Summer in Japan begins in June and reaches its peak in August, with most regions across the country experiencing sweltering temperatures that sometimes make it challenging to stay outdoors. Nevertheless, there are compelling reasons why we highly recommend spending your summer in Japan. In this article, we will delve into the scorching weather, share some valuable cooling tips, and introduce popular sightseeing spots and activities you can enjoy during this vibrant season!
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Summer Weather in Japan
June marks the onset of the rainy season, known as “tsuyu,” which brings humidity levels as high as 70-80% to various regions. Tokyo and Osaka experience temperatures ranging from 19-26℃, while Okinawa sees temperatures above 26℃. If you wish to avoid the humidity and rain, Hokkaido is a great option, with no official rainy season and an average temperature of around 19℃. However, don’t miss the unique activities and experiences available during tsuyu on the mainland, including viewing hydrangea blooms, watching Kabuki performances, and visiting traditional art or anime/manga museums in various cities.
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By mid-July, the tsuyu season usually comes to an end, and sunny summer weather spreads across the country. During July and August, the average temperature in Tokyo and Osaka ranges from 24-30℃, peaking in early August, with occasional midday temperatures exceeding 35℃. In Hokkaido, while the sunlight becomes strong, the average temperature remains around 21℃, occasionally surpassing 30℃ for a few days.
Tips for Cooling Down
Wear Yukata 浴衣 / Jinbei甚平
To beat the summer heat, consider wearing a Yukata or Jinbei. Yukata is a casual, summer kimono made of cotton or polyester, and Jinbei is a shorter kimono primarily worn by men and children during this season. Many Japanese people choose these outfits for attending fireworks festivals or exploring historical sightseeing spots like Asakusa, Kamakura, or Kyoto. Not only do Yukata and Jinbei offer stylish designs, but they are also known for their smoothness and comfort, making them perfect for hot summer days and nights. You can easily purchase them online or at clothing stores like Uniqlo, with prices ranging from 3,000 to 10,000 yen, or simply rent them at various sightseeing spots to embrace the true essence of Japanese summer fashion.
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Try Japanese Shaved Ice (Kakigori かき氷)
Indulge in one of the best Japanese summer treats called kakigori (shaved ice). While it originally consisted of simple flavored syrups and sometimes condensed milk, nowadays, you can find unique recipes at numerous cafes and specialized shops. Modern kakigori offerings include flavors infused with fresh fruits or confitures, those topped with gelato or ice cream, and even some that resemble or taste like other delightful sweets, such as tiramisu. For a simpler experience, you can also find traditional shaved ice stands on the streets during summer festivals.
Get Uchiwa うちわ / Sensu 扇子
Uchiwa and sensu are portable fans traditionally used by Japanese people during summer. They were traditionally crafted from Japanese paper called “washi 和紙” or cloth for the surface, with handles and bones made from wood and bamboo. However, nowadays, many uchiwa are produced as promotional goods for festivals and companies, made from paper and plastic, and often given out to guests for free. Both uchiwa and sensu are held at the edge with a hand and waved back and forth to create a refreshing breeze. Only the sensu can be folded into a compact stick and easily carried in a bag. While uchiwa and sensu can be found at 100-yen shops now, high-quality ones can cost over 10,000 yen.
Destinations During Summer in Japan
Hokkaido
Hokkaido has long been a highly desired destination in Japan, attracting both foreign and domestic tourists, especially during summer, to escape the heat in other regions. With numerous spots to enjoy its rich history, breathtaking nature, and delectable seafood, including the Million Dollar Nightscape in Hakodate, the World Heritage Site Shiretoko, and the Magnificent Nature Island Rebunto, you might need at least one week or more to explore all that Hokkaido has to offer.
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Karuizawa
Karuizawa presents another popular option to escape the summer heat. This resort area nestled in the mountains of Nagano offers a diverse range of attractions, from shopping malls and historical sites to outdoor activities like golf and cycling, providing a close connection with nature. Must-visit spots in Karuizawa include the Shiraito Falls, the Karuizawa Highland Church, and the HARUNIRE Terrace.
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Summer Festivals
Japan hosts an abundance of festivals during the summer season, ranging from local traditional celebrations to grand fireworks festivals that attract millions of visitors each year. While the past three years witnessed cancellations and scaling-down of festivals due to the COVID pandemic, in 2023, almost all festivals are currently scheduled to take place, making it well worth attending at least one. Some historically significant festivals include the Aomori Nebuta Festival in Aomori, the Gion Festival in Kyoto, and the Awa Odori in Tokushima. There are even some larger fireworks festivals, which include the Sumida River Fireworks Festival in Tokyo and the Omagari Fireworks Festival in Akita.
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Summer Mountains
Mt. Takao
A favored destination for both locals and tourists, Mt. Takao is renowned for its accessibility and easy hiking trails. Located just 40-50 minutes away by train from central Tokyo’s Shinjuku station, this mountain at 599m offers a refreshing nature retreat through a pleasant hike to its summit. Afterward, you can unwind at the nearby onsen spot, allowing your body to relax before returning to the bustling city.
Mt. Fuji
If you dream of climbing Mt. Fuji, the summer season is the best and only time to make it come true. Mt. Fuji is open to the public from early July to early September each year and offers four different routes: Yoshida trail, Subashiri trail, Gotemba trail, and Fujinomiya trail. Each trail is marked with specific colors indicated by signs, making it easy to follow your chosen route. One of the most spectacular moments during the climb is witnessing the sunrise, known as “Goraiko (ご来光),” after reaching heights of up to 3,776m. This breathtaking experience can be enjoyed along the trail (except for the Fujinomiya trail). For beginners, it is highly recommended to plan a mountaineering itinerary that includes at least an overnight stay to avoid altitude sickness and injuries.
- Open Period: July 10th (Mon) – September 10th (Sun)
- Access to Kawaguchiko Station: About 3 hours from Shinjuku Station, then take a shuttle bus
- Official Website: Fuji Climbing
Japanese Beaches
Japanese beaches are typically open to the public from the end of June until the end of August. One of the great things about Japanese summer is that there are numerous beaches accessible by trains or cars, even if you live in central Tokyo. Some recommended areas near Tokyo are Enoshima, Zushi, Yuigahama, and Oiso in Kanagawa, and Kujukurihama in Chiba, where you can enjoy various marine sports such as surfing, jet skiing, and wakeboarding. There are also inhabited islands like Sarushima in Kanagawa and Okinotori Island in Chiba, both of which you can visit for a day trip. Of course, if you have a few days or a week to spare for travel, Okinawa is the ultimate destination to savor the beauty of blue skies, white sand, and emerald green seas. Okinawa has many small remote islands reachable by ferry from the mainland. Among them, Miyako Island, Ishigaki Island, Zamami Island, and Taketomi Island are particularly popular for their stunning beaches.
Summary
We have covered some useful tips and recommended spots to have the best summer experience in Japan. We hope you can beat the heat and enjoy unique and fun experiences during your stay!
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