Winter continues in February in Japan. Skiing conditions reach their best in northern Japan (Hokkaido). Central Japan (Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka) stays cold and quiet, while spring shows signs of coming in the warm south (Okiwana).
Along with the benefits of lower crowding, February is a great time to discover Japan for all travelers: thrilling winter activities, relaxing hot springs to bathe in, and stunning early cherry and plum blossom.
Find out about average temperatures, rain/snowfall, and tips on where to go and what to wear...
Japan Weather in February: Overview

- Average Temperature range: 2°C (36°F) – 10°C (50°F)
- Average Rainfall: 73 mm (3 inches)
- Average Rainy days: 8
- Average Sunny days: 20
Weather of Japan’s Major Cities in February
Japan City | Min. Temp | Max. Temp | Rainfall/Snowfall |
---|---|---|---|
Sapporo | -6°C (20°F) | 0°C (32°F) | 116 mm (46 in) |
Tokyo | 2°C (34°F) | 11°C (52°F) | 56 mm (2 in) |
Kyoto | 2°C (34°F) | 10°C (50°F) | 65 mm (3 in) |
Osaka | 3°C (38°F) | 11°C (51°F) | 60 mm (2 in) |
Hakone | 2°C (36°F) | 8°C (47°F) | 68 mm (3 in) |
Nara | -1°C (30°F) | 10°C (49°F) | 63 mm (3 in) |
Hiroshima | 2°C (36°F) | 11°C (52°F) | 64 mm (3 in) |
Okinawa | 14°C (58°F) | 19°C (67°F) | 58 mm (2 in) |
Sapporo and Northern Japan: Winter Sports

You can expect heavy snow in February on Hokkaido, Japan’s northern island. The snowy landscape and winter sports appeal to travelers, especially skiing lovers, while the festive atmosphere lights up the city of Sapporo.
Being in Sapporo’s peak season, crowds and higher prices are inevitable in February. So, early booking and avoiding weekends are helpful. With us, you enjoy 100% refund of any payments made to Asia Highlights prior to 3 weeks before departure (detail⇒).
Tokyo and Central Japan: Quieter Attractions

Most of central Japan remains cold and dry. The Japanese Alps are still covered by snow.
If you’re travelling to Tokyo and Kyoto, your trip is unlikely to be disrupted by the weather. Thanks to the cold weather, you’ll have quieter attractions, or even times to yourself, and save a bit on your budget.
Okinawa and Southern Japan: Warmer Winter Escapes
Unlike the north and central Japan, the (extreme) south has mild/warm and pleasant days. The earliest cherry blossom is already fully blooming in February.
Read more about How to Plan a Japan Winter Trip >>>




