Best Time to Visit Tokyo: A Month-by-Month Travel Guide

In this guide, we’ll break down Tokyo’s weather month by month, and show you the best times to visit based on your interests — from cherry blossoms and traditional festivals to avoiding crowds and getting the best deals.

Tokyo Weather Month-by-Month: What to Expect Each Season

Tokyo has four distinct seasons. Spring and autumn are widely considered the most comfortable times to explore the city, thanks to their mild weather and beautiful seasonal scenery. Summer can be hot and humid but offers lively fireworks and festivals. Winter brings crisp air, low rainfall, and gorgeous illuminations.

Understanding Tokyo’s climate can help you plan better and pack smarter.

Spring (March — May)

Spring is one of the most popular times to visit Tokyo, famous for its beautiful cherry blossoms.

• Weather: Gradually warming, often sunny and dry.
• Average Temps: 9°C (March) → 18°C (May)
• What to Expect: Blooming cherry blossoms, fresh greenery, ideal sightseeing conditions.

March: The weather begins to warm up, but it can still be quite cool, especially in the mornings and evenings. Cherry blossoms usually start to bloom towards the end of March. Average temperatures range from 5°C to 13°C (41°F to 55°F).

April: This is peak cherry blossom season, and the weather is generally mild and pleasant. This is prime time for Hanami (cherry blossom viewing) and many parks also host spring festivals. Average temperatures range from 10°C to 19°C (50°F to 66°F).

May: The weather becomes comfortably warm, with clear skies. It’s a great time for outdoor activities before the summer heat and humidity set in. Attend the Kanda Matsuri or Sanja Matsuri, two of Tokyo’s biggest and most energetic festivals. Average temperatures range from 15°C to 23°C (59°F to 73°F).

Also Read ▶ Best Things to Do in Tokyo in Spring

Summer (June — August)

Summer in Tokyo is characterized by heat and high humidity, with a rainy season at the beginning.

• Weather: Hot, humid, and sometimes rainy.
• Rainy Season: Early June to mid July (frequent showers but not all-day rain).
• Typhoon Risk: August to early October.
• Average Temps: 22°C (June) → 31°C (August)
• What to Expect: Summer festivals, fireworks, long daylight hours.

June: Marks the beginning of the rainy season (tsuyu), which typically lasts for about a month. It’s often humid and can rain frequently, but there are also sunny days. The vibrant hydrangeas (ajisai) are in bloom at many places. Average temperatures range from 19°C to 26°C (66°F to 79°F).

July: The rainy season usually ends by mid-July, giving way to hot and very humid weather. This is a popular time for festivals (matsuri) and fireworks. Average temperatures range from 23°C to 29°C (73°F to 84°F).

August: The hottest month of the year, with high humidity and often intense sunshine. Air conditioning is a must, and staying hydrated is important. The city comes alive with more summer festivals and fireworks. Average temperatures range from 24°C to 31°C (75°F to 88°F).

Also Read ▶ Best Things to Do in Tokyo in Summer

Autumn (September — November)

Autumn is another highly recommended time to visit Tokyo, offering comfortable temperatures and stunning autumn foliage.

• Weather: Cooling temperatures, mostly sunny and dry.
• Average Temps: 26°C (September) → 14°C (November)
• What to Expect: Colorful foliage, chrysanthemum festivals, comfortable walking weather.

September: The heat and humidity gradually start to subside, though it can still be warm, especially at the beginning of the month. There’s also a possibility of typhoons, particularly early in the month. Average temperatures range from 21°C to 27°C (70°F to 81°F).

October: The weather becomes delightfully crisp and clear, with comfortable temperatures. This is a fantastic month for exploring the city. Fun Halloween themed events take place across the city. Average temperatures range from 15°C to 22°C (59°F to 72°F).

November: The city transforms with vibrant autumn colours, making it a beautiful time for parks and gardens. The weather is cool and pleasant. Average temperatures range from 9°C to 17°C (48°F to 63°F).

