Is the summer heat already exhausting you? Well, then close your eyes for a moment and imagine strolling through streets bathed in glowing lantern light, listening to distant taiko drumming, and finally enjoying a fresh matcha ice cream under a bright blue sky. Sounds like a script for a movie. Isn’t it? Well, what if we tell you that you can live it in Japan? Japan in Summer presents an enchanting period characterised by festivals, amazing natural attractions, together with its magic and charm. Whether you’re a nature lover, a foodie, or an adventure seeker, explore our Japan tour package for an amazing trip, as during the summer season, Japan reveals its entire splendour that appeals to almost all types of travellers, offering exciting new experiences.
Weather of Japan in Summer
Japan enjoys its summer period through the months of June to August. Rainfall becomes a common experience since the rainy season starts at that time. Japan experiences its hottest days during July and August, and the Japan temperature in Summer rises between 25°C and - 35°C. Light clothing with regular rehydration becomes mandatory because of high summer humidity.
- June: 22–28°C (Rainy)
- July: 25–33°C (Hot & Humid)
- August: 26–35°C (Very Hot, but breezy in the north)
Tips:
- A foldable umbrella and sunscreen, along with enough water, should always be in your bag when visiting Japan during the summer season.
- The climate of Hokkaido in northern Japan remains colder than the weather conditions in Okinawa in the southern region.
Best Places to Visit in Japan in Summer
Summer brings countless stunning sights to Japan because the season brings cities to life with fireworks, and various flower fields produce vibrant colors. Let’s explore the best Japan places to visit in summer.
1. Tokyo Disneyland & DisneySea
Visiting Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea is more than just having some theme park experiences because they present total magic-based stories through overwhelming encounters. If you visit Disneyland, you can experience your favourite childlike Disney fantasies through the magical combination of princess castles, along with their beloved characters, during parades.
Every corner in these Disneyland attractions transports nostalgia into concrete reality. Among these attractions, DisneySea emerges as one of the best places to visit in Japan in summer. Japan possesses this one-of-a-kind attraction, which unites marine legends and amusement park experiences with spectacular sights and thrilling attractions.
Suggested Read: Japan in March: A Magical Blend of Cherry Blossoms, Festivals, & Spring Adventures
2. Ghibli Museum, Mitaka
Step inside the Ghibli Museum in Japan in Summer, which is situated in the Mitaka suburb, and get a chance to be a part of Hayao Miyazaki’s dreams. The structure of this magical pathless maze allows each explorer to walk freely, just as one might do in their very own Ghibli adventure. The museum showcases a variety of items, including hand-drawn binders and enormous replicas like the Catbus, which enables kids to enter it, whereas hand-drawn stories exhibit their craftsmanship, their creative processes, and innovative methods.
You can experience the oversized Robot Soldier from Laputa on the rooftop garden while the Saturn Theater plays unique short films which elsewhere are otherwise not accessible. Anybody who has a love for storytelling can enjoy the space, despite their interest in anime.
3. TeamLab Planets Tokyo
The establishment of TeamLab Planets Tokyo functions as something greater than a standard art space because it delivers not just a visual but an experiential journey. The art experience at TeamLab Planets in Japan in Summer allows you to become an integral element of the artwork itself. You can walk through mirrored watery tunnels with virtual digital koi fish swimming by their feet at TeamLab Planets Tokyo.
Also, it features endless mirrored spaces that change colours continuously. The exhibition continuously transforms through shifting seasons and as people enter and leave the room. The venue provides both interactive aspects alongside dreamy and poetic experiences to all visitors. If you ever imagine walking through someone’s imagination, then this is the place.
4. Shibuya Sky
From above the city's electric pulse in Tokyo, Shibuya Sky gives visitors an awe-inducing moment in addition to its impressive panoramic views. Visitors to this open-air observation deck will experience views of Tokyo's skyline from 229 meters above the city, which they can enjoy with a 360-degree scope, and can have Mount Fuji views if the weather is clear. Visiting Shibuya Sky provides more than just spectacular views.
The overall ambience at the place is enhanced by sky hammocks and digital installations, together with LED-lit lounge zones to create a relaxing environment for relaxation. The city transforms into a radiant wonderland of one thousand flickering lights when dusk settles upon your feet. A single elevator ride becomes a time-travelling experience that delivers romance and provides adventure, and creates wonder.
5. Mount Fuji
Mount Fuji represents the most mythical natural symbol of Japan due to its majestic beauty that attracts people like a magnet. Summer brings climbing opportunities to the mountain through which visitors can reach the summit to witness Goraiko, the golden sunrise above the clouds. Fuji's lower slopes provide enchantment to anyone who does not undertake climbing activities.
Plenty of attractions welcome visitors, including Fuji Five Lakes and Hakone, and the ropeway panorama routes. Mount Fuji creates postcard beauty when it perfectly reflects in the water of Lake Kawaguchi under clear skies. Apart from being a mountain, Fuji serves multiple purposes as both a spiritual destination and a source of divine inspiration for painters, along with providing freedom for the human soul to expand.
Top 5 Things to Do in Japan in Summer
Japan during summer awaits those who want to experience ancient temples while participating in lively festivals under Japan's peaceful countryside scenes. Be a part of some of the best things to enjoy in Japan in Summer.
