Summer in Japan usually feels hot and humid. But there are plenty of season-specific adventures to enjoy that don’t involve overheating in the sun! Japan is full of wonder and attractions, and visiting Japan in the summer is a colorful and beautiful adventure.
From breathtaking fireworks to stunning scenery, and traditional festivals, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Continue reading to find the ideal activity and enjoy the sunny, warm weather.
Take a Hike up Mount Fuji
This is a call out to all the adventure, hiking, and trekking enthusiasts. The aim is to climb Japan’s sacred Mount Fuji. Located on the island of Honshu, Mount Fuji’s climbing season takes place from July to mid-September.
There is almost no snow during this time of year, and the warm temperature makes climbing safer. Take the Yoshida Trail to the top and camp or reserve a mountain hut. Hiking Mount Fuji is genuinely one of the most incredible things to do during the summer in Japan!
Enjoy a Firework Festival
Fireworks are traditional summer events in Japan; you will find several fireworks all over Japan during summer! One of the most famous festivals is the Sumida River Fireworks Festival, located by Tokyo Skytree and Asakusa. In Osaka, the Tenjin Matsuri, a grand summer festival, has a beautiful firework display and must-see.
The stunning-colored displays light up the summer night sky for a magical, one-of-a-kind experience. Basically, many attendants at fireworks festivals wear yukata (summer kimono). This is an excellent time to rent or borrow a yukata and take in the traditional, festive atmosphere.
Daydream in Hokkaido’s Flower Fields
If you’re looking to escape the summer heat in Japan, visiting Hokkaido’s beautiful flower fields is a must. Because Hokkaido is Japan’s northernmost prefecture, it offers cooler temperatures and breathtaking flower parks for a refreshing and stunning summer getaway.
One of the most famous flower fields in Hokkaido is the lavender fields of Furano. The sight of these fields is beyond gorgeous and worth the visit. From early to mid-July, the area is transformed into a delicate purple color, with the fragrance of lavender filling the air. All in all, visitors can stroll through the fields and take in the natural beauty of Hokkaido.
Another spot worth visiting is Asahikawa, home to the Ueno Farm. This farm is renowned for its beautiful gardens and colorful flower fields, offering visitors a fantasy-like escape. From tulips to roses, sunflowers to cosmos, visitors can enjoy a variety of blooms throughout the summer months.
Whether you’re a flower enthusiast or simply seeking a tranquil and refreshing escape, Hokkaido’s flower fields offer a unique and unforgettable experience.
Rock Out at a Music Festival
If you enjoy J-pop, J-rock, or idol music, a festival may be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see your favorite bands live. Japanese and international artists perform at these events throughout the year. Music festivals in Japan are more than just a good time. They’re also opportunities to raise awareness about issues like climate change, cleaning up oceans, and protecting endangered animals.
Fuji Rock at Naeba Ski Resort in Niigata Prefecture is the most internationally famous festival. Dubbed the biggest rock festival in Japan, this three-day festival is an absolute delight for rock music lovers. However, if you want to stay closer to the city, Summer Sonic takes place in Tokyo and Osaka.
Cool Down with Japanese Desserts
Additionally, frozen treats offer quick relief from the sweltering heat. You will find many cold desserts in Japan, such as ice creams, parfaits, sherbets, and slushies. Generally, traditional Japanese desserts include kakigoori (shaved ice) and anmitsu (agar with red bean paste).
Kakigoori is one of the most popular summer refreshments people of all ages enjoy. The shaved ice is placed in a cup or bowl flavored with the assorted syrup of your choice. Recently it’s become deluxe, luxury sweet, and that’s another reason why kakigoori is so popular. On the other hand, in cafes, kakigoori is often flavored with condensed milk, fruit toppings, and syrup.
Go to Hot Springs in Hakone
For the most part, Hakone is one of Japan’s most famous hot spring resorts in Kanagawa. But the hot spring that stands out in Hakone is the well-renowned Yunessun. With both clothed and unclothed areas, Yunessun will suit everyone’s needs!
In addition, bathers who also want to relax in cooler water can go to this unique resort. This is because a large swimsuit area is filled with different types of pools, from wine-tinted water to coffee baths. It is a perfect place to cool down and spend time with family and friends. There is also an outdoor water park great for summertime play.
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Attend a Summer Festival
As noted, summer in Japan is the best festival season, with many events occurring nationwide. To emphasize, the options are endless, from the traditional and well-known Gion festival in Kyoto to the more local and less crowded ones. These festivals revolve around different themes, such as lantern festivals, providing visitors unique experiences.
Seeing these summer festivals, especially in a yukata (summer festival), is music! With dancing, street food, and a lively atmosphere, these festivals are the perfect way to immerse yourself in Japanese culture.
Visit a Japanese Beach
There are many options if you’re looking for a beach getaway in Japan. With its beautiful coastline and crystal-clear waters, Japan offers many opportunities to enjoy marine activities, relax on the sand, or stroll along the shore while feeling the sea breeze.
If you’re around Tokyo, there are several beaches within easy reach. Odaiba Marine Park is an artificial beach that provides a convenient option in the Tokyo Bay area. Kamakura and Enoshima Beaches offer an especially scenic and refreshing escape for those who don’t mind traveling outside the city.
If you’re looking for more breathtaking scenery, consider traveling to Okinawa. This island is famous for its stunning beaches and turquoise waters, such as Yonaha Maehama Beach and Nishibama Beach. These destinations are worth the extra effort to get there, as they offer some of the most beautiful beaches in Japan.
Eat Nagashi Somen
Nagashi somen (flowing noodles) is served cold, so it’s best enjoyed during the hot summer days. The thin white Japanese noodles are made from wheat flour and are often served with tsuyu (dipping sauce). Because the noodles flow quickly down a bamboo slide, eating nagashi somen will require strong chopsticks skills.
Once you catch the thin white bundle of noodles, dip it in a savory cold broth and enjoy. Be quick, or you’ll miss your next bite. Visit Hirobun in Kyoto’s peaceful village of Kibune for a fancier and more surreal experience. This riverfront restaurant lets customers enjoy their noodles against a serene river backdrop.
Enjoy a Waterfront Barbeque
A barbeque with friends and family is a beautiful way to make the most of the summer. Tokyo has several barbeque sites, but our favorite is waterfront barbeque, which has a lovely breeze and incredible landscape. From bayside areas to the rich natural scenery of Okutama, you can choose just the right spot for you.
Japan’s summers are hot but filled with activities that can keep you cool. From hikes to festivals and light, refreshing desserts, this season is full of activity and excitement that all can enjoy. Many colors are associated with summers in Japan, with different landscapes, weather, and flowers growing everywhere. See Japan during one of the best times of the year and stay calm.
What is your favorite activity to do during summer? Do you have any significant additions to share with us? Let us know in the comments below!
