Best Time to Visit Tokyo (2026)
Tokyo has four distinct seasons with very different travel experiences. Spring (cherry blossom) and autumn (fall foliage) are the iconic times to visit, but each season has its unique appeal.
Green ✓ = Best months · Red = Consider avoiding
Tokyo Travel Guides
Late March–April & Late October–November
Cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons — bucket-list experiences but expect large crowds and premium prices.
May & September
Post-peak but still excellent weather. Less crowded, better prices.
July–August
Extremely hot and humid (35°C+). Rainy season in June. Winter (December–February) is cold but manageable.
Month-by-Month Guide
| Month | Weather | Avg Temp | Rain | Crowds | Prices |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | Cold & sunnyNew Year chaos then quiet | 6°C | Low | Low | Budget |
| Feb | Cold & dry | 7°C | Low | Low | Budget |
| MarBest | Mild, cherry blossoms late MarchCherry blossom season begins ~March 22–28 | 12°C | Moderate | High | Peak |
| AprBest | Warm & beautifulPeak cherry blossom — book 6 months ahead | 17°C | Moderate | High | Peak |
| May | Warm & pleasant | 22°C | Moderate | Moderate | Mid |
| Jun | Rainy season (tsuyu)Rainy season June 1–July 20 approx. | 24°C | High | Low | Budget |
| Jul | Hot & very humidHanabi (fireworks) season | 28°C | High | Moderate | Mid |
| Aug | Very hot & humidObon holiday (mid-August) — domestic travel peaks | 30°C | Moderate | High | Peak |
| Sep | Warm, typhoon risk | 25°C | Moderate | Moderate | Mid |
| OctBest | Perfect autumn weatherAutumn foliage building | 18°C | Low | High | Peak |
| NovBest | Cool & stunning foliagePeak koyo (autumn leaves) mid-late November | 12°C | Low | High | Peak |
| Dec | Cold & clearChristmas illuminations + Roppongi Art Night | 7°C | Low | Moderate | Mid |
Key Events & Festivals
Hanami (Cherry Blossom Viewing)
Tokyo's parks fill with picnickers under sakura trees. Ueno, Shinjuku Gyoen, and Chidorigafuchi are the best spots.
Koyo (Autumn Foliage)
Tokyo's parks and gardens turn vivid red, orange, and gold. Rikugien and Shinjuku Gyoen are unmissable.
Summer Hanabi (Fireworks)
Spectacular fireworks displays over the Sumida River and Tokyo Bay throughout summer.
Planning Tips
Book flights for cherry blossom (late March to mid-April) at least 4–6 months in advance
May is underrated — warm, green, no crowds, and perfectly pleasant weather after peak spring
Winter (January–February) offers the cheapest prices, crisp clear views of Mt Fuji from the city, and smaller crowds at temples
September has typhoon risk — travel insurance covering weather disruption is worth buying
Plan your Tokyo trip
Tokyo Packing List
What to pack for your Tokyo trip — by season and category