As July arrives, temperatures rise and the summer atmosphere becomes palpable. Many people may be considering a trip to Tokyo during their summer vacation.
In this article, we'll introduce must-visit tourist spots in Tokyo for July, categorized into classic destinations, adult-oriented places, and cool spots to escape the heat. We'll also touch on fireworks festival information.
Use this as a reference when planning your July Tokyo itinerary.
[July | Classic] 6 Recommended Tokyo Tourist Spots
First, let's introduce 6 classic tourist spots you must visit in Tokyo. Many have indoor areas, making them comfortable even in summer.
Tokyo Skytree
Tokyo Skytree is an active broadcasting tower in Sumida Ward. At 634m tall, it's registered in the Guinness World Records as the world's tallest tower.
While it's a broadcasting tower, it's also a major tourist attraction packed with commercial facilities. Enjoy Tokyo to the fullest by buying souvenirs and viewing the entire city from the observation deck.
After dusk, the whole tower is illuminated, making it great for viewing or photographing from nearby areas.
■ Review
It's now a symbolic structure rivaling Tokyo Tower. A must-visit place in Tokyo. The view from the observation deck is wonderful, perfect for creating memories with dates or friends. On clear days, you can even see Mt. Fuji, which is especially recommended.
Address: 1-1-2 Oshiage, Sumida-ku, Tokyo
Access: Right by Oshiage Station
Hours: 8:00-22:00
Admission (Weekdays): Adults from ¥1,000, Junior/Senior High School Students from ¥800, Elementary School Students from ¥500
Admission (Holidays): Adults from ¥1,100, Junior/Senior High School Students from ¥900, Elementary School Students from ¥550
Official Website: Tokyo Skytree TOKYO SKYTREE
Tokyo Tower
Opened in 1958, Tokyo Tower has served as a landmark of Tokyo for over half a century. Although its role as a broadcasting tower has been overtaken by the Tokyo Skytree, it remains a beloved symbol and tourist attraction.
Standing at 333 meters tall, Tokyo Tower has two observation decks located at 150 meters and 250 meters above ground. These decks offer stunning panoramic views, including sights of the Tokyo Skytree, Mount Fuji, Mount Tsukuba, and the Boso and Miura Peninsulas.
In addition to its function as an observation tower, Tokyo Tower features various commercial facilities, including amusement attractions and restaurants.
Many nearby restaurants offer a view of the illuminated Tokyo Tower at night, providing a delightful dining experience.
■ Reviews
Tokyo Tower has stood in Tokyo for over 60 years. For someone like me, from the Showa era and born in the countryside, Tokyo Tower and the skyscrapers of Shinjuku defined "Tokyo" for me. Even in the Reiwa era, it remains a cherished landmark. Visitors can enjoy the observation decks, dining, and shopping. It's a must-visit for anyone touring Tokyo.
Address: 4-2-8 Shibakoen, Minato City, Tokyo
Access: 5-minute walk from Akabanebashi Station on the Oedo Line
Hours: 9:00 AM – 10:30 PM
Admission Fees: Main Deck - ¥1,200 for adults; Top Deck Tour - ¥3,000 (¥2,800 with online reservation)
Official Website: TOKYO TOWER
Tokyo Station
Tokyo Station, with its retro brick architecture, is a massive and active train station that also serves as a popular tourist and photo spot. It’s one of Tokyo’s top attractions.
As a hub for various train lines and Shinkansen, it’s an ideal starting point for anyone visiting Tokyo by bullet train.
Designated as a National Important Cultural Property, Tokyo Station houses various monuments, stone tablets, and memorials, offering a glimpse into Tokyo’s history. It also boasts numerous cafes, restaurants, and souvenir shops, making it a great place to start or end your journey.
Tokyo Station is convenient for transferring trains, but what makes it truly attractive is the abundance of shops! Besides the usual souvenir shops, there are many pop-up stores, ensuring that each visit feels fresh. With plenty of dining options, it’s also a great place to relax.
Address: 1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda City, Tokyo
Access: JR Tokyo Station
Hours: Varies by facility and area
Official Website: TOKYO STATION CITY
Yasukuni Shrine
Yasukuni Shrine, founded in the Meiji era, is a shrine built at the behest of Emperor Meiji to honor the spirits of those who died serving the nation. It was named Yasukuni Shrine to embody the wish for peace in the homeland.
In early July, the "Mitama Matsuri" festival is held, during which numerous lanterns beautifully illuminate the shrine grounds. The sight is awe-inspiring, filled with the sentiments of those praying for peace.
