How to Survive Tokyo’s Summer Heat: Tips for Staying Cool, Safe, and Sane!
Tokyo’s summer hits hard and fast. From late June through August, the city swelters under temperatures that regularly climb well above 30°C, and paired with sticky humidity that can reach over 70%, it’s a heat that doesn’t just sit on your skin but wraps around you like a blanket, making even short walks feel like a workout.
But while the weather might sound intense, summer in Tokyo also comes alive with energy, through colorful festivals and night markets, seasonal treats and weekend escapes; there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the season if you know how to handle the heat!
If you’re doing an internship in Japan during the summer, adjusting to the climate can take some getting used to, especially if you’re coming from cooler or drier regions. But don’t worry, surviving (and thriving in) Tokyo’s summer is entirely possible, and here are a few things you can do to make it possible!
Understanding Tokyo’s Summer Weather ☀️️
Tokyo’s summer weather is not for the faint of heart: from late June through August (and even sometimes mid-September), daily highs often exceed 33°C (91°F), and the humidity regularly hovers around 70–80%, creating a stifling atmosphere that makes it feel even hotter and suffocating. The season officially kicks off with tsuyu, Japan’s rainy season, which usually begins in late May or early to mid-June and lasts about four weeks. During this time, the air becomes increasingly humid, setting the stage for the intense heat that follows.
After tsuyu ends, Tokyo transitions into its peak summer: hot, bright, and heavy. The heat typically peaks between late July and Obon week in mid-August, with occasional relief in the form of sudden showers or cloud cover, but the heat doesn’t fully let up until late September and, more recently, early October. On top of that, typhoon season overlaps with summer, bringing occasional storms that further increase humidity and cause disruptions to daily life.
This is why Japan takes heatstroke (熱中症, necchūshō) seriously, and public service announcements, warning systems, and even real-time “heatstroke alerts” are issued by the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) and local governments to help people stay safe. In 2024, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government recorded over 4,000 ambulance dispatches due to heatstroke by July, showing how dangerous the combination of heat and humidity can be, especially for those not used to the climate.
If you’re new to Japan, knowing what to expect weather-wise can help you prepare and avoid the worst of the summer fatigue.
What to Wear and Carry 👜
The heat and humidity can quickly become overwhelming if you’re not dressed appropriately, which is why you should prioritize wearing light colors and breathable fabrics like linen, cotton, or moisture-wicking fabrics, which allow sweat to evaporate and keep your body cooler throughout the day.
Locals often carry a tenugui (a hand towel) to dab away sweat, along with a foldable fan or portable electric fan to stay cool while exploring the city. And while rain isn’t constant in the summer, sudden downpours aren’t unusual, so a compact umbrella can be a lifesaver, for both the sun and the rain.
Japan also has a strong awareness around UV protection, and you’ll see people wearing wide-brimmed hats, UV-cut sleeves, and long but lightweight outerwear, even on the hottest days. Sunscreen is a daily essential you can’t skip, and you can easily find a variety, liquids, sprays, and sticks, at convenience stores and drugstores across the city.
For interns in Japan, there’s a balance to strike between staying cool and dressing professionally. Shorts and tank tops may be fine for the weekend, but in the workplace, opt for lightweight button-up shirts, short-sleeve polos, breathable slacks, or mid-length dresses. Many Japanese offices have more relaxed dress codes during summer, so take advantage of it to look professional while staying comfortable!
Cooling Down the Japanese Way 🍧
When Tokyo’s heat starts to feel unbearable, the best way to cope might be to follow the locals’ lead, and Japan has a whole lineup of clever and convenient ways to cool down, many of them easy to find.
One popular option is 冷却スプレ, (reikyaku spray), a cooling spray/mist you can spray on your clothes or skin for an instant chill. Cooling wipes and mint-scented body sheets (汗拭きシート, ase fuki sheeto) are also common, and they come in convenient packages so you can put them in your bag and easily use them while you’re on the go. All of these, and more, are sold at most konbini (convenience stores) and drugstores and offer a quick way to freshen up.
Staying hydrated might be one of the most important things to do, and Japan makes it easy with icy drinks, electrolyte beverages like Pocari Sweat, and fruit smoothies available at vending machines and convenience stores. If you’re overheating, a few minutes in a konbini with powerful A/C and a cold drink in hand can save you from a trip to the emergency room.
For a taste of summer, try traditional cooling foods like kakigōri (shaved ice topped with fruit syrup), hiyashi chūka (cold ramen), or sōmen noodles served over ice; these light, chilled dishes are refreshing and easy on the stomach. Seasonal fruits like watermelon, grapes, peaches, and melons are also popular this time of year: juicy, refreshing, and perfect for hot days.
Even vending machines, found on nearly every street, can become a lifesaver, offering not just cold drinks but sometimes ice cream, cooling towels, and mist sprays. In the middle of Tokyo’s heat, small comforts like these can make a really big difference.
