Take China Group Tours in 2025 to enjoy 30% discount compared to a private tour. Same Experience & Lowest Price!
Is July Really a Bad Time to Visit Tokyo?
Let's be real: July in Tokyo has a bit of a reputation. You'll hear people say “It's too hot, too humid, and there's the rainy season…” - and sure, they're not totally wrong.
But here's the thing, July is also when Tokyo comes alive. It's festival season. You'll see locals in yukata (summer kimono), smell festival food grilling at shrine stalls, and hear the beat of taiko drums echoing through the streets.
Add in the city's famous fireworks shows and summer-only street foods (shaved ice, cold noodles, festival snacks), and you suddenly realize: this is the Tokyo summer vibe people dream about.
So is July a “bad” time? Honestly, not if you know how to enjoy it. Think of it like this: mornings and evenings are for exploring outdoors (and festivals!), while the hottest afternoons are your excuse to dive into Tokyo's incredible indoor escapes — like cool cafés, giant aquariums, and world-class museums.
Tokyo Weather & Temperature Breakdown (July)
July in Tokyo is full-on summer — hot, humid, energetic, and buzzing with festivals. It's the month when cicadas sing, fireworks light up the sky, and cold drinks suddenly taste 10x better. Here's what the weather feels like as you explore the city:
Temperature Overview
- Average High: 30–33°C (86–91°F)
- Average Low: 23–26°C (73–79°F)
Early July starts warm and manageable, but by mid–late July, Tokyo fully leans into its signature muggy summer. Expect heat you can “feel,” not just read on a thermometer.
Sunshine, Humidity & Rain
July is when Tokyo shifts from the rainy season to true summer:
- Early July: lingering showers and lots of humidity
- Mid–Late July: more sunshine, hotter afternoons, short sudden showers
Humidity is high all month — think “sticky but summery”
Rain usually comes in short bursts, not all-day storms, so it rarely stops you from exploring.
How It Feels
- Early July: Warm and damp — you'll want light clothing and plenty of water.
- Mid July: Hot, humid, and lively — summer festivals begin, and the city feels vibrant.
- Late July: Peak summer heat — ideal for beaches, indoor attractions, and cool evening walks.
If April is soft and gentle, July is bold, bright, and full of energy.
What About Tokyo's Nearby Destinations?
Good news: many classic day-trip spots are cooler than the city.
Hakone & Nikko: breezier and 3–5°C cooler, great for escaping the city heat
Kawaguchiko (Mt. Fuji area): fresh mornings, cooler evenings, lush green views
Mount Takao: warm but less humid under the forest canopy
Kamakura & Yokohama: ocean breeze makes the heat more comfortable
If Tokyo feels too intense, you've got easy, refreshing escapes just an hour or two away.
Why Travelers Love July Weather
√ Perfect for summer festivals, fireworks, and night markets
√ Lush greenery everywhere
√ Long daylight hours
√ Great month for coastal cities and mountain getaways
√ A fun “real Tokyo summer” experience
In short: July is hot, humid, and incredibly alive — ideal for travelers who want Tokyo at its most vibrant and summery.
Average Temperatures in & Around Tokyo in July (°C / °F)
| Destination | Early July | Mid July | Late July |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tokyo | 23–30°C (73–86°F) | 24–32°C (75–90°F) | 25–33°C (77–91°F) |
| Hakone | 19–25°C (66–77°F) | 20–26°C (68–79°F) | 21–27°C (70–81°F) |
| Kawaguchiko (Mt. Fuji area) | 18–25°C (64–77°F) | 19–26°C (66–79°F) | 20–27°C (68–81°F) |
| Nikko | 17–25°C (63–77°F) | 18–26°C (64–79°F) | 19–27°C (66–81°F) |
| Kamakura | 22–29°C (72–84°F) | 23–30°C (73–86°F) | 24–31°C (75–88°F) |
| Yokohama | 23–30°C (73–86°F) | 24–31°C (75–88°F) | 25–32°C (77–90°F) |
| Mount Takao | 20–27°C (68–81°F) | 21–28°C (70–82°F) | 22–29°C (72–84°F) |
But don't let that scare you! Tokyo is built for this. Convenience stores stock cold drinks, cooling wipes, and even ice packs. Department stores blast refreshing air-con, and cafés roll out their summer menus (hello, matcha shaved ice and iced coffee!).
