Complete Guide to Tokyo’s Weather | Annual Temperatures, Clothing, Precipitation, Snow, Monthly Characteristics, and the Best Seasons

To travel comfortably in Tokyo, where the four seasons are distinct, it is important to understand the seasonal temperatures, precipitation, whether it snows, and to choose the right clothing and the best season for yourself. Learn about the characteristics of Tokyo’s weather in this article and make your trip more comfortable.

What’s the Weather Like in Tokyo Today? Make Use of Japanese Weather Forecasts

Knowing the weather for the day is essential when preparing for a comfortable sightseeing experience. We recommend using Japanese weather forecast services. Here are some websites commonly used in Japan:

• Tokyo Weather - Yahoo! Weather & Disaster
• Tokyo Weather - Weathernews

Characteristics of Tokyo’s Weather｜Average Temperature, Precipitation, Humidity

The weather in Tokyo changes significantly with the seasons. Please refer to the information introduced here to help plan your trip to Tokyo.

Source: Tokyo (Tokyo Metropolis) Climate Normals (Annual and Monthly)

Tokyo’s Annual Average Temperature｜When Are the Hottest and Coldest Periods?

According to data from the Japan Meteorological Agency, the month with the highest average temperature is August (26.9°C), while the lowest is January (5.4°C), with a difference of over 20°C. Another characteristic is that the average temperature in September, the beginning of autumn, remains relatively high, extending the hot season. In recent years, there have been more days in summer when the maximum temperature exceeds 35°C, and even in September, days with highs over 30°C have increased. Although winters tend to be mild, there are still days when the minimum temperature drops below 0°C.

Tokyo’s Annual Precipitation｜When Are the Rainiest and Driest Periods?

The rainiest periods in Tokyo are summer and autumn. The month with the highest precipitation is October, followed by September. Both are likely influenced by typhoons and the prolonged autumn rainy season. June and July, which mark the rainy season (tsuyu) with many rainy days, also see high precipitation. On the other hand, the driest period is winter (December to February), with precipitation below 60mm, characterized by dry, sunny days with little rain or snow.

Tokyo’s Annual Humidity｜When Are the Most and Least Humid Periods?

Humidity also varies depending on the season. The lowest humidity is around 50% in January and February, while the highest is over 70% during the rainy season (June to July). During this period, temperatures also rise, making it feel very hot and humid. In September, at the start of autumn, humidity also remains high due to typhoons and prolonged autumn rains, and only begins to drop in November. After the low-humidity winter, humidity rises again, bringing a well-balanced spring climate.

Snow in Tokyo｜When Does It Snow and How Much?

In Tokyo, snowfall mainly occurs in January and February, with an average frequency of about three days per month (2.8 days in January, 3.5 days in February). Both months have recorded around 4 cm of accumulated snowfall, but there are also years with no snow at all. Occasionally, snow may fall in March and December, but this is quite rare, and from April to November, snow is almost never seen.

Because significant snowfall does not occur every year in Tokyo, even a small amount of snowfall can paralyze the transportation network due to residents’ lack of familiarity with snow, so caution is advised.

When is the Best Season to Visit Tokyo? Analysis Based on Average Temperature and Precipitation

One of the best seasons for sightseeing in Tokyo is spring (March to May). The reason is that the average temperature ranges from 9.4 to 18.8°C, and the humidity is a comfortable 57–68%, making it a pleasant and balanced season. November, when precipitation is below 100 mm, also offers many sunny days and is a comfortable time for sightseeing.

Next, although January and February are cold with average temperatures around 5–6°C, as long as you take measures against the cold, there is little rain, making these months suitable for tourism as well.

On the other hand, be aware that from June, when precipitation increases, through August, when the maximum temperature often exceeds 30°C, you will need to prepare rain gear and take measures against the heat.

Tokyo Weather in January | Average Temperature, Features, Clothing

Tokyo’s Average, High, and Low Temperatures in January

Weather Features in Tokyo in January | Does It Snow? The Coldest Time of the Year

January is the coldest month, with especially chilly mornings and evenings, and the average low drops to 1.2°C. Snowfall occurs on about three days, but is infrequent, and total monthly accumulation is only about 4 cm, so heavy snow is rare. There are also few rainy days, and extended periods of clear weather are another feature of this season.

What to Wear in Tokyo in January

With the severe cold in January, it’s important to wear warm clothing such as thick coats, down jackets, and long pants. Indoors, however, heating keeps things warm, so layering thin innerwear is recommended. Scarves, gloves, and disposable heating pads (kairo) are also effective for keeping warm.

