🌸 Series: Traveling in Japan by Seasons

This article is Part 1 of a series dedicated to Japan’s four seasons:

• Summer ☀️ (you are here)

• Autumn 🍁

• Winter ❄️

• Spring 🌸

Each season has its own unique charm. Let’s begin with summer — a festive, contrasting time full of discoveries.

1. Summer in Japan

Traveling to Japan in summer means immersing yourself in a vibrant, contrasting atmosphere. From stifling heat in the cities, colorful street festivals, to cool mountain air and tropical beaches — summer offers a unique experience.

From June to August, Japan follows the rhythm of tsuyu, the rainy season that moistens the early summer, followed by the intense heat of July and August. It’s a festive time too: people wear yukata (light cotton kimono), enjoy kakigōri (shaved ice), attend matsuri (traditional festivals), and watch spectacular fireworks light up the sky.

Summer is also the best season to enjoy Japan’s natural side:

• Climb Mount Fuji (only open in July and August)

• Explore Hokkaido’s flower fields

• Relax on Okinawa’s tropical beaches

This page is part of a series on the four seasons in Japan, each with its own magic. If you love vibrant atmospheres and outdoor adventures, summer in Japan won’t disappoint.

2. Climate and Summer Atmosphere in Japan

Japan’s summer spans from June to August and can be divided into three distinct phases:

• June: Rainy Season (Tsuyu)
  From mid-June to early July, frequent but short downpours make the landscape lush and green. Hydrangeas bloom beautifully, especially in Kamakura and Hakone.

• July: Intensifying Heat and Festival Season Begins
  After the rains, skies clear and temperatures rise rapidly. In cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, humidity can make it oppressive. Yet the matsuri season ignites — streets are alive, yukata are worn everywhere, and energy is high.

• August: Peak Heat and Typhoon Season
  August sees the highest temperatures, often above 35°C in some areas. It’s also typhoon season, particularly in the South, sometimes disrupting travel. Nevertheless, it remains a lively month filled with fireworks, Obon rituals, and school holidays that animate every destination.

What to Expect from the Weather

• Average temperatures: 25–35°C, depending on region

• High humidity, especially in cities

• Frequent rain in June, typhoon risk in August

Practical Tips

• Wear light, breathable clothing, but carry a compact umbrella (for both rain and sun)

• Stay hydrated via Japan’s ubiquitous vending machines and public fountains

• Take breaks in air-conditioned spaces — train stations, cafés, shopping malls, museums

3. Where to Go in Summer in Japan

Japan offers amazing diversity — summer is the perfect time to explore it, whether you seek cool escapes, beaches, or vibrant cities.

Okinawa: Tropical Japan

• An idyllic archipelago with turquoise waters and white sandy beaches

• Perfect for snorkeling, diving, kayaking, or lounging

• A unique experience of Ryukyu culture, far from Japan’s mainland vibe

Japanese Alps: Cool Trekking

• Regions like Nagano, Gifu, and Toyama offer relief from heat

• Breathtaking trails such as Kamikōchi

• Traditional villages listed as UNESCO World Heritage — e.g., Shirakawa-go and Gokayama

Hokkaido: Land of Vast Spaces

• Mild temperatures, a respite from southern heat

• Colorful flower fields around Furano and Biei

• Unique events like the Sapporo Beer Festival

Major Cities: Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka

• Urban summers are exhilarating despite the heat

• Tokyo: Sumidagawa River fireworks, lively neighborhoods even late at night

• Kyoto: Famous Gion Matsuri in July

• Osaka: Festive and food-centric, with matsuri and fireworks galore

4. What to Do in Japan in Summer

Summer is one of the liveliest seasons, filled with matsuri, hanabi (fireworks), ancestral rituals, and nature-based experiences.