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Wonderful 10 day trip in Japan!!!
Well planned trip by Alisa . Everything was well scheduled, guides and drivers were excellent!! The cars were extremely comfortable and the hotel she chose for us was beautiful!! Enjoyed planning with her she was very professional and always offered other choices. More
Lianne Stone,
May 2023
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11 days trip to Japan
I am planning my trip to Japan in November with Sharon's help and she has provided amazing customer service.She is very responsive and put together very quickly an incredible plan for 11 days in Japan. She provided recommendations and made changes based on our interests and budget. She also provided information about visa restrictions and the best way to get tickets for transportation services. Thanks so much Sharon, looking forward to this trip! More
LE,
May 2023
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Japan trip
Hi Cathy! I just want to thank you for making our Japan trip so much fun & memorable! We loved everything that you had scheduled for us! All the guides and drivers were great & punctual! We love Japan so much that we’re planning to go back next year to different part of Japan! We’ll definitely contact Asia Highlights for our trip again! Serene More
Serene Storslett,
May 2023
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Quick, easy and detailed service
Alisa was our advisor from Asia highlights and she prepared for us a wonderful 28 day trip to Japan, taking into consideration our needs and desire not to be traveling everyday and to have a mixture of slow and busy days. We've not yet taken our trip, but very much looking forward to it Thank you Alisa for the quick response and wonderful itinerary More
Lynette Whittle,
Apr 2023
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Japan Tour
Sharon Huang did an excellent job in planningour 15 day Cherry Blossom Japan tour. Shewas available during our trip to answer our questions and readily agreed to the itinerary changes.Everything was arranged - accommodation,breakfast, guide, car, entrance fees and train tickets. The guides were knowledgeable, and managed the tour very efficiently. The drivers were punctual and very patient. We visited must see places in and near Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka and Hiroshima. We also got to experience Japanese Tea ceremony, Sushi making, Sake tasting, shopping etc.We highly recommend Asia Highlights for your travel needs. More
Madhu,
Apr 2023
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I organized a trip to Japan for my
I organized a trip to Japan for my parents who don’t speak English and Alisa was so amazing helping make an itinerary for them. They needed a Spanish guide and she coordinated everything so they wouldn’t have any trouble when they got there. She was so patient changing and adjusting the itinerary to their needs and wants, it’s been a total pleasure working with her and she always responds promptly to any question I have. I definitely recommend this company and if you can ask to work with Alisa. More
Luisa,
Apr 2023
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Trip to Japan. I have had the pleasure to book with…
For the reasons above, I decided to book again with Asia highlights for our trip to Japan this year in September. Until now it’s been a pleasure dealing with Albee Ning. She was so efficient and pleasant in adjusting our itinerary. Whenever I had any questions I could count on her to answer promptly. I am very lucky to have her as our organiser for our future trip to Japan. I have had the pleasure to book with Asia Highlights when we went to China in 2018. We were extremely satisfied with the exceptional services rendered by our organiser, Robert Hui and private guide William. More
Mrs Cristina Hidalgo Loris,
Apr 2023
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Albee Ning and Asia Highlights - wonderful to work with.
I and my daughter planned a trip to China and Japan. We worked with Albee Ning who was fantastic in developing a itinerary based on our desires and needs. She was extremely responsive, taking into account all of our requests and worked closely with us, it wasn't just selecting from one of several pre-developed itineraries. We decided to postpone the trip until next year and received the guaranteed refund, minus a small deposit on next years trip. We look forward to working with her again on next years trip and trips in the future. We highly recommend Asia Highlights and Albee Ning More
Nancy K,
Apr 2023
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Handcrafted tour of Japan by Asia Highlights
My initial inquiry to this company (based in China) was answered in under 10 hours by an amazing travel consultant, named Alisa. She is such a professional in the ways she conducts herself and serves her clients. Alisa is a great communicator and listener. She is very open to requests for additional experiences which require research on her part to arrange. Alisa also provides very detailed information about each experience, location, guides, private car transfers, trains, hotels. This approach is very appealing since detailed communication is so useful and important to me. Alisa also makes the process simple and easy to follow. Answered tons of questions and created the perfect tour for us. We are looking forward to this once in a lifetime visit to Japan and are so grateful we have had the chance to work with Alisa at Asia Highlights! More
Laurie Lee,
Feb 2023
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Great Overall Experience
