Hello to everyone interested in Japan. Tokyo, the capital of Japan, is a city where historic temples and modern buildings blend together, making it an exciting place to walk around.

February in particular is the perfect season for strolling, with the air being incredibly clear, Mount Fuji in the distance beautiful, and the soft winter light illuminating the city. However, the wind in Tokyo in February can be cold, and you could freeze to death if you're not properly prepared.

This time, we will introduce some tips on how to protect yourself from the cold so that you can enjoy walking around Tokyo in February in comfort, as well as some of the charms of Tokyo that can only be experienced in winter.

Find out the weather and temperature in Tokyo in February

February in Tokyo is the end of winter. The average temperature is around 5 to 10 degrees Celsius, but it can drop to nearly 0 degrees Celsius in the mornings and evenings.

Winter in Tokyo is characterized by many sunny days. There is little rain, making it ideal for walking, but when the cold, dry wind known as "kogarashi" blows in from the Pacific Ocean, the perceived temperature drops significantly.

Additionally, the insides of buildings and trains in Tokyo are kept very warm. It may be cold outside, but it can be hot inside - this temperature difference is something you should be aware of when exploring Tokyo.

Layering for smart walking

When walking around Tokyo, it is best to wear several layers of clothing rather than one thick coat. This style is called "layering."

Base layer (underwear):

Innerwear made with moisture-wicking, heat-generating material, a technology developed in Japan (such as Uniqlo's Heattech), is extremely convenient. Choose a thin, warm type that dries quickly even if you sweat after walking a lot.

Mid layer:

A sweater, fleece, or a thin down vest are suitable. Something light and compact that you can take off and put in your bag when it gets too hot is useful.

Outer layer:

You'll need a windproof windbreaker or a sturdy coat. Protection from the wind is essential when exploring Tokyo in February.

Warming the three "necks" warms the whole body

Japanese winter wisdom says that it is good to warm the three parts of your body: your neck, wrists, and ankles.

muffler:

It is said that simply protecting your neck from the cold wind can change the perceived temperature by 3 to 5 degrees. Wrap your favorite scarf around your neck and enjoy fashion.

gloves:

If you plan to take photos while walking, gloves that leave your fingertips exposed or allow you to operate a smartphone are very convenient.

Thick socks:

Since the cold often comes from the feet, choosing thick socks made of wool will help you walk for long periods of time without getting tired and will keep you warm.

Warm and convenient items unique to Japan

Tokyo's convenience stores and drugstores sell a variety of great items to help you get through the cold winter.

Disposable hand warmers:

These small packs warm you up just by opening the pouch. You can put them in your pocket to warm your hands, or use the type that you stick on your back or stomach (applied over your clothes), and it gives you a sense of security, just like having a small heater with you.

Hot bottled drinks:

Vending machines and convenience stores have a wide selection of hot drinks. If you buy tea, coffee, corn soup, etc., you can not only enjoy them as drinks, but also use them as hand warmers to warm your hands.

Recommended ways to enjoy walking around Tokyo in February

Once you've packed up your winter gear, it's time to head out into the streets of Tokyo. The beautiful scenery that can only be seen in February awaits you.

Admiring plum blossoms:

After mid-February, plum blossoms begin to bloom at shrines around the country, such as Yushima Tenmangu Shrine and Kameido Tenjin Shrine. With a more subtle and elegant scent than cherry blossoms, plums have long been a beloved symbol of spring among the Japanese people.

Winter illuminations:

Many places continue to display illuminations until February. The lights shining in the clear winter night sky are very romantic. Seeing the particles of light after walking in the cold will warm your heart.

Warm "Shitamachi" Gourmet:

If you're strolling through downtown areas like Asakusa or Shibamata, be sure to try some warm snacks. Freshly baked dango, steaming taiyaki, and amazake (sweet rice drink) are the ultimate pleasures of a winter stroll.

Kurikoan Akihabara store

https://tenposstar.com/ja/merchant/67aef67c45dfa

If you get tired of walking, head to a warm and welcoming spot

Tokyo has many places where you can relax after a long day of walking.

Public bath:

These are public baths located in the city. Soaking in a large bath will warm your body from the inside out, which has become cold from walking around. Recently, there has been an increase in stylishly renovated public baths, and they are popular among young people and foreigners.

Foot bath:

Some places even have foot baths that you can enjoy for free. Just take off your shoes and soak your feet in a bath, and you'll be amazed at how much it relieves fatigue.

Hanabishi Arakicho store

https://tenposstar.com/ja/merchant/678cdd65bb0d0

summary

As long as you are well prepared for the cold weather, strolling around Tokyo in February is a pleasant experience, as if you could walk anywhere.

Even when you're being blown by a cold wind, if you look up you'll see a bright blue sky and small signs of spring along the roadside. Being able to feel these delicate changes is one of the charms of walking at this time of year.

How do Japanese people enjoy and spend their winters? By walking around the city, you will be able to see the "real Japan" that is not found in tourist guidebooks.

So wrap up your scarf, put a hand warmer in your pocket, and head out on the wonderful adventure that is Tokyo in the winter.

I sincerely hope that every step you take will be filled with warm and wonderful discoveries.

A taste of the sumo stable! Check out the chanko nabe at Ryogoku in Tokyo

https://tenposstar.com/ja/articles/r/3860