February in Osaka marks the quiet turning point between winter and spring. Cold mornings linger, but plum blossoms begin to bloom, festivals return to shrine grounds, and the city slowly wakes from winter. It’s a month of seasonal rituals, comforting food, and local events that feel grounded and authentic — less crowded than peak seasons, but full of colour if you know where to look.
From Setsubun ceremonies and plum blossom festivals to winter-only experiences like heated ferris wheels and Valentine’s chocolate fairs, February offers a more intimate look at Osaka’s cultural rhythm.
Weather in February
February is one of the coldest months in Osaka, but conditions remain comfortable for sightseeing.
- Average highs: 6–10°C
- Average lows: 2–4°C
- Mostly dry with occasional cold snaps
- Snow is rare but possible
Warm layers, a good coat, and comfortable walking shoes are essential, especially in the evenings.
Festivals & Events in February
Calendar of Events
| Date | Event | Location | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Feb 2–3 | Setsubun (Bean-Throwing Festivals) | Sumiyoshi Taisha, Osaka Tenmangu, Tsutenkaku, Ishikiri Tsurugiya Shrine | Seasonal Setsubun rituals to drive away evil spirits, featuring ceremonial bean throwing, shrine prayers, and festive crowds. |
| Early Feb – Early Mar | Expo ’70 Park Plum Festival | Expo ’70 Commemorative Park (Suita) | One of Osaka’s best plum blossom viewing spots, with hundreds of ume trees, seasonal food stalls, and occasional tea ceremonies. |
| Early Feb – Early Mar | Tenma Tenjin Ume Festival | Osaka Tenmangu Shrine | Plum blossom festival held at one of Osaka’s most important shrines, combining floral viewing with cultural displays. |
| Feb 20 | Ichiya Kanjo (One Night) Festival | Nozato Sumiyoshi Shrine | A traditional local festival based on an old legend, featuring a ceremonial procession and ritual performances. |
| Late Feb | Osaka Marathon | Osaka Castle Park & city route | Major annual marathon drawing runners from around Japan and abroad, creating a lively atmosphere across the city. |
| Early–Late Feb | Sky Kotatsu Ferris Wheel | Osaka Wheel (EXPOCITY) | Seasonal winter event where Ferris wheel cabins are fitted with heated kotatsu tables for a uniquely Japanese experience. |
| Mid–Late Feb | Plum Blossom Viewing | Osaka Castle Park | Early-blooming plum trees begin flowering, offering one of the first signs of spring in the city. |
| Throughout Feb | Valentine’s Chocolate Fairs | Umeda department stores | Large-scale Valentine’s events featuring artisan chocolates, limited editions, and seasonal displays. |
Event dates and details may vary year to year. Please check official websites or local listings for the most up-to-date information. Plum blossom season typically runs from early February into March, but peak bloom timing depends on weather conditions.
Seasonal Highlights in February
February is a month of transition in Osaka. Setsubun ceremonies dominate the first days of the month, filling shrines with laughter, costumed demons, and ritual bean throwing meant to cleanse bad luck and welcome good fortune.
As the month progresses, plum blossoms begin to open across the city — especially in Osaka Castle Park and Expo ’70 Commemorative Park — offering an early taste of spring before cherry blossom season arrives. Winter foods remain at their best, with hot pots, kushikatsu, and seasonal sweets providing welcome warmth.
Osaka’s winter personality shines here: practical, playful, and quietly festive.
Featured Tours in February
Discover Osaka’s cultural heart in winter as you explore the city’s most iconic sites and local flavours. This walk brings together the soaring stone walls of Osaka Castle, the quiet spiritual atmosphere of Shitennoji Temple, the energy and seasonal foods of Kuromon Market, and a hands-on ukiyo-e woodblock experience before finishing near the bright canals of Dotonbori and the iconic Glico Man. It’s a compact but immersive introduction to Osaka’s history, artistry, and street life.
Highlights:
• Explore Osaka Castle and learn how it shaped the city’s samurai history.
• Visit Shitennoji, one of Japan’s oldest temples.
• Taste winter specialties and local snacks in Kuromon Market.
• Create your own ukiyo-e print in a guided woodblock workshop.
Minoh Falls & Katsuoji Temple Day Trip
This tour combines the natural beauty of Minoh Falls and the spiritual heritage of Katsuoji Temple perfect for visitors seeking a quiet retreat from the city.
Highlights:
- Walk the forest trail to Minoh Falls, enjoying crisp February weather
- Explore Katsuoji Temple, famous for its thousands of “daruma” dolls, which are believed to bring luck and success.
- Experience the tranquil countryside and picturesque landscapes just outside Osaka city.
More Ways to Visit Osaka
Alongside our guided tours, we also offer Private Charters in Kyoto. These are perfect for travellers who prefer private transport, customised itineraries, or more flexibility in planning their day. Whether you’re travelling as a family, a couple, or a group, charters provide comfort and convenience while still letting you experience the best of the village and surrounding region.
Tips for Visiting & Travel in February
- Dress in layers — indoor heating varies widely
- Visit shrines early during Setsubun to avoid peak crowds
- Plum blossoms are subtler than cherry blossoms, but well worth the visit
- Valentine’s season is big in Japan — expect themed displays and limited sweets
- Public transportation runs normally throughout the month, though marathon events may cause brief road closures.
Where to Stay in February
February offers good availability and value across Osaka.
- Umeda: Convenient transport hub, ideal for shopping and dining
- Namba: Lively atmosphere with easy access to food and nightlife
- Tennoji: Good balance of culture, space, and local feel
Hotels often offer better rates compared to spring and autumn.
Plan Your February Visit
February in Osaka rewards travellers who enjoy seasonal traditions, local festivals, and a slower, more authentic pace. It’s a month of quiet rituals, early blossoms, and winter comforts — perfect for exploring the city beyond its busiest moments.
If you’re looking for a deeper, more relaxed way to experience Osaka, February is a surprisingly strong choice.
Planning your trip to Osaka?
f you’re still shaping your itinerary, start with our 7-Day Kansai Japan Highlights Itinerary, which combines Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara into a balanced first visit. For inspiration and practical tips, see our 40 Things to Do in Kyoto, Nara, and Osaka, including seasonal ideas and neighborhood recommendations.
Looking to go deeper? Our Best Tours in Osaka page highlights cultural experiences that go beyond the usual sights. If you’re deciding where to base yourself, our guide on staying in Osaka or Kyoto breaks down the pros and cons of each.
For themed travel, don’t miss our Cherry Blossoms in Osaka page, or explore Osaka's brewing heritage with our Top 10 Sake Breweries to Visit in Kansai. Finally, if you have tattoos, but you want to visit an onsen or sento please check out our Tattoo-friendly Onsen and Sento Guide in Osaka.
