What Time Is It In Tokyo: Accurate & Live

Plan a Call or Meeting

Find a convenient time. Select a time in your local timezone to see the corresponding time in Tokyo.

Navigating Business Hours & Etiquette

Most offices in Tokyo operate from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM JST. Punctuality is paramount in Japanese business culture; arriving 10 minutes early for a meeting is standard practice. Remember these tips:

• Exchanging business cards (meishi) is a formal ritual.
• A slight bow is a common and respectful greeting.
• Decisions are often made collectively, so patience is key.

The Rhythm of the City: Daily Life

Tokyo operates on a precise schedule. Be aware of the city's daily flow to make your visit smoother.

• Rush Hour: Intense crowding on trains occurs from 7:30-9:30 AM and 5:00-7:00 PM.
• Retail Hours: Department stores and shops typically open around 10:00 or 11:00 AM and close at 8:00 PM.
• Dining: Restaurants are busiest for lunch (12-1 PM) and dinner (7-9 PM). Many smaller eateries close between lunch and dinner.

Planning Your Visit: Seasons & Weather

Tokyo has four distinct and beautiful seasons, each offering a unique experience. The best times to visit are generally spring and autumn.

• Spring (Mar-May): Mild and beautiful, famous for cherry blossoms (sakura).
• Summer (Jun-Aug): Hot and humid, with a rainy season in June/July.
• Autumn (Sep-Nov): Cool, crisp, and less crowded, with stunning fall foliage.
• Winter (Dec-Feb): Cold but usually sunny and dry. A great time for illuminations.

Beating Jet Lag: Tips for Travelers

The significant time difference can lead to jet lag. Here’s how to adjust to JST more quickly:

• Adjust your sleep schedule a few days before you fly.
• Upon arrival, immediately adopt the local time. If you arrive in the morning, stay awake until the evening.
• Get plenty of natural sunlight during the day to reset your internal clock.
• Stay hydrated and avoid heavy meals or alcohol close to bedtime.

Understanding Japan Standard Time (JST)

Japan Standard Time (JST) is UTC+9. Unlike many Western countries, Japan does not observe Daylight Saving Time. This was tried briefly after WWII but was unpopular and abolished in 1952. The consistent, year-round time makes scheduling international calls simpler, as you never have to account for seasonal shifts.

Major 2024 Public Holidays

Planning a trip or business call? Be aware of these major public holidays in Japan when many businesses are closed and travel can be busy, especially during Golden Week.

• Jan 1: New Year's Day
• Apr 29 - May 5: Golden Week (multiple holidays)
• Aug 11-13: Obon Festival (unofficial but widely observed)
• Sep 16: Respect for the Aged Day

Did You Know?

Tokyo's fish market, Tsukiji, was the largest in the world before it moved to Toyosu in 2018.