👉If you’re unsure about what to wear in Japan in winter, check out this article!

Tokyo Weather in February | Average Temperature, Features, Clothing

Tokyo’s Average, High, and Low Temperatures in February

Weather Features in Tokyo in February | Does It Snow? A Month of Continued Cold

In February, the average low is 2.1°C, and the average number of snowy days is 3.5—the highest of the year—with total monthly accumulation at 4 cm, so the severe cold continues just like in January. There is also little rain, resulting in low humidity and typical cold winter weather.

What to Wear in Tokyo in February

As the severe cold continues in February, warm clothing such as thick coats, down jackets, and long pants is essential. To minimize skin exposure, scarves and gloves are also recommended. Outerwear made from materials that block cold winds is also effective.

Tokyo Weather in March | Average Temperature, Features, Clothing

Tokyo’s Average, High, and Low Temperatures in March

Weather Features in Tokyo in March | Cherry Blossom Season

In March, the winter chill begins to ease, and with the arrival of spring comes the cherry blossom season. One notable feature is the large temperature difference between day and night. While it is warm during the day, the mornings and evenings can still be quite cold. Rainy days increase, and occasionally, it may even snow. As warm and cold days alternate, the weather gradually shifts to a more spring-like atmosphere. Additionally, many people in Japan suffer from pollen allergies during this period.

👉What is hay fever? Find out why Japan has so much pollen

What to Wear in Tokyo in March

In March, it is essential to be prepared for temperature fluctuations. Recommended outfits include layering a light sweater or shirt with a coat or cardigan. However, on rare days when the temperature drops to winter levels, you will need proper cold-weather gear.

Tokyo Weather in April｜Average Temperature, Features, Clothing

Tokyo’s Average, High, and Low Temperatures in April

Weather Features in Tokyo in April｜Cherry Blossom Full Bloom

April brings true spring weather to Tokyo, and the cherry blossoms reach full bloom. The days are filled with gentle sunlight, making it warm and comfortable, though mornings and evenings can still be chilly. Rainy days gradually increase, but overall, the weather remains calm and pleasant, making it the perfect season for outdoor activities like cherry blossom viewing.

🌸Check out Tokyo’s Cherry Blossom Viewing & Sakura Events

What to Wear in Tokyo in April

In April, there are more days when you can wear light outfits such as long-sleeved shirts or blouses. However, since mornings and evenings can be cool, it’s a good idea to have a cardigan or scarf on hand for layering.

👉Not sure what to wear in Japan in spring? Check out this article too

Tokyo Weather in May｜Average Temperature, Features, Clothing

Tokyo’s Average, High, and Low Temperatures in May

Weather Features in Tokyo in May｜A Comfortable Season of Fresh Greenery

In May, Tokyo is filled with vibrant fresh greenery and a refreshing atmosphere. There are more days when it gets warm enough to break a sweat, but the humidity is not as high as in summer, so the weather remains comfortable. Southern winds increase and the sunlight becomes stronger, but overall, the weather is often clear, making it a great season for outdoor activities.

What to Wear in Tokyo in May

Since mornings and evenings can still be cool, it’s important to be prepared for temperature changes. During the warmer daytime, short sleeves or light long sleeves are comfortable, and you can adjust with a light jacket in the mornings and evenings.

Tokyo Weather in June｜Average Temperature, Features, Clothing

Tokyo’s Average, High, and Low Temperatures in June

Weather Features in Tokyo in June｜The Rainy Season

In June, as the full-fledged rainy season arrives, the number of cloudy and rainy days increases, and both humidity and temperature rise, making the unique muggy heat of the rainy season more noticeable. On sunny days during the rainy season, temperatures can climb even higher, giving a strong sense of the approaching summer. This period is also called early summer, a season where you can feel the transition into summer.

What to Wear in Tokyo in June

Due to the high humidity and muggy heat brought by the rainy season in June, short-sleeved shirts or lightweight long-sleeved shirts made from breathable fabrics are recommended. Especially ideal are clothes made from materials that dry quickly even if they get wet. Since it rains frequently, umbrellas and other rain gear are also necessary.

Tokyo Weather in July | Average Temperature, Features, Clothing

Tokyo’s Average, High, and Low Temperatures in July

Weather Features in Tokyo in July | Managing Your Health During the Rainy Season and Heat is Important

In July, the combination of the rainy season and rising temperatures brings full-fledged muggy heat. Once the rainy season ends, the sunlight becomes stronger and very hot days continue. Since humidity is also high, it is important to manage your health and prevent heatstroke. Also, be aware of sudden weather changes such as thunderstorms.

