A month-by-month guide on the best time to visit Tokyo
Here’s everything you need to know about the best time to visit Tokyo, including Tokyo weather by month and what to pack per season.
No doubt, Tokyo is an all-year-round place to visit. Still, I have been to Tokyo a few times already and got to experience all their seasons in other months. From each month and season, there are things you should take note of, especially what you will need to pack for a smooth trip.
Usually, we do not want to overpack and have so much with us, especially if we travel alone. And whenever I travel to a different country, I check the weather and season of my destination. This way, I do not bring with me the wrong clothes and ruin the rest of my trip.
This is why I will happily share with you in this article lists of things you need to pack for a Tokyo trip. Moreover, I’ll also share my thoughts and experiences of when it will be the best time to visit Tokyo (based on one’s preference).
☀️ The best time to visit Tokyo Japan by season
Japan has 4 seasons and honestly, all are the best times to visit Tokyo! Here’s everything you need to know about the weather per season:
Summer in Tokyo (June to August)
Summer is the most festive time in Tokyo. Despite the hot, humid, and sticky weather, many travelers enjoy their stay in Tokyo during this time of the year.
From the colorful matsuri to the chance to hike in the mountains, what’s there to miss? Prepare for an average temperature of 25°C to 31°C.
Autumn/Fall in Tokyo (September to November)
Fall is another magical time of the year in Tokyo. Tokyo is most crowded and busy during Fall. The brilliant autumn colors and crisp, pleasant temperature makes it an excellent time to visit and roam around the city.
By the start of September, you will experience 18ºC to 28ºC of temperature. It becomes colder by the time it reaches November, and the temperature varies from 7ºC to 18ºC.
Winter in Tokyo (December to February)
Winter in Tokyo is just as impressive as other seasons. It is when you witness incredible snowfall in some parts of Tokyo, with less crowd around (except for the New Year holiday).
Temperature can go as low as 2ºC and stay cold as it only reaches 12ºC high. The good news is, this is the best time to catch the cheapest deals and flights for the whole year!
Spring in Tokyo (March to May)
Spring in Tokyo means you can see sakura or cherry blossoms everywhere! Although crowds can get packed and streets very busy, seeing one-of-a-kind spring foliage is worth it.
The average temperature during Spring is 23ºC during the afternoon and 5ºC during the morning and evening. And for me, this is the best time to see Tokyo at its peak.
📆 What is the best month to visit Tokyo?
The best time to visit Tokyo for good weather typically spans from late March to May, and then again from September to November. During these periods, Tokyo experiences mild temperatures and relatively low rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
💸 What are the cheapest months to go to Tokyo?
The cheapest time to visit Tokyo is usually in the winter months, specifically from January to early March. During this off-peak season, both airfares and hotel rates tend to drop significantly, offering budget-friendly options for travelers.
The post-holiday period sees a decrease in tourist crowds, leading to more competitive pricing in accommodations and potentially in some tourist attractions. While the weather is colder, with temperatures ranging from 2°C to 10°C (35°F to 50°F), Tokyo’s winter is relatively mild compared to other regions.
🌸 Best Time to Visit Tokyo for Cherry Blossoms
The best time to visit Tokyo for cherry blossoms is typically in the first two weeks of April. This period marks the peak of the Sakura season when cherry blossoms reach full bloom, transforming the city into a picturesque landscape of pink and white.
Popular spots like Ueno Park, Chidorigafuchi, and the Meguro River become focal points for both locals and tourists to engage in Hanami, the traditional custom of enjoying the transient beauty of flowers.
The exact timing of the cherry blossoms can vary slightly each year, depending on the weather conditions leading up to the season.
🧳 Best Time to Visit Tokyo for Fewer Crowds
The best time to visit Tokyo for fewer crowds is typically in the winter months, particularly from mid-January to February. After the New Year festivities, tourist numbers significantly decrease, giving visitors a more relaxed experience.
The cooler temperatures during this period deter some travelers, resulting in less congested popular spots like Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo Skytree, and Shibuya Crossing.
This time allows for better hotel rates and more comfortable travel within the city. For travelers seeking a peaceful and unhurried visit, this is the best time to visit Tokyo.
🤼♀️ Best Time to visit Tokyo for Sumo Season
The best time to visit Tokyo to experience sumo wrestling is during the city’s three Grand Sumo Tournaments, held in January, May, and September. These tournaments, each lasting 15 days, offer a unique insight into this ancient Japanese sport.
The Ryogoku Kokugikan, Tokyo’s sumo stadium, becomes a hub of excitement and tradition during these events. Visitors not only witness the intense battles between wrestlers but also immerse themselves in the rich culture surrounding sumo.