Our guide in Tokyo, Fuki, was outstanding. We saw things we would never have otherwise seen, if Fuki had not been there. More
Todd Hankinson,
Dec 2022
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Plenty of options and personalized tours as needed
Monica Mo was very helpful from the beginning after I enquired about my travel plans to Japan. She listened with understanding and took careful notes and clarified things to make sure she got everything. More
Ginybel Belgira,
Sep 2022
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Asia Highlights especially Ms. Kanae Chida superb
Asia Highlights and particularly our Tokyo guide, Ms. Kanae Chida, were the best. When Kanae met us, she asked for details of what we wished to see and she constructed an outstanding combination of visits for the day. More
Geoff Rayner-Canham,
May 2019
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I have arranged a 27 day tour of China, Japan and Hong Kong China
Peggie's English is impeccable and she uses lots of nuances which usually only a native English speaker would know. I have found her very prompt in responding to emails and her knowledge is terrific. More
Ailsa West,
Jul 2018
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Very professional, great customer service
We travelled to Japan this May (2018). We had contacted Asia Highlights to organise our trip for us. Miss Peggie Lyoo was very helpful, super-friendly, very professional and very prompt with all her replies! More
Tibor Marton,
May 2018
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Great job!
Great job!! We had an amazing vacation to Japan. We will use Asian highlights for all of our trips to Asia More
Joe,
May 2018
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Trip-of-a-lifetime
In addition, I want to specifically mention the guides provided in certain locations. Rum, in Siem Reap, made the most memorable experience possible. His positivity was contagious - even when it felt like 1000 degrees and we were tired. He brought it all to life, and created a couple days of Ankor Wat, etc. that we will never forget! He heard my daughter's request for specific Cambodian food, and changed our itinerary to go to a village and eat at a locally known shop. He brought the dessert she asked about to us in the car! Overall, he and his driver "Lucky" were a reason to go to Siem Reap. In addition, the other guides (minus one which was switched out immediately) were stupendous. Mon in Bangkok was friendly and provided a great day there; Eak in Chiang Mai gave us a world-class food-tour and day touring the city and its surrounding temples with lots of laughs; Tommy in Hanoi kept us from getting killed in the traffic and gave a stupendous food and architecture/history tour - so very friendly and funny; the fishing village tour in Hoi An, as well as the side-car tour in Saigon, were both unforgettable! Thank you Sharon, and Asia Highlights. Would definitely use again for future trips! More
Teri Simpson,
Apr 2023
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Cambodia and Vietnam adventure!
Our guide in Cambodia, Meas Darapolaith (Pol), was absolutely amazing. He was knowledgeable, friendly and so helpful. His English was excellent and he shared important insights about history and the magnificent sites we visited. We highly recommend him! More
Jennifer Roth Krieger,
Apr 2023
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My daughter and I wanted to discover SE…
My daughter and I wanted to discover SE Asia. Being the first in that region, we wanted to use a tour service company. We ended up using Asia Highlights. From the beginning we were impressed with their services. We left home with of mind because all the pre-travel arrangements were taking care and communicate to us efficiently. All our questions were answered promptly. Once in the countries, we were welcome by our excellent tour guides. Everything was taking care for us. We did not have one issue. They selected the right tours guides for us, they were highly knowledgeable and so much attentive to our needs. We had Dhat in Vietnam and Borin in Siem Reap, Cambodia. I highly recommend Asia Highlights. I came back home so much rested, and with plenty of wonderful pictures and memories. I will definitely use Asia Highlights again for my next trip to Asia. More
Isabelle Dessaux,
Apr 2023
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Fabulous tour and guide in Cambodia
We have been touring Cambodia, guided by Borin ( and driver 007) for the last 2 days. What a fabulous experience! Borin has been a wonderful guide, the best so far in Southeast Asia, explaining the history and culture of Cambodia through his tours of the temples in and around Angkor, as well as the Landmine museum. He has answered all our questions, made sure we were comfortable, and that we have had great food. 007 made sure we always had enough water and cool towels for our face/neck.We highly recommend Borin as a tour guide for Cambodia!! More
Monica,
Mar 2023
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Best Travel Service for Asia Travel
Alisa Liu was in charge of making the arrangements and she helped us from the start to make all of the arrangements and also helped us when we had questions and requested some adjustments. Her service is of the highest professional level. We are 100% confident that our trip will be perfect. We’re also 100% confident that, if anything comes up during our trip, that Alisa will be there to guide us through and take care of us. We won’t even consider using another agency for travel around Asia and we would like to have Alisa work for us again. More
Leo Pospichal,
Mar 2023
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5 Best Places to Visit in Japan in February