Reviews
I recently visited the "Mitama Matsuri," which I had never heard of before. The sight of countless dedicated lanterns was overwhelming! Knowing that they embody people’s prayers for peace made it a deeply moving experience.
Address: 3-1-1 Kudankita, Chiyoda City, Tokyo
Access: 10-minute walk from Ichigaya Station
Visiting Hours: Open 24 hours
Admission Fee: Free
Official Website: Yasukuni Shrine
Roppongi Hills
Roppongi Hills, located in Roppongi, Minato City, is a popular spot that appeals mainly to adults, though students might find it worthwhile for its quintessential Tokyo scenery.
Many locations within Roppongi Hills might be familiar from TV dramas.
The Roppongi Hills observation deck, Tokyo City View, is a must-see, offering stunning views from its indoor deck at 250 meters above sea level and its sky deck at 270 meters. From here, you can see Tokyo Tower, Tokyo Skytree, and the sparkling city lights at night.
With numerous dining and shopping options concentrated in one area, you can have many experiences without moving too far.
■ Reviews
The summer sky seen from the rooftop of Roppongi Hills at sunset is wonderful. The presence of cumulonimbus clouds adds to the summer vibe, making it perfect! While it can be hot without a breeze, the open-air rooftop is refreshing.
Address: 6-10-1 Roppongi, Minato City, Tokyo
Access: 4-minute walk from Roppongi Station
Hours: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Official Website: Roppongi Hills
Sensoji Temple
Sensoji Temple is a famous temple located in Taito Ward. With about 1,400 years of history, its main gate "Kaminarimon" is a beloved symbol of Asakusa.
Passing through Kaminarimon, you'll find Nakamise Street, which offers a lively atmosphere typical of Tokyo's old town. Though often crowded, you can fully enjoy the unique ambiance with people in kimono and merchants' voices filling the air.
At night, the atmosphere changes dramatically, becoming more solemn. If you want to take photos, it might be better to visit in the evening or later.
■ User Review
Summer in Asakusa means the Hozuki Market! It's an event held in early July, with about 100 stalls set up, making it one of the largest in Japan! It's a representative summer event in Asakusa. The sound of wind chimes and the color of ground cherries announce the arrival of summer in this elegant event.
Address: 2-3-1 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo
Access: 5-minute walk from Asakusa Station on various lines
Hours: 6:00 - 17:00 (6:30 - from October to March)
Official website: Asakusa Kannon Sensoji Temple
3 Fireworks Festivals in Tokyo in July
In July, fireworks festivals are held to mark the beginning of summer. Although it gets crowded from evening to night, Tokyo's impressive fireworks festivals are a must-see.
Sumida River Fireworks Festival
The Sumida River Fireworks Festival is one of the largest fireworks displays in Japan, famous nationwide. About 20,000 fireworks are launched, colorfully illuminating the summer night sky.
It's considered the most popular fireworks festival in Tokyo, attracting about 950,000 visitors annually. As the fireworks are launched along the Sumida River, you can also view them together with Tokyo Skytree.
■ User Review
It was extremely crowded! There were so many people that it was difficult to find a good spot. We barely made it in time, but the fireworks viewed from a close location were spectacular. It's probably better to go early and secure a spot.
Location: Around Asakusa Station, Oshiage Station, Tokyo Skytree Station, Hikifune Station, Kuramae Station, Ryogoku Station, Asakusabashi Station
Tachikawa Festival Showa Kinen Park Fireworks Festival
The fireworks festival held at Showa Kinen Park allows you to enjoy fireworks in an open space. The highlights include massive fireworks with a diameter of about 400 meters and a competition of unique modern fireworks that have performed well in national competitions.
■ User Review
I went during the free admission time, spread out a leisure sheet, and watched the fireworks while lying down! You can't do this at other fireworks festivals, so it's really special to be able to enjoy fireworks in such a relaxed manner. You can feel the summer, enjoy fireworks in a spacious place leisurely - it's a great event.
Location: 3173 Midoricho, Tachikawa City, Tokyo
Adachi Fireworks
The Adachi Fireworks, which can be enjoyed on the riverbank of the Arakawa River in Adachi Ward, is the earliest fireworks festival held in Tokyo.
With over 100 years of history, this fireworks festival launches about 15,000 fireworks in an hour.
Many people come to see the colorful fireworks blooming in Tokyo's night sky.
■ User Review
The sense of color and composition is top-notch! Apparently, there are many female fireworks technicians, and the meticulously arranged launch schedule is wonderful. It may not be as long or as powerful as other fireworks festivals, but it's a very satisfying fireworks display.
