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Planning a trip to Tokyo in February? Amazing!
February is a great time to visit Japan’s capital if you want to avoid the crowds (though we can never completely avoid them in Tokyo). Most people wait until March to come for the cherry blossom season which means that February is usually a lot quieter.
That having been said, it is the middle of winter in Japan which means you should expect cold temperatures.
I found it quite hard to pack for my trip to Tokyo in February because it’s difficult to know what to wear and adapt to the weather, especially if you are visiting at the end of the month when it transitions to spring.
You will find below everything you need to know so you can pack for your trip to Tokyo in February.
What is the Weather Like in Tokyo in February?
Tokyo in February is typically cool and dry, with average temperatures ranging from 2°C to 11°C (35°F to 52°F). While mornings and evenings are cold, daytime temperatures are often milder, especially when the sun is out.
Rainfall is minimal, with only a few wet days in the month, so it’s unlikely you’ll face much rain. Snow is rare in Tokyo but not impossible, especially in the surrounding regions.
As a general rule, it’s fair to assume that it will be cold and dry so dressing in layers is the key to staying comfortable.
A few things to know about Tokyo in February
Before we get to the packing list, there are a few things I think you should know. This will help you understand what to expect so you can pack accordingly.
- It is very cold. While it’s true that when the sun is out, it can get warmer, it is still mainly cold so you should be prepared for that.
- You will walk a lot. Tokyo is huge and even if you take public transport, you will still walk a lot so it’s important to wear warm and comfortable shoes.
- It is mainly dry so you don’t need clothes particularly waterproof but thermal layers are great to have.
- Tokyo is a city so you don’t need hiking shoes but depending on what you have planned for the rest of the trip (yes looking at you Mount Fuji), you may need some more outdoorsy clothes.
- If you go to the seaside it might be warmer and you won’t need as many layers so don’t pack a coat that is overly bulky.
- You will use your phone a lot (mainly for navigation and translation) so having touchscreen gloves and a power bank is handy.
Essential Packing List for Tokyo in February
Clothing
- Winter Coat: This is the most important piece of clothing in this list because that’s the outside layer that will really protect you. For Tokyo only, a wool coat is ideal but I also recommend a puff jacket or a parka with faux fur. If you are visiting at the beginning of the month, opt for something warmer. If you are visiting at the end of February, a lighter one will work well because it gets warm during the day but cold at night.
- Sweaters and Cardigans: Bring warm knits for layering, perfect for wearing under your coat or alone in heated indoor spaces. Fleeces and wool sweaters are ideal.
- Long-Sleeved Tops: To wear under your sweater.
- Heat-Tech Layers: thermal layers are very handy in Japan. You can get them online before you go or simply go to Uniqlo when you get to Tokyo.
- Jeans and Trousers: Comfortable options like jeans or wool pants are practical for sightseeing.
- Fleece-lined leggings: While it’s true that Japanese people don’t really wear leggings, I found that it was the best type of trousers I could wear. The fleece inside keeps you very warm and it’s super comfortable.
- Winter dresses and skirts: If you prefer wearing dresses than trousers, that’s also an option but opt for knit dresses with thick tights.
- Pajamas (optional): Most accommodations in Japan will give you a nightgown and they are honestly so comfortable (I’ll admit, it’s not the best look but they are comfortable) so if you want to wear your own pajamas, take them but it’s not necessary.
- Underwear and Socks: Thermal socks can come in handy but not necessary.
Shoes
- Comfortable Ankle Boots: Flat leather ankle boots are perfect for Tokyo. I recommend to wear some with thick soles because you will be walking a lot so it’s more comfortable
- Sneakers: Shoes like Nike Air Force are ideal. I loved wearing mine in Tokyo.
- Timberland boots: These were my favourite shoes to wear in Tokyo because they look good with everything, are very comfortable and warm and provide good support.
Bags
- Crossbody Bag or money belt: This is practical to keep your valuables such as money, passport and phones handy and secure. While Japan is not known for its pickpockets, it is crowded so that kind of bag is practical.
- Day backpack: You will be walking around a lot and need to carry water and potentially layers. Also, bear in mind that there are no bins in Tokyo which means that you have to carry your rubbish around so having a small backpack with a plastic bag is very practical.
Accessories
- Scarf
- Gloves: ideally touchscreen ones.
- Hat: A beanie will keep you warm, especially in the evening.
- Face Mask: Most people in Tokyo wear face masks, especially in public transport so I would recommend having at least one with you.
- Sunglasses: While it’s winter, Tokyo is still very sunny and sunglasses come in handy.
- Moisturizer and Lip Balm: The dry winter air can be harsh on the skin so hand cream and lip balm are great to have.
Electronics
- Universal Adapter: Japan uses Type A and Type B plugs. You can get a Japanese adapter but I recommend an international one so you can use it during your future travels.
- Power Bank
- Camera or Smartphone
Paperwork
- Passport
- Travel Insurance
- Hotel Reservations and Tickets
- Transportation Card: Purchase a Suica or Pasmo card when you get to the airport.
- Bank card and cash: Most places accept cards but I found that having cash was very useful especially for street food.
GOOD TO KNOW: Most places in Japan don’t let you split the bill so if you are travelling with friends, it’s handy to have some cash so you can work it out yourself. Otherwise, one of you will have to pay for the entire bill.
What to Wear in Tokyo in February Depending on the Weather
☀️ Sunny Days
- Outerwear: A wool coat.
- Outfit: Thermal top layered with a sweater, paired with jeans or trousers.
- Shoes: Comfortable sneakers or ankle boots.
- Accessories: Sunglasses, scarf, and gloves.
☁️ Cloudy Days
- Outerwear: A parka with a faux fur hood.
- Outfit: Sweater dress with thermal tights.
- Shoes: Ankle boots
- Accessories: Scarf, gloves, and a beanie
❄️ Snowy or Extra Cold Days
- Outerwear: A puffer coat.
- Outfit: Heat-Tech base layers, a thick sweater, and fleece lined trousers or jeans.
- Shoes: Knee high boots
- Accessories: Wool scarf, gloves, and a warm hat.
Things Not to Wear in Tokyo in February
- Light Jackets: Not warm enough for Tokyo’s winter temperatures.
- High Heels: Tokyo involves a lot of walking, so prioritize comfortable shoes.
- Summer Clothing: Leave shorts, sandals, and lightweight dresses at home—it’s too cold for those.
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