What to Wear in Tokyo in July

As the muggy heat intensifies in July, short-sleeved shirts made from breathable, sweat-absorbing, and quick-drying materials are ideal. On sunny days outdoors, hats and parasols that block strong sunlight are very useful. Be sure to use them to prevent heatstroke. A long-sleeved shirt is also handy for air-conditioned places.

👉Worried about what to wear in Japan in summer? Check out this article too!

Tokyo Weather in August | Average Temperature, Features, Clothing

Tokyo’s Average, High, and Low Temperatures in August

Weather Features in Tokyo in August | Beware of Heatstroke Due to Heat and Humidity

August is the hottest month of the year, with the highest average and maximum temperatures, marking the peak of summer. With strong sunlight and high humidity every day, measures against heatstroke are essential. Sudden thunderstorms can also occur, sometimes bringing a large amount of rain in a short period.

What to Wear in Tokyo in August

With both high temperatures and humidity in August, short-sleeved shirts made from breathable and quick-drying materials are best. Especially recommended are clothes made from fabrics that feel cool to the touch. Hats and parasols to block the strong sunlight, as well as light outerwear for air-conditioned indoor spaces, are also useful.

Tokyo Weather in September | Average Temperature, Features, Clothing

Tokyo’s Average, High, and Low Temperatures in September

Weather Features in Tokyo in September | Typhoon Season

In September, you can gradually feel the signs of autumn. It is also typhoon season, and combined with the long autumn rains, precipitation increases. While humidity remains high and there are still some muggy days, mornings and evenings become more comfortable. However, in recent years, the number of days with temperatures exceeding 30℃ has increased, so heat countermeasures are still necessary.

What to Wear in Tokyo in September

In September, when the lingering summer heat and high humidity persist, it is recommended to wear short sleeves during the day and layer a light jacket in the cool mornings and evenings. Since this period also sees many rainy days, clothing made from quick-drying and breathable materials will help you stay comfortable.

Tokyo Weather in October | Average Temperature, Features, Clothing

Tokyo’s Average, High, and Low Temperatures in October

Weather Features in Tokyo in October | Beware of Chilly Mornings and Evenings

In October, while the daytime temperatures are comfortable, mornings and evenings can be quite chilly, resulting in significant temperature differences throughout the day. Although this is the period with the highest annual rainfall, the humidity is lower than in summer and there are more days with northerly winds, so it does not feel muggy. Temperatures gradually drop as the month progresses, and you can feel autumn deepening day by day.

What to Wear in Tokyo in October

In October, it is recommended to wear outfits that can adapt to temperature changes, such as long-sleeved shirts paired with easily removable outerwear like jackets or cardigans. Since there are many rainy days, be sure to prepare rain gear as well.

👉Worried about what to wear in Japan in autumn? Check out this article too

Tokyo Weather in November | Average Temperature, Features, Clothing

Tokyo’s Average, High, and Low Temperatures in November

Weather Features in Tokyo in November | Good Weather but Prone to Dryness

In November, as autumn deepens, there are more sunny days and the weather becomes mild. There are also many daylight hours, making it a great time for outings. There are also more days with northerly winds compared to the previous month, and you can really feel the transition from autumn to winter.

What to Wear in Tokyo in November

To cope with temperature differences, it is recommended to wear a light sweater and a light jacket during the warmer daytime, and layer a heavier coat over them in the chilly mornings and evenings. Cold-weather accessories like scarves are also helpful for dealing with temperature changes.

Tokyo Weather in December | Average Temperature, Features, Clothing

Tokyo’s Average, High, and Low Temperatures in December

Weather Features in Tokyo in December | Does It Snow? The Start of a Cold Winter

In December, although there are many sunny days, the sunlight is weak and the real winter begins. Snowfall is rare during this period, and even if it does snow, it rarely accumulates. On sunny days, you may feel some warmth from the sun during the day, but as the month progresses, the cold intensifies and it becomes difficult to feel warmth even during the day.

What to Wear in Tokyo in December

In December, it is essential to prepare for the temperature differences between indoors and outdoors. Outdoors, you will need warm clothing such as thick coats or down jackets, but indoors with heating, a shirt or sweater is usually sufficient. Adjusting with cold-weather accessories like scarves and gloves is also recommended.

🎄Check Out Tokyo's Illuminations & Winter Events

Check the Weather in Tokyo in Advance and Enjoy Your Trip!

Tokyo has four distinct seasons, each with its own unique charms and things to watch out for. That's why it's important to check the seasonal features and weather in advance for a comfortable trip. Before you visit Tokyo, make sure to check the weather and enjoy your trip to the fullest!