Location: From Tokyo Metro Chiyodabashi Bridge to Nishiarai Bridge
[July | For Adults] 3 Recommended Tourist Spots in Tokyo
Here, we introduce three recommended tourist spots in Tokyo that are suitable for adults. These are perfect for when you want to enjoy a drink, experience culture, or get away from the city for a bit.
Odaiba Marine Park
Odaiba Marine Park is a seaside park in Minato Ward. It features a unique Tokyo scenery with the sea and beach alongside city buildings.
Various events are held in summer, including beer gardens where adults can enjoy drinks, so be sure to check them out.
The "Marine House," which offers a panoramic view of Tokyo landmarks like Rainbow Bridge and Tokyo Tower, is also worth a visit. Additionally, there's an approximately 11-meter-tall "Statue of Liberty," which is great for taking commemorative photos.
■ User Review
It's a place where you can feel the summer sea in the city. You can overlook Tokyo Bay, eat ice cream at the mall, or go shopping. You can even see Fuji TV! When events are held, there's a lively atmosphere that makes you want to have a drink!
Address: 1-4 Daiba, Minato-ku, Tokyo
Access: 3-minute walk from Odaiba Kaihinkoen/Daiba Station
Hours: 24 hours
Admission: Free
Official website: Odaiba Marine Park & Daiba Park | Marine Parks Navi
Tokyo Camii & Turkish Culture Center
The Tokyo Camii & Turkish Culture Center is a cultural facility located in Japan's largest Islamic mosque in Shibuya. It's a wonderful place to experience beautiful Turkish culture, and remarkably, it's open daily with free admission.
The highlights include beautiful Turkish stained glass, artwork, and decorations. It's known as the most beautiful mosque in East Asia. Please note that the second floor of the prayer hall is for women only, and men are not allowed.
Even when visiting in summer, please dress modestly. Prepare to cover yourself from head to toe with stoles or scarves.
■ Reviews
It's a place where you can feel an international atmosphere. Just like mosques in Turkey, it makes you feel like you've traveled abroad! There's also a halal market for Muslims, with lots of international foods lined up, which is exciting!
Address: 1-19 Oyamacho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Access: 5-minute walk from Yoyogi-Uehara Station
Hours: 10:00-18:00 (Fridays 14:30-18:00 for non-worshippers)
Admission: Free
Official website: Tokyo Camii & Turkish Culture Center
Mount Takao
Mount Takao, a hiking spot in Hachioji City, is a nature-rich mountain that has earned a 3-star rating in the Michelin Guide. You can enjoy a day trip for mountain walking, and it's also popular for observing plants, animals, insects, and wild birds.
In addition to hiking, cable car transportation is available, making it suitable for families with children. From the observation deck at Takaosan Station, you can see a unique Tokyo view, enjoying a collaboration of mountain and city scenery.
■ Reviews
It was extremely hot during a break in the rainy season! We moved by cable car. With Yakuo-in Temple, souvenir shops, and dining areas, we could leisurely enjoy nature while taking breaks. It was nice that it was cool in the shade due to the elevation.
Address: Takao-machi, Tokyo
Access: 5-minute walk from Takaosanguchi Station
Hours: 24 hours
Fee: Free
Official website: Mount Takao
[July | Cool Spots] 3 Recommended Tourist Spots in Tokyo
Summer is a season when it's easy to feel unwell, so it's recommended to move around while including cool tourist spots in your itinerary.
Here, we introduce three cool tourist spots.
In addition to numerous events, Tokyo in summer is filled with lively energy at popular spots.
For July sightseeing in Tokyo, wearing a yukata is highly recommended. It's perfect for festivals and fireworks displays, and adds a touch of elegance to your tourism experience.
Yukata is a summer-exclusive attire. Among kimono, it's easy to put on and casual, while being full of summer spirit to lift your mood.
However, many people might think, "I can't put it on myself" or "I don't even own a yukata."
"Kimono Rental Wargo" welcomes everyone, even those who know nothing about yukata or don't own one. Anyone can choose and wear a beautiful yukata.
Professional dressing ensures that your yukata stays neat even in the summer heat.
If you're interested, please contact "Kimono Rental Wargo."
Kyoto Kimono Rental Wargo Official
Summary
July in Tokyo is fully summer. Be careful of heat-related illnesses due to the continuous hot days and the unique heat of the concrete jungle.
This article also introduced recommended spots to stay cool, so please use it as a reference when planning your schedule. It's also recommended to enjoy summer sightseeing from evening to night.
Going to outings, fireworks displays, and festivals in yukata also adds a nice traditional touch.
Please enjoy your July Tokyo sightseeing with reference to this article.