Also Read ▶ Best Things to Do in Tokyo in Autumn

Winter (December — February)

Winters in Tokyo are generally cold and dry, with occasional light snowfall.

• Weather: Cold and dry, with little snow in the city.
• Average Temps: 10°C (December) → 6°C (January)
• What to Expect: Illuminations, clear skies, fewer crowds (except during holidays).

December: The weather is cool and crisp, perfect for enjoying winter illuminations and holiday festivities such as Christmas markets and New Year’s countdown events. Days are often sunny with average temperatures range from 5°C to 12°C (41°F to 54°F).

January: The coldest month of the year. Days are often sunny but chilly, and there’s a slight chance of snow. New Year’s celebrations (Oshogatsu) are significant. On cold days, relax in an onsen (hot spring) in an urban spa or nearby resort town. Average temperatures range from 2°C to 10°C (36°F to 50°F).

February: Still cold, but temperatures slowly start to rise towards the end of the month. You might see some beautiful plum blossoms (ume) beginning to bloom. Enjoy winter sports if you take a day trip to nearby mountains. Average temperatures range from 3°C to 10°C (37°F to 50°F).

Also Read ▶ Best Things to Do in Tokyo in Winter

Best Time for Specific Tokyo Experiences

Tokyo offers captivating seasonal experiences all year round from the iconic cherry blossoms of spring to the dazzling winter illuminations. No matter when you visit, each season brings its own unique charm, ensuring that your time in Tokyo will be memorable and rewarding. Here are some of Tokyo’s must-see seasonal attractions.

Cherry Blossom Season in Tokyo (Late March — Early April)

• Why Go: Iconic pink blossoms transform the city into a dreamscape.
• Best Viewing Spots: Ueno Park, Shinjuku Gyoen, Meguro River, Chidorigafuchi, Asukayama Park.
• Tip: Visit the week before full bloom for fewer crowds and better hotel rates.
• Note: Peak season — expect crowds and higher prices.

Check the best viewing time and top cherry blossoms viewing spots in Tokyo ▶ Japan Cherry Blossom Forecast

Flower Festivals in/around Tokyo (April — May)

• Why Go: Experience colourful blooming in Tokyo beyond cherry blossoms.
• Top Flower Festivals: Kameido Tenjin Shrine and Ashikaga Flower Park for wisteria (April), Nezu Shrine for azalea (April), Hitachi Seaside Park for nemophila, Fuji Shibazakura Festival for pink moss (May)
• Tips: Check blooming time in advance

Also read ▶ Best Flower Parks around Tokyo

Major Shinto Festivals (May and June)

• Why Go: Vibrant traditional matsuri (festivals) are perfect for cultural travelers.
• Top Festivals: Sanja Matsuri (mid-May, annually, Asakusa), Kanda Matsuri (mid-May, odd-numbered years), Sanno Matsuri (mid-June, even-numbered years)
• Highlights: Energetic parades, traditional music, mikoshi (portable shrines).

Summer Fireworks Festivals (Late July — August)

• Top Fireworks Festivals: Sumida River Fireworks Festival (last Saturday of July), Katsushika Fireworks Festival, Edogawa Fireworks Festival
• Vibe: Lively, communal, traditional summer experience.
• Highlights: Local summer festivals with yukata, food stalls, and music

▶ Check out Tokyo’s top Summer Festivals and Fireworks Events

Autumn Leaves in Tokyo (Late November — Early December)

• When: Peak colours usually late Nov to early Dec in Tokyo
• Top Spots: Rikugien Garden (evening lights), Shinjuku Gyoen, Meiji Jingu Gaien, Koishikawa Korakuen, Mt Takao.
• Tip: Less crowded than cherry blossom season, with equally beautiful scenery.
• Highlights: Tokyo’s parks and gardens glow with red, orange, and yellow foliage. Cool, dry weather makes this an excellent time for walking tours and scenic photography.

