The coldest month in many places: snow festivals in Hokkaido, plum blossom starting in the south and dry, sunny days in Tokyo.

| City | Average high | Average low |
|---|---|---|
| Sapporo | 0°C | -6°C |
| Tokyo | 11°C | 2°C |
| Osaka | 10°C | 3°C |
| Fukuoka | 12°C | 5°C |
| Okinawa (Naha) | 20°C | 15°C |
Rounded averages from the Japan Meteorological Agency (1991–2020). Actual weather varies from year to year: check the live forecast before you go.
Freezing and snowy; the Sapporo Snow Festival takes place in early February.
Very snowy; Aomori and the Tohoku mountains have their deepest snow.
Cold, dry and sunny; plum blossom begins in mid to late February.
Cold mornings and clear days; plum blossom at Kitano Tenmangu in Kyoto.
Mild for winter; plum blossom at Dazaifu near Fukuoka.
Around 20°C; cherry blossom season in the north of the main island.

Winter coat, warm layers, gloves and a hat; snow boots for the north.
Sapporo Snow Festival, Otaru Snow Light Path, plum blossom, and quiet temples with fewer visitors.
Snowstorms in Hokkaido and on the Sea of Japan side can stop flights and trains for a day.
The coldest month in many places: snow festivals in Hokkaido, plum blossom starting in the south and dry, sunny days in Tokyo.
Winter coat, warm layers, gloves and a hat; snow boots for the north.
On average about 11°C in the day and 2°C at night.
