Wakayama Weather in February
Season: WinterWhat is the weather like in Wakayama in February?
Quick Look: relatively chilly; low precipitation; off season; plum blossom season in mid-Feb
Relatively Chilly
Average Temperature: 4-11℃ (39.2-51.8℉)In February, the overall climate of Wakayama is relatively chilly. Because of its diverse terrain, the temperature in the north and south is a little bit different: day temperatures are roughly consistent, usually in the range of 10-15℃ (50-59℉), while northern night temperatures are around 0-5℃ (32-41℉), 2-3 degrees Celsius (35.6-37.4 degrees Fahrenheit) lower than southern ones. Some coastal areas like Shirohama often get such strong winds that they seem to blow your head off, so don’t forget to throw on a scarf and warm hat for your trip there.
Though February falls in winter, southern Wakayama catches a slight glimpse of early spring - blooming plum flowers, whose peak admiring time is the middle of the month.
Low Precipitation
Average Precipitation: 74 mm (2.9 in)Average Wet Days: 15 days
During this month, daily rainfall rarely tops 10 mm, mainly light rain with occasional moderate showers, which won’t mess up your travel much. And some rainy days may bring a slight increase in temperature. It may snow in colder years, taking 2025 as an example: there were 4 days of snowfall, which occurred suddenly after sunny weather, but lasted a very short period.
Both Daylight and Sunshine Hours Increasing
Sunrise time is advanced from 6:55 to 6:28, while sunset time is postponed from 17:29 to 17:55. Correspondingly, daylight hours are extended from 10 hours 33 minutes to 11 hours 27 minutes. For tourists who cannot get up early to see the sunrise during your stay in February 2026, watching the sunset is also a good choice. Do note that check the exact time early and add it into your travel schedule.For sunshine hours, the north receives 6.5 hours on average per day, while the south has 7.5 hours, both increasing by 30 minutes from earlier. Under enough bright sunshine, natural landscapes and historic architectures look more stunning.
Daily Outfits for Wakayama in February
Clothes: You are advised to wear a sweater or thick hoodie and a down jacket or 3-in-1 jacket with a fleece liner. Males should stick to warm sweatpants, while females can wear long woolen dresses, paired with thick leggings underneath. Footwear: As Wakayama boasts a myriad of cultural relics and natural wonders, you may walk a lot to explore them. So, comfortable hiking shoes can’t be more suitable.
Others: Don’t forget bring along a compact umbrella or light raincoat. If you decide to choose the Kumano Kodo Nakahechi as the hiking route, you’d better bring an alpenstock as some trails are muggy.
Seasonal Highlights for Wakayama in February
Admire plum blossoms
Minabe-bairin Ume Grove has been well-known for “the breathtaking sight of thousands of plum trees and a rich aroma drifting for miles around”. In February, blooming plum flowers adorn the whole hillside, drawing numerous admirers to feast their eyes. Another must-visit site is Kumano Hongu Taisha Shrine, whose paths flanked by plum trees form lovely flower tunnels, extremely ideal for shooting at dawn or dusk.
Experience Oto matsuri Festival
The Oto matsuri Festival, one of the oldest celebrations in Japan, falls on February 6, when roughly 2,000 men clad in white clothes run down 538 steep stone steps from the top of the Mt. Kamikura, while holding flaming torches. More particularly, this festival is male-only, and female travelers can see the grandeur just from both sides of the mountainside.
Enjoy a hot spring
Wakayama is a paradise for onsen lovers, as it’s blessed with distinctive hot springs. The highly recommended ones are Shirohama Onsen, hailed as one of Japan’s three long-standing onsens, as well as Ryujin Onsen, named for its skin-moisturizing property. Besides, whether you plan to hike the Kumano Kodo or admire plum blossoms at Kumano Hongu Taisha Shrine, you can also enjoy a hot spring in three nearby onsen areas.
Travel Suggestions for Wakayama in February
1. Wakayama in February is worth a visit: apart from the above-mentioned activities and natural vistas, low visitor flow is another perk for those seeking a peaceful and quiet place to unwind. But don’t be too relaxed, if you take the Kishuji Rapid Service from Osaka to Wakayama: the train is uncoupled at Hineno Station to head for different destinations, so be sure to get on the rear cars No. 5-8 before your departure.
2. Two useful hiking tips are as follow: Firstly, except for some wide-open areas, the winds in the mountains are not strong during this period. Secondly, it’s unnecessary to carry much water, as there are lots of villages along the way where you can replenish it.
3. In February, the low season, many restaurants may be closed in remote areas, so if you’re going to stay overnight here, opt for a hotel with catering service.