1. Hakone: Indulge in a Hot Spring
Just 1½ hours’ drive from Tokyo, Hakone is a perfect winter getaway, known for Japan’s best hot springs.
For some authentic cultural experiences, stay overnight in a traditional Japanese inn (a ryokan) with hot springs. If possible, try the outdoor baths. What could be better than bathing in a steaming hot spring as the snow falls around you?
On clear days, taking the Hakone Ropeway or a Hakone Lake cruise is a great way to get views of Mount Fuji...
2. Hokkaido: Go for Winter Activities
In February, Hokkaido becomes a snowy world. With the best powder snow, Sapporo is on the top of adventure lovers’ bucket lists.
Look for something thrilling? Go for a drift ice walking tour! Take an icebreaker, try drift ice bathing, spot wild animals (like eagles and seals), and enjoy the sunset over drift ice.
Even if you’re not big on winter sports, you may find a journey to the north worth it for the impressive snow scenery and atmospheric festivals. The beauty of Sapporo Snow Festival (Feb. 4–11, 2023) and Otaru Snow Light Path (Feb. 11–18, 2023) will never disappoint.
3. Kyoto: Encounter Plum Blossom in an Ancient City

The temperature gets up to around 10°C (50°F) in February in Kyoto. It might snow occasionally. The ancient city of Kyoto doesn’t lose its charm in the cold weather.
Watch Setsubun rituals (celebrating spring’s coming), encounter geisha in the old streets, and have photo opportunities with fully-blooming plum trees...
If the cold weather is not too much of a challenge for you, you can enjoy having the attractions to yourself and paying lower prices.
Get more information about How to Plan a Trip to Kyoto (Couples, Families, First Timers…) >>>
4. Tokyo: Take in the Winter Illuminations

Tokyo in February remains dry and sunny with a temperature high averaging 11°C (52°F).
Winter illuminations make Tokyo a romantic city, especially for celebrating Valentine’s Day.
As home to anime and manga, the warm anime-themed museums and shops are great escapes from the cold weather. A sushi cooking class is a friendly way to have closer contact with locals.
5. Okinawa: Catch the Earliest Cherry Blossoms
Okinawa is one of Japan’s warmest places in February, averaging highs of 19°C (67°F). With warmer weather, Okinawa welcomes spring earlier than other cities.
Appreciate stunning cherry flowers, walk on beautiful beaches, and explore historic castles...
Although February is not the peak time for water activities, it is ideal for spotting whales.
Costs and Crowding in February
Being one of the best times for skiing, February sees most Japan travelers in Hokkaido. If you’re going for winter sports, you can expect higher prices and more crowds than usual. Early booking is advisable for a better chance of availability and choices.
For other popular destinations (Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto…), you would have a more tranquil experience at the attractions. You could also take advantage of lower prices and more hotel choices.
What to Pack in February
Since the average daily temperature only gets up to around 10°C (50°F), you’re suggested to take winter clothing, such as winter jackets, down coats, hats, gloves, thick socks, long-sleeved shirts...
If you’re visiting even-colder northern Japan (Hokkaido), heavier clothes (or specialist clothes for winter sports) are helpful.
Monthly Weather and Travel Information for Japan
Learn about the weather in Japan for 12 months and find out the best places to visit each month.Japan in January | Japan in February | Japan in March |
Japan in April | Japan in May | Japan in June |
Japan in July | Japan in August | Japan in September |
Japan in October | Japan in November | Japan in December |
Touring Japan with Asia Highlights
Planning a February getaway to Japan? If so, contact us to create a customized itinerary based on your interest and time. At Asia Highlights, we created over 10,000+ big trips for insightful travelers, especially for families and couples.
Get inspiration from the below sample itineraries:
Why Travel with Asia Highlights (98.8% positive customer reviews among 10,000+)
- Unique experiences tailored to your interests: Enjoy a premium trip that goes beyond the typical tourist attractions.
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Get Inspired with Our Sample Itineraries
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