Festivals & Fireworks (Matsuri & Hanabi)

• Matsuri (祭り): local festivals across cities and villages featuring parade floats, Bon Odori dances, food stalls, and festive crowds

  • Famous matsuri: Gion Matsuri (Kyoto, July), Tenjin Matsuri (Osaka, late July), Nebuta Matsuri (Aomori, early August)

• Hanabi Taikai (花火大会): incredible fireworks displays

  • Notable events: Sumidagawa Fireworks (Tokyo, late July), Nagaoka Fireworks (Niigata, August)

Obon: Festival of Ancestors

• Mid-August (dates vary regionally)

• A time to honor deceased ancestors

• Rituals include grave cleaning, lanterns to guide spirits (Tōrō nagashi), and Bon Odori community dances

• Major travel surge as families return home — plan carefully!

Outdoor Activities

• Mount Fuji ascent: open only from July to August — a bucket-list trek for many

• Alpine hiking: explore Japan’s scenic mountain trails in Nagano, Toyama, Gifu, or Daisetsuzan (Hokkaido)

• Beach & water sports:

  • Snorkeling/diving in Okinawa

  • Surfing in Shonan (near Tokyo)

  • Coastal relaxation in Izu or the Seto Inland Sea

Summer Cuisine

• Kakigōri: shaved ice flavored with syrups (strawberry, matcha, melon…)

• Yakitori & Takoyaki: festival favorites at street stalls

• Unagi (grilled eel): eaten in July (Doyō no ushi no hi) to beat the heat

• Sōmen: cold noodles served in somen streams (“nagashi sōmen”) or with cold sauce

Public Holidays & Commemorations

• Marine Day (Umi no Hi, 海の日): 3rd Monday in July, celebrating the sea

• Mountain Day (Yama no Hi, 山の日): August 11 — honors mountains, encourages hiking

• Obon (お盆): mid-August — spiritual family tradition

• Hiroshima & Nagasaki memorials:

  • August 6 (Hiroshima), August 9 (Nagasaki) — solemn ceremonies and peace lanterns

In summary, summer in Japan blends celebration, spirituality, and nature — a season of contrasts with urban heat, mountain coolness, and collective expression.

5. Practical Tips for Traveling in Japan in Summer

Budget & Reservations

• High season: July and especially August (school holidays, Obon)

• Prices for lodging and transport rise — book in advance

• June (outside bathing rain) can be less crowded and cost-effective

Managing Heat & Humidity

• Lightweight, breathable fabrics (cotton, linen) are ideal

• Carry a compact umbrella — rain and sun!\

• Cooling towels, handheld fans, hydration — essential

• Use air-conditioned spaces to cool down

Transport

• Japan Rail Pass (14 days) is a great value if traveling between regions

• Avoid travel during major departure days like Obon — expect crowding

• In cities, prefer air-conditioned subway and buses to avoid long, hot walks

Best Times to Travel

• Avoid Obon week if possible — it’s crowded and pricier

• Early July or late August offer a better balance of heat and visitor numbers

• Hokkaido and mountain regions are cooler alternatives

Handy Tips

• Get a Suica or Pasmo card for convenient rides and purchases

• Use konbini (convenience stores) for cheap, fresh, and quick meals

• Check weather/typhoon forecasts before outdoor excursions

• Consider travel insurance covering typhoon-related delays

6. Conclusion: Summer in Japan — a Vibrant Season

Summer in Japan is a season of vivid contrasts — oppressive city heat vs. cool mountains and coastline; street festivals and fireworks; spiritual rituals like Obon alongside lively food stands.

It’s an intense season that captivates those craving color, tradition, and adventurous escapes such as climbing Mount Fuji or beach time in Okinawa.

For planning, remember: book your accommodations and transportation early, prepare for heat and humidity, and embrace the unique energy of Japan at its summer peak.

Discover Japan: traditions, travel & unique experiences

A voyage in Japan is more than tourism — it’s an immersion in a culture blending modernity and tradition. From Tokyo, the capital, to remote regions, every stop reveals a new facet of Japan’s visual and cultural richness.

Sanctuaries & Spirituality

Discover Japan’s traditional side in shinto sanctuaries, Buddhist temples, and iconic torii gates. Shinto practices remain central in modern Japan through ceremonies and festivals.

