Yes, Tokyo summers are hot. But they’re also brimming with fireworks, festivals, and creative ways to cool down. Whether you’re into crafts, food, or quiet gardens, these ideas will help you make the most of sunny days and balmy nights—without staying trapped indoors.
10 Fun Ways to Beat the Heat on Tokyo Summer Days
1. Visit Hot Springs & Water Parks
Cool off at Tokyo Toyosu Manyo Club’s hot springs and saunas. Imported daily from the famous Hakone and Yugawara springs, these baths offer a luxurious chill-out in the heart of the city with an incredible city view. Prefer to splash instead? Edogawa City’s wading pools provide a perfect family-friendly water playground.
2. Try Mint Chocolate-Flavored Everything
Summer’s heat calls for cool, refreshing flavors. Mint Chocolate (called choko minto in Japanese) is trending hard this season across convenience stores, cafes, and ice cream stands—perfect for an easy cool-down treat. Grab a mint-choco ice cream, latte, or even sweets to keep your energy up.
3. Take a Day Trip to the Beach
Escape Tokyo’s heat with a day at Hayama, a family-friendly beach resort in Kanagawa known as the Emperor Emeritus’ summer home and a favorite getaway for J-celebs. For a more adventurous trip, hop on a ferry or take a short flight from Haneda to the Izu Islands, famous for its rich culinary heritage and stunning natural scenery—perfect for food lovers and nature fans alike.
Learn more about Hayama here: 6 Tokyo Day Trips Along the Keisei Line
4. Wear Jinbei and Yukata
Beat the heat in style by wearing traditional Japanese summer clothes. Jinbei are comfortable casual wear perfect for daytime strolls, while yukata (light cotton kimonos) shine for special evenings and summer festivals. Many local shops and rental services can help you get kitted out!
5. Watch the Sumida and Katsushika Fireworks Festivals
Tokyo’s oldest and most historic fireworks displays light up July nights. The Sumida Fireworks Festival, dating back to 1733, is held near Asakusa and features thousands of fireworks that honor the Edo period’s legacy. Meanwhile, Katsushika’s festival launches 15,000 fireworks over the Edogawa riverbank—perfect for a classic summer night picnic.
Katsushika Summer Fireworks: July 22, 2025 (Nearest stations: Shibamata, Kanamachi, Shin-Shibamata)
Sumida Fireworks Festival: July 26, 2025 (Nearest stations: Asakusa, Oshiage, Tokyo Skytree)
6. Chill Out at Tokyo’s Aquariums
Escape the heat at Tokyo’s top aquariums like Sumida Aquarium, Shinagawa Aquarium, and Sunshine Aquarium. Tokyo Sea Life Park also hosts a special Night of Wonder event in August where you can explore marine life after dark. Perfect for families and anyone needing a refreshing break from the summer sun.
7. Cruise Around Tokyo by “Water Bus“
Explore Tokyo’s waterways in cool comfort aboard a Suijobus cruise. Glide past iconic city sights with a breeze on the water—a relaxing break from the sweltering streets.
See cruise options and schedules here
8. Evening Shrine Visits and Matsuri Festivities
Evening visits to shrines during summer matsuri are magical, with glowing lanterns, lively festival booths, and locals dressed in yukata. The cooler night air makes for comfortable exploration and authentic cultural experiences.
9. Relax at a Harajuku Animal Café
Take a break from the heat and enjoy some furry or feathered company in Harajuku’s famous animal cafés. Whether it’s cats, owls, hedgehogs, or even rabbits, these cozy, air-conditioned spots offer a fun and calming way to recharge while experiencing a quirky side of Tokyo culture.
10. Cool Off with Japanese-Style Iced Coffee or Tea
Beat the heat with Japan’s uniquely refreshing cold brews. Iced coffee shops and specialty tea cafes around Tokyo offer beautifully crafted cold drinks that are both energizing and hydrating. Bonus points if you try matcha-infused iced lattes or yuzu-flavored iced teas—perfectly seasonal and Instagram-worthy
Review: 10 Fun Ways to Beat the Heat on Tokyo Summer Days
- 1. Visit Hot Springs & Water Parks
- 2. Try Mint Chocolate-Flavored Everything
- 3. Take a Day Trip to Hayama Beach Resort
- 4. Dress Like a Local: Wear Jinbei and Yukata
- 5. Watch the Sumida and Katsushika Fireworks Festivals
- 6. Cool Off at Tokyo’s Aquariums
- 7. Cruise Around Tokyo by “Water Bus“
- 8. Evening Shrine Visits and Matsuri Festivities
- 9. Relax at a Harajuku Animal Café
- 10. Cool Off with Japanese-Style Iced Coffee or Tea
Planning your Tokyo adventure?
Browse more travel tips, local guides, and family-friendly advice on our blog. And if you’re still looking for the perfect place to stay, check out our highly rated Airbnbs, Aoto Kachofugetsu and Ukiyoan Takasago in Katsushika, Tokyo—where culture, comfort, and convenience come together.
