What should I pack for my trip to Tokyo in August, considering the hot and humid weather?

Ah, August in Tokyo—definitely hot and humid, no doubt about it. From my experience, the key isn’t just about what you pack before you arrive but also how you adapt once you’re here. I usually pack light, breathable clothes like cotton T-shirts and loose pants or skirts. But honestly, the real lifesaver is the convenience stores. They’re everywhere, and you can grab cold drinks, ice cream, and even shaved ice (kakigōri) to cool down on the spot. There’s also something called “carry ice,” which you can put in your bag to keep yourself cool as you walk around. It’s a little Japanese summer hack you won’t find in most guidebooks!

If you want to escape the heat a bit, you can also take day trips north of Tokyo, where the mountainous areas tend to be cooler. But if you’re sticking to Tokyo itself, preparing for the humidity and heat is all about staying hydrated and taking breaks in air-conditioned spots.

Should I bring any special gear to handle the humidity, like a portable fan or cooling towels?

Absolutely! Portable battery-operated fans are super popular here in summer and easy to find in electronics stores or even some convenience stores. I always carry one in my bag during August. Cooling towels soaked in water and worn around the neck also help a lot. Japanese people often use these during festivals or while commuting in summer. They’re lightweight and dry quickly, which makes them perfect for walking around Tokyo’s streets. But if you forget to bring one, you can easily buy these items in 100 yen shops (around $1) or drugstores.

How do locals deal with the heat when commuting or walking around the city?

Locals tend to rely on umbrellas for shade rather than just rain protection. You’ll see many people carrying compact parasols that shield them from the sun. It’s part of why many Japanese look less sunburned even in summer. Also, many buildings, subway stations, and shops have excellent air conditioning, so people often plan their routes to include these cool spots. I personally like to plan short breaks in cafés or department store food floors where the air conditioning is strong, not just to cool down but also to recharge my phone or enjoy a cold drink.

Are there any cultural activities or local summer customs I should be aware of when visiting Tokyo in August?

August is packed with festivals (matsuri), fireworks (hanabi), and other summer events. Japanese people dress in lightweight cotton yukata, which is a summer kimono, to stay cooler and enjoy the festive atmosphere. While tourists can rent yukata too, locals treat it as a way to connect with summer traditions. Also, eating seasonal summer foods like watermelon or cold noodles is common. You might want to try these at local eateries rather than just sticking to convenience store snacks—it gives you a real flavor of Japanese summer.

What’s the best way to stay hydrated without spending a fortune?

Convenience stores are your best friend. A bottle of mineral water or tea usually costs around ¥100-150 ($0.75-$1.10). There are also vending machines everywhere, selling cold drinks 24/7. I often buy unsweetened green tea or barley tea, which are refreshing and help with hydration without too much sugar. If you want something more substantial, many konbini also sell chilled fruit or yogurt drinks. Carrying a refillable water bottle and topping it up in public water fountains (which are surprisingly common near parks and train stations) is another budget-friendly way to stay hydrated.

In short, packing light breathable clothes, bringing a portable fan or cooling towel, using umbrellas for shade, and relying on konbini for cold drinks and snacks are my go-to strategies for surviving Tokyo’s August heat. It’s all about adapting on the go and enjoying the unique summer vibe here.