Check out Tokyo’s top autumn leaves viewing spots ▶ Best Autumn Leaves Spots in Tokyo

Winter Illuminations (Late November — February)

• Why Go: This season is magical for couples, photographers, and anyone who enjoys sparkling cityscapes. Christmas markets are held alongside in some spots.
• Start: Late November; many displays last through Valentine’s Day.
• Best Locations: Roppongi Hills, Tokyo Midtown, Shibuya Blue Cave, Marunouchi, Omoteasndo.
• Vibe: Magical, romantic, great for evening strolls.

Check the top winter illumination spots in Tokyo ▶ Tokyo Winter Illumination Guide

Best Time for Unique Seasonal Events in Tokyo

• Halloween (late October): Fun, costume-heavy parties held at Shibuya, Roppongi, Ikebukuro, etc.
• New Year (Dec 31–Jan 3): Hatsumode (first shrine visit) at Meiji Shrine or Sensoji Temple
• Tokyo Marathon (March): One of the world’s top six marathons. Fun for runners and spectators
• Disneyland and DisneySea Seasonal Events: Occur throughout the year — Halloween, Christmas, New Year

Tokyo in Rainy Season (Early June — Mid July)

Tokyo offers many indoor attractions that you can enjoy without being affected by bad weather. These attractions are perfect not only for a rainy day but also extreme summer heat and cold winter day.

• Indoor Theme Parks (Studio Tour Tokyo, Tokyo Joypolis, Sanrio Puroland)
• Museums (teamLab Planets, teamLab Borderless, Tokyo National Museum, The National Art Center, Tokyo)
• Aquarium (Sumida Aquarium, Maxell Aqua Park Shinagawa, Sunshine Aquarium)
• Themed Cafes (Pokemon Cafe, Sanrio Cafe, Maid Cafes)

Check more indoor attractions in Tokyo ▶ Best Indoor Activities in Tokyo

How to spend a rainy day in Tokyo▶ Best Things to Do in Tokyo on a Rainy Day

Best Times to Avoid Crowds and Save Money in Tokyo

Busiest Times (Avoid If You Can):

• New Year: Late Dec — Early Jan
• Cherry Blossom Season: Late March — Early April
• Golden Week: Late April — Early May
• Obon Week: Mid-August
• Silver Week: Mid-September (every few years)

These periods see high domestic travel, sold-out accommodations, and packed attractions.

Best Value and Least Crowded Periods:

• Mid-January to Early March: Cold but calm and affordable.
• June : Rainy but low tourist numbers.
• Early to Mid-September: Post-summer lull, warm but manageable.

Airfares and hotel rates drop during these quieter periods.

Practical Planning Tips for Your Tokyo Trip

What to Pack

• Spring/Autumn: Light layers, jacket, umbrella.
• Summer: Breathable clothes, hat, sunscreen, water bottle.
• Winter: Coat, gloves, heat packs (kairo), lip balm.
• Rainy Season: Compact umbrella, waterproof shoes.

When to Book

• Peak Seasons (Spring, Golden Week, Festivals): Book flights and hotels 3–6 months in advance.
• Low Seasons: You’ll often find last-minute deals.

Holiday Closures

• During New Year, many restaurants, shops, and museums may close for several days. Plan around this or visit major attractions that remain open.

Final Thoughts: When Should You Visit Tokyo?

There’s no single “best” time — only the best time for your interests:

• Best for Cherry Blossoms: Late March to early April
• Best for Autumn Leaves: Mid-November to early December
• Best for Festivals: May (Sanja, Kanda, Sanno Matsuri)
• Best for Fireworks and Summer Events: July and August
• Best for Illuminations: Late November through December
• Best for Fewer Crowds and Lower Prices: Mid-January to early March

Make the most of your Tokyo adventure by choosing the right season to match your travel style: springtime blooms, summer festivals, autumn leaves and magical winter illuminations. With the right timing, your Tokyo trip can become truly unforgettable!

Related Tokyo Travel Guides

• Best Things to Do in Tokyo
• What to Buy in Tokyo
• Top Cherry Blossom Spots in Tokyo
• Best Time to Visit Japan
• Best Day Trips from Tokyo