14 Exciting Things To Do In Summer In Japan
Things To Do In Japan : Japan, often called the Land of the Rising Sun, is a favored winter destination, with its landscapes shining brightly during December and January. However, many are unaware that Japan is equally enchanting in the summer. The season brings a vibrant palette of colors, with diverse landscapes, unique weather patterns, and flourishing plant life across the island nation. Summer is also a time of lively festivals that highlight Japan’s rich culture. Here’s a guide to exploring the many delights of Japan during the summer months.
1. Mt. Fuji: Trek
Attention all adventure, hiking, and trekking enthusiasts! Here’s your chance to take on the challenge of climbing Japan’s iconic Mt. Fuji. Scaling this sacred peak is one of the most thrilling experiences you can have in Japan during the summer. Push your limits, face your fears, and emerge transformed by the journey. Don’t miss out—book your trek now and make the summer of 2023 an unforgettable adventure in Japan.
2. Fuji Rock Festival: Attend The Event
Known as Japan’s largest rock festival, this three-day event is a must for rock music enthusiasts. Held right after the rainy season, it takes place in the scenic countryside of Niigata at a ski resort. If you’re considering camping like many attendees, be sure to prepare for possible rain. Don’t miss the chance to experience this incredible festival!
3. Obon Festival
The Obon festival, celebrated from August 13th to 15th in various parts of Japan, is one of the country’s most revered traditions. It is believed that during this time, the souls of ancestors return to visit their loved ones. Families welcome these spirits with traditional dances, ceremonies, and festive meals. As one of the busiest periods in Japan’s summer, the festival is a captivating and culturally rich experience.
4. Fukagawa Hachiman Festival
The Fukagawa Hachiman Festival is a Mikoshi event that feels like an energetic water battle. To help participants cool down in the summer heat, large amounts of water are splashed on the teams, with even the Tokyo Fire Department joining in the fun. As one of Japan’s three major Shinto festivals, it has been celebrated since 1642. This lively and historic event is truly a spectacle to behold.
5. Hiroshima Lantern Ceremony
Each year on August 6th, Japan solemnly honors the memory of the thousands who perished in the atomic bombing of Hiroshima, followed by the bombing of Nagasaki on August 8th. In a poignant ceremony, participants carry lanterns in a procession, allowing them to float near the ruins of a building that now stands as a memorial. This symbolic act serves as a tribute to the lives lost on those tragic days.
6. Tanabata Festival
Tanabata is a traditional Japanese festival that celebrates the ancient tale of two star-crossed lovers. Across Japan, vibrant processions take place, where people carry colorful decorations made from bamboo and colored paper, adorned with written wishes. This festival holds significant cultural importance and is typically observed on July 6th in most regions. However, those who adhere to the old calendar celebrate it on August 6th.
7. Aomori Nebuta Dastori Festival
The word ‘Aomori’ translates to ‘float,’ perfectly capturing the essence of this week-long festival celebrated in Japan’s Tohoku Region. The event features vibrant processions where participants parade elaborate floats through the streets of their cities and towns. The festival reaches its grand finale with a spectacular fireworks display on the final day. It’s one of the most significant and celebrated festivals in the region.
8. Japan: Visit Flower Gardens
The lavender fields of Furano in Hokkaido are a visual delight and a must-see during a summer visit to Japan. Unlike Tokyo, Hokkaido enjoys cooler temperatures in the summer, making it a refreshing escape. These fields offer stunning views, and visitors can even purchase the vibrant flowers as a keepsake.
9. Japan: Tan On The Beach
10. Sumo Nagoya Basho
The summertime Sumo wrestling tournament in Nagoya is one of Japan’s major events. Held annually from July 6th to July 22nd at the Aichi Prefectural Gymnasium, it’s conveniently located near the famous Nagoya Castle. This event not only offers a chance to witness top-notch Sumo wrestling from some of the world’s best wrestlers but also provides an opportunity to explore the nearby castle.
11. Sumida River: Watch Fireworks
Experience Japan’s oldest traditional fireworks display at the Sumida Fireworks Festival, held every summer over the Sumida River near Asakusa Station. The best vantage point is from Sumida Park. Remarkably, over a million spectators attend this enchanting event each year, with numbers continuing to rise. It’s one of the most spectacular festivals in Japan.
12. Japan: Eat Morioka Ramen
Morioka Ramen is a renowned Japanese dish that’s a must-try for summer visitors to Japan. Originating from Morioka city, this specialty features traditional Japanese noodles made with authentic ingredients. Interestingly, these noodles are served cold, making them particularly refreshing and beneficial on hot and humid days.
13. Hakata Gion Yamakasa Festival: Watch The Magic Unfold
Held from July 1 to July 15 at the Kushida Jinja Shrine in Fukuoka City, this festival is one of Japan’s most dazzling events. Central to the celebration is a time trial race featuring seven neighborhoods from Fukuoka City. Each team carries a massive 1-ton float on their shoulders. The race begins with the first team at around 4:59 AM, with subsequent teams starting every five minutes. Completing the challenging race requires significant effort, but the reward is well worth it.
14. Tenjin Matsuri: Head To Osaka To Witness This
Osaka, renowned as Japan’s cultural capital, is famous for hosting the annual Tenjin Matsuri festival, a tradition that has continued for over a thousand years. This summer celebration honors the deity of scholarship and features an array of exciting boat races and water sports that captivate and delight spectators.
Things To Do In Japan : Japan is an extraordinary country, especially during its summer festivals, which embody the rich culture and traditions of the nation. A summer vacation in Japan is an excellent choice, offering a chance to experience these vibrant celebrations firsthand. We wholeheartedly recommend exploring this captivating destination—it’s an experience you won’t regret!