February in Japan is a distinctive transitional period. Snow still blankets the northern regions and mountainous areas, while in milder zones, flowers begin to bloom earlier than expected. It is also a peak season for winter festivals, ranging from small local events to large-scale celebrations attracting millions of visitors. If you want to experience a side of Japan beyond the familiar spring imagery, February is well worth considering.

1. Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival

Dates: February 7 – March 8, 2026
Location: Kawazu Town, Izu Peninsula, Shizuoka Prefecture

Kawazu-zakura is an early-blooming cherry variety with larger petals and a deeper pink hue than the more common Yoshino cherry. Along the Kawazu River, cherry trees line the banks for several kilometers, with walking paths and local stalls below. February’s cool air and overcast winter skies make the pink blossoms stand out vividly, creating a very different atmosphere from late-March cherry blossom season. Kawazu is accessible as a day trip from Tokyo.

2. Setsubun Festival – Driving Away Misfortune

Date: February 3, 2026
Location: Nationwide

Setsubun marks the day before the beginning of spring in Japan’s traditional calendar. At temples and shrines, people participate in mamemaki, the ritual of throwing roasted soybeans to ward off evil spirits and invite good fortune. Some major temples host large events where monks or celebrities throw beans from raised platforms. The festival is simple in form but deeply rooted in everyday Japanese culture.

3. Sapporo Snow Festival

Dates: February 4 – February 11, 2026
Location: Sapporo City, Hokkaido

One of the world’s most famous winter festivals, the Sapporo Snow Festival is known for its massive snow and ice sculptures. The main exhibition areas, especially Odori Park, transform into open-air galleries. During the day, visitors can appreciate the scale and craftsmanship of the sculptures; at night, lighting highlights their shapes and textures. The city becomes extremely busy during this period, but the winter atmosphere is unmatched.

4. Yokote Kamakura Festival

Dates: February 13 – 14, 2026
Location: Yokote City, Akita Prefecture

Kamakura are small snow huts built throughout the city, traditionally containing altars and space for people to sit inside. After sunset, hundreds of these snow huts are illuminated, creating a quiet, distinctive winter landscape typical of the Tohoku region. Visitors are often invited inside to warm up, enjoy hot sake, or eat mochi, offering a glimpse into local winter life.

5. Skiing and Snowboarding

February offers some of the best snow conditions in Japan. Snowfall is consistent, with dry, powdery snow ideal for both beginners and experienced riders. Ski resorts in regions such as Hokkaido, Nagano, and Niigata feature modern lift systems, rental services, and well-developed resort facilities, drawing winter sports enthusiasts from around the world.

6. Nagasaki Lantern Festival

Dates: February 6 – February 23, 2026
Location: Chinatown, Nagasaki City

Held to celebrate Lunar New Year, the Nagasaki Lantern Festival features over 15,000 lanterns displayed throughout Chinatown, nearby parks, and along the river. After dark, the entire area glows with warm light, creating a lively and colorful atmosphere. In addition to lantern viewing, visitors can enjoy lion dances, traditional performances, and a wide range of Chinese-influenced local cuisine.

7. Hirosaki Castle Snow Lantern Festival

Dates: February 6 – February 11, 2026
Location: Hirosaki Park, Aomori Prefecture

Snow lanterns and small snow sculptures are placed throughout the grounds surrounding Hirosaki Castle. Candlelight reflects softly on the snow, combined with the historic silhouette of the castle. Compared to larger winter festivals, this event is quieter and more contemplative, focusing on atmosphere rather than spectacle.

8. Baikasai Plum Blossom Festival

Date: February 25
Location: Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, Kyoto

Plum blossoms bloom earlier than cherry blossoms and are known for their subtle colors and distinct fragrance. At Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, the plum grove reaches full bloom in late February. A highlight of Baikasai is the outdoor tea ceremony hosted by geisha and maiko, held within the shrine grounds and deeply reflective of Kyoto’s traditional aesthetics.

PBJP Travel specializes in designing private tours for families & small groups from 1 to 50 guests. Private car service with pick-up and drop-off in Japan, Korea, Taiwan and Vietnam.

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