Summer is a vacation season in all around the world, and Japan is not exceptional. There are numbers of special things to see and do in summer time such as festivals, fireworks, beach resorts and more. It’s definitely the most festive and exciting time of the year.

Summer in Japan generally from June to August. From the beginning of June, the rain season starts in most parts of Japan (except Hokkaido) and lasts till mid July with rainy and very humid weather. The temperature rises towards August, and some days of summer can reach up to 35 degrees C or above. School summer holidays are usually from July till the beginning of September, and there is a long public holiday week called Obon in the mid August, and it’s one of the highest seasons among Japanese tourists.

Along with popular summer activities such as swimming pools, beaches and BBQ, there are lots of special events which you can only see in summer time. Fireworks are held at a number of locations in Japan through summer as well as traditional Japanese summer festivals. At festivals, there are usually numbers of stalls which offer traditional summer foods and drinks.

Outdoor activities including camping and hiking are most recommended in summer time, too. Don’t miss special events held across the county which are available only in summer time.

Travel Tips for Summer in Japan

In summer time, there are a lot of chance to see fireworks or traditional summer festivals in Japan especially on weekends. It’s wise to check the event schedule in advance if you wish to join a particular event. Also in order to join traditional festivals, it’s highly recommended to wear traditional summer wear “Yukata” which is a lighter version of Kimono and can be available for rental use at many locations in Japan.

Hokkaido and Okinawa are also recommended to travel in summer time as there are numbers of summer getaway resorts. Summer in Japan is generally very hot and humid. If you feel too hot, pop into a department store or convenience stores where you can cool down with air conditioning. Make sure to hydrate yourself and use sunscreens to protect your skin from the strong sun.

Here are the average of temperatures in 3 years in Tokyo, which you may get an idea of what to wear.

Average Temperature in Tokyo

June: 22℃/71.6℉

July: 25℃/77℉

August: 27℃/80.6℉

*Temperatures can reach 35℃/95℉ to 40℃/104℉ on some days in summer.

Let’s go out and experience the breathtaking Japanese summer trip!

THINGS TO DO

Summer in Japan: 10 Best Things to Do in 2024

FESTIVALS/FIREWORKS

Traditional Japanese festivals (matsuri) and fireworks (hanabi) are top attraction in Japan during summer, and it's a great way to experience Japanese culture and tradition. From spectacular Tokyo fireworks to enchanting floats of Nebuta, here is our selection of the best summer festivals and fireworks in Japan.

Best Summer Festivals in Japan 2024
Best Fireworks in Japan 2024 Summer
Aomori Nebuta Matsuri: Tohoku’s Greatest Parade
Tenjin Festival: The Complete Guide
Tanabata: Japanese Summer Star Festival
Japan’s 3 Biggest Festivals in June
Japan’s 3 Biggest Festivals in July
Japan’s 5 Biggest Festivals in August

MT FUJI

Summer is the official climbing season for Mt Fuji, and attracts eager hikers from across the world. Embark on a journey on the iconic mountain of Japan and watch the sunrise from the summit.

Perfect Guide to Climbing Mt. Fuji
20 Best Things to Do in Mt Fuji Area: Mt Fuji Bucket List
How to Get to Mt.Fuji from Tokyo
10 Best Hotels with a View of Mt.Fuji

BEACHES

Japan boasts beautiful coastlines from sandy beaches with crystal-clear water to colourful coral reefs for swimming, diving and snorkeling.

Okinawa Beaches: Best Season to Visit
10 Best Beaches on Okinawa Main Island
Top 5 Remote Islands in Okinawa
5 Best Beaches in Japan apart from Okinawa
5 Best Beaches near Tokyo!
6 Best Beaches in Osaka

EVENTS/ATTRACTIONS

There are a plenty of special events and attractions that you can enjoy only during summer including colourful flowers, aquatic getaways and seasonal delicacies.

Summer Activities you Can Do in Japan
10 Best Swimming Pools in Tokyo
Best Beer Gardens in Tokyo 2024
Best Places to See Lavender in Japan
Best Sunflower Fields in Japan
Best Hokkaido Tours and Activities in Spring/Summer 2024
Best Afternoon Tea in Tokyo in Summer 2024
Best Music Festivals in Japan 2024
10 Best Spots to Surf in Japan

TRAVELLING IN SUMMER

There are some travel tips that you should know before travelling Japan in summer, including how to survive hot summer heat and useful items to get.

Heatstroke in Japan: How to Prevent and What to Do
6 Tips to Survive the Japanese Summer
What to Wear in Japan in Summer: June, July and August
Useful Tips for Travelling Japan in June
Top 10 Things to Do in Japan in July
Top 10 Things to Do in Japan in August

LATEST INFORMATION

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Nijo Castle Summer Light-Up by NAKED 2024
Mount Fuji Climbing Register System: a Safer Climbing Experience from Shizuoka

Other seasons

Spring

Spring

Autumn

Autumn

Winter

Winter