Must-Visit Regions

• Kansai: cultural core — Kyoto, Osaka, Nara

• South of Japan: Kyushu (volcanoes), Shikoku (pilgrimage routes)

• Pacific coast: alternative landscapes of the Nippon archipelago

• From Shibuya to Hiroshima, villes du Japon show diverse lifestyles and histories

Moments Not to Miss

• Cherry blossom season — the poetic symbol of the land of the rising sun

• Onsen (hot springs) — perfect relaxation after a day of sightseeing

• Festivals and rituals highlighting Japan’s living heritage

Practical Advice

• Budget your yen wisely for your stay in Japan

• When to go: summer for matsuri, spring for blossom, winter for onsen and ski

• Preset your route based on how much vacation in Japan you have

Whether traveling solo, with family, or planning an extended trip, every season brings a new side of the rising sun. Ready to go to Japan and make unforgettable memories?

Budget 15 Days in Japan (Summer, Excluding Flights)

Accommodations (14 nights)

• Budget: €30–50/night → €420–700

• Mid-range: €70–120/night → €980–1,680

• Luxury: €150–250/night → €2,100–3,500

Transport

• Japan Rail Pass 14 days: ~€420

• City metro/bus: €5–10/day → ~€100

• Total: ~€520

Meals

• Budget: €8–12/meal → ~€25/day → ~€375

• Mid-range: €15–25/meal → ~€50/day → ~€750

• Luxury: €40–80/meal → ~€100/day → ~€1,500

Activities & Visits

• Temples, gardens, museums: €3–8 entry → ~€100 total

• Special excursions (Disney, Universal, shows): €50–80 each

• Mid-range activity budget: €150–250

Snacks & Souvenirs

Estimate: €100–200 depending on habits

Total Estimated Budget (15 days, excl. flights)

• Budget: ~€1,500/person

• Mid-range: ~€2,500/person

• Luxury: ~€4,500/person

Simulation: 15-Day Summer Budget (High-End Style)

Assumptions

• Accommodations: €100–120/night (mid-range hotel or ryokan)

• Meals: €50/day (restaurants, izakaya, specialties)

• Transport: JR Pass (€420) + city transit (€100)

• Activities: €200–300 for two weeks

• Extras/Souvenirs: €200

Sample Itinerary & Estimated Costs

• Days 1–3: Tokyo → ~€550

• Days 4–5: Nikko & Kamakura → ~€340

• Days 6–8: Kyoto → ~€530

• Days 9–10: Osaka → ~€410

• Days 11–12: Hiroshima & Miyajima → ~€340

• Days 13–14: Hokkaido (Sapporo, Furano) → ~€460

• Day 15: Return to Tokyo → ~€170

Cost Breakdown

• Lodging: ~€2,000

• Meals: ~€750

• Transport: ~€640 (incl. internal flight Est.)

• Activities & Visits: ~€250

• Extras/Souvenirs: ~€200

Total: ~€3,000/person (excluding flights)

High-end options (luxury ryokan, gourmet dining, more excursions) can bring the total to €4,000–4,500.

FAQ – Everything You Need to Know About Traveling in Japan

Manga and Mangas: why are they so popular in Japan?

Manga is essential to the Japanese experience. You’ll find them everywhere — bookstores, themed cafés, and especially in Tokyo neighborhoods like Akihabara, a paradise for fans.

Where to discover Geishas and traditional Japanese art?

To see Geishas, head to Kyoto, the ancient capital — particularly the Gion district. They epitomize the refined elegance of traditional Japanese culture.

What is the Tokyo Imperial Palace?

The Imperial Palace in Japan’s capital is the home of the imperial family. Its beautiful gardens are open to the public at select times.

What Zen and Buddhist experiences can one find in Japan?

Many Buddhist temples and zen gardens in Kyoto or Kamakura offer serene and spiritual insight — a window into the soul of all of Japan.

