When you plan a trip to Tokyo, choosing the right season can make a big difference. Every season in Tokyo has its unique charm, from the famous cherry blossoms of spring to the festive lights of winter. The best time to travel to Tokyo really depends on what kind of experience you want.
If you’re dreaming of walking under blooming cherry blossoms or soaking up the city’s holiday lights, you’ll want to time your trip perfectly. Let’s break down what each season has to offer so you can plan the perfect Tokyo adventure!
Spring (March to May)
Spring in Tokyo is magical. It’s when the cherry blossoms, or sakura, begin to bloom, and the whole city transforms into a sea of soft pink petals. This is one of the most popular times to visit Tokyo, and it’s easy to see why!
The cherry blossom season is short but breathtaking. Everywhere you look, you’ll see people enjoying hanami, which is the tradition of having picnics under the blooming trees. Locals and tourists alike gather in parks, eat snacks, and celebrate the arrival of spring.
If you want to experience the full magic of cherry blossoms, head to some of Tokyo’s top spots for viewing, like Ueno Park, Shinjuku Gyoen, or along the Meguro River. These areas are perfect for leisurely walks or sitting down with a bento box to enjoy the view. Just keep in mind that the cherry blossom season is brief – usually late March to early April – so you’ll need to plan carefully to catch it at its peak.
Aside from cherry blossoms, spring in Tokyo has mild weather, making it an ideal time to explore the city on foot. Temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F), so it’s comfortable for sightseeing. Spring also brings festivals like the Sanja Matsuri in May, where you can experience traditional Japanese culture with parades, food stalls, and music.
The downside to spring? It’s peak tourist season. If you plan to visit Tokyo during cherry blossom time, be prepared for crowds. Booking your accommodation well in advance is a must, but the beautiful scenes of sakura in full bloom make it all worth it.
Summer (June to August)
Summer in Tokyo is lively, colorful, and full of energy. But it’s also hot and humid. With temperatures often hitting 30°C (86°F) or higher and humidity levels making it feel even warmer, summer can be a bit intense if you’re not used to the heat. Tokyo’s summer also brings the rainy season (tsuyu) from June to mid-July, so expect some wet days. But don’t let that stop you from enjoying the city – there’s still plenty to see and do!
One of the best things about summer in Tokyo is the festivals. Summer is when the city comes alive with matsuri (festivals), fireworks, and street food. Sumida River Fireworks in July is one of the biggest firework displays, lighting up the sky over Tokyo. It’s a massive event, and people flock to the riverbanks to watch the spectacular show. There’s also the Kanda Matsuri and Mitama Matsuri, where you can experience traditional parades, music, and vibrant celebrations.
Another summer favorite is Tokyo’s street food. Festivals are great places to try things like takoyaki (octopus balls), yakisoba (fried noodles), and taiyaki (fish-shaped cakes filled with sweet red bean paste). These are not only delicious but give you a real taste of local flavors.
If the heat becomes too much, Tokyo has plenty of air-conditioned attractions to escape to, like museums, shopping malls, and cafes. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can take a day trip out to the nearby Kamakura or Enoshima for a beach escape.
Despite the weather, summer in Tokyo is packed with fun and excitement if you’re into lively events and don’t mind the heat. Just bring lots of water and stay cool!
Autumn (September to November)
Autumn in Tokyo is one of the best times to visit. The weather is cooler, ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), and the summer humidity is gone, making it perfect for walking around the city. But what really makes autumn special is the fall foliage. Just like the cherry blossoms in spring, autumn in Tokyo brings the beautiful sight of leaves changing color. The trees turn bright shades of red, orange, and yellow, creating a stunning backdrop against the city’s temples and parks.
One of the best spots to see the fall foliage is Shinjuku Gyoen, a large park in the heart of Tokyo. It’s peaceful, beautiful, and the perfect place to relax and enjoy the changing leaves. Yoyogi Park and Koishikawa Korakuen Garden are also great spots for autumn walks.
If you want to venture a little outside of Tokyo, the Nikko region is known for its vibrant autumn colors and is just a short train ride away.
Autumn is also less crowded than spring, so you can enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere while exploring Tokyo’s sights. The cooler temperatures make it a great time for hiking, and you’ll find several trails just outside the city in places like Mount Takao.
Plus, autumn brings its own set of festivals, like the Tokyo Ramen Festa, where you can taste different styles of ramen from across Japan. If you love food, this is a must!
Autumn is a wonderful time to visit Tokyo if you want mild weather, fewer crowds, and stunning natural beauty.
Winter (December to February)
Winter in Tokyo might be chilly, but it’s a magical time to visit. The temperature usually stays around 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F), and while it rarely snows in the city, the cool air makes it feel cozy. One of the highlights of winter in Tokyo is the illumination. During the holiday season, the city lights up with beautiful light displays. Areas like Roppongi Hills, Shibuya, and Tokyo Midtown are famous for their winter illuminations, creating a festive and enchanting atmosphere.
Another great thing about winter in Tokyo is the New Year’s celebrations. If you’re there in late December, you’ll get to experience hatsumode, which is the first shrine visit of the year. Thousands of people visit shrines like Meiji Shrine to pray for good fortune in the year ahead. It’s a beautiful and spiritual experience and a great way to see a different side of Tokyo’s culture.
Winter is also the perfect time to enjoy a visit to a traditional onsen (hot spring). While Tokyo itself isn’t known for hot springs, you can easily take a short trip to nearby onsen towns like Hakone or Kusatsu. Soaking in a hot spring while surrounded by nature is a relaxing and unique experience, especially in the cold winter months.
If you love cozy winter vibes, holiday lights, and exploring the city in a quieter season, winter is a lovely time to travel to Tokyo.
Summing It Up
No matter when you visit, Tokyo offers something special every season. The best time to travel to Tokyo depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for. If you love cherry blossoms and mild weather, spring is perfect. If you’re into festivals and don’t mind the heat, summer has a lot to offer. Autumn gives you cool temperatures and stunning fall colors, while winter brings cozy atmospheres, illuminations, and festive celebrations.
Each season has its magic, so think about what you want to see and do and plan your trip around that. No matter when you go, Tokyo is waiting to welcome you with open arms! Safe travels!
