When you’re trying to figure out “tokyo weather what to wear,” you need more than just average highs and lows. Tokyo’s weather can catch you off guard—muggy, sweat-dripping summers, sudden downpours in early summer, crisp autumn days, then winds that sneak under your winter coat. In this ultimate guide, you’ll learn exactly what to pack for each season, so you stay comfy, dry, and stylish on your Tokyo trip.
Tokyo weather overview
Tokyo’s climate shifts dramatically from season to season. You’ll go from cherry-blossom breezes in spring to sticky, storm-prone days in early summer, then sizzling humidity in high summer, crisp autumn air, and finally a cold, blustery winter. Planning outfits around these swings is key to enjoying the city without wasting time or lugging heavy bags.
Key climate facts
- Cool season lasts December 4 to March 20, with January highs around 49°F and lows near 37°F (WeatherSpark).
- Rainy season typically runs early June to mid-July, bringing unpredictable showers and high humidity (JRailPass.com).
- Hot season spans June 27 to September 18, with August averaging a high of 86°F and low of 76°F, plus 27.4 muggy days in August (WeatherSpark).
- Autumn (late September to November) offers mild temps—highs in the mid-60s to low-70s—and vibrant foliage (Jetstar).
- December is the clearest month (clear or partly cloudy 74% of the time), making it ideal for photography and sightseeing (WeatherSpark).
- September sees the most rainfall (7.3 inches); January is the driest (1.9 inches) (WeatherSpark).
Dress for spring weather
Temperature and conditions
From March through May, Tokyo shakes off winter chill as daytime highs climb from the mid-50s°F to around 68°F. Nights still dip into the 45–55°F range, so early-morning strolls can feel brisk. Humidity remains moderate, and spring showers are usually light.
Clothing essentials
- Light layers, such as long-sleeve tees and thin sweaters
- A denim or utility jacket for cooler mornings
- Comfortable pants or jeans (stretch fabrics help if you bike or walk a lot)
- A lightweight scarf to block wind on bridges and riverbanks
- Closed-toe walking shoes or low-top sneakers
Packing checklist
- 2–3 long-sleeve shirts
- 1 light sweater or cardigan
- 1 jackets (denim or light windbreaker)
- 1 scarf or pashmina
- 1 pair of comfortable walking shoes
Prepare for rainy season
Rainy season facts
Early June through mid-July brings Tokyo’s tsuyu (rainy season) with sudden downpours and high humidity. You might get a full day of rain or just a few intense showers. Temperature highs stay in the low-70s°F, lows around 65°F.
Clothing essentials
- Waterproof or water-resistant jacket with a hood
- Quick-dry shirts (synthetic or merino blend)
- Lightweight pants or cargo shorts that dry fast
- Packable umbrella (compact models fit in daypacks)
- Water-resistant shoes or sandals
Rainy day tips
- Layer a breathable shell over your outfit so you don’t overheat
- Tuck pant legs into socks if puddles splash up
- Stash damp items in a waterproof pouch inside your bag
- For drop-off services near stations, check our tokyo luggage storage options guide
Handle summer heat
Summer heat stats
From late July to early September, Tokyo feels like a sauna. Daily highs hover between 75°F and 85°F, peaking at about 87°F on August 9, while nighttime lows stay around 74°F (WeatherSpark). Humidity soars from 10% to 81% over the season, making the air feel much hotter.
Apparel recommendations
- Breathable, moisture-wicking tees or polos
- Lightweight shorts or skirts (avoid heavy denim)
- Wide-brim hat or cap to block sun rays
- UV-blocking sunglasses
- Sandals or sneakers with ventilation
Stay cool strategies
- Carry a handheld fan or foldable paper fan
- Drink plenty of water and replenish electrolytes
- Seek shade between outdoor activities
- Plan museum or cafe stops in midday to cool off
Embrace autumn mild weather
Autumn weather highlights
Late September through November brings crisp, dry days perfect for exploring parks and gardens. Highs range from the low-60s to mid-60s°F, falling to around 50–55°F at night. Humidity drops, making sweater-weather comfortable without feeling stuffy.
