Quick verdict
Peak season: Mar–Apr, Oct–Nov. Shoulder: Feb, May, Sep, Dec. Low: Jan, Jun–Aug.
Tokyo has four distinct seasons.
What's the weather like in Tokyo by month?
Each month classified as peak (best balance of weather and value), shoulder (a step in either direction), or low season.
Why visit Tokyo during Mar–Apr, Oct–Nov?
Cherry blossom season (late March–early April) is magical but crowded. May is warm and pleasant.
Shoulder season (Feb, May, Sep, Dec) trades a small weather concession for noticeably smaller crowds and softer prices — often the sweet spot for travelers who want flexibility.
Low season (Jan, Jun–Aug) is when prices fall hardest. Expect weather extremes (heat, humidity, cold, or rain depending on the destination) and reduced hours at some seasonal businesses, but the trade-off can be worth it if budget or solitude matters more than perfect conditions.
What festivals and events happen in Tokyo?
- Cherry Blossom Season (Hanami)Late March–Early April
Parks fill with picnickers under pink blooms. Ueno, Shinjuku Gyoen, and Meguro River are top spots.
- Sanja MatsuriMay
Tokyo's biggest and wildest festival in Asakusa. Portable shrines (mikoshi) are carried through the streets by thousands.
- Sumida River FireworksLate July
One of Tokyo's biggest fireworks displays with 20,000+ fireworks over the river near Asakusa.
- ComiketAugust & December
The world's largest comic/manga convention at Tokyo Big Sight. 500,000+ attendees over three days.
- New Year (Oshogatsu)December 31–January 3
Temples ring bells 108 times at midnight. Meiji Jingu sees 3+ million visitors in the first three days.
Cooler & warmer in Asia this March
If Tokyo's March weather isn't your match, here are the closest Asia alternatives at different temperatures. Distances are from Tokyo.
Cooler
See the full ranked list: All Asia destinations in March →
Frequently asked
When is the best time to visit Tokyo?
The best time to visit Tokyo is Mar–Apr, Oct–Nov. Tokyo has four distinct seasons. These months balance comfortable weather, manageable crowds, and prices that haven't yet hit peak-season highs.
When is the cheapest time to visit Tokyo?
Low-season months in Tokyo run Jan, Jun–Aug. Flights and hotels typically run 20-40% cheaper than peak. The trade-off is weather (which is why these months are off-peak) and some businesses operating shorter hours, especially in smaller seasonal destinations.
What's the weather like in Tokyo year-round?
Summer averages around 30°C (86°F) and winter averages around 5°C (41°F) in Tokyo. Tokyo has four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid, winters are mild and dry. Spring and fall are the most pleasant times to visit.
What festivals or events are happening in Tokyo?
Notable events in Tokyo: Cherry Blossom Season (Hanami) (Late March–Early April); Sanja Matsuri (May); Sumida River Fireworks (Late July). Parks fill with picnickers under pink blooms. Ueno, Shinjuku Gyoen, and Meguro River are top spots.
How many days do I need in Tokyo?
Most travelers spend 3-5 days in Tokyo, which covers the main neighborhoods, top attractions, and a half-day day trip. Add a day if you're visiting during peak season when crowds slow you down, or if you're combining Tokyo with nearby destinations.
Can't decide? Compare Tokyo with…
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See every destination at its peak in each of Tokyo's best months.
Full guide
Tokyo travel guide →
Cost, food, neighborhoods, transit, and hand-picked things to do.
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