Nagano Weather in February

Season: Midwinter
In Brief: Frozen Cold & Abundant Snowfall.

Nagano’s climate in February is bitterly cold with continuous snowfall blanketing every path, rooftop, and cedar tree in thick accumulations, ideal for wandering in the snowy fairyland-like world and skiing on crisp powder with adequate thermal protection.

Nagano in February

Temperature

Avg. Temperature Range: -6~2℃/21~35℉

Temperatures in Nagano remain low throughout February. Before the 20th, daytime highs hover around 0-5°C (32-41°F), while afterward, they warm slightly to about 10°C (50°F). Nighttime temperatures drop to around -5°C (23°F). The biting cold, accentuated by occasional gusts, turns exhaled breath into white mist instantly.

Precipitation

Snowfall: 820mm

Avg. Snowy Days: 20

In February, the snow falls frequently and accumulates quickly, with about 20 snowy days and 80% of moderate to heavy snow in Nagano. In mountainous areas, snow can reach heights of half a car. On rare sunny days, the snowfall may not completely stop, creating a “diamond dust” scene of sunlight intertwining with scattered snowflakes against a blue sky.

Sunrise & Sunset

In February, daylight hours are short, lasting 10.5 to 11 hours, with sunrises from 6:18 to 6:48 and sunsets from 17:12 to 17:40.

Pro Travel Tips: Given the high physical exertion required for outdoor activities in cold weather, it's advisable to keep outdoor engagements between 9 AM and 4 PM, when daylight is abundant and temperatures are relatively warmer. In the evenings, consider indoor activities like soaking in hot springs or indulging in local cuisine to rejuvenate.

Packing List

Upper Body

Follow multi-layer clothing in February: a weatherproof outer layer (long down coats or windbreakers), a fleece mid-layer, and quick-dry thermal undershirts.

Lower Body

Match waterproof ski pants or thick sweatpants with thermal leggings for the cold weather in March.

Footwear

Opt for ankle-high boots with deep-tread soles paired with thick socks. Ice cleats are essential on temple staircases with snow and ice in Nagano.

Accessories

Prevent intense snow glare in February with sunglasses or goggles, and wear touchscreen-compatible waterproof gloves and ear-covering hats for additional warmth.

Top Things to Do in Nagano in February

1. Enjoy the Lantern Festival in Zenkoji Temple

This festival commemorates the 1998 Winter Olympics and embodies the Olympic spirit of "worldwide peace and friendship". During the event, Zenkoji Temple is illuminated by five Olympic colors, and the streets leading to it are adorned with exquisite lanterns.

At the festival, visitors can participate in various activities, such as local sake samplings, street puzzle-solving, concerts, and snow lantern-making workshops. These experiences promise both entertainment and education, making the most of your visit to Nagano.

The Zenkoji Lantern Festival will span for a week in the middle of February 2026.

Zenkoji Temple, Nagano

2. Visit Togakushi Shrine in February Snow

In February, Togakushi Shrine is shrouded in a blanket of snow and wind amidst ancient cedar trees, exuding an aura of cold mystery. Standing before the main torii gate in a winter-exclusive solemnity, you feel a connection to a civilization that dates back thousands of years.

Strolling through cedar trees over 400 years old, where occasionally, huge chunks of snow fall from the branches, creating a flurry around you. Peering through the branches, the distant Northern Alps Mountains radiate a soft blue hue, evoking a sense of purity and tranquility.

3. Participate in Snow Activities at Hakuba Happo-one Snow Resort

Ski in Hakuba

February's frequent snowfall in Nagano provides ample powder snow, making Hakuba Happo-one a skier's paradise. Take the fully enclosed cable car to the summit. Along the journey, enjoy breathtaking views of snow-covered ski runs and grayish-black forests spreading out like an ink painting, with skiers gliding down the runs and majestic mountains standing tall in the distance.

At the resort, choose your perfect skis and hit the slopes. Or, if you're just there for the sights, have fun making snow sculptures, drawing patterns in the snow, or playing snowball fights with friends or strangers.

The snow resort is expected to open from December 2025 to May 2026.

Tips

1. During February, consider potential highway impassability or congestion in Nagano due to thick snow accumulations when planning your trip, especially on days with continuous snowfall. Check for official forecast and notices accordingly.

2. When visiting mountainous attractions like Togakushi Shrine, allocate extra time for your journey, as the shuttle bus may arrive late and travel slowly for safety on icy roads in February. This is particularly crucial if you have a train or flight to catch afterward.

3. In Nagano during February, waist-high snow in the mountains can quickly soak through clothing and enhance the chilliness, making waterproof outerwear absolutely essential.

7-Day Nagano Weather Forecast