Tokyo
Tokyo
Japan
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Tokyo is a year-round metropolis where ultra-modern skyscrapers stand alongside ancient shrines, offering a new experience with every season. The city features a humid subtropical climate, meaning vis...
About Tokyo
Tokyo is a year-round metropolis where ultra-modern skyscrapers stand alongside ancient shrines, offering a new experience with every season. The city features a humid subtropical climate, meaning visitors can expect four distinct seasons: crisp, dry winters; breezy, floral springs; hot, festival-filled summers; and temperate, colorful autumns. While the peak seasons of cherry blossoms (late March to early April) and autumn foliage (November) draw the largest crowds, off-peak months like January and February offer exceptional value and clear skies. Whether you are heading to the neon lights of Shinjuku or planning a multi-city itinerary to Osaka or Kyoto, understanding Tokyo's seasonal rhythm is key to a perfect trip.
Fly from Halifax, or anywhere in Atlantic Canada, and discover Tokyo at its best. We'll show you when to go, what to see, and where to eat, so you can simply enjoy the journey.
March, April, May
Spring (March–May)
June, July, August
Summer (June–August)
September, October, November
Autumn (September–November)
December, January, February
Winter (December–February)
What's Included
Seasonal Guide
Complete 12-month breakdown with weather, crowds & pricing
Flights from Halifax
Routes: Halifax — Tokyo, or via major hubs from Atlantic Canada
Neighborhoods
4 curated areas to stay, from budget to luxury
Budget Guide
Japanese Yen (JPY) daily budgets: $55–$85 / day (¥8,000–¥12,500) to $400+ / day (¥60,000+)
At a Glance: When to Visit Tokyo
Best Overall
April, May, October, and November
Cheapest
January, February, and June
Busiest
Late March to early April (Sakura) and August (Festivals/Obon)
Best Weather
October and May (Mild temperatures and low rainfall)
For Events
July and August (Summer fireworks and traditional matsuri)
For Families
May and October (Comfortable for walking with kids)
For Couples
Late March (Cherry blossoms) and December (Winter illuminations)
Budget Travel
January and February (Lowest hotel and flight rates)
From Atlantic Canada
Halifax to Tokyo.
Month by month.
Everything you need to know about travelling from Canada to Tokyo — the best seasons, what to pack, and how to save.
Month-by-Month Guide to Tokyo
January
Average 2°C–10°C (35°F–50°F). Very dry with around 6 hours of sunshine and rare snowfall.
“Best for budget travelers and photographers seeking crisp, blue-sky views of Mt. Fuji.”
February
Average 3°C–11°C (37°F–52°F). The coldest month but often very sunny and dry.
“Ideal for couples seeking romantic winter light displays and a quiet, peaceful atmosphere.”
March
Average 5°C–14°C (41°F–57°F). Transitioning from winter to spring with variable rain.
“Perfect for anime fans and those wanting to catch the very start of spring.”
April
Average 10°C–19°C (50°F–66°F). Mild and pleasant, though humidity starts to rise.
“The quintessential Tokyo experience—best for first-timers who don't mind crowds for the blossoms.”
May
Average 15°C–23°C (59°F–73°F). Exceptional weather with low rainfall and warm sun.
“Best for culture seekers wanting to witness authentic, high-energy Japanese festivals.”
June
Average 19°C–26°C (66°F–79°F). The start of 'Tsuyu' (Rainy Season) with high humidity.
“The best time for travelers seeking lower hotel rates and beautiful rainy-day photography.”
July
Average 24°C–31°C (75°F–88°F). Very hot and humid with frequent afternoon thunderstorms.
“Best for those who love summer vibes, late-night street food, and fireworks.”
August
Average 26°C–33°C (79°F–91°F). The hottest month; high humidity makes it feel much warmer.
“A high-energy month for festival lovers, though the heat can be intense for families.”
September
Average 21°C–28°C (70°F–82°F). Still warm but with the highest risk of typhoons.
“Great for tech enthusiasts and gamers looking for off-peak travel deals.”
October
Average 15°C–22°C (59°F–72°F). Clear skies, low humidity, and very comfortable for walking.
“Arguably the best weather month for sightseeing and general exploration.”
November
Average 9°C–17°C (48°F–63°F). Crisp air and the peak of the autumn foliage season.
“Ideal for nature lovers and photographers wanting the vibrant 'Momiji' red leaves.”
December
Average 4°C–12°C (39°F–54°F). Dry and cold with festive holiday atmospheres.
“Best for holiday enthusiasts who enjoy festive shopping and spectacular light displays.”
Festivals & Events in Tokyo
Hatsumode (New Year's)
The first shrine visit of the year. Millions head to Meiji Jingu to pray for luck.
