Hirosaki Weather in February
Season: Winter Quick Overview of Hirosaki weather in February:Low temperatures run throughout February in Hirosaki, coupled with frequent, heavy snowfalls. The air is rather humid, which makes the perceived temperature even lower.
Frigid Temperatures
Average high temperature: 0 degrees Celsius (32 degrees Fahrenheit)
Average low temperature: -5℃ (23℉)
In February, Hirosaki remains shrouded in frigid air, with daytime temperatures generally between -4 and 4℃ (24.8-39.2℉). In latter half of the month, temperatures might occasionally rise to 5-8℃ (41-46.4℉), but heavy snowfall would cause a sharp drop. Morning and evening temperatures are generally below 0℃ (32℉), mostly falling between -6 and -2℃ (21.2-28.4℉).
However, temperatures can vary greatly from year to year. For example, in January 2024 and 2025, the highest temperatures were 16℃ (60.8℉) and 7℃ (44.6℉), respectively, while the lowest temperatures were -10℃ (14℉) and -13℃ (8.6℉).
High Precipitation & Humidity
Average precipitation: 386 mm (15 in)
Average wet days: 22 days
With heavy snow almost every day, Hirosaki in February is always covered in thick snow. Every step you take leaves a deep snow crater. However, it is strongly recommended that you do not rashly attempt to step on or suddenly plunge your body into the snowdrifts, as you might get injured by hitting hard objects hidden beneath the snow. Besides, you’d better be careful when walking as the ground is very slippery.
With a high humidity of 89%, you probably feel even colder, especially when there is wind blowing.
Short Daylight Duration & Sunshine Hours
Sunrise time (1st - 28th): 06:49 - 06:15
Sunset time (1st - 28th): 16:56 - 17:28
Daylight duration (1st - 28th): approximately from 10 hours to 11 hours
Average sunny days: 3 days
Average sunshine duration: around 1 hour/day
Considering that the sun sets very early, you’d better make most of your daytime for sightseeing. You can get up early, have breakfast at the hotel, and set off at around 8:30 am to start your day’s itinerary, as most top attractions such as Hirosaki Castle, Saishoin Temple Five-Story Pagoda, Hirosaki City Museum, Aomori Bank Museum, and Tsugaru-han Neputa-mura Village open at around 9:00 to 9:30 in the morning. Please note that these attractions close at around 16:30-17:00.
Is Hirosaki Worth a Visit in February?
If you don’t care too much about the cold climate and short daylight hours, Hirosaki is still worth visiting in February.
For one thing, February is in the slack season, so even the top attractions are peaceful with fewer tourists, and travel expenditure on accommodations will be much lower, which is particularly beneficial for budget travelers.
For another, the snow-covered scenery is worth appreciating, especially during the Hirosaki Castle Snow Lantern Festival in early February when the city center is decorated with hundreds of snow lanterns and snow sculptures. When the darkness approaches, the candles in the snow lanterns are lit, creating a romantic atmosphere. Meanwhile, there are folk music and local food stalls that satisfy your appetite. In 2026, the festival is held from February 6 to 11.
Packing Guidance
Clothing
Thermal outwears like the down coat and thick fleece-lined winter pants are musts during this frigid month. Regarding inner layers, wearing a close-fitting shirt plus a wool sweater will do for the upper, and a pair of thermal underpants for the bottom. Generally, indoor attractions and shopping malls are equipped with heating systems, so you can take off your outer coat for a more comfortable experience inside.
Footwear
The warmth retention and slip resistance of shoes are the two primary factors to consider. We recommend that you choose snow boots with greater friction on the sole and fleece-lined hiking shoes. Their uppers are also relatively high, making them suitable for walking on thick snowy surfaces.
Other Things Necessary to Be Packed
Winter accessories, including hat, scarf, gloves, and earmuffs, are practical for protecting you against cold.
The paths in Hirosaki Park are very slippery. Therefore, in addition to wearing non-slip shoes, you can wear knee pads, which are especially useful for older visitors. They can not only keep you warm, but also reduce the impact on your knees when you fall.
In addition, you are suggested to bring a raincoat just in case the rain or heavy snow make your clothes wet.
Travel Suggestions & Tips
If your stay is short, the top attractions as mentioned before should be put first on your travel list. However, if you decide to stay for more days, why not try the soaking in the “apple hot spring”? It’s one of the major features of Hirosaki tourism. Imagine how enjoyable it would be to soak in a warm, apple-scented hot spring while sipping apple drinks and enjoying apple pie!
Always pay close attention to the weather forecast so as to avoid the snowstorm that disrupts your trip and departure.
