Japan in February: Snow, Plum Blossoms and Winter Travel

The last stretch of winter brings snow sculptures in the north, bean throwing at shrines and the first pink hints of spring in the south.

Published October 18, 2026 at 8:59 PM JST | By Tokyo Paul

Quick answer: February is cold and dry in Tokyo and snowy on the Sea of Japan coast and in Hokkaido. Highlights include the Sapporo Snow Festival in early February, Setsubun bean-throwing on February 3, and plum blossoms from mid-month. Skiing is excellent, hot springs are at their best, and cedar pollen begins to bother some travelers late in the month.

What February weather feels like

February is still deep winter across most of Japan, and in many places it is the coldest month of the year. Tokyo stays dry and bright, with daytime highs often around 10 degrees Celsius and chilly mornings. Osaka and Kyoto feel similar, though Kyoto can feel colder in the basin where it sits. In the north and on the Sea of Japan coast, snow remains heavy. Hokkaido, Tohoku and the mountain areas of Honshu keep their snow cover, and ski conditions are often at their best this month.

In the south, Kyushu and Okinawa are milder. The days gradually grow longer, and by late February there are hints of spring in warm sunlight and the first buds, particularly in southern and coastal areas. A practical way to think about February is as a month with two moods. The cities feel bright and dry, ideal for walking between museums and cafes with a warm coat, while the north and the mountains feel like a snow globe. You can combine both in one trip with a fast train, but expect to change clothes as you go.

Sapporo Snow Festival and winter spectacles

The Sapporo Snow Festival is held in early February and runs for about a week. Large snow and ice sculptures fill Odori Park and other venues in the city, and some are several stories tall. At night, lights turn the sculptures into glowing scenes. Food stalls sell hot dishes, and visitors wander the displays in warm gear.

Other regions hold smaller winter events. In Akita Prefecture, the Yokote Kamakura festival features small snow huts lit with candles, usually in mid-February. Along the Okhotsk coast in Hokkaido, drift ice floats in from the north, and sightseeing ships offer views. Book hotels early for Sapporo, as the festival draws many visitors, and check official websites for the exact dates each year.

Setsubun and Valentine's customs

Setsubun, celebrated on or around February 3, marks the day before the start of spring in the traditional calendar. People throw roasted soybeans while calling out a phrase that drives away bad luck and invites good fortune. Shrines and temples hold bean-throwing ceremonies, sometimes with guests in formal robes, and the scene is lively and cheerful.

Another seasonal custom is the way Valentine's Day is observed in Japan. Traditionally, women give chocolate to men, and department stores build large displays of chocolates in the weeks beforehand. One month later, men return gifts on White Day. These displays are fun to browse even if you do not buy, and they showcase beautiful confectionery from Japanese and international makers.

Plum blossoms before cherry blossoms

Plum trees are among the first flowers to bloom each year. From mid-February in warmer areas, white, pink and red blossoms open and release a sweet fragrance. Famous plum gardens include Kairakuen in Mito, Ibaraki, and gardens near Tokyo such as the Yushima Tenmangu shrine. Atami, on the Izu coast, has an early-blooming garden that opens its festival in January. Plum viewing is quieter than cherry blossom viewing, and it is common to see photographers and families strolling at a slow pace.

Early cherry varieties such as Kawazu cherries bloom on the Izu Peninsula in February and March, and these are a delight if you are looking for early color. Check bloom forecasts and local event pages for the best timing. Plum blossoms have a long cultural history in Japan, appearing in poetry and painting for well over a thousand years. Their scent is gentle, and the trees often grow in shrine and temple grounds, where gnarled branches create a graceful scene. A small picnic is less common than under cherry trees, but a warm drink from a nearby stall makes the visit more comfortable.

Skiing and hot springs

February is peak ski season, with reliable snow in Hokkaido, Nagano, Niigata and Tohoku. Powder days are common, and resorts have a full range of services. Crowds can be larger on weekends, so weekday skiing can be more comfortable. Book lessons and gear rental in advance if you are new to the sport. Hot springs are especially welcome.

Outdoor baths allow you to soak while snowflakes fall, an experience many visitors remember. Be careful of icy paths between baths and changing rooms, and wear sandals or shoes with good grip. Drink water after bathing, and take breaks if you feel dizzy. Some mountain inns are accessible only by shuttle in winter, so check transport details.

What to eat in February

February is a good time for hearty dishes. Hot pots, stews and curries warm the body, and seafood from cold seas is delicious. Oysters, crab and cod are among the favorites, and many izakaya offer seasonal menus. In Hokkaido, miso ramen and butter corn are popular warm dishes.

Sweet treats include strawberries, which are in season and appear in desserts, cakes and daifuku rice cakes. Citrus fruits are also at their best. At Setsubun, you may see thick sushi rolls called ehomaki, traditionally eaten in silence while facing a lucky direction. Convenience stores sell these rolls in early February. Check the shelf for seasonal items.

Health notes and planning around holidays

The air in February is very dry on the Pacific side, so a moisturizer and lip balm help. Static electricity can be an annoyance, and hydration is important. Heated rooms can be dry as well, so a small humidifier or damp towel in the room may help with comfort. Toward the end of the month, cedar pollen begins to circulate in parts of Japan, especially around Tokyo. Many residents wear masks and take medication. If you are sensitive to pollen, consider bringing antihistamines or buying them at a pharmacy, and check the daily pollen forecast. Sunglasses and a mask can help on windy days.

February is generally a quiet month for tourism outside of events and ski areas. Major sights in Tokyo and Kyoto are less busy than in spring, and hotels may offer lower rates. National Foundation Day on February 11 is a holiday, and the Emperor's Birthday on February 23 is also a holiday, which can create short weekends. For Sapporo and the ski resorts, book early. For city sightseeing, you can often arrange plans with more flexibility. Check opening hours of museums and gardens, as some close for maintenance in winter. Because the weather can change, carry both warm layers and a compact umbrella.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the Sapporo Snow Festival?

It is held in early February and lasts about a week. The exact dates change each year, so check the official website. Book hotels and transport early, as the festival draws many visitors. Sapporo is reached by train or flight from Tokyo, and lodging near the festival sites fills early.

Are plum blossoms in bloom in February?

Yes, in many areas plum trees begin to bloom in mid-February and continue into March, depending on the region. Famous gardens include Kairakuen in Mito and various shrine gardens in Tokyo. Check local bloom reports for timing. Early cherry varieties, such as Kawazu cherries on the Izu Peninsula, may begin to open in late February.

Is February a good time for skiing in Japan?

Yes, February is peak ski season, with reliable snow in Hokkaido, Nagano, Niigata and Tohoku. Weekends can be busy, so consider weekdays and book lessons and rentals ahead. Ski areas offer rental gear and lessons, which suit beginners, and hot springs make a good end to the day.

Keep Exploring

More guides from Tokyo Paul: Japan in March: Early Blossoms and Changing Weather, Japan in January: Weather, Crowds and What to Do and Japan's Matsuri Calendar: A Month-by-Month Overview.