Tokyo Weather Guide

January is Tokyo's coldest month, with crisp, clear days and cold nights that occasionally dip below freezing. Northwest winds can make it feel colder than the thermometer suggests. Snowfall is rare but possible, typically once or twice per year. The dry air and clear skies make this an excellent time for views of Mount Fuji from the city. Crowds are thinner at popular attractions, and hotels offer good value. Pack warm layers and a wind-resistant jacket.

February remains cold but slightly warmer than January, with the same clear skies that make Fuji views exceptional. Plum blossoms begin appearing at parks and shrines, offering Japan's first floral spectacle of the year. Setsubun bean-throwing ceremonies at temples are a lively cultural highlight. Valentine's Day is celebrated with Japanese chocolate-giving traditions. It is one of the quietest tourist months, making popular spots refreshingly uncrowded and affordable.

March marks Tokyo's exciting transition to spring. Temperatures rise noticeably by mid-month, and the city begins buzzing with anticipation for cherry blossom season. Rainfall increases compared to winter. Early cherry blossoms may appear at the end of March in warmer years. The weather is unpredictable — warm sunny days alternate with cold snaps — so layering is essential. Parks fill with hanami picnic groups and the city's energy becomes electric as spring arrives.

May brings some of Tokyo's most pleasant weather — warm but not yet humid, with long daylight hours and green parks. The first week includes Golden Week (April 29–May 5), Japan's busiest holiday period, when domestic tourism surges. After Golden Week ends, mid-to-late May is arguably the best time to visit: good weather, post-cherry-blossom greenery, and relatively fewer international tourists. Wisteria blooms at Kameido Tenjin Shrine and Kawachi Wisteria Garden are spectacular.

June marks the start of tsuyu (rainy season), with persistent drizzle and overcast skies. The humidity rises noticeably and outdoor activities can feel uncomfortable. However, June has a secret beauty: hydrangeas bloom spectacularly throughout the month, with Meigetsuin in Kamakura and Hasedera temple drawing crowds. Rainfall is spread throughout the month rather than concentrated in heavy storms. Early June before the rains set in is actually quite pleasant. Bring a compact umbrella everywhere.

July is hot and humid as the rainy season ends and full summer begins. Temperatures regularly exceed 30°C and the humidity makes it feel much hotter. Despite the heat, summer is festival season: Tanabata, Obon preparations, and spectacular fireworks displays light up the nights. The Sumida River Fireworks (last Saturday of July) is one of Tokyo's most spectacular events. Early mornings are the best time for outdoor sightseeing. Stay hydrated and seek air-conditioned refuges frequently.

August is Tokyo's hottest month, with temperatures regularly hitting 35°C and extreme humidity that makes outdoor activity genuinely exhausting in the middle of the day. Obon holidays (mid-August) see many Tokyoites leave the city, actually reducing crowds in some areas. Summer festivals continue with neighbourhood Bon Odori dances and food stalls everywhere. Mornings before 9am and evenings after 7pm are the most comfortable windows for outdoor exploration. Air-conditioned attractions like TeamLab and museums are perfect midday escapes.

September is typhoon season and statistically Tokyo's wettest month. Tropical storms can bring heavy rain and high winds, occasionally disrupting transport and outdoor plans. However, typhoons typically pass within 24–48 hours, and the days between are often gorgeous. Temperatures are still warm and pleasant when it's not raining. Crowds are relatively low after the summer peak. Silver Week holidays (around September 22–23) can cause a brief crowd spike. Cosmos flowers bloom beautifully in various parks.

October is one of Tokyo's finest months. The oppressive summer heat fades, typhoon season winds down, and comfortable temperatures of 15–22°C make sightseeing a joy. Early autumn foliage begins to appear, with ginkgo trees turning brilliant gold. Halloween celebrations have become a massive cultural event in Tokyo, with Shibuya's costume parade drawing huge international crowds on October 31. The city is lively and energetic without the crushing heat. Pack light layers for temperature swings between day and night.

November brings Tokyo's spectacular autumn foliage season, with maples and ginkgo trees blazing red, orange, and gold. Shinjuku Gyoen, Rikugien Garden, and Ueno Park are transformed into extraordinary colour displays. Weather is crisp, dry, and perfect for walking — arguably the most comfortable month of the year for sightseeing. The season peaks around mid-to-late November. Crowds build significantly at foliage hotspots, so weekday morning visits are strongly recommended. Evenings are cool — bring a light jacket.

December is cold, dry, and magical. Winter illuminations transform the city, with Roppongi Hills, Marunouchi, Midtown, and Yebisu Garden Place creating spectacular light displays. Shopping and year-end parties (bonenkai) fill every restaurant and department store. Christmas is celebrated as a romantic couples' holiday with glittering decorations. Late December brings one of the least crowded tourist periods as Japanese locals prepare for New Year. The 31st sees massive midnight crowds at temples for Joya no Kane (108 bell strikes).