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Sunshine and Fireworks: Your Ultimate Guide to Summer in Japan
Introduction: Why Visit Japan in Summer?
Visiting Japan in summer unveils a vibrant and lively side of the country. While spring's renowned cherry blossom season draws numerous visitors, summer showcases its own unique charms that highlight the country's rich culture and natural beauty. Whether joining lively festivals, discovering picturesque beaches, or indulging in seasonal delicacies, summer in Japan offers an equally captivating experience worthy of exploration.
Celebrating Obon: Festivals and Fireworks
The Obon festival, steeped in Japanese folklore, stands as one of Japan's most meaningful and beloved traditions. Held annually in mid-August, Obon is a time to honor the spirits of deceased ancestors who return to visit their living relatives, blending solemn remembrance with vibrant cultural celebrations. A highlight of Obon is the Bon Odori, traditional dances performed to welcome ancestral spirits. Participants don yukata (light cotton kimono) and dance in circles around a raised platform called a yagura.
Another poignant tradition of Obon is the Toro Nagashi, or lantern floating ceremony, where lanterns are set afloat on rivers to guide the spirits of ancestors back to the afterlife. In Japan, summer is synonymous with fireworks, and the Obon festival is no exception. Spectacular fireworks displays are held nationwide, enhancing the celebration with dazzling spectacles and serving as a tribute to the spirits of the departed.
Summertime Cuisine: What to Eat
As the summer weather in Japan heats up, the country comes alive with a variety of refreshing seasonal treats. Kakigori, a beloved traditional dessert, offers finely shaved ice topped with sweet syrups and various toppings, perfect for staying refreshed. Another favorite is Japanese soft serve ice cream, known for its creamy texture and diverse flavors, readily available at convenience stores and tourist spots for a quick and satisfying cool-down.
During Japan's summer season, somen noodles are a beloved choice by Japanese people. These cold noodles are enjoyed with a dipping sauce known as tsuyu, made from soy sauce, mirin (Japanese rice wine), and dashi broth. Additionally, Japan's extensive coastline guarantees an abundance of fresh seafood that is especially delightful during the summer months. A seasonal favorite includes grilled ayu (sweetfish), often served whole and simply seasoned with salt. Uni (sea urchin) and ika (squid) are also at their peak in summer, offering a variety of preparations such as sashimi, grilled dishes, and marinated dishes.
Beach Destinations: Japan's Best Coasts
As an island nation, Japan's summer season invites exploration of its diverse and stunning beaches. From the tropical shores of Okinawa to the scenic coasts of the Izu Peninsula, Japan offers a wide array of beach destinations catering to sun, sand, and sea enthusiasts.
Okinawa Prefecture, situated in Japan's southernmost region with a warm climate year-round, features some of the country's most tropical and picturesque beaches. With crystal-clear waters, white sand, and vibrant marine life, Okinawa is a haven for beach lovers and a paradise for water activities such as scuba diving. Its main island alone boasts numerous beaches including Manza Beach, Emerald Beach, and Sunset Beach.
If you're in the Tokyo area seeking a break from the bustling city, consider visiting the Izu Peninsula in Shizuoka Prefecture. Situated southwest of Tokyo, the Izu Peninsula is celebrated for its rugged coastline, hot springs, and tranquil beaches. Whether you crave relaxation or adventure, Izu offers a range of beach experiences. Among its most renowned spots is Shirahama Beach, famed for its white sand and clear waters, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and various water sports. Other notable beaches include Kisami Ohama Beach, known for its surfing spots, and Atami Sun Beach, easily accessible and offering a lively beach atmosphere overlooking Sagami Bay.
When planning your visit to Japanese beaches during the summer, it's important to consider the rainy season, known as "tsuyu", which typically occurs during early summer months, from June to mid-July. This period brings frequent rain showers and humid weather to most regions of Japan. For more information about Japan's best beaches, read our article here.
Mountain Escapes: Hiking and Scenery
As summer heats up, Japan's mountainous regions provide a cool retreat from the city, ideal for nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike. Mount Fuji, standing at 3,776 meters, is Japan's tallest and most renowned peak. The official climbing season usually runs from early July to early September, making summer the perfect time to tackle its trails. Mount Fuji offers multiple hiking trails, with the Yoshida Trail being the most frequented. Along the way, climbers can find mountain huts for resting and adjusting to the altitude before reaching the iconic peak.
