularly in Okinawa and Naha, offers ideal escapes from the winter cold. With temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C in February, even the seawater is invitingly comfortable, perfect for indulging in water sports without concerns about crowds or prices.

Okinawa Miyako

Best Places to Travel in February

Osaka

During your February journey in Japan, Osaka boasts hardly any snowdrops, making it ideal for a leisurely city walk bathed in bright sunshine. Moreover, you won't find a shortage of stores or restaurants along your route, providing ample opportunities to fuel yourself and ward off the winter chill. Additionally, convenient transport options abound; hop on the Shinkansen, and within half an hour, you can easily reach nearby destinations like Nara or Kobe.

Kyoto

The abundance of ancient temples and shrines in this millennial city makes it a prime location to capture Japanese-style elegance. From Kiyomizu-dera to Fushimi Inari Taisha, the snow-covered landscape in February offers a unique perspective on these famous landmarks. There's also no shortage of indoor activities to escape the winter chill, from cultural experiences such as tea ceremonies in Gion to immersive museums showcasing the artistry of Japanese swordsmanship and ninja techniques.

Hokkaido

February marks one of the peak months in Hokkaido for its renowned ski season, bustling with numerous festivals and events to elevate your winter adventure. Allow the Sapporo Snow Festival to be the centerpiece of your vacation, showcasing a plethora of sculptures and winter sports experiences. Alternatively, venture to Otaru, the picturesque setting of the film "Love Letter," where you can enjoy a serene holiday surrounded by delectable seafood, vibrant glassworks, and the cozy glow of candlelight.

Hokkaido Otaru

Okinawa

Okinawa is the ideal destination to escape the snowy world and chilly temperatures of February, with azure waters and cloudless skies, lush greenery, and a gentle breeze carrying the scent of salt. Reminiscent as perfect as a summer resort in Hawaii, always ready to enjoy the sun and the beach. There are plenty of things to do beyond relaxing on the beach, such as partake in the early cherry blossom festivals or an island-hopping adventure in search of whales and sharks.

Atami

Not far from Tokyo and Mount Fuji, the coastal town of Atami is a stunning destination for your February trip to Japan. It may not boast a tropical climate, but Atami's unique cherry blossoms are usually in full bloom during this month, saving you the trouble of traveling south to the Okinawa islands for the Hanami experience. You can also indulge in the many hot springs, from traditional indoor baths to open-air baths where you can soak while admiring the surrounding floral beauty.

What to See & Do in February

Marvel at the Marching Penguins Show

While the snow festival in Hokkaido undoubtedly stands out as a highlight of the winter holiday in Japan, the marching penguins show in Asahikawa is an equally unmissable experience during your February journey. Twice a day, at 11 o'clock and half past two in the afternoon, you can witness adorable penguins parading along a snow-covered path at Asahikawa Park. Though it serves as exercise for these giant birds to stay fit, watching their endearing waddle is always heartwarming and therapeutic.

Asahikawa Park Penguins

Capture the Colors of Spring Blossoms

Besides the bustling crowds and noise of the peak cherry blossom season, the serene month of February offers another ideal opportunity to capture the beauty of spring blossoms. Plum blossoms take center stage alongside cherry blossoms during this time, with soft petals adding to the charm of the season. Whether you opt for a tropical escape to the Okinawa islands or prefer to stay closer to Tokyo in Atami or Kawazu to witness the unique shapes and colors of early cherry blossoms, there are always places where you can delight in the vibrant hues of spring.

Pick Some Strawberry in This Harvest Season

Since most strawberries in Japan are grown in greenhouses, it is surprising to learn that winter is the harvest season for these sweet gems, especially in late January and February. Fortunately, many farms open their doors to visitors who want to experience the excitement of picking these large and delicious fresh berries. Select from a blanket of strawberries in your preferred shapes and colors, not only for fresh cake toppings or jam ingredients but also for a memorable family experience or a thoughtful gift for friends.

