Japan comes alive in summer with cultural festivals, stunning firework displays, and so much more. While the heat can be intense, there are plenty of unforgettable experiences to make your visit worthwhile. Here's what you shouldn't miss if you're visiting during the summer.
Hit Up One of Japan's Many Beautiful Beaches
Japan might not be the first place you think of for beaches, but this island nation actually has some stunning, often underrated, coastal spots. While the cities can get unbearably hot in summer, heading to the coast gives you a refreshing sea breeze and a chance to relax in the sun.
For the ultimate beach getaway, head to the southern islands of Okinawa, not only will you find the best spots of sand and ocean in Japan around here, some of the beaches here are often remarked as the most beautiful in the world. Check out this list of incredible islands in Okinawa.
See the Incredible Flower Fields of Hokkaido
Hokkaido is famous for its winter snow, but summer here feels like a completely different world—and in the best way possible. With cooler weather than the hot, humid cities down south, it’s the perfect spot to escape the heat and discover things you just can’t do in winter.
One must-see is Farm Tomita in Furano. Known for Japan’s largest lavender fields, they bloom in early to mid-July, but the colorful flowers stick around all summer, lasting until October. It’s easily one of the most beautiful places to visit during the warmer months.
Attend a Summer Matsuri
During the summer, almost every town and city in Japan holds its own festival, called a matsuri. These lively celebrations are a fantastic way to dive into Japanese culture and have some fun while you're at it! Two standout festivals you won't want to miss are the Aomori Nebuta Festival up north and Kyoto's famous Gion Matsuri. They really showcase the spirit and traditions of Japan.
Climb the Iconic Peak of Mt Fuji
If you're up for an adventure, consider climbing to the top of Mt. Fuji for an unforgettable experience. Standing at 3,776 meters, the ascent is challenging and typically takes about five to seven hours. Fortunately, the trails are well-maintained, with plenty of rest stops along the way, and you can even find food options like curry and soba noodles at the summit. Many climbers opt for a night trek to catch the breathtaking sunrise from the peak, but it’s also possible to hike up and down in a single day.
The best time to climb is from early July to early September, as the trails are closed outside this period due to snow at the peak. If you can, try to avoid the Obon Holiday in mid-July, as the trails can get pretty crowded during that time.
Attend a Sumo Tournament
Every July, Nagoya hosts a hugely popular sumo tournament that draws in fans from all over Japan. This tournament is one of six held throughout the year, and the summer edition kicks off at the beginning of July, running for 15 days. If you're hoping to catch some of the action, make sure to snag your tickets ahead of time—these matches sell out fast!
Slurp up Some Cold Noodles
When summer rolls around in Japan, you’ll notice everyone enjoying somen, a type of thin, cold noodle that’s become a culinary icon of the season. As the temperatures rise, slurping up these refreshing noodles becomes a delightful way to cool down. Cold noodles might not be everyone's go-to outside of Asia, but once you experience Japan's summer heat, you’ll quickly come to appreciate them. Another beloved summer treat is kakigori, a delicious shaved ice dessert topped with syrup and often served with fresh fruit.
Conclusion
Many people tend to avoid Japan in the summer, largely due to the infamous heat that blankets much of the island. However, it’s definitely worth braving the temperatures for the amazing festivals that only happen during this season. These vibrant celebrations are rich in culture and tradition, and they’re accompanied by stunning firework displays that light up the sky in nearly every city. It’s almost like a friendly competition, with each city trying to outshine the others with their spectacular shows!