Planning a trip to Tokyo? This guide helps you choose the best time to visit month by month, highlighting key events, weather, and tourist activity each month. From cherry blossoms to summer festivals and winter illuminations, discover Tokyo year-round!
Average temperature: 5°C (41°F) Rainy days: 5 Tourist: Low
January kicks off with vibrant New Year celebrations. Many visitors flock to shrines and temples for Hatsumode (the first shrine visit of the year), creating a festive atmosphere.
The Coming of Age Day (Seijin no Hi) sees young adults in traditional attire visiting shrines. It’s a unique time to experience cultural traditions. Tourists can enjoy winter illuminations, visit Tokyo Tower and Skytree for clear winter views, and explore museums with smaller crowds.
Hotel and flight prices are generally moderate after the New Year peak, making it a good time for budget-conscious travelers to explore Tokyo without the heavy crowds.
Average temperature: 6°C (43°F) Rainy days: 5 Tourist: Moderate
February in Tokyo is marked by Setsubun, celebrated on February 3rd with bean-throwing ceremonies to ward off evil spirits. Plum blossoms start to bloom, particularly in parks like Yushima Tenjin and Kameido Tenjin, signaling the approach of spring.
While it’s still cold, it’s less crowded than the cherry blossom season, offering a quieter, more relaxed experience. Hotel and flight prices are relatively low, providing excellent value for travelers looking to enjoy Tokyo’s early spring charm.
Average temperature: 10°C (50°F) Rainy days: 10 Tourist: High
March is synonymous with the start of cherry blossom (sakura) season, drawing crowds from around the world to spots like Ueno Park and Shinjuku Gyoen.
The Tokyo Marathon also takes place this month, attracting runners and spectators. The weather begins to warm up, making it pleasant for outdoor activities like romantic boat in Chidorigafuchi Moat (on picture above).
Due to the popularity of cherry blossoms, hotel and flight prices can be high, so it’s wise to book well in advance to secure accommodations and travel at reasonable rates.
Average temperature: 15°C (59°F) Rainy days: 9 Tourist: Very High
April is peak cherry blossom season, continuing from late March. Hanami (flower viewing) parties are common, and Tokyo's parks are filled with people enjoying the blossoms. Golden Week starts at the end of April, leading to an influx of domestic travelers.
This is one of the busiest times in Tokyo, with hotel and flight prices at their peak. For saving some yens you can consider staying in hostels, which are Planning and booking early are essential to secure accommodations and enjoy the best of Tokyo’s spring festivities without last-minute stress.
Average temperature: 19°C (66°F) Rainy days: 9 Tourist: High
Golden Week continues into early May, a series of national holidays resulting in high domestic travel. The Kanda Matsuri, one of Tokyo’s most famous Shinto festivals, is held in mid-May in odd-numbered years.
The weather is warm and pleasant, making it ideal for sightseeing. However, due to Golden Week, expect crowded attractions so book early (you can cancel later) and high prices for hotels and flights. Traveling later in the month might offer better deals and fewer crowds.
Average temperature: 22°C (72°F) Rainy days: 12 Tourist: Moderate
June marks the beginning of the rainy season (Tsuyu) in Tokyo, with increased rainfall. The Tokyo Hotaru Festival in early June, featuring thousands of LED lights mimicking fireflies, is a highlight.
While the rain can affect travel plans, it's a quieter time for tourism, with fewer crowds. This translates to more availability and potentially lower prices for hotels and flights, making it a good time for budget travelers who don’t mind occasional rain showers.
Average temperature: 26°C (79°F) Rainy days: 10 Tourist: High
July brings warm weather and vibrant festivals like the Tanabata Festival and the Sumida River Fireworks, one of Tokyo's biggest fireworks displays. The Fuji climbing season also begins, with many tourists traveling through Tokyo en route to Mount Fuji.
This month sees an increase in visitors, particularly for summer festivities. Hotel and flight prices can be higher, especially around festival dates. Booking early is advisable to secure the best deals and accommodations.
Average temperature: 29°C (84°F) Rainy days: 9 Tourist: High
August is characterized by hot, humid weather and the Obon Festival in mid-month, where many return to their hometowns. Tokyo also hosts traditional dance festivals like the Awa Odori in Koenji and the Tokyo Bay Fireworks, drawing large crowds. It’s a lively time but also quite busy.
Expect high demand for hotels and flights, with prices reflecting the peak tourist season. Early reservations are essential to avoid last-minute hassles and higher costs.
Average temperature: 25°C (77°F) Rainy days: 12 Tourist: Moderate
September brings cooler temperatures and events like the Tokyo Game Show, attracting gaming enthusiasts. The autumn equinox is a public holiday that can increase domestic travel. The weather is generally more comfortable than in August, making it a pleasant time to visit. With fewer tourists than in peak summer, hotel and flight prices may be more reasonable. It's an excellent time to explore Tokyo without the extreme heat and large crowds.
Average temperature: 19°C (66°F) Rainy days: 9 Tourist: Moderate
October sees the beginning of autumn foliage (koyo), with parks and gardens like Rikugien showcasing beautiful fall colors. The Tokyo International Film Festival attracts movie buffs.
Tourists can enjoy walking tours, visit historic sites like Edo-Tokyo Museum, and take part in seasonal events. The weather is mild and perfect for outdoor activities. This month is moderately busy, with comfortable temperatures drawing more visitors.
Hotel and flight prices are moderate, making it a good time to enjoy Tokyo’s cultural and natural beauty without the summer crowds.
Average temperature: 13°C (55°F) Rainy days: 7 Tourist: Moderate
November continues the stunning display of autumn foliage, reaching its peak. The Shichi-Go-San Festival on November 15th sees children in traditional attire visiting shrines. The crisp, clear weather is ideal for sightseeing.
Tourists can enjoy leaf-peeping in parks, visit hot springs, and explore traditional markets. Tourism levels are moderate, providing a more relaxed experience compared to the cherry blossom and summer seasons. Hotel and flight prices are generally reasonable, making it an attractive time for travelers seeking picturesque landscapes and cultural experiences.
Average temperature: 8°C (46°F) Rainy days: 5 Tourist: High
December is festive with various light displays and illuminations around the city, such as those at Roppongi Hills and Marunouchi. European-style Christmas markets at Hibiya Park and Yebisu Garden Place add to the holiday cheer.
Preparations for New Year celebrations increase activity at temples and shrines. Tourists can enjoy winter festivals, holiday shopping, and seasonal foods.
This is a busy travel period, especially towards the end of the month. Hotel and flight prices can be high due to holiday travel, so early booking is recommended to secure the best rates.
