9 Best Things to Do in Kyoto in February

If you’re going to take the time to travel, you’ll want to include things in your itinerary that you can only see or experience during that specific time of year. This time, we will introduce the February conditions, events, and recommended spots in Kyoto for those who are planning to visit.

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About Kyoto in February

Temperature

February in Kyoto is cold, but there are days when you can see snow. The average temperature is around 5 degrees Celsius, so it’s important to prepare warm clothing.

Events

In February, many events centered around Setsubun are held in Kyoto. The Setsubun festivals at “Yoshida Shrine”, “Mibudera Temple”, and “Kitano Tenmangu Shrine” are particularly famous. You can enjoy traditional rituals such as driving away demons and bean throwing.

Travel

February is a relatively less crowded time for tourism in Kyoto, allowing you to enjoy a more tranquil atmosphere. It’s an excellent opportunity to appreciate the quiet and beautiful winter scenery.

February Fashion

While it’s important to have cold-weather gear for February in Kyoto, it’s also crucial to wear comfortable clothing to enjoy sightseeing. Be sure to bring warm coats, sweaters, gloves, and scarves.

Participate in Unique February Events

Kyoto in February hosts a variety of special events. With numerous festivals and ceremonies, including Setsubun, it’s worth visiting. Here, we introduce three particularly recommended events.

Setsubun Festival at YoshidaJinja Shrine

The Setsubun festival at “Yoshida Shrine” in Sakyo Ward, Kyoto City, is one of the most famous Setsubun events in Kyoto. It takes place from February 2nd to 4th, and is packed with attractions. Around 800 stalls line the approach to the shrine, bustling with visitors.

Setsubun Festival at Mibudera Temple

The Setsubun festival at “Mibudera Temple” in Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto City, is held over three days from February 2nd to 4th, featuring performances of “Setsubun” and bean throwing. The exorcism fire ritual and good fortune talisman are also popular.

Setsubun Festival at Kitano Tenmangu Shrine

At “Kitano Tenmangu Shrine” in Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto City, the Setsubun festival and “Tsuina” ceremony are held on February 3rd. Highlights include the exorcism play “Kitano Tsuina Kyogen” and Japanese dance performed by geiko and maiko from Kamishichiken, as well as bean throwing. Amulets and charms for warding off misfortune and bringing good luck are also available.

Visit Famous Plum Blossom Spots

In February, the plum blossoms in Kyoto begin to bloom beautifully. Here are three particularly recommended plum blossom spots.

Aotani Plum Grove

“Aotani Plum Grove” is located in Joyo City and is known as a famous plum blossom spot. The “Plum Festival” is held from late February to late March, featuring stalls selling plum products and local specialties, as well as concerts and dance performances.

Umenomiya Taisha Shrine

At “Umenomiya Taisha Shrine” in Ukyo Ward, Kyoto City, about 400 plum trees bloom from mid-February to mid-March. You can also see rare varieties such as “Omoi-no-mama” which blooms with both red and white flowers on a single tree. The shrine is also known for its blessings for childbirth and safe delivery.

Jonangu Shrine

The garden at “Jonangu Shrine” in Fushimi Ward, Kyoto City, is known as the “Garden of Flowers in The Tale of Genji”. From mid-February to mid-March, the “Weeping Plum and Camellia Festival” is held. The red and white weeping plums are spectacular, and the entire garden is beautifully adorned with flowers.

Visit Unique Winter Scenic Spots

Kyoto in February also boasts numerous scenic spots unique to winter. Here, we introduce three particularly recommended spots.

Kinkaku-ji Temple

“Kinkaku-ji Temple” (officially known as Rokuon-ji Temple) in Kita Ward, Kyoto City, is a must-see if you visit Kyoto in winter. The sight of snow on the roof is breathtaking. It’s especially recommended to visit early in the morning.

KifuneJinja Shrine

“Kifune Shrine” is a mystical place that enshrines the god of water. In winter, there’s a limited-time snow illumination event. The combination of snow and illumination creates a romantic and beautiful scene.

Kodai-ji Temple

At “Kodai-ji Temple” in Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto City, the “Yotoboshi” event is held from mid-January to early March. The tea ceremony held in a candle-lit space offers a fantastical atmosphere different from usual.