Last Updated on July 24, 2024 by Vlad
Hey there, fellow travellers! Thinking about a trip to Tokyo? Well, as someone who’s been lucky enough to visit this amazing city countless times over the last 20 years – I’ve got some insider tips for you. Spoiler alert: July and August might not be your best bet. But don’t worry, I’ll spill all the details on when to avoid Tokyo and why. So, grab a cuppa and let’s dive in!
The Sweaty Summertime Struggle
Let’s cut to the chase – July and August are the worst months to visit Tokyo, hands down. Why, you ask? Two words: heat and humidity. This heat and humidity combo.
Picture this: You’re excited to explore the bustling streets of Shibuya, but as soon as you step outside, it feels like you’ve walked into a sauna. The air is thick and sticky, and within a few minutes, you’re drenched in sweat. Trust me, I’ve been there, and it’s not pretty.
During these months:
- Temperatures often around 33°-38°C (that’s 91°-100°F for our American mates)
- Humidity levels can reach a staggering 80%
- You’ll find yourself ducking into air-conditioned konbinis just to catch your breath
I remember my first August trip where I planned to visit the beautiful Meiji Shrine. By the time I reached the entrance, my t-shirt was soaked through, and I looked like I’d just run a marathon. Not exactly the serene, spiritual experience I’d hoped for!
The Rainy Season Blues
Just before the peak of summer heat, you’ve got another weather woe to worry about – the rainy season. Usually running from early June to mid-July, this period can put a real damper on your travel plans.
During the rainy season:
- Expect heavy downpours
- Humidity levels start to climb
- Outdoor activities become a bit of a gamble
I once made the mistake of booking a day trip to Mount Takao in early July for a bit of hiking despite the forecast saying it will be raining. Let’s just say the trip never happened as it was pissing down for 2 days like crazy – I’ve never seen that much rain in Melbourne ever!
Having said the above, some years don’t even have a rainy season. Back in June 2022 and watching the news, the presenter announced an end to the rainy season. We were like what, there never was a rainy season (lucky us).
For a very detailed breakdown on the monthly weather in Japan (Tokyo included along with other major cities) see my post here.
Typhoon Troubles: Nature’s Unwelcome Party Crasher
How could I forget about typhoon season? It’s an important consideration for any Tokyo traveller, typically running from August to October, with September being the peak month.
During typhoon season:
- Powerful storms can disrupt travel plans
- Heavy rains and strong winds are common
- Some outdoor attractions may close for safety reasons
While typhoons don’t hit Tokyo directly very often, they can still cause:
- Flight cancellations or delays
- Train service disruptions
- Closure of some tourist sites
Even when a typhoon doesn’t make landfall, the associated rain and wind can put a real dampener on your sightseeing plans. So if you’re dreaming of those perfect photos of the Tokyo skyline or a peaceful stroll through Ueno Park, early September might not be your best bet.
Always check the official Japan Meteorological Agency’s website to keep up to date with any extreme weather events.
Golden Week: When Tokyo Turns into a Massive Crowd
Now, let’s talk about Golden Week. It’s a cluster of national holidays from late April to early May, and while it might sound golden, it’s not exactly a golden opportunity for tourists.
During Golden Week:
- Streets can be packed with locals on holiday
- Tourist spots are overwhelmed
- Hotel prices skyrocket
- Train and plane tickets become scarce
- Driving back to Tokyo can be a nightmare (think peak Monash Fwy gridlock x 5)
A decade ago I wanted to see what this Golden Week madness looks like, so I was driving back on the last day of the Golden Week from Yamanashi to Yokohama. Typically a 3 hour drive, it turned into a 10 hour marathon (like driving from Melbourne to Sydney), with lots of “I told you so” comments along the way.
New Year’s: A Time for Locals, Not So Much for Tourists
While not as challenging as the summer months, the New Year period (late December to early January) can also be a tricky time to visit.
What to expect:
- Many businesses and attractions close for the holidays
- Temples and shrines get extremely crowded
- Travel and accommodation can be pricey
I spent one New Year’s Eve in Tokyo, hoping to experience the traditional temple bell-ringing. Instead, I spent most of the night trying to navigate through a sea of people. Not exactly the peaceful start to the year I’d imagined!
So, When Should You Visit?
Now, don’t get me wrong please – Tokyo is a fantastic city to visit any time of year. But if you want to make the most of your trip, consider visiting in:
- Spring (late March to late May): Cherry blossom season is great, though it can get busy. If you miss it, don’t worry, great tourist-friendly weather follows.
- Autumn (October to November): Comfortable temperatures and beautiful fall colours where there are trees
- Early winter (late November to mid December): Crisp weather and festive illuminations
I’ll never forget my first autumn trip to Tokyo. The golden ginkgo trees lining the streets of Meiji Jingu Gaien were absolutely breathtaking. And the weather was perfect for long walks and outdoor explorations.
The Takeaway
Look, Tokyo is an incredible city that’s worth visiting any time you get the chance. But if you have the flexibility to choose when to go, why not set yourself up for the best experience possible?
By steering clear of the worst months to visit Tokyo – like the sweltering summers and the typhoon season – you’ll set yourself up for a much more enjoyable experience.
Avoid the super sweaty summers, the rainy season blues, and the major holiday crowds. Instead, aim for those sweet spots when the weather is kind and the crowds are manageable. Your Tokyo adventure will be all the better for it!
Remember, these are just my observations from years of Tokyo travels. Everyone’s experience is different, and you might find that you love the energy of Golden Week or don’t mind the summer sweat drench. If you do happen to visit during the summer check out my tips on surviving the heat and humidity. The most important thing is that you go and experience this amazing city for yourself.
So, what do you reckon? Ready to plan your Tokyo adventure? Just remember to check the calendar first!