What February feels like in Kyoto
February is late winter in Kyoto. The daytime air has a chill to it, though it is rarely bitter. Evenings bring a clear drop in temperature, and nights hover around freezing, so frost is common. Moisture in the air gives the cold a damp edge.
Rain in Kyoto in February
Expect a mix of dry and wet days, with rain about one day in 3. Wet days average about 8.4 mm (0.3 in), enough to soak you without an umbrella. That is lighter than the city's yearly norm of about 12.6 mm per rainy day. It is among the three driest months of the year.
Daylight and sunshine in February
Mid-month, Kyoto gets 10 h 54 min of daylight, from sunrise near 6:44 am to sunset near 5:38 pm. Days are getting longer: 52 min more daylight than in mid-January. Measured sunshine covers about 70% of the daylight — there are plenty of bright spells.
How February compares to the rest of the year
February is the 2nd coolest month of the year in Kyoto. Afternoons run 1.1°C (2°F) warmer than in January, with 20 mm more rain. The warm-up continues into March. The next month's average high: 13.1°C (55.6°F).
Who February suits
- Sightseeing: less ideal — it is cold for long walks.
- Parks & outdoor: less ideal — too cool to sit outside for long.
- Hiking: less ideal — trails are cool.
Tips for visiting Kyoto in February
Versatile Layers
Days are noticeably warmer than nights — layers you can add or remove.
Rain Protection
A compact umbrella and a light waterproof jacket.
Warm Layers
A warm jacket, a hat and gloves for cold mornings and evenings.
Sunglasses
Plenty of sun, so bring sunglasses and a cap.
Quick questions
How warm is Kyoto in February?
Expect around 8.9°C (48°F) in the afternoon and 0.2°C (32.4°F) at night, which most visitors would call chilly.
Does it rain a lot in Kyoto in February?
Yes, fairly — rain falls about one day in 3 and totals about 76 mm, so an umbrella is worth carrying.
What should I wear in Kyoto in February?
The numbers point to versatile layers, rain protection, warm layers and sunglasses. Add a layer for after dark.
Is February or March better for visiting Kyoto?
March scores better on our climate ranking (#5 of 12 vs #10), rated Good against Fair. March is warmer and has more rainy days.