What dishes should you try during a stay in Tokyo?

No stay in Tokyo is complete without fresh sushi at Toyosu Market, plus exploring the city’s neighborhoods for ramen, izakaya bites, and diverse street food.

How does a Sumo match work?

Sumo, Japan’s national sport, still follows rituals rooted in the traditions of the samurai and Shinto. Seeing a match in Tokyo or Osaka is a unique Japanese experience.

What advice for a first trip to Japan?

On your first trip, start with Tokyo and Kyoto, then gradually visit other cities of Japan. A Japanese agency can help plan your ideal route.

Is it easy to arrive and live in Japan?

Landing in Japan is straightforward with major airports in Tokyo and Osaka. Many are drawn to living in Japan, captivated by its culture and islanded charm of the Nippon archipelago.

Which Japanese destinations are UNESCO World Heritage sites?

Japan’s UNESCO heritage includes Mt. Fuji, Kyoto and Nara temples, and the shrines of Nikko. These sites highlight the country’s global cultural importance.

Why return to Japan after the first visit?

Many travelers to Japan come back because each region of all Japan offers a new charm. Fully exploring entire Japan often takes several trips!

What are prefectures in Japan?

Japan is divided into 47 prefectures, each with its own history, food, and traditions. Exploring different prefectures is the best way to understand the diversity of Japanese people and culture.

What is the difference between a shrine and a temple?

A shrine (Shinto) is dedicated to kami (spirits), often marked by a red torii gate. A temple is Buddhist, featuring statues, incense, and pagodas. Both are central to Japanese spirituality.

How do travellers get around Japan by train?

Japan’s trains are famous for their speed and punctuality. The Shinkansen (bullet train) connects major cities in Japan, while limited express trains and locals serve smaller towns.

Is Honshu the main island of Japan?

Yes, Honshu island is Japan’s largest, home to the Kanto region (Tokyo, Yokohama), Kansai (Kyoto, Osaka), and cities like Nagoya and Kanazawa. It’s the heart of most Japan travel itineraries.

Where to enjoy a hot-spring experience in Japan?

Hot-springs (onsen) are found throughout Japan, often in mountainous or volcanic areas like Hakone, Beppu, and Kusatsu. They are a must-do for travellers seeking relaxation.

What should tourists know about earthquakes and tsunamis?

Japan is on a volcanic and seismic zone. While earthquakes are common, most are minor thanks to strict building codes. Tsunamis are rare but taken seriously, with excellent warning systems in place.

Which airports serve Tokyo?

Tokyo has two major airports:

• Narita Airport: international hub, ~60 km from Tokyo.

• Haneda Airport: closer to the city, ideal for domestic and many international flights.

What is Shinjuku famous for?

Shinjuku, in Tokyo, is known for its skyscrapers, nightlife, neon lights, and the world’s busiest railway station. It’s also a gateway for day-trips to places like Hakone or Mt. Fuji.

What are some recommended day-trips from major cities?

• From Tokyo: Nikko, Kamakura, Hakone, Mt. Fuji.

• From Kyoto/Osaka: Himeji Castle, Nara, Takayama.

• From Nagoya: Shirakawa-go, Gifu, Ise peninsula.

What are must-see places in Japan beyond Tokyo and Kyoto?

Some of the most beautiful places in Japan include Kanazawa (samurai and geisha districts), Takayama (old town charm), Himeji Castle (UNESCO site), and the Izu peninsula.

Where can travellers stay affordably in Japan?

Budget hostels are found in all major cities, often modern and clean. They’re a great way for tourists to meet other travellers and keep costs down during a travel to Japan adventure.

What role does sake play in Japanese culture?

Sake, Japan’s traditional rice wine, is deeply tied to rituals at shrines, celebrations, and everyday dining. Sampling local sake is a highlight of any travel guide to Japan.

• To continue your journey: the other seasons

  • Summer ☀️ (you are here)

  • Autumn 🍁

  • Winter ❄️

  • Spring 🌸