Tokyo Weather in July

July: hot and sticky

Tokyo in July feels hot, humid and often cloudy. Daytime highs reach 30°C, while nights stay warm at around 23°C. Rain falls on 16 days, so a sudden shower can interrupt an outdoor plan. The air can feel heavy, especially around Shibuya Crossing or on a crowded train.

You can still enjoy temples and gardens, but keep outdoor visits short and leave time for air-conditioned stops. The Tokyo National Museum in Ueno makes a good midday break. Save long walks and hikes for cooler months; July's heat can make them tiring. April and May, and November and December, are more comfortable for exploring on foot.

Festivals and summer crowds

Tanabata, the star festival, is celebrated on July 7, though events vary around the city. At the end of the month, the Sumida River Fireworks Festival draws large crowds near Asakusa. Check the event date before choosing where to stay, as it changes each year.

If you hate crowds, avoid the Sumida riverside on fireworks night.

Crowds and prices tend to climb as Japanese school holidays begin in late July. Early July is usually calmer than the cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons, but popular sights and trains can still feel busy. Compared with Tokyo's mild spring and autumn, July is a less comfortable time for a packed sightseeing schedule.

Make the heat easier

Plan outdoor time around a specific stop, then use Tokyo's indoor spaces to cool off. The covered streets and department stores around Shinjuku Station are handy between sights, while basement food halls, called depachika, are a good place to try seasonal Japanese snacks.

For the Sumida River Fireworks, don't expect to stroll up and find an easy view. The streets around Asakusa get packed, so choose a viewing spot away from the river or watch from indoors. After a humid day, a bowl of cold soba can be a welcome change from hot ramen.