Japan, the country of the emerging sun, is a popular winter destination. The nation appears splendid during the months of December and January. What most individuals are unaware of is that the summer season in Japan is equally breathtaking. There are various hues associated with summers in Japan, featuring diverse landscapes, weather conditions, and flourishing vegetation throughout the entire island nation. Additionally, there are numerous festivals that are commemorated during the summer season. Here is an informative guide presenting a variety of activities you can engage in during the summer season in Japan.
14 Outstanding Activities to Experience in Summer in Japan
After thorough examination and personal involvement, we have compiled a comprehensive list comprising of 14 thrilling activities to partake in during the summer season in Japan. This guide will ensure that you have the most enjoyable summer experience in Japan. Take a glance:
1. Mt. Fuji: Embark on a Trek
This is an invitation to all adventure, hiking, and trekking enthusiasts. The challenge lies in ascending the sacred Mt. Fuji in Japan. It stands as one of the most magnificent undertakings to pursue during the summer season in Japan. Surpass the heights, challenge yourself, conquer your apprehensions, and emerge as an entirely transformed individual. We strongly recommend booking this trek immediately and spending the summer season in Japan 2023, making it the most memorable time of your life.
Location: Kitayama, Fujinomiya, Shizuoka 418-0112, JapanTime: Varies between July and September
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2. Fuji Rock Festival: Attend the Gathering
Dubbed as the largest rock festival in Japan, this three-day event is a true delight for rock music enthusiasts. This festival takes place right after the rainy season in the rural area of Niigata at a ski resort. If you plan on camping like other attendees, make sure to take extra precautions for precipitation. Don’t miss out on attending this festival!
Location: Naeba Ski Resort, Yuzawa, Niigata Prefecture, JapanTime: JulyEntry Fee: Ranges from 18,000 Yen to 45,000 Yen
3. Obon Festival: Experience The Splendor Of This Occasion
The Obon festival is observed from the 13th of August to the 15th of August in various regions throughout Japan. It is regarded as one of the most sacred festivals. It is believed that during this period, the spirits of the deceased return to visit their families. These ethereal beings are greeted with dances, rituals, and delectable festive cuisine. Renowned as one of the busiest times in Japanese summers, the festival is a spectacular sight.
Time: August
4. Fukagawa Hachiman Festival: Engage With The Residents
The Fukagawa Hachiman is a Mikoshi Festival that resembles a type of water battle. Large quantities of water are poured on the participating teams to combat the summer heat. Even the Tokyo Fire Department participates in the festivities. It is one of the top three Shinto festivals. It has been celebrated since 1642. It is a breathtaking spectacle to behold.
Location: Tomioka Hachiman Shrine, 1 Chome-20-3 Tomioka, Koto City, Tokyo 135-0047, JapanTime: AugustEntry Fee: Free
5. Hiroshima Lantern Ceremony: Embark On A Journey Through History
Annually on the 6th of August, the Japanese populace grieve the demise of the countless individuals who lost their lives in the atomic bombing of Hiroshima and the successive bombing of Nagasaki on the 8th of December. A parade is organized by people with lanterns in their hands. The lanterns drift in front of the ruined structure, which serves as the monument in memory of the lives lost on that dark day.
Location: Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, 1-2 Nakajimacho, Naka, Hiroshima 730-0811, Hiroshima PrefectureTime: 6th AugustEntry Fee: Free
6. Tanabata Festival: Capture Selfies
Tanabata is a Japanese festival that commemorates an ancient Japanese folklore of two star crossed lovers. Many processions occur all throughout Japan. People stroll around with vibrant banners made of bamboo and colored paper, and well-wishes are inscribed all over them. This is a significant festival in Japan and is generally celebrated on the 6th of July in most regions of the country. Those who adhere to the old calendar celebrate the festival on the 6th of August.
Time: 7th July
7. Aomori Nebuta Dastori Festival: Join In
‘Aomori’ essentially means a buoy. This is a festival that takes place across the Tohoku Region of Japan, spanning a whole week. During this celebration, individuals parade their buoys through the streets of their cities and towns. The festival reaches its climax with a grand fireworks display on the final day of the processions. It is regarded as one of the largest and most significant festivals in the region.
Location: Shin-Aomori Station, Takama Ishie, Aomori, 038-0003, JapanTime: August 1 to 7Entry Fee: No charge (seating available on the sidewalk)
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8. Japan: Explore Flower Gardens
The lavender fields of Furano in Hokkaido are possibly the most delightful sight to behold during your trip to Japan in the summer. Unlike Tokyo, Hokkaido doesn’t get too hot during the summer months. Instead, it’s slightly cooler with a comparatively lower temperature. Visit these fields for picturesque views. If you wish, you also have the option to purchase these flowers.