What to Wear in Tokyo in July
Packing for Tokyo in July is a science of staying cool, comfortable, and ready for anything without over-stuffing your suitcase.
Here are Your Essentials:
Light, breathable clothes – Cotton, linen, and moisture-wicking fabrics are your best friends. T-shirts, flowy blouses, shorts, and skirts all work great.
UV protection – The sun is strong. A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are musts. Many locals also carry UV umbrellas — super practical if you don't mind the extra accessory.
Comfortable shoes – You'll walk a lot, so breathable sneakers or sandals are ideal. (If you're heading to shrines, avoid flimsy flip-flops since you'll be climbing stairs.)
Portable fan & towel – Conbini (convenience stores) even sell cute little cooling wipes. Trust me, these save lives when you're out at a festival.
Light rain gear – Early July can still see lingering rainy-season showers, so a foldable umbrella or light rain jacket is smart to have.
Yukata option – If you want to dive into the festival vibe, rent or buy a yukata (summer kimono). Locals wear them to fireworks festivals, and it's both stylish and surprisingly breezy.
Asia Odyssey Travel Tip: Pack light and don't stress too much — Tokyo has amazing shopping. If you forget anything, you'll easily find summer-friendly clothes (and super cute fans, hats, or even yukata) in places like Uniqlo, GU, or Don Quijote.
Festivals in Tokyo in July: Fireworks, Tanabata & Beyond
July in Tokyo is one big celebration—matsuri season in full swing, yukata-clad crowds, paper lanterns glowing at night, and fireworks exploding over rivers. From centuries-old traditions to modern spectacles, here's your ultimate guide to July festivals in Tokyo.
1. Fireworks (Hanabi Taikai) in Tokyo in July
Summer in Japan wouldn't be complete without hanabi taikai—fireworks festivals.
Picture riversides packed with people in yukata, food stalls selling yakitori and shaved ice, and the night sky lit up with thousands of colorful bursts. It's festive, noisy, romantic, and absolutely unforgettable.
Here are some famous spots for Hanabi Taikai:
- Sumida River Fireworks Festival - Late July
The king of Tokyo fireworks. Dating back to the 18th century, this is Japan's oldest and most famous display, lighting up the night sky with around 20,000 fireworks. Expect big crowds, but the atmosphere is electric.
- Adachi Fireworks Festival (Mid July, Adachi Ward, Tokyo)
The first major fireworks event of Tokyo's summer, held along the Arakawa River. About 13,000 fireworks in one night, making it a local favorite.
- Katsushika Noryo Fireworks Festival - Late July
Set against a nostalgic old-Tokyo backdrop by the Edogawa River, this festival has been held for over 400 years. Around 13,000 fireworks, with a relaxed neighborhood feel compared to Sumida.
- Hachiōji Fireworks Festival - Late July
Held at Hachioji Citizens Ballpark, this show draws big local crowds. Around 3,000 fireworks — not the biggest, but very community-oriented and easy to pair with the Hachioji Matsuri.
- Tokyo Racecourse Fireworks - Mid–Late July
A unique setting inside the racecourse grounds, with music-synced fireworks and stadium seating. A little different from the riverside shows, but very accessible and comfortable.
Asia Odyssey Travel Tip: Fireworks shows get packed. Locals stake out riverside spots hours in advance with picnic sheets. We can secure reserved seating or recommend less-crowded suburban festivals, so you don't have to stress about finding the perfect view.
2. Tanabata (Star Festival) – Early to Mid July
If you're in Tokyo in July, you're in for one of Japan's most charming summer traditions: Tanabata, the Star Festival. Based on a Chinese legend about two star-crossed lovers (literally—Vega and Altair), Tanabata is all about making wishes for the future.
The star of the show? Colorful paper strips (tanzaku). People write their wishes—anything from love to career goals—to hang on bamboo branches, which line shopping streets, temples, and plazas across the city.
The effect is magical: swaying bamboo filled with rainbow wishes under the summer night sky. In Tokyo, some of the best places to soak up the Tanabata spirit are:
- Asagaya Tanabata Festival (early August) – One of the city's biggest, famous for its giant papier-mâché decorations and a lively street market vibe.
