Sweltering—32 °C / 89 °F days with 25 °C / 77 °F nights; humidity is intense.
What to eat in Tokyo in August: Seasonal delicacies
Tokyo in August is intense: the heat is high, but so is the energy. Summer festivals ignite nearly every weekend, lantern-lit evenings sparkle, and yukata-clad locals spill into parks and riversides for fireworks displays. You’ll sweat, sure—but you’ll also dance, eat, and experience Tokyo’s most vibrant traditions. Just time your day smartly: explore in the morning, take AC breaks midday, and return for the cooler buzz after sunset.
Use coin lockers at train stations to ditch bags and shop freely without sweating through your gear.
Plan for siesta hours: 1–4pm is brutal; do museums or cafes, then re-emerge post-sunset.
Suica/Pasmo IC cards also work at vending machines and festival stalls—super handy for cold drinks.
Most Comiket-goers bring a folding fan and towel—you should too.
Book yukata rental + dressing ahead if you want festival photos (slots fill up mid-month).
Trains during Obon are weirdly empty—stay in town if you dislike crowds.
Sunscreen is pricey in Japan—bring your own unless you want novelty SPF milk.
Tap water is safe and chilled in public fountains; keep a bottle handy.
It’s very hot and humid, but manageable with early/late outings and breaks.
Light, breathable clothes; hat, sunscreen, and something modest for shrine visits.
Yes, most public indoor spaces have AC—a welcome escape.
Some big fireworks events offer reserved zones—check early if that’s your preference.
Some small shops close, but major attractions stay open.
Yes, even at festivals. Just use normal city smarts.
Sumida River and Tokyo Bay host large displays—check local listings for exact nights.
Use IC cards (Suica/Pasmo) for subways, trains, buses, and even some shops.
Yes, especially in Asakusa or Shinjuku, but reserve in advance.
Department store rooftops, hotel lobbies, and shrine precincts offer shade and AC.
Shaved ice with rich matcha syrup and sweet red beans. Ultra-refreshing and found at cafes and festival stalls citywide.
Where to eat: Himitsudo, Yanaka
Cold ramen with soy-vinegar dressing, cucumber, egg, and ham. A Tokyo summer staple.
Where to eat: Harukiya, Ogikubo
Summer matsuri essential—sweet, smoky, and best eaten on a stick.
Where to eat: Festival stalls or Ameya-Yokocho street vendors
Chilled jelly cubes with red bean, fruits, and syrup. Light and perfect post-lunch.
Where to eat: Ginza Sembikiya, Ginza
Simple buckwheat noodles dipped in chilled broth. Best paired with tempura.
Where to eat: Sarashina Horii, Akasaka