⛰️ Best Time to Visit Tokyo for Outdoor Activities
The best time to visit Tokyo for outdoor activities is during the spring (late March to May) and autumn (September to November) months. During these times, the weather is comfortably mild, and the city is either blooming with cherry blossoms or adorned with vibrant autumn leaves.
These conditions are perfect for outdoor pursuits such as picnicking in Ueno Park, enjoying a boat ride down the Sumida River, or hiking in the nearby Mount Takao. Spring brings the renowned cherry blossom season, where parks like Shinjuku Gyoen become ideal for hanami (flower viewing) parties.
Autumn, on the other hand, offers pleasant temperatures and scenic beauty, perfect for outdoor festivals and events. These seasons provide not only favorable weather but also a picturesque backdrop, making them the best time to visit Tokyo for outdoor enthusiasts.
☁️ Tokyo weather: month by month
January in Tokyo
January in Tokyo is the coldest month all year long. The lowest temperature reaches 1.8ºC while the highest is only 9.6ºC, which is still very cold.
Come prepared with thick clothes, and it would be great if you could bring extra accessories (scarves, gloves) too. The advantage is there are not many tourists in Tokyo in January, especially after the New Year Holidays.
February in Tokyo
It’s still wintertime in Tokyo during February. Although the temperature rises, the lowest is still at 2.7ºC while the highest is 10.3ºC.
Despite the weather, many tourists come to Tokyo to visit nearby cities that get a lot of snow. So yes, winter clothes are still a must.
March in Tokyo
March is the month of transition. From the cold days in Tokyo, it’s now becoming Spring! That means it’s the start of the city’s peak season too. And that’s because travelers visit Japan to see the beautiful sakura or cherry blossoms.
During this time, you should pack with you spring clothes – long coats, boots, and clothes to layer. Temperature is at an average of 7℃ to 16℃.
April in Tokyo
By the time it’s April in Tokyo, the sakura has already bloomed! It’s the perfect month to see the beautiful Spring foliage.
The weather in Tokyo will be very comfortable as average daily temperatures rise to around 20℃, making it easier for tourists to go around. However, the gap between the morning low and daytime high is more significant. Pack a thin jacket or hoodie.
May in Tokyo
May in Tokyo is still considered the spring season. It is also another month with very pleasant, moderate temperatures. So, if you visit Tokyo in May, you can pack with you long skirts, dresses, and short-sleeved shirts.
It will be perfect to bring a cute cardigan or sweater if the weather gets a little breezy. The temperature during this time of the year in Tokyo is around 24.1℃ and as low as 16℃.
June in Tokyo
If you’re traveling to Tokyo in June, prepare for some summer action. The weather will feel hotter and humid. Temperature will start to rise and reach 26.5℃.
There is also a strong possibility of experiencing little rain around the city. I suggest you pack your summer clothes and be ready with a travel umbrella or raincoat.
July in Tokyo
As the year enters midsummer by July, expect wet weather during the first week of the month. Still, you can expect that the weather will be scorching and sticky.
Make sure you pack cool and extra clothes to ensure you won’t be in a hassle. The average temperature in Tokyo during July is 25°C.
August in Tokyo
Just like in July, the lighter clothes, the better! With an average temperature of 26°C, with the highest reaching 29°C try to avoid dark clothes and stick to light and cool tones.
Please pack wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen with you. This is because you would want to tour around Tokyo without feeling sticky.
September in Tokyo
By the time it’s September in Tokyo, the summer weather begins to break into fall. September is also one of the wettest months in Tokyo.
The city is less crowded this month compared to the past few months as it is expected to rain most days and experience hot days simultaneously.
October in Tokyo
October is similar to September. The only difference is it rains more often and days become shorter.
Although autumn‘s upon you, the cool temperature does not tend to start until the end of the month. The average temperature reaches 18°C during October in Tokyo.
November in Tokyo
Autumn is finally here! With cooler temperatures, autumn foliage will be seen throughout the metropolis of Tokyo. Get ready to pack your long coats and sweaters before you travel.
There will be days when drastic changes in the weather will always be ready. It’s much better to come over prepared, especially in this weather. The average temperature is 12°C.
December in Tokyo
During December, you’ll experience dry, cool, and late autumn days. It can get pretty busy in Tokyo’s city center since people travel to Japan for the holidays in December.
Many tourists also visit the city to experience the spectacular Christmas vibe of Japan. And since the temperature drops, be prepared with your jacket or thick clothes.