Outfit ideas
- Long-sleeve shirts or light knits
- Mid-weight jacket (denim, bomber, or light puffer)
- Skinny jeans or chinos
- Comfortable ankle boots or sneakers
- A compact umbrella for occasional showers
Dress for winter chill
Winter weather facts
Winter runs December 4 to March 20, with January the coldest month (average low 37°F, high 49°F) (WeatherSpark). Tokyo’s skyscrapers create wind tunnels that make it feel colder than the thermometer shows (APTS).
Layering essentials
- Heattech innerwear (Uniqlo’s moisture-to-heat fabric) for base layers (APTS)
- Wool or cashmere sweater as mid layer
- Insulated coat or down jacket (synthetic down works too)
- Scarf, gloves, and a knit hat
- Thermal socks
Warm-up accessories
- Japanese hot packs (Kairo) to stick inside pockets
- Hot drinks from convenience stores or vending machines
- Lip balm and hand cream to combat dryness
- Consider a small hand warmer for extra chill
Pack Tokyo year-round
Layering strategies
Master layering so you can peel off or pile on as weather shifts. Start with a moisture-wicking base, add an insulating mid layer, and finish with a weather-proof outer shell. If you like riding quieter trains, see our rush hour times tokyo avoid for when cars are emptiest.
Shoe and bag choices
- Water-resistant sneakers or low boots for rainy months
- Lightweight running shoes for summer sightseeing
- Crossbody bag or daypack with zip pockets
- Small foldable tote for unexpected shopping
Laundry and drying tips
- Quick-dry fabrics are a lifesaver—pack them when possible
- Many hotels and neighbourhood laundromats offer coin-op dryers
- If you need to stash bulky coats, our tokyo luggage storage options guide has you covered
Carry-on essentials
- Compact travel umbrella
- Reusable water bottle
- Power bank and charging cables
- Hand sanitizer and wipes
- Japan sim card for tourists or pocket Wi-Fi for reliable data
Summary and next steps
- Spring: light layers and a denim jacket for cooler mornings
- Rainy season: waterproof shell, quick-dry fabrics, compact umbrella
- Summer: moisture-wicking shirts, shorts, sun protection
- Autumn: medium-weight knits, ankle boots, occasional umbrella
- Winter: thermal base, insulating mid layers, down coat, accessories
- Always pack versatile pieces for layering and weather surprises
- Keep shoes and bags water-resistant, plus a compact umbrella
- Stash bulky items with luggage storage services if needed
Try adding at least one tip above to your next packing list, and see how much smoother your Tokyo trip feels. Have any favorite day-of-packing hacks? Share them in the comments so fellow travelers can benefit.
Frequently asked questions
Q: What should I wear in Tokyo in summer?
A: Aim for lightweight, moisture-wicking tees, breathable shorts or skirts, a sun hat, UV-blocking sunglasses, and sandals or ventilated sneakers. Stay hydrated and plan indoor breaks.
Q: Is an umbrella enough during Tokyo’s rainy season?
A: A sturdy compact umbrella is essential, but pairing it with a water-resistant jacket and quick-dry pants will keep you drier in unpredictable downpours.
Q: Can I wear shorts in Tokyo in spring?
A: You can, but stick to mid- to late May when daytime highs hit the upper 60s°F. Layer with a light jacket or sweater for cooler mornings and evenings.
Q: How cold does it get in Tokyo winter?
A: Winter lows drop to around 37°F in January, with wind chill making it feel colder. Plan for thermal base layers, a warm mid layer, and an insulated coat.
Q: What shoes are best for Tokyo travel?
A: Comfort and weather resistance matter most. Water-resistant sneakers or low boots for wet months, ventilated athletic shoes for summer, and comfortable walking shoes year-round.
