Characteristics of Kanagawa in February
February in Kanagawa Prefecture is a season where the winter chill lingers, but you can also sense the arrival of spring. Daytime temperatures hover around 10 degrees Celsius, while nighttime temperatures often drop below 5 degrees. However, the sunlight can bring warmth during this period. As a winter tourist destination, Kanagawa offers beautiful winter scenery and engaging events.
Many events and festivals are held in February. Notably, “Setsubun” and Valentine’s Day are highlights. “Setsubun” is a traditional Japanese event where beans are thrown to ward off evil spirits. These events are held at temples and shrines across the region, sometimes featuring celebrities. On the other hand, Valentine’s Day, widely observed in Japan, is a day to express love, typically through the gift of chocolates.
Enjoying “Setsubun” Events
“Setsubun” is a traditional Japanese event where beans are thrown to drive away bad luck and invite good fortune. This event is held at various temples and shrines across Kanagawa Prefecture.
“Daihonzan Sojiji Temple” “Setsubun” Bean Throwing
Located a 5-minute walk from Tsurumi Station, “Daihonzan Sojiji Temple” holds a large-scale “Setsubun” bean-throwing event every year. This event is known for featuring Japanese celebrities, such as actors who participate in the bean-throwing to bring good fortune to attendees.
“Hasedera Temple” “Setsubun” Festival
The “Setsubun” festival is also held at “Hasedera Temple” in Kamakura, just a few minutes’ walk from Hase Station. Here, celebrities and athletes participate in the bean-throwing. The proximity of the special stage allows visitors to get close to the celebrities.
After the event, it is recommended to explore tourist spots like “Yuigahama.”
Unique “Setsubun” Festival at “Hakone Shrine”
At “Hakone Shrine,” a unique “Setsubun” festival takes place on the shores of Lake Ashi. Demons on water skis race across the lake, and beans are thrown from a boat to drive them away.
Additionally, on the eve of “Setsubun,” the “Lake Ashi Winter Scenery Fireworks Festival” is held, offering a magical fireworks display.
Enjoying Valentine’s Day
Valentine’s Day, widely recognized in Japan, is a day to express love, typically through the gift of chocolates. Here are some chocolate shops in Kanagawa perfect for Valentine’s Day.
“Vanilla Beans”
“Vanilla Beans,” located in Minato Mirai, is known for its high-quality chocolates made using the “bean-to-bar” method.
The café menu includes the “VANILLABEANS Parfait,” limited to 10 servings per day. This parfait is packed with the allure of chocolate, featuring rich chocolate ice cream and “Gateau Chocolat.”
“Mutekiro”
Located in Yokohama Motomachi, “Mutekiro” offers a space that recreates the exotic atmosphere of old Yokohama, with both a restaurant and café.
“Mutekiro” also operates a confectionery store. The most popular item is the “Yokohama Renga,” a fondant chocolate cake. This cake is soaked with melted chocolate and walnut sauce and topped with a smooth chocolate coating. Its rich, adult flavor is a must-try for chocolate lovers and makes a great gift not only for Valentine’s Day but also as a Yokohama souvenir.
“MAISON CACAO”
“MAISON CACAO,” located on Komachi Street in Kamakura, is a specialty store for fresh chocolate. The “Nama Chocolate Tart” is particularly popular for its smooth texture. Be sure to stop by during your Kamakura stroll.
Sensing the Arrival of Spring at Plum Blossom Spots
“Sankeien Garden”
“Sankeien Garden” in Yokohama is a vast Japanese garden dotted with important cultural properties. From February to March, over 600 plum trees bloom. The official website provides updates on the plum blossoms at various locations within the garden.
Official Website: Sankeien Garden
“Negishi Forest Park”
“Negishi Forest Park” in Yokohama’s Negishidai offers a plum grove and a vast lawn area. With 70 varieties of plum trees, visitors can enjoy different species from early to late bloom. During the plum festival, various events such as pony interactions and live koto performances are held.
“Soga Plum Grove”
“Soga Plum Grove” in Odawara City is a famous spot with 35,000 plum trees in full bloom. The scenic view of plum blossoms with Mount Fuji in the background is breathtaking. The plum festival held on weekends in February attracts many tourists.