Dive into the Museums & Shows

If you're looking for a cozy winter holiday in Japan, you'll find plenty of indoor activities during your February travels to keep you occupied without the risk of boredom or fatigue. Relive your childhood at Ghibli Park or Legoland and immerse yourself in the fancy world at the Manga Museum, which never fails to captivate children and adults alike. Gain insight into Japan's rich history at museums dedicated to samurai, ninja and swords, or experience its culture through the captivating performances of Kabuki or the elegance of geisha.

Events & Festivals

Sapporo Snow Festival

One of the most renowned annual festivals, which occurs in February, unfolds its grand celebrations of winter in the heart of Hokkaido, Sapporo. Spread across three sites, each offering unique attractions: the Odori Site boasts breathtaking snow sculptures, the Susukino Site showcases stunning ice statues, and the Tsudome Site offers thrilling winter sports experiences. Typically spanning a week from February 4th to February 11th in 2024, this festival promises to be an unforgettable experience for all who attend.

Sapporo Snow Festival

Otaru Snow Light Path Festival

Instead of the bright colors of neo, the Otaru Snow Light Path Festival (10th to 17th February 2024) is mainly adorned with gentle candlelight, delicately illuminating the small snow statues in a warm and delightful yellowish color, making the whole street a dreamlike world with a kind of romance. As well as admiring those delicate sculptures dressed in foliage, visitors can also participate in floating their own snow lights on the Otaru Canal, carrying their best wishes and hopes to light up the winter night.

Setsubun-The Bean Throwing Festival

Setsubun, which means the division of the seasons, is a traditional festival celebrating the imminent arrival of spring. Falls on the last day of winter (3 February 2024), it is not a public holiday, but be sure to visit famous landmarks such as Senso-ji or Ikuta Shrine to witness the grand bean-throwing ceremonies and mesmerizing demon dances. Join the locals in shouting "Oni wa Soto, Fuku wa Uchi" (Devils out, Fortune in) and indulge in ehomaki, a special kind of thick, uncut sushi roll believed to bring good luck.

Yokote Kamakura Festival

Dedicated to the water deity, the Kamakura Festival in Yokote sees locals constructing numerous snow igloos known as kamakura, serving as guesthouses where visitors can enjoy rice cakes and warm sweet rice wine, amazake, with typical offerings to the deity in return. These charming snow houses are conveniently located near Yokote Castle, and for those interested in crafting their own igloo, there's the option to join kamakura-making activities at Komyoji Park.

Crowds & Costs

Traveling to Japan in February can take plenty of advantage of the shoulder season. With fewer crowds packed in those famous landmarks, it is perfect for an in-depth visit at your own pace. The peaceful atmosphere also enhances immersion, allowing for uninterrupted experiences. Most importantly, the price of hotels or tickets will be much more reasonable, apart from Hokkaido bustling with its ski season and festivals, you can even enjoy the bargain price at most well-known cities like Tokyo and Kyoto.

Japan Travel Tips in February

Be Alter to the Melting Snow

The rising temperature as well as the prolonged sunlight also access the melting of snow, making some of the streets or paths a bit muddy and slippery. Wearing your snow boots may be necessary, and always remain cautious when walking on snow-covered surfaces during your city walk.

Staying Warm Is Still Necessary

Despite the sunny days and spring flowers along the coast, which may give the impression of warmer temperatures, it's important to dress warmly when traveling in Japan in February. This is especially important for northern adventures or Hanami experiences under the trees, as outdoor temperatures can still be quite low.

Try Some Steaming Dishes to Stay Warm

From Taiyaki, fish-shaped pancakes filled with bean jam, to takoyaki, round dumplings filled with octopus, and oden, a comforting boiled dish featuring a variety of ingredients such as eggs, white radish, and more, Japan offers countless options to fuel your warmth during your winter journey.

Enjoy the Charming Japan With Odynovo

Like the Bean Throwing Festival, a February trip to Japan is a transition from the last of winter's charms to the arrival of spring, when the weather is warmer but you can still benefit from low season prices. Plus, there is always a reason to travel to Japan, just let Odynovo show you some more ideas.