As Tokyo embraces winter, February unfolds into a captivating blend of traditional celebrations, seasonal festivals, and exciting events in the bustling metropolis. Regardless of whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, food lover, or cultural connoisseur, each individual can discover something extraordinary. Come along as we delve into a diverse array of activities, ensuring your February trip to Tokyo is an unforgettable experience.
Setsubun
Photo Credit: Zojoji Temple
Setsubun Mamemaki Festival: Banish Misfortune, Welcome Good Fortune
On February 3rd, 2024, Zōjōji Temple hosts the Setsubun Mamemaki Festival, a traditional ceremony to ward off disasters and bring good fortune. Watch men and women born in the current year’s Chinese zodiac don samurai garb for a lively bean-flinging ceremony against the backdrop of the tan lacquered Sangedatsumon gate. Experience mochi pounding, demon questions and answers sessions, and Setsubun bean throwing in this vibrant celebration of Japanese traditions.
Admission: Free
Date: February 3rd
Times: TBD
Location: Zōjōji Temple
Website: Zōjōji Temple Setsubun Mamemaki
Plum Blossoms
Photo Credit: yamasa-n on Unsplash
Setagaya Plum Festival 2024: A Symphony of Plum Blossoms
From February 10th to March 3rd, 2024, Setagaya’s Hanegi Park will become a floral haven during the Setagaya Plum Festival. With 650 plum trees, including red and white varieties, the park hosts traditional Japanese tea ceremonies, amazake tasting, and hands-on arts and crafts activities. Amidst cherry blossoms and azalea bushes, this festival provides a delightful celebration of early spring’s natural beauty.
Admission: Free to attend; price varies depending on participation
Date: February 10 – March 3
Times: TBD
Location: Setagaya Ward Hanegi Park, 4-38-52 Daita, Setagaya-ku
Website: Setagaya Plum Festival
Tokyo Romantic Market
Photo Credit: Tokyo Romantic Market
Tokyo Romantic Market: A Vintage Affair in the Heart of Tokyo
For vintage enthusiasts, the Tokyo Romantic Market is a must-visit flea market held in the gardens of Shibuya Garden Tower on February 11th and 25th, 2024. Over 100 shops showcase antiques, vintage items, handicrafts, accessories, fine art, organic foods, and plants. Explore Japanese, Chinese, European, American, and global treasures in this charming green oasis in the heart of Shibuya.
Admission: Free to attend; price varies depending on participation
Date: February 11th; February 25th
Times: 10:00 – 16:00
Location: Nanpeidaicho16-17 Shibuya-ku Tokyo
Website: https://tokyo-romantic.com/
Interstyle Banner
Photo Credit: INFOVISION Co.,Ltd.
INTERSTYLE 2024: Action Sports Extravaganza
From February 13th to 15th, 2024, INTERSTYLE, Japan’s largest action sports and outdoor trade show, takes over PACIFICO Yokohama. Evolving from its origins in surfing, skateboarding, and snowboarding, the 20th-anniversary edition broadens its scope to include outdoor gear, fashion, gadgets, and more. Don’t miss USER DAY, a chance for direct sales to consumers, offering a unique opportunity for industry enthusiasts and curious visitors alike to engage directly with experts in the field.
Admission: Free; Pre-Registration needed to enter
Date: February 13th – February 15th
Times: 10:00 – 18:00 (Last Day – 17:00)
Location: PACIFICO Yokohama (D-Hall 6,700㎡), 1-1-1, Minato Mirai, Nishi-ku, Yokohama, Japan
Website: INTERSTYLE
SAKANA & JAPAN FESTIVAL
Photo Credit: SAKANA & JAPAN FESTIVAL Executive Committee
Sakana & Japan Festival 2024: A Seafood Lover’s Paradise
Indulge your taste buds from February 22nd to 25th, 2024, at Yoyogi Park during the Sakana & Japan Festival. Sponsored by the Sakana & Japan Festival Executive Committee, this event features around 80 booths offering delicacies like tuna, salmon, sea urchin, and crab. The festival showcases not only Japanese dishes but international flavors, supporting Fukushima’s fishing industry with the “Discover! Fukushima Fish Festival.”
Admission: Free to attend; price varies depending on participation
Date: February 22nd – February 25th
Times: Varies by day (Check the official website for details)
Location: Yoyogi Park Event Square, 2-3 Jinnan, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 150-0041
Website: Sakana & Japan Festival
Somenokomichi 2024 Recruiting
Photo Credit: Chikako Nimori
Some no Komichi: Dyeing and Screen Printing Festival
Experience the art of dyeing and screen printing in Shinjuku Ward’s Nakai/Ochiai area from February 23rd to 25th, 2024, during the scaled-back Some no Komichi festival. Celebrating dyeing heritage, the festival decorates the shopping area with 95 specially produced noren, offering a unique cultural experience. With a “River Gallery” above the Myōshōji River and a focus on revitalizing the area, Some no Komichi brings together tradition and contemporary artistry.
Admission: Free to attend; price varies depending on participation
Date: February 23rd – February 25th
Times: TBD
Location: Exact location TBD; Ochiai/Nakai area, Shinjuku Ward
Website: https://www.somenokomichi.com/2024news
In the heart of Tokyo’s February festivities, a captivating blend of action sports, cultural traditions, and culinary delights awaits visitors. From the dynamic INTERSTYLE trade show to the blossoming beauty of Setagaya Plum Festival, each event offers a unique glimpse into Tokyo’s diverse offerings. Sakana & Japan Festival tantalizes taste buds with an array of seafood delights, while Some no Komichi seamlessly intertwines heritage and contemporary artistry. Concluding the month, Tokyo Romantic Market invites vintage enthusiasts to explore treasures in the green oasis of Shibuya. Tokyo in February promises an unforgettable journey through the city’s rich tapestry of experiences.
Feature photo credit: Luis Benito on Unsplash
On a trip to Tokyo? Book your local guide to learn more about Japanese food and culture.
