Tokyo Weather in February

Cold, clear city days

February feels like proper winter in Tokyo. Afternoons reach about 10°C, while mornings and evenings can fall to 2°C. It's often bright enough for temple visits and city walks, but the cold can catch you when you stop to look around. Rain falls on several days, so keep indoor plans handy.

You can explore Asakusa's Senso-ji, browse shops in Ginza or warm up in a museum. Long outdoor stretches feel less appealing after sunset, and beach time isn't the draw this month. If rain sets in, spend the afternoon around Tokyo Station's underground shops instead.

Setsubun and plum blossoms

Setsubun, held around the start of February, brings bean-throwing ceremonies to temples and shrines. Zojoji Temple near Tokyo Tower is one well-known place to see the ritual. The beans are meant to drive away bad luck.

Plum blossoms appear before cherry blossoms, with Yushima Tenjin Shrine a popular spot for them. Their timing varies, so the flowers may not be at their best during your visit. National Foundation Day and the Emperor's Birthday also fall in February; expect some domestic travel around public holidays.

Quieter, with a local tip

February is generally calmer than Tokyo's spring cherry-blossom season, and hotel prices are often easier on your budget than during peak spring. It's still a busy city, though, and holiday weekends can bring more visitors to major sights.

If you hate crowds, visit Senso-ji on a weekday rather than during a holiday. For an easy warm-up nearby, try tempura soba in Asakusa: buckwheat noodles served in hot broth with fried tempura. You'll be glad of it after a chilly walk along Nakamise-dori.