Location: Furano, Hokkaido Prefecture, JapanTime: June to July
9. Japan: Get a Tan on the Beach
Japanese beaches are typically not crowded, but during the six weeks of summer, starting from Marine Day until the end of August, they do get busy. This is the perfect time to experience Japan’s beach culture. Just make sure you know what you want to do on the beach and choose accordingly. In Japanese culture, there are separate beaches for partygoers and for those who want to spend quality time with their families.
10. Sumo Nagoya Basho: Experience an Exciting Rush
This summer Sumo wrestling event is one of the largest events in Japan. It takes place in the city of Nagoya every year from the 6th of July to the 22nd of July. The event is held at the Aichi Prefectural Gymnasium, which is not far from the famous Nagoya Castle. You also have the opportunity to visit the castle and witness some incredible Sumo skills from some of the world’s best Sumo wrestlers.
Location: Aichi Prefectural Gymnasium, 1-1 Ninomaru Nakaku, Nagoya 460-0032Time: July
11. Sumida River: Observe Fireworks
Witness the oldest traditional fireworks display in Japan. The Sumida Fireworks display takes place annually during the summer in Japan above the Sumida River close to Asakusa Station. The finest vantage point can be found at Sumida Park. What’s amazing is that over a million spectators partake in this enchanting festival each year, and the attendance continues to grow with each passing year. This is one of Japan’s most breathtaking festivals.
Location: Sensoji Temple (Taito Ward) & Tokyo Skytree (Sumida Ward)Time: Last Saturday Of July
12. Japan: Indulge in Morioka Ramen
Morioka Ramen is a renowned Japanese dish that is a must-try for those who visit Japan during the summer. It is one of the most popular culinary delights originating from Morioka city in Japan. These are traditional Japanese noodles crafted with authentic Japanese ingredients. Interestingly, these noodles are cold and are believed to be highly beneficial to consume on hot and humid days.
13. Hakata Gion Yamakasa Festival: Witness the Enchanting Display
The festival takes place from July 1 to July 15 at the Kushida Jinja Shrine in Fukuoka City. This is arguably the most awe-inspiring festival held in Japan. The festival primarily revolves around a time trial race wherein seven neighborhoods of Fukuoka City participate. Each team carries a 1-ton float on their shoulders. The first team commences the festival at approximately 4:59 AM in the morning, and subsequent teams follow with a 5-minute interval. The participating teams put in tremendous effort to complete the race, but the reward is truly worth it.
Location: Hakata, Fukuoka, Fukuoka PrefectureTime: July
14. Witness Tenjin Matsuri: Make Your Way To Osaka
Osaka, widely recognized as the artistic hub of Japan is a renowned spot for hosting the annual Tenjin Matsuri fest without fail. This is an ancient festival that pays homage to the divinity of learning. It’s an extraordinary summer celebration that encompasses boat races and other aqua sports that bring immense delight to the spectators.
Location: 2-1-8 Tenjinbashi, Kita-ku | Osaka Temmangu, Osaka 530-0041, Osaka PrefectureTime: 24th and 25th July
Key Points About Summer In Japan
If you are visiting Japan during the summer season, then you must retrieve your summer attire and flaunt your garments, shorts, tees, summer hat, and stroll in shades. Throughout summer, the temperature in Japan escalates to approximately 35-degree Celsius. To safeguard yourself from heat exhaustion, ensure that you stay hydrated and replenish your salts and minerals with sports beverages & water.
While exploring Japan, you might encounter volatile downpours or ‘Guerilla rainstorms’. So, keep an umbrella within reach and check the weather forecast for rainstorm before embarking on sightseeing. If the weather feels humid after a rainfall, then you can seek cooling sheets and sprays at pharmacies which might provide some relief. Additionally, you can purchase or rent a yukata which is a cotton garment and wear it while discovering the country in summer.
Japan is a magnificent nation. What’s distinctive about this place are the festivals that are celebrated during the summer in Japan. They constitute the culture and traditions of the country. Believe it or not, a summer holiday to Japan is without a doubt a fantastic idea and we encourage everyone to explore this paradise. It will be worthwhile, we assure you!
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Common Questions About Summer In Japan
What are the summer months in Japan?
The summer season in Japan commences from mid-May to mid-June, and the rainy season starts during these months.
What is the temperature in Japan in summer?
The temperature ranges from 30 degrees Celsius (midsummer days) to over 35 degrees Celsius (sweltering days) during the summer season in Japan.
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