Having lived in Tokyo for many years, there is one thing I strongly advise tourists:
Do not visit Tokyo in the summer.
Tokyo’s Extreme Summer Heat
Over the past few years, Japan’s temperatures have continued to rise, and Tokyo’s summer heat has become almost unbearable.
I’ve traveled to European cities like London, and I can say with certainty that their summer heat is nothing compared to Tokyo’s.
The biggest factor is humidity.
Japan’s extremely high humidity makes the heat feel even more intense.
Not the Same as Other Hot Countries
You might think Tokyo’s summer is just like visiting Dubai, Singapore, Malaysia, or Thailand.
But there’s a critical difference:
- In those countries, people know it’s hot year-round, so cities are designed for it.
- They have huge shopping malls, air-conditioned spaces, and plenty of options to escape the heat.
Tokyo, however, was not always this hot.
The rapid rise in summer temperatures in recent years means the city is not prepared with the same level of infrastructure.
The Harsh Reality for Tourists
In busy tourist areas like Shibuya, cafés and restaurants quickly fill up as people seek relief from the heat.
You’ll face:
- Overcrowded spaces when trying to cool down
- Difficulties walking between destinations in the scorching sun
- High taxi fares if you try to avoid walking
In short, sightseeing becomes extremely stressful in the summer.
The Best Seasons to Visit Tokyo
The good news is that autumn and spring in Tokyo are completely different.
- Autumn: the weather is surprisingly comfortable, perfect for exploring the city.
- Spring: cherry blossoms in full bloom create unforgettable scenery.
If you plan to visit Tokyo, avoid the peak summer heat and instead aim for autumn or spring.
The quality of your Tokyo experience will be completely different depending on the season you choose.