- Shitamachi Tanabata Matsuri (Ueno–Asakusa, July) – Old Tokyo atmosphere with lanterns, yukata, and traditional food stalls.
- Zojoji Temple & Local Shrines – Smaller-scale but still beautiful, with locals hanging their wishes.
Expect lots of festival food (yakitori skewers, kakigori shaved ice, takoyaki), people in yukata (summer kimono), and streets that feel straight out of a summer anime scene.
At Asia Odyssey Travel, we can help you weave Tanabata into your Tokyo or summer Japan itinerary—whether it's combining the festival with a trip to the Sumida River Fireworks, or planning a broader summer tour across Japan's most colorful festivals.
3. Other Summer Festivals in Tokyo in July
Besides fireworks and star festivals, Tokyo offers more festival vibe to beat the heat of summer. There are a variety of festivals and events you can attend to fill your July vacation in Tokyo.
- Chidorigafuchi Moat Lantern Floating Festival – Mid July
Imagine hundreds of glowing lanterns drifting across the water, with the Imperial Palace moat as the backdrop—that's the Chidorigafuchi Moat Lantern Floating Festival.
Locals write wishes or messages on lanterns before setting them afloat, creating a dreamy, twinkling river of light. It's a quieter, more reflective summer festival, and honestly, one of Tokyo's most photogenic.
- Kagurazaka Matsuri – Late July
If you like your festivals with a touch of old-meets-new Tokyo, Kagurazaka Matsuri is perfect.
Kagurazaka is a neighborhood with geisha history, cobbled lanes, and French cafés, and during this festival it lights up with Awa Odori dance parades, lanterns, and food stalls.
It's a great chance to see locals in yukata dancing in the streets—super lively but not overwhelmingly crowded.
- Shinjuku Eisa Festival – Late July
Can't make it to Okinawa? No problem—the Shinjuku Eisa Festival brings Okinawan spirit right into Tokyo.
Eisa is a traditional drumming and dance style, and during the festival, performers parade through Shinjuku's busy streets with powerful rhythms, colorful costumes, and infectious energy.
Asia Odyssey Travel Tip: Festivals can get crowded, especially in central Tokyo. If you prefer a calmer vibe, consider smaller local matsuri in the suburbs — you'll often find just as much charm, fewer crowds, and a more authentic neighborhood feel.
Activities Beyond Fireworks & Festivals in July in Tokyo
Tokyo in July isn't just about fireworks and matsuri—you've got a whole summer playground waiting for you. If you need a break from the festival crowds (or just want to keep the summer vibes going between events), here are some fun ideas:
- Seasonal Food & Summer Treats
- Kakigori (Shaved Ice): July heat = shaved ice heaven. Look for specialty cafés serving creative versions topped with fruit, matcha, or condensed milk.
- Unagi (Eel): Traditionally eaten on “Doyo no Ushi no Hi” (the midsummer day of the ox) in late July to boost stamina. Restaurants in Tokyo serve up grilled eel bowls (unadon/unaju).
- Summer Soba & Cold Noodles: Try hiyashi chūka (cold ramen) or zaru soba for a refreshing meal.
- Lotus Viewing at Shinobazu Pond, Ueno
In July, the lotus flowers at Ueno's Shinobazu Pond are in full bloom. It's a spectacular sight early in the morning, with huge leaves and pink blossoms covering the pond surface. Perfect for a calm stroll before diving into museum-hopping or festival fun.
- Summer-Only Illuminations & Night Events
Tokyo loves illumination, and even in summer, you'll find night gardens or aquariums offering seasonal light-ups. For example, Rikugien or Hamarikyu occasionally host summer night openings, where you can stroll through lit-up traditional gardens in yukata.
- Theme Parks & Special Summer Events
Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea, plus Fuji-Q Highland, run summer-only shows and water-splash parades. If you're traveling with kids or just love theme parks, July is peak time for these limited events.
- Night Cruises on Tokyo Bay
Hop on a summer night cruise where the breeze, city skyline, and illuminated Rainbow Bridge make for a breezy break from the daytime heat. Some cruises even serve all-you-can-drink packages—festival energy, but on the water.
