Tokyo Temperature Market Guide

Tokyo Haneda Airport (RJTT) serves as a primary weather observation station for the Tokyo metropolitan area. Located on reclaimed land in Tokyo Bay, just 14 kilometers from Tokyo Station, the airport sits at only 21 feet (6 meters) elevation.

The station's bayfront position provides some maritime moderation compared to inland Tokyo. Temperature observations follow Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) standards.

Tokyo's position on Japan's Pacific coast places it in the path of both the summer monsoon and winter cold air outbreaks from Siberia.

Tokyo has a humid subtropical climate (Koppen: Cfa) with hot, humid summers and mild winters. The seasonal cycle is strongly influenced by the East Asian monsoon system.

Summer (June-August) brings highs of 30-32°C (86-90°F) with oppressive humidity. July typically sees the rainy season (Tsuyu) with extended cloudy, wet periods. Winter highs average 10-12°C (50-54°F) with occasional cold snaps.

The massive urban heat island means Tokyo has warmed significantly over the past century, independent of global climate change.

Winter (December - February): Mild and dry with highs 10-12°C (50-54°F). Cold waves from Siberia bring coldest temperatures. Snow is rare but possible.

Spring (March - May): Gradual warming with variable weather. Cherry blossom season in late March-early April. Pleasant temperatures 15-22°C.

Summer (June - August): Hot and humid with highs 30-32°C (86-90°F). Rainy season (Tsuyu) in June-July. Typhoon season July-October.

Autumn (September - November): Gradually cooling with typhoon risk continuing into October. Pleasant autumn weather. Clear skies common.

The rainy season (Tsuyu) in June-July creates forecast challenges - extended cloud cover and rain keep temperatures lower than the midsummer heat that follows.

Typhoons can significantly impact Tokyo weather from July through October. Even typhoons that don't make direct landfall can bring dramatic temperature changes due to associated fronts.

Winter cold waves from Siberia can drop temperatures 10°C below normal. Track the strength of the Siberian High and position of the polar jet.

The urban heat island effect means central Tokyo runs several degrees warmer than surrounding areas. Haneda's bayfront position is slightly cooler than inland stations.

Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) provides highly accurate forecasts. Pay attention to seasonal forecasts for Tsuyu timing and typhoon activity.

Tsuyu Timing: The onset, intensity, and end of the rainy season significantly impact June-July temperatures.

Typhoon Effects: Typhoon tracks and intensity create high uncertainty in late summer and autumn forecasts.

Urban Heat Island: The intensity of urban heating varies and affects the magnitude of daily high temperatures.

Siberian Cold Waves: The strength of winter cold air outbreaks from the continent can exceed model expectations.

Record High: 39.5°C (103.1°F) recorded in July 2004 (Haneda); Tokyo central reached 41.1°C in 2018.

Record Low: -9.2°C (15.4°F) recorded in January 1876.

Historical Note: Tokyo has warmed dramatically over the past century. Minimum temperatures have risen more than maximum temperatures due to urban development.