1. Fireworks Festivals
If you’re visiting Japan in summer, then you must attend hanabi taikai (fireworks festival) in order to complete your experience. Fireworks at these events surpass typical festivities because they craft spectacular performances that transform into moving works of colour in the sky. Summer festivals take place as families dress in yukatas and spread their picnic mats at riverside locations for the show.
The Sumida River Fireworks Festival in Tokyo and the Yodogawa Festival in Osaka stand as the premier complementary exhibits. The creators dedicate precise work and emotions to each firework so that it communicates stories through its lighting patterns. The occasion brings together people in a combined festivity that honours traditions and summer vibes through the enduring power of transient beauty to create timeless memories.
- Best Time: Late July to early August
- Best Locations: Sumida River (Tokyo), Naniwa Yodogawa (Osaka)
- Cost: The whole event is cost-free, but visitors need to reserve paid seating beforehand.
Suggested Reads: Uncover The Things To Do In Japan
2. River Rafting in Minakami
The adrenaline seekers should visit Gunma Prefecture's Minakami area for a rafting experience through mountain valleys. In summer, the Tone River in Japan provides people with a recreational spot to enjoy rafting in one of the nation's second-longest rivers as its rapids dive through lush green gorges. You can find peaceful moments when you drift under vines that overhang and witness the song of cicadas in the lush environment.
The sensation offers a perfect blend of wild natural attractiveness alongside thrilling adventures. Whether you are experienced or new to kayaking, the experience will leave you with summertime recollections that include pure mountain water along with endless laughter and boundless joy.
- Best Time: June to September
- Location: Minakami Town, Gunma Prefecture
- Cost: ¥8,000–¥12,000 per person
3. Attend the Gion Matsuri
Among the significant festivals of Japan in summer, the traditional Gion Matsuri at Kyoto brings out an elaborate experience every summer. This traditional celebration, which has existed for more than 1000 years, turns Kyoto's streets into a historical display of cultural heritage. One can expect to see breathtaking yama and hoko floats measuring up to 25 meters in height and decorated with meticulous hand-carved details and elaborate tapestries throughout the city.
During the festival, traditional attire becomes common among locals, while festival stalls set up food stations across the streets. The experience of Gion Matsuri goes beyond an ordinary event because it offers people a heritage journey through time while delivering an enchanting experience.
- Best Time: Throughout July, with major events on the 17th and 24th
- Location: Downtown Kyoto, especially Shijo and Karasuma Streets
- Cost: Watching Gion Matsuri costs nothing, but you should come early during the event.
4. Soak in the Outdoor Onsen
Japan's splendorous outdoor hot spring rotenburo baths remain heavenly during summer months, particularly when located in mountainous regions, which provide refreshing dry air. You can experience a mineral bath in nature when surrounded by trees while hearing the melodies of birds and dragonflies flying near you in a misty open space. Among the popular hot spring locations are Hakone and Beppu, in addition to Kusatsu, which provide their distinctive mineral-rich waters. The summer baths at onsens restore your physical well-being and create a peaceful mental environment.
- Best Time: The best time to view stars in the sky is in the evening.
- Best Locations: Hakone (Kanagawa), Kusatsu (Gunma), Beppu (Oita)
- Cost: ¥500–¥2,000 depending on facility
5. Taste Kakigori
Experience local Japanese culture through the national dessert of pounded ice known as kakigori, which presents a totally different icy experience than what you already know. The concept of kakigori contrasts with traditional ice desserts since it offers combinations of matcha cream, fresh strawberries, and soybean powder (kinako), and yuzu citrus flavor poured over delicate ice flakes. Traditional shops work wonders by using hand-made ice art and multiple flavors for dough to reach dessert nirvana.
The combination of refreshing kakigori offers a magical eating experience that celebrates textural and flavor contrasts. Relax with this sweet treat before continuing between your temple visits and stops throughout the city.
- Best Time: Afternoon to early evening in peak summer
- Best Locations: Himitsudo (Tokyo), Gion Tokuya (Kyoto)
- Cost: ¥500–¥1,500 depending on toppings
Japan in summer offers an extraordinary experience for everyone. Every experience in Japan during summer becomes enchanting, whether you enjoy fireworks, mountains, food, or dancing under lantern light. The summer months across Japan present an ideal combination of cultural delights with natural beauty as well as heartfelt experiences which bring pure happiness to every visitor. So why wait? Follow the sounds of taiko drums along with the fragrances of lavender and enjoy the summer season of Japan. Japan in summer presents itself as an invitation for you to join the adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are the summer temperatures in Japan too intense?
Japanese summer reaches temperatures above 30°C, yet the Japanese Alps, together with Hokkaido, stay cooler than the rest of the country. The appropriate clothing, combined with occasional breaks, makes summer travel both pleasant and exciting.
2. Which is the best month to visit Japan in Summer?
July and early August present ideal conditions for attending summer festivals while appreciating flower fields; therefore, late August offers better views in terms of temperature.
3. Are the Japanese beaches clean and safe to visit?
Yes! The beaches of Okinawa maintain high cleanliness standards and operate lifeguard services throughout peak summer periods.
4. What items should I bring to Japan during its summer season?
The summer packing essentials include light cotton clothing, together with sunscreen, while an umbrella stands alongside a hat, plus a drinking bottle and sandals. A yukata should not be omitted when attending festivals.
5. Which are the most suitable locations in Japan to travel with your family?
The summer season throughout Japan shows family friendliness at Hokkaido, together with Okinawa and Nikko, as well as Kyoto and Tokyo.
