Tokyo Weather by Month: A Complete Guide for Travelers

Tokyo is a fascinating city that blends ancient traditions with modern innovation. One of the keys to enjoying your trip is understanding Tokyo weather by month, as the city experiences distinct seasons, each offering a unique travel experience—from cherry blossom springs to hot, humid summers and crisp autumn days.

This guide explains what to expect each month so you can plan your visit with confidence.

Overview of Tokyo’s Climate

Tokyo has a humid subtropical climate with four clearly defined seasons:

  • Warm, cherry blossom-filled springs
  • Hot, humid summers
  • Mild, colorful autumns
  • Cool, generally dry winters

Rainfall varies throughout the year, with a noticeable rainy season in early summer.

Tokyo Weather by Month

MonthAvg HighAvg LowWeather Highlights
January50°F (10°C)36°F (2°C)Cool, dry, clear skies
February52°F (11°C)37°F (3°C)Cold, plum blossoms begin
March58°F (14°C)42°F (6°C)Early spring, warming days
April66°F (19°C)50°F (10°C)Cherry blossoms, mild weather
May73°F (23°C)57°F (14°C)Warm, comfortable, low rain
June77°F (25°C)64°F (18°C)Rainy season, humid
July86°F (30°C)73°F (23°C)Hot, humid, summer festivals
August88°F (31°C)75°F (24°C)Hottest month, very humid
September82°F (28°C)70°F (21°C)Warm, typhoon season
October72°F (22°C)60°F (16°C)Pleasant autumn weather
November63°F (17°C)50°F (10°C)Cool, fall foliage
December54°F (12°C)41°F (5°C)Cool, dry, festive lights

January: Cool and Dry

  • Average High: 50°F (10°C)
  • Average Low: 36°F (2°C)

January is one of the coldest months in Tokyo, but it’s also dry and often sunny. Snow is rare, and clear skies make sightseeing comfortable.

Best for: Cultural attractions, quiet travel, New Year festivals


February: Cold but Gradually Warming

  • Average High: 52°F (11°C)
  • Average Low: 37°F (3°C)

February remains chilly, but plum blossoms begin to bloom, signaling the approach of spring. Crowds are still low.

Best for: Off-season travel, seasonal festivals


March: Early Spring

  • Average High: 58°F (14°C)
  • Average Low: 42°F (6°C)

March marks the transition into spring. Temperatures rise, and cherry blossoms may begin blooming late in the month.

Best for: Outdoor sightseeing, early sakura season


April: Cherry Blossom Season

  • Average High: 66°F (19°C)
  • Average Low: 50°F (10°C)

April is one of the most popular months to visit Tokyo. Cherry blossoms (sakura) are in full bloom, and the weather is mild and pleasant.

Best for: Hanami (cherry blossom viewing), first-time visitors


May: Warm and Comfortable

  • Average High: 73°F (23°C)
  • Average Low: 57°F (14°C)

May offers some of the best weather of the year. It’s warm, relatively dry, and ideal for walking around the city. Golden Week crowds appear in early May.

Best for: Sightseeing, outdoor activities


June: Rainy Season Begins

  • Average High: 77°F (25°C)
  • Average Low: 64°F (18°C)

June marks the start of the rainy season (tsuyu). Rainfall increases, and humidity rises, though temperatures remain moderate.

Best for: Indoor attractions, fewer tourists


July: Hot and Humid

  • Average High: 86°F (30°C)
  • Average Low: 73°F (23°C)

July is hot and humid, with frequent rain showers early in the month. Summer festivals and fireworks become common.

Best for: Festivals, nightlife, summer events


August: Peak Summer Heat

  • Average High: 88°F (31°C)
  • Average Low: 75°F (24°C)

August is the hottest month in Tokyo. Heat and humidity can be intense, but major festivals like Obon take place.

Best for: Cultural festivals, experienced travelers


September: Typhoon Season

  • Average High: 82°F (28°C)
  • Average Low: 70°F (21°C)

September is warm but less humid than August. Typhoons can bring heavy rain and wind, though they’re usually short-lived.

