February in Tokyo is a quiet gem. The New Year crowds have faded, winter skies are crisp and clear, and the city settles into a calmer rhythm that rewards curious travelers. You will find seasonal traditions, early signs of spring, and fewer lines at major attractions. If you enjoy culture, food, and atmosphere as much as sightseeing, February is an excellent time to explore Tokyo.
Shimokitazawa Tengu Festival – Photo Credit: kuremo
Shimokitazawa Tengu Festival
Shimokitazawa’s Tengu Festival brings a lively street vibe to one of Tokyo’s most beloved neighborhoods. Tengu (天狗) are mythical long-nosed spirits believed to bring good fortune. During this festival, costumed participants and locals stroll the streets, spreading lucky beans and enjoying food stalls and music.
Date: January 30 ~ February 1, 2026
Where: Shimokitazawa
Website: https://shimokita1ban.com/tengufestival94/
Price: Free
Tip: This event pairs perfectly with Setsubun but offers a more casual, local feel for exploring small businesses and quirky side streets.
Toyokawa Inari Tokyo Betsuin – Photo Credit: Ilona Bradacova
Hatsuuma Festival at Inari Shrines
Hatsuuma (初午) is a Shinto observance dedicated to Inari, the deity of prosperity, agriculture, and business success. Shrines associated with Inari hold special ceremonies, and visitors offer prayers for success, good harvests, and thriving enterprises. Shrines are decorated with vibrant red banners and fox statues, which are messengers of Inari.
Date: February 1, 2026 (first Day of the Horse; date varies by year because it is not a universally fixed Gregorian date)
Recommended location:
- Toyokawa Inari Tokyo Betsuin
Google Maps: https://maps.google.com/?q=Toyokawa+Inari+Tokyo
Website: http://www.toyokawainari-tokyo.jp/english/
Tip: Many local businesses visit on this day, making it a fascinating glimpse into spiritual life tied to commerce.
People at Ōji Inari Shrine during the Kite Market – Photo Credit: Uino
Kite Market
One of Tokyo’s oldest February-only traditions is the Kite Market, known locally as Tako-ichi (凧市). This event dates back to the Edo period (1603~1868). In those days, fires were common in wooden Edo, and people believed kites could ward off fires because their soaring movement symbolically cut through winds that could fuel blazes.
Today, stalls line the approach to the shrine, selling handmade kites and street food. Locals and visitors alike come to purchase fire-prevention kites (hibuse-no-tako) as both talismans and decorative keepsakes.
Dates: February 1, February 13, and February 25 (Days of the Horse; date varies by year because it is not a universally fixed Gregorian date)
Where: Ōji Inari Shrine
Hours: 10:00~18:00 (approx.)
Cost: Free entry; kites are typically available for purchase
Website: https://kanko.city.kita.lg.jp/event/593-2/
Tip: The market may occur two or three times in February, depending on how many “Days of the Horse” fall in the month.
Throwing beans – Photo Credit: Kazuno William Empson
Setsubun
Setsubun (節分) is one of Tokyo’s most lively early February events. The festival centers on ritual bean throwing to symbolically drive away misfortune and welcome good luck for the coming year. Major temples and shrines host public ceremonies, often featuring monks, celebrities, or sumo wrestlers. Visitors are welcome to watch or participate, making this an accessible cultural experience even for first-time travelers.
Date: February 3, 2026
Recommended locations:
- Sensō-ji
Google Maps: https://maps.google.com/?q=Senso-ji
Website: https://www.senso-ji.jp - Zojo-ji
Google Maps: https://maps.google.com/?q=Zojoji+Temple
Website: https://www.zojoji.or.jp
Tip: Arrive early for popular temples, as crowds gather quickly despite February being a quieter travel month.
Japan International Orchid and Flower Show – Photo Credit: PAUL ATKINSON
Japan International Orchid and Flower Show
Held annually at Tokyo Dome City, the Japan International Orchid and Flower Show is one of Japan’s largest floral exhibitions. Thousands of orchids and seasonal flowers are displayed in elaborate arrangements, alongside competitions, workshops, and specialty booths. The warm indoor setting makes this an ideal winter event, combining horticulture, art, and design.
Dates: February 5 ~ 11, 2026
Where: Tokyo Dome City, Prism Hall
Website: https://www.event-td.com/orchid/
Tip: Recommended for flower lovers, photographers, and travelers looking for a seasonal indoor attraction.
Items displayed at a flea market – Photo Credit: blew_s
Tokyo Romantic Flea Market
Held on the second and fourth Sundays of each month, the Tokyo Romantic Flea Market is a popular open-air market featuring antiques, vintage clothing, handmade goods, plants, and artisanal food. February’s cool weather makes browsing especially pleasant.
Dates: February 8 and February 22, 2026
Where: Sumitomo Real Estate Shibuya Garden Tower
Hours: Approximately 10:00~16:00
Cost: Free entry
Website: https://tokyo-romantic.com/
Tip: Atmosphere is casual, creative, and community-focused, with a strong local following.
Plum blossoms – Photo Credit: jirobkk
Plum Blossom Viewing
Plum blossoms, known as ume (梅, Japanese plum), are among the first flowers to bloom each year and are deeply associated with resilience and renewal. Their soft fragrance and delicate colors contrast beautifully with Tokyo’s winter scenery. Unlike cherry blossom season, plum blossom viewing is calm and reflective, perfect for slow walks and photography.
Recommended spots:
- Yushima Tenjin
Google Maps: https://maps.google.com/?q=Yushima+Tenjin
Website: https://www.yushimatenjin.or.jp - Koishikawa Korakuen
Google Maps: https://maps.google.com/?q=Koishikawa+Korakuen
Website: https://www.tokyo-park.or.jp/park/format/index030.html
Tip: Yushima Tenjin is associated with academic success, so you may see students visiting to pray for good fortune.
Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building – Photo Credit: Fumiaki Hayashi
Clear Winter Observation Decks
Tokyo’s winter air offers some of the clearest views of the year. On especially crisp days, Mount Fuji may be visible from higher elevations.
Recommended viewpoints:
- Tokyo Skytree
Google Maps: https://maps.google.com/?q=Tokyo+Skytree
Website: https://www.tokyo-skytree.jp - Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Observation Deck
Google Maps: https://maps.google.com/?q=Tokyo+Metropolitan+Government+Building
Website: https://www.yokoso.metro.tokyo.lg.jp
Tip: Morning tends to offer the best visibility before haze develops.
Traveling in Tokyo – Photo Credit: Kvnga
Practical Travel Tips for February 2026
- Weather: Cool and dry. A warm coat and layers are sufficient.
- Crowds: Low to moderate, except during Setsubun events.
- Costs: February is off-peak, often offering better hotel availability and pricing.
- Transportation: Winter weather rarely disrupts trains or flights.
Tokyo at night – Photo Credit: Mike Swigunski
Why February Is an Underrated Time to Visit Tokyo
February reveals Tokyo in a quieter, more thoughtful mood. Seasonal rituals, early blossoms, and winter comfort foods offer insight into how the city transitions toward spring. Without peak-season crowds, you can engage more deeply with local culture and daily life. If you enjoy meaningful travel experiences with room to explore at your own pace, Tokyo in February is an excellent choice.
Please note: Event dates, times, and details are subject to change, sometimes with little or no notice. We recommend checking the official websites or social media channels of each venue or event organizer for the most up-to-date information before you visit.
Featured Photo Credit: lydiarei