Beating the Heat: Practical Habits to Stay Safe 🚰
You should listen to your body and know when to slow down; heat fatigue is real and shouldn’t be underestimated! Signs like dizziness (めまい, memai), headache (頭痛, zutsū), or lightheadedness (立ちくらみ, tachikurami) can sneak up on you, especially if you’re outdoors for long periods and during the hottest hours.
Planning your day around the weather is one of the easiest ways to avoid feeling unwell: Avoid walking or commuting during peak sun hours (typically between 11:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.) when possible; morning and evening outings are not only more comfortable, but also easier on your body, helping you avoid heat exhaustion and stay energized throughout the day. If your internship in Japan allows flexibility, try to time commutes around the less-crowded and cooler hours.
If you need a break, Japan offers plenty of clean, air-conditioned spaces ideal for a quick cool-down, from department store lounges and konbini to libraries, museums, and shaded parks. And on especially hot days, local governments also open designated “cooling shelters,” which can include community centers, public buildings, and even supermarkets; these spaces are open to everyone and are meant to prevent heat-related illnesses.
Don't forget to also keep an eye out for government-issued heatstroke alerts, and to check out official websites like the NHK Heatstroke Risk Information site which provides hour-by-hour heat forecasts, with warning levels from “Almost Safe” to “Danger.” And if you see that the level is high ("Danger"), it’s a good idea to limit outdoor activity, stay hydrated, and take a rest in cooler environments.
If you start feeling dizzy, nauseous, or unusually fatigued, don’t try to push through it! Find a shaded or air-conditioned place to rest and hydrate, and if you need help, don’t hesitate to ask someone nearby, simply saying「気分が悪いです」(kibun ga warui desu; I feel unwell) is enough to let them know you need assistance.
Knowing when to pause and finding escapes will keep your experience safe, enjoyable, and a lot more manageable in the scorching heat.
Get Out of the City for a Bit 🏞️
While Tokyo has plenty of ways to stay cool, sometimes the best solution is simply to leave the city, even just for a day. Japan is packed with nature-rich getaways that offer a refreshing contrast to the urban heat: beaches, forests, lakes, and mountains, many of which are within easy reach by train from the center of the capital.
Popular summer escapes from Tokyo include Mount Takao, a lush hiking destination with shaded trails and breezy peaks; Kamakura and Enoshima, coastal towns where you can dip your toes or go for a full swim in the sea and enjoy shaved ice by the beach; and Okutama, a mountainous area known for riverside barbecues and cooler air. These spots provide the perfect excuse to swap concrete for greenery and breathe a little easier.
Even a short train ride out of central Tokyo can offer noticeable relief from the humidity and heat trapped between buildings, and a change of scenery not only helps you recharge but also gives you the chance to see another side of Japan. And spending a weekend exploring with fellow interns or coworkers is a great way to connect and unwind outside work. Be it by hiking through the woods, discovering small temples, or trying regional treats, these kinds of shared moments often become the highlights of your time in Japan.
Make the Most of Summer Events 🌟
The heat may be intense, but that doesn’t stop Tokyo from putting on some of its most exciting and memorable events of the year! Summer in Japan is festival season and if you’re interning in Tokyo during this time, it’s a great chance to immerse yourself in local traditions and have some fun.
From massive fireworks festivals (花火大会, hanabi taikai) lighting up the night sky to rhythmic Obon dances (盆踊り, bon odori) in local neighborhoods, summer celebrations are everywhere! You’ll also find pop-up night markets, temple fairs, and events with rows of food stalls serving up everything from yakisoba and takoyaki to kakigōri and cold drinks.
It’s common to see locals dressed in colorful yukata (summer kimono), especially during bigger festivals, and it’s a great chance to try one yourself since many places offer rentals. You can also expect music, dancing, games, and big crowds, especially on weekends, and most events kick off in the late afternoon and stretch into the night, when the air feels a bit cooler and easier to breathe.
Remember to stay hydrated, wear comfortable clothes, and try to arrive early if you want a good spot, especially for fireworks shows, which draw tens of thousands of people. It’s one of the most memorable parts of a Tokyo summer, so don’t miss the chance to join in!
Embracing the Heat, Finding the Magic
Yes, summers in Tokyo and Japan can be intense, but with the right mindset (and a cold drink in hand!), you can absolutely handle it. It’s a season full of unforgettable sights, new flavors, and shared experiences that can make your time in Japan even more special.
As an intern in Japan, it’s important to take care of yourself: listen to your body, stay hydrated, and plan around the heat when you can. At the same time, don’t hold back from exploring what the city has to offer, from lantern-lit festivals to quiet forest escapes just a train ride away.
A Tokyo summer might be a challenge, but it’s also a great reminder of what makes interning in Japan so rewarding: learning to adapt, soaking in the culture, and growing through every unexpected moment!
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😎 Tokyo summers might bring the heat, but they also bring energy, discovery, and a rhythm all their own. If you’re ready to experience Japan beyond the usual, internships in Japan are your ticket in, packed with new perspectives, seasonal adventures, and personal and professional growth! Apply now to get started, or reach out to us if you’d like to learn more; we’re here to help you find the right fit and make this summer (or the next one) unforgettable!