Very crowded; local transport runs 24/7 on NYE; some businesses close.Tokyo Marathon
One of the world's major marathons, winding through the city's landmarks.
Major road closures; hotels near the finish line book up months in advance.Sakura Matsuri
Cherry blossom festivals across the city, featuring food stalls and night lights.
Highest impact of the year; hotels sell out 6 months ahead.Sanja Matsuri
A three-day festival in Asakusa featuring 100 portable shrines and traditional music.
Asakusa area becomes extremely packed; book local hotels early.Sumidagawa Fireworks
The oldest and one of the largest fireworks displays in Japan.
Riverside parks are packed by midday; expect extreme crowds on subways.Koenji Awa Odori
A massive traditional dance festival featuring thousands of participants.
The Koenji neighborhood becomes impassable; great for local atmosphere.Tokyo Game Show
One of the world's largest video game conventions.
Hotels near Chiba/Makuhari Messe sell out; high international attendance.Meiji Shrine Autumn Festival
A celebration of traditional arts including Bugaku and archery.
Moderate; a great time for cultural photography without massive tickets.Budget Guide: How Much Does It Cost to Visit Tokyo?
Japanese Yen (JPY)
Daily Budget
Peak
$220–$450 / night for mid-range
Off-Peak
$110–$180 / night for mid-range
Hotel rates can double during the peak Sakura season (April) and Golden Week. Booking 3–4 months in advance is essential for these periods. Winter (Jan-Feb) offers the best value for high-end hotels.
Where to Stay in Tokyo by Season
Shinjuku
Moderate to LuxuryYear-round
The heart of Tokyo's nightlife and commerce. Best for transport links and endless dining.
Asakusa
Budget to ModerateSpring
Traditional vibes near Senso-ji. Ideal for festival access and lower-cost ryokans.
Ginza
PremiumWinter
Upscale shopping and dining. Beautifully lit up for the Christmas season.
Ueno
ModerateApril (Sakura)
Home to Ueno Park. Perfect for families and those visiting the major museums.
What to Pack for Tokyo
Spring
Pro tip: Dress in 'smart-casual' layers; Tokyo locals tend to dress conservatively and stylishly.
Summer
Pro tip: Vending machines are everywhere for hydration, but carry a reusable bottle to save money.
Autumn
Pro tip: Autumn is the best time for hiking; bring sturdy shoes if you plan to visit Mt. Takao.
Winter
Pro tip: Buy 'Kairo' heat packs at 7-Eleven; they are cheap and stay warm for up to 12 hours.
FAQs: Visiting Tokyo
What is the best month to visit Tokyo?
May and October are the best months. They offer the perfect balance of mild temperatures, low rainfall, and manageable crowds compared to peak Sakura season.
When is the cheapest time to fly to Tokyo?
January and February are generally the cheapest months for flights and accommodation, as the post-holiday slump leads to significantly lower demand.
What is the weather like in Tokyo in April?
April is mild and pleasant, with average highs of 19°C (66°F). It is the peak of the cherry blossom season, but it can be breezy and occasionally rainy.
Is Tokyo worth visiting in winter?
Yes! Winter offers the clearest skies for seeing Mt. Fuji, spectacular illuminations, and the best travel deals. It is also the best time for a soak in a nearby hot spring.
When does the rainy season start in Tokyo?
The rainy season, known as Tsuyu, typically lasts from early June to mid-July. It doesn't rain every day, but humidity is high.
How far in advance should I book for cherry blossom season?
You should aim to book your accommodation at least 4 to 6 months in advance to secure reasonable prices and preferred locations.
Is August too hot to visit Tokyo?
August is extremely hot and humid, with temperatures often over 33°C (91°F). If you struggle with heat, you might prefer visiting **Sapporo** or **Fukuoka** instead.
When is Golden Week, and should I avoid it?
Golden Week is from late April to early May. It is the busiest domestic travel period. While festivals are great, trains and hotels will be fully booked and very expensive.
Also Consider: Other Destinations in Japan
Osaka
Osaka is slightly warmer and much more laid-back than Tokyo, known for its vibrant street food culture that rivals Tokyo's high-end dining.
Kyoto
Kyoto offers a more traditional experience with temples and shrines that are even more crowded than Tokyo's during peak cherry blossom weeks.
Nagoya
Nagoya serves as a central hub between Tokyo and Osaka, offering a mix of industrial history and milder weather in the shoulder seasons.
Fukuoka
Fukuoka in the south is warmer and famous for its 'Yatai' food stalls, making it a great alternative if Tokyo's winter is too cold for you.
Sapporo
Sapporo is the polar opposite of Tokyo in winter, offering world-class snow festivals and skiing when Tokyo remains dry and snow-free.
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