Tokyo Weather: Month-by-Month Guide for 2026

Tokyo is Japan's lively capital, known for its mix of modern neighbourhoods, historic temples, seasonal festivals, and great food. Every season brings something new, like cherry blossoms in spring, colourful leaves in autumn, and bright winter lights. The weather varies widely throughout the year, with hot, humid summers and cool, dry winters, so choosing when to visit matters.

This guide breaks down Tokyo's weather month by month, covering July, August, September, October, and December, as well as Shinjuku, Tokyo weather, seasonal temperatures, rainfall, and what to pack for each season.

What Is Tokyo Weather Like Year-Round?

Tokyo has four clear seasons, each with its own feel. Spring (March to May) is mild, with temperatures slowly climbing from about 10°C to 24°C. Summer (June to August) is hot and humid, and it rains most in June and early July. Autumn (September to November) is cooler and brings colourful leaves, though September can bring typhoons. Winter (December to February) is cold and dry, with clear skies and hardly any snow in central Tokyo.

The weather conditions in Tokyo change a lot throughout the year. On average, the city gets about 1,530 mm of rain each year, with the most rain falling in September and October.

What Is Summer Tokyo Weather Like?

The rainy season, known as tsuyu, runs from early June to mid-July. Once it ends, temperatures rise sharply and humidity peaks. This is the hottest period of the year.

Tokyo weather during summer calls for early-morning plans and indoor activities between 1 pm and 5 pm. Weather conditions in Tokyo at this time can feel intense, particularly for those not used to high humidity.

Typhoon season in Japan runs from August to October, with peak activity during September. Check Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) forecasts before you travel.

Weather in Tokyo, Japan, in July

Average: High 31.4°C / Low 24.2°C 

The rainy season officially ends mid-July. The second half of the month turns hot, sunny, and humid.

• Humidity averages around 76%; the hottest hours fall between 1 pm and 5 pm.
• Afternoon thunderstorms are possible, particularly in the second half of the month. 

What to wear: Light cotton or linen, a wide-brimmed hat, and SPF 50+ sunscreen.

The weather in Tokyo, Japan, in July is cooler in the morning: the best time for any outdoor plans during the rainy season.

Tokyo Weather August

Average: High 31.3°C / Low 23.5°C

August is the hottest month of the year. On peak days, temperatures can exceed 35°C due to the urban heat island effect.

• The risk of heatstroke is high during prolonged outdoor activity.
• Schedule outdoor plans before 10 am or after 6 pm.
• Nights stay warm and humid throughout the month.

What to wear: As light as possible; avoid dark colours; carry a portable fan.

Plan outdoor activities for the morning and use air-conditioned spaces in the afternoon during Tokyo weather in August.

What Is Tokyo Weather in September Like?

After August, the humidity starts to go down. By October, Tokyo weather feels much more comfortable, making it a great time for outdoor sightseeing.

Autumn foliage, known as koyo, begins in late October. Parks and gardens are at their most colourful through November.

Tokyo Weather September

Average: High 27.5°C / Low 20.3°C

September is the rainiest month of the year, largely due to typhoon activity. The first half still feels hot and muggy. The second half is cooler.

• Typhoon-related rain can arrive with little warning; check JMA forecasts daily.
• Humidity eases gradually from mid-September onwards.
• Carry light layers you can add or remove through the day.

What to wear: Light clothing, a waterproof jacket, and a compact umbrella.

Treat rain as a daily possibility when you plan for Tokyo weather in September, and you will not get caught off guard.

Weather in Tokyo, Japan, in October

Average: High 22.0°C / Low 14.8°C  

October is one of the most comfortable months to be in the city. Clear skies and low humidity make it easy to spend full days outside.

• Typhoon season largely winds down by mid-October
• Autumn foliage begins to colour towards the end of the month.
• Parks such as Shinjuku Gyoen and Ueno Park are well worth visiting in late October.

What to wear: T-shirts during the day, a light jacket for mornings and evenings.

The weather in Tokyo, Japan, in October is also ideal for autumn foliage, making late-month visits particularly rewarding.

What Is the Weather in Tokyo, Japan, in December Like?

December is one of the driest months of the year in Tokyo. Days are cold, clear, and mostly sunny.

Average: High 12.0°C / Low 3.8°C

• Snow in central Tokyo is rare and rarely accumulates when it does fall.
• Wind chill between tall buildings can make evenings feel sharper than the official temperature.
• Illuminations across Shinjuku, Roppongi, and Marunouchi light up the city from late November through December

What to wear: A warm coat, thermal underlayers, scarf, gloves, and warm shoes.

Tokyo weather in December is ideal for travellers who enjoy sunny days. The weather in Tokyo, Japan, in December is generally cold, dry, and stable, making it comfortable for sightseeing with the right winter clothing. 

What Is Shinjuku, Tokyo, Weather Like?

Shinjuku, Tokyo, weather follows the same seasonal pattern as the rest of the city, but two area-specific differences are worth keeping in mind.

In summer, dense high-rise buildings and heavy foot traffic trap heat. July and August in Shinjuku can feel noticeably warmer than open areas of the city due to the urban heat island effect. In winter, wind funnels between skyscrapers around Shinjuku Station. December and January evenings feel colder than the official forecast.

Shinjuku Gyoen, the large park within the neighbourhood, offers real relief in summer heat. It is also one of the best spots for autumn foliage viewing in November.

Keep Shinjuku, Tokyo, weather in mind when planning evening activities; wind chill and heat effects can both be more pronounced than in open areas of the city.

What to Pack Based on Tokyo Weather?

Since Tokyo's weather changes a lot with the seasons, packing the right clothes can really help you stay comfortable.

• Spring (March-May): Light layers and a compact umbrella
• Summer (June-August): Breathable fabrics are essential for Tokyo’s weather in August heat. Pack sunscreen, a portable fan, and electrolyte drinks for the most humid days. 
• Autumn (September-November): A mid-layer jacket, with a waterproof shell handy for early September rain
• Winter (December-February): A warm coat, thermals, plus a scarf and gloves

Here are some tips that work for every season:

• Comfortable walking shoes matter no matter the season.
• Indoor spaces are heavily air-conditioned in summer, so carry a thin layer for moving between outdoors and indoors.
• Weather conditions in Tokyo in winter stay dry and cold, and the weather in Tokyo, Japan, in December especially calls for layers over one heavy coat.
• Shinjuku, Tokyo, weather brings extra wind in the evenings, so an extra layer near the station is worth packing.

Final Takeaway

Each season changes Tokyo's weather and gives the city a unique feel.

In spring, you can see cherry blossoms. Summer is full of festivals, autumn has colourful leaves, and winter brings crisp days and bright lights. The best time to visit depends on whether you want to enjoy outdoor sights, special events, or cooler weather for exploring at your own pace.

If you're planning a holiday to Japan and want to pick the best season, Holiday Tribe's travel advisors can help you create a custom plan, including the best time to go, where to stay, and what to do.