Nearby Places to Escape Heat in Tokyo
Tokyo summers can feel like stepping into a sauna, so slipping away for a day or two is honestly one of the smartest moves you can make. Luckily, some of the coolest (literally!) spots are just a short ride away.
1. Kawaguchiko - Mount Fuji Time
If the skies are clear, this is hands down one of the best escapes from Tokyo's sticky heat. The lake breeze makes it instantly refreshing, and you've got Mt. Fuji towering in the background.
Rent a bike and ride along the lakeshore, hop on a swan boat, or just grab some local ice cream (try the lavender flavor if you see it).
Bonus: July is hiking season on Mt. Fuji—so if you're up for it, you can even start your climb.
2. Hakone - Mountain Air with Museums
Hakone is Tokyo's classic retreat for hot springs, mountain air, and art tucked into nature. Even in July, the higher elevation keeps it cooler than the city.
You can cruise Lake Ashi with Fuji views, float across valleys on the Hakone Ropeway, or wander through the open-air museum dotted with sculptures.
And yes—you can soak in an onsen, even in summer (outdoor baths with mountain breezes feel amazing).
3. Nikko - UNESCO-listed Shrines in Cooler Mountain
A bit further north, Nikko combines cooler mountain air with stunning cultural sights. Think UNESCO-listed shrines wrapped in cedar forests, waterfalls like Kegon Falls thundering with summer energy, and hiking trails that feel worlds away from the Tokyo buzz.
It's the kind of place where you breathe deeper instantly.
Asia Odyssey Travel Tip: Escaping the heat is about timing. Leave Tokyo in the morning before the sun gets too strong, and let us take care of transport so you can just lean back, nap, and wake up surrounded by lakes, mountains, or waterfalls.
Suggested Tokyo Itineraries (July Edition)
July in Tokyo can actually be a sweet deal — cheaper travel, lighter tourist crowds, and the bonus of colorful festivals and fireworks, if you plan it right. Here are two hand-picked itineraries to match your travel style:
5-Day Quick Getaway
Perfect if you want to see Tokyo's highlights with a touch of summer festivity.
- Day 1 - Arrival
- Day 2 – Explore Tokyo highlights (Asakusa, Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo Skytree, evening in Shinjuku).
- Day 3 – Morning at Meiji Shrine & Harajuku, afternoon shopping in Shibuya/Omotesando, evening festival or fireworks (if scheduled).
- Day 4 – Day trip to Kamakura (both great in summer with sea breezes).
- Day 5 - Departure Day
7-Day Summer Festival Focus
For travelers who want a deeper Tokyo experience plus a strong dose of matsuri (festivals) and hanabi (fireworks).
- Day 1 – Arrival + Shinjuku night walk.
- Day 2 – Traditional Tokyo (Asakusa, Ueno Park museums, Yanaka for old-town vibes).
- Day 3 - Modern Tokyo (Shibuya Sky, Omotesando cafés, Roppongi nightlife).
- Day 4 – Tokyo to Nikko for cooler mountain air & shrines. Stay overnight
- Day 5 – Explore Lake Chuzenji and Kegon Falls before return Tokyo
- Day 6 - Day trip to Kawaguchiko for Mount Fuji view
- Day 7 – Join a matsuri or fireworks event before departure.
Asia Odyssey Travel Tip: July is busy with festivals, so we'll help weave one into your itinerary without you stressing about transport or crowds. Think private transfers to fireworks sites or reserved spots for hanabi shows, so you can enjoy the magic hassle-free.
Travel to Tokyo in July with Asia Odyssey Travel Japan
Tokyo in July is a perfect mix of tradition, excitement, and summer vibes. Asia Odyssey Travel, a Tokyo-Based travel expert, offer complete Tokyo travel guide with affordable tour packages.
With Asia Odyssey Travel, you don't just travel—you celebrate. We'll craft a seamless itinerary that blends Tokyo's highlights with exclusive July experiences, ensuring you don't miss the season's best festivals and hidden gems.
Whether you want a quick 5-day getaway or a full week immersed in Japan's summer magic, our expert team takes care of everything—train tickets, festival schedules, reserved spots at fireworks shows, and more.
Travel smart. Travel fun. Travel Tokyo in July with Asia Odyssey Travel.
Data in submission...
