It will snow in Japan in February, but seldom in Okinawa. There is no much snow in Kanto and Kansai, while the 3-4 snowing days are often in the first half of February. Relatively, Hokkaido and Japan Sea coast would get more snowfall.

From early-mid February, travelers can see contests of early sakura on Izu Peninsula till early March. Kawazu is the most popular place, while in Atami Plum Garden, cherry blossoms and plum blossoms can be seen at the same time.

The cherry blossoms in Okinawa are also in full bloom in this month. It is earlier as the cherry blossoms begin to bloom since mid-January probably, and so the blooming period would end in mid or late February in Okinawa.
Read More: Cherry Blossoms Season in Japan

The sweater plus a woolen overcoat, padded jacket, winter pants, boots and so on are proper to wear in February in Japan. Hat, scarf, and gloves also can’t be forgotten outdoors, especially when a wind blows. In Hokkaido, thermal wear is necessary; while to Okinawa islands in the south, you can put on a thinner coat. A pair of comfortable boots/shoes is crucial for sightseeing, while non-slip ones are better in northern Japan.

As the temperature would rise a little in late February, you may change clothes mildly, like changing the long overcoat into a short thinner one. But it’s still the most important to keep warm in February.

As in icy winter, February is not the best time for travelling in Japan in a year. Even so, it’s charming for winter fun in Hokkaido. Meanwhile, some February specials are worth a try.

1. Hokkaido

IIt is the best region for winter fun in Japan. You can enjoy the scenery covered by snow and a variety of winter activities. Sapporo Snow Festival weaves a grand ice world, and becomes a must in Hokkaido, Japan in winter. February is also the best time for drift ice sightseeing in Abashiri, on the icebreaker into the frozen Sea of Okhotsk.

•  Sapporo Snow Festival
As one of most splendid snow festivals in the world, Sapporo Snow Festival offers a few vast sites with the incredible snow and ice sculptures as well as exciting snow games. It’s usually held in early February, and in 2026, it will be held from 4th to 11th in February. The venues are all outdoors, so wear warmly. If you want to avoid crowds, weekday morning is great to take photos in good light, especially in Odori Park.

2. Hot Spring Bathing

Winter is the best time to take hot spring bath, as Japan embraces many natural onsen. Kusatsu, Hakone, and Beppu are all the best-known onsen towns in Japan, where you can enjoy the traditional onsen spa. In particular, you could look the iconic Mt. Fuji far into the distance in Hakone when the sky is clear.

3. Plum Blossoms Viewing

Since mid-February to early March, plum blossoms are celebrated in Japan, especially the central regions. If you go to Tokyo, Kyoto, Hiroshima, etc., the plum blossoms are charming to indicate that spring is coming soon. Osaka Castle Park, Kitano Tenmangu Shrine in Kyoto, Yushima Tenmangu Shrine in Tokyo, and more are all well-known sites of plum blossoms in Japan.

Go to a Shrine for Setsubun

4. Join in Setsubun Celebration

If you travel to Japan in the first a few days of February, you would get an opportunity to witness the Setsubun celebration at a local shrine. Usually on Feb. 3rd or 4th, Setsubun is a traditional festival in Japan to welcome spring. People shy beans to expel evil spirits, eat Ehoumaki - roll sushi, and praying for blessings at a shrine. The shrines turn to be interesting with the festival decoration, such as the gate in the shape of a plump girl’s smiling face. You would fall into a new vibe on the Setsubun Festival.