Encounters with Japanese culture
******
A Feeling of The Season – FEBRUARY 2026
Feb.8: We had a big snowfall last night, and 5cm in the city. The temperature dropped to 0℃, and it was very cold in Tokyo. Heavy snow is more serious in the regions along the Sea of Japan. Today is the general election day. The weather could weigh on turnout.
My house is under exterior painting, and the workers have been putting up scaffolding and covering all the windows with a sheet since last week. Unfortunately, I cannot see the snow-covered scenery outside.
On 3 February, we celebrate Setsubun, which marks the transition from winter to spring. People scatter roasted soybeans inside and outside their houses, shouting, “Fortune in, devils out.” We wish for good luck, safety, and health. We eat Setsubun sushi roll (Ehomaki), facing south-southwest this year.
General elections are scheduled for 8 February to elect 465 seats in the House of Representatives, the lower house of the Diet. We focus on whether the LDP-JIP coalition will secure a two-thirds majority.
Fine weather continues in Tokyo, and a heavy snowstorm hits northern Japan. There’s been record-breaking snowfall. February started with cold, but nice weather. Spring is still far off, but soon we will find signs of spring.
If you go further into the back streets of Harajuku, known as “URAHARA”, you’ll find many hidden gems, including vintage shops selling T-shirts, bags, and shoes. As always, the street was filled with young people and tourists.