Best for: Flexible itineraries, late-summer travel


October: Pleasant Autumn Weather

  • Average High: 72°F (22°C)
  • Average Low: 60°F (16°C)

October is one of the best months to visit Tokyo. Temperatures are comfortable, humidity drops, and autumn foliage begins to appear.

Best for: Walking tours, outdoor sightseeing


November: Cool and Colorful

  • Average High: 63°F (17°C)
  • Average Low: 50°F (10°C)

November features crisp air and beautiful fall colors in parks and gardens. Rainfall is low and crowds are moderate.

Best for: Photography, relaxed travel


December: Cool and Festive

  • Average High: 54°F (12°C)
  • Average Low: 41°F (5°C)

December is cool and mostly dry. Holiday lights and winter illuminations create a festive atmosphere across the city.

Best for: Winter events, shopping, holiday travel

Tokyo Weather by Month

Best Time to Visit Tokyo

  • Best Overall Weather: April, May, October, November
  • Best for Cherry Blossoms: Late March to early April
  • Best Budget Travel: January, February, June
  • Best for Festivals: July and August

FAQs about Tokyo weather

  1. What is the overall climate like in Tokyo?
    Tokyo has a humid subtropical climate with hot, humid summers and mild to cool winters.
  2. Does Tokyo experience four distinct seasons?
    Yes, Tokyo clearly experiences spring, summer, autumn, and winter.
  3. What is the hottest month in Tokyo?
    August is typically the hottest month, with high humidity and temperatures often above 30°C (86°F).
  4. What is the coldest month in Tokyo?
    January is usually the coldest month, with temperatures averaging between 2–10°C (36–50°F).
  5. Does it snow in Tokyo?
    Snowfall is rare and usually light, occurring once or twice a year in winter.
  6. When is the rainy season in Tokyo?
    Tokyo’s rainy season usually runs from early June to mid-July.
  7. How much rainfall does Tokyo get annually?
    Tokyo receives moderate rainfall throughout the year, with higher amounts during summer and early autumn.
  8. Is Tokyo very humid?
    Tokyo is humid, especially from June through September during summer.
  9. Are typhoons common in Tokyo?
    Typhoons may affect Tokyo between August and October, though direct impacts are infrequent.
  10. What is the best time of year to visit Tokyo for good weather?
    Spring (April–May) and autumn (October–November) offer the most comfortable weather.
  11. Is summer in Tokyo uncomfortable for tourists?
    Summer can be challenging due to heat and humidity, but festivals and events make it lively.
  12. What is winter like in Tokyo?
    Winters are generally dry, sunny, and cold but not extreme.
  13. Does Tokyo have extreme weather conditions?
    Tokyo rarely experiences extreme cold or heat compared to other major cities, but heatwaves and heavy rain can occur.
  14. How windy is Tokyo?
    Tokyo is usually mild in wind, though stronger winds can occur during typhoons.
  15. Is Tokyo weather predictable?
    Tokyo’s seasonal weather is fairly predictable, though short-term changes can happen.
  16. Does air quality change with Tokyo weather?
    Air quality is generally good year-round, with occasional dips during hot, stagnant summer days.
  17. What should I wear in Tokyo throughout the year?
    Layered clothing works best, with light fabrics in summer and warm coats in winter.
  18. Does Tokyo have a lot of sunny days?
    Yes, Tokyo enjoys many sunny days, especially in winter.
  19. How does Tokyo weather affect travel plans?
    Weather may influence outdoor activities, especially during the rainy season or typhoon alerts.
  20. Can Tokyo weather vary by neighborhood?
    Weather differences across Tokyo are minimal, though coastal areas can feel slightly cooler and windier.

Final Thoughts

Understanding Tokyo weather by month allows travelers to plan smarter and enjoy the city more comfortably. Whether you’re visiting for cherry blossoms, summer festivals, autumn foliage, or winter illuminations, Tokyo offers a memorable experience in every season.

No matter when you visit, be prepared for changing weather—and Tokyo will reward you with unforgettable sights, food, and culture.

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