Another excellent choice for cooler temperatures is exploring the Japanese Alps. Spanning central Honshu, they are divided into three ranges: the Northern Alps (Hida Mountains), the Central Alps (Kiso Mountains), and the Southern Alps (Akaishi Mountains). Each range features diverse and picturesque hiking trails suitable for hikers of all skill levels. Among these mountains, Kamikochi in the Northern Alps stands out as the "Gateway to the Japanese Alps," offering a breathtaking highland valley with numerous hiking routes ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. Another notable peak is Mount Kita in Yamanashi Prefecture, the second-highest mountain in Japan and revered as the "Leader of the Southern Alps," providing a quieter alternative to Mount Fuji.
Summer Festivals: A Cultural Explosion
In summer, Japan bursts with colorful festivals, dazzling fireworks, and energetic music events that draw visitors from all over the world. Whether you prefer traditional festivals or modern music festivals, there's something for everyone to enjoy. One of Japan's oldest and famous festivals is the Gion Matsuri, held throughout July in Kyoto. It features elaborate floats, traditional music, and vibrant street parades rooted in ancient religious rituals aimed at appeasing the gods and warding off plagues. The festival's highlight is the Yamaboko Junko parades on July 17 and 24, where massive, ornate floats are pulled through Kyoto's streets. During the Yoiyama evenings leading up to the processions, streets are closed to traffic, offering visitors food stalls and cultural exhibits.
Another major summer festival is the Awa Odori, held in Tokushima City on Shikoku Island from August 12 to 15. Known for its dynamic dance performances and lively atmosphere, participants clad in traditional costumes dance through the streets to the sounds of traditional Japanese instruments. Meanwhile, in northern Japan, the Sapporo Summer Festival transforms Hokkaido's capital into a vibrant center of entertainment and cultural activities. Held from mid-July to mid-August, visitors can enjoy a variety of local and international beers at the Odori Park Beer Garden and celebrate the Tanabata festival as part of the festivities.
Japanese summer festivals aren't just about traditional celebrations—they also include some of the most exhilarating music festivals featuring performances by both local and international artists. For example, Summer Sonic, held in Tokyo and Osaka around mid-August, stands as a major music festival showcasing a diverse lineup of global musicians. Another renowned event is the Fuji Rock Festival, among Japan's largest outdoor music gatherings, nestled in the scenic Japanese Alps at Naeba Ski Resort in Niigata Prefecture, typically in late July.
Outdoor Activities: Rafting, Camping, and More
Despite the humid summer weather, Japan's natural wonders offer numerous opportunities for adventure and excitement, catering to every outdoor enthusiast. From exhilarating river rafting to peaceful camping and invigorating cycling tours, there's something for every outdoor lover. Despite the humid summer weather, Japan's natural wonders offer numerous opportunities for adventure and excitement, catering to every outdoor enthusiast. From exhilarating river rafting to peaceful camping and invigorating cycling tours, there's something for everyone.
Camping in Japan offers a unique way to connect with the country's natural beauty, distinct from Western camping experiences. Typically located within national parks, Japanese camping sites provide stunning surroundings. One renowned location is the Fuji Five Lakes area in Yamanashi, offering multiple camping spots with breathtaking views of Mount Fuji. For those seeking a blend of luxury and nature, Japan also boasts numerous glamping sites that provide comfortable accommodations amidst picturesque landscapes.
Lastly, cycling is a fantastic way to discover Japan's diverse landscapes and scenic routes, offering both physical adventure and a profound connection to nature. Choose from various routes, like the 70-kilometer Shimanami Kaido in Ehime-Hiroshima, famous for its breathtaking sea vistas, bridges, and picturesque coastal towns. Alternatively, explore the paths around Lake Biwa in Shiga, where you can enjoy stunning views of Japan's largest freshwater lake and the majestic mountains that surround it.
Staying Cool: Urban Attractions and Nightlife
Summer in Japan's vibrant cities brings a distinct allure and vitality, offering myriad ways to relish the bustling urban landscapes. Tokyo's skyline is adorned with rooftop beer gardens, offering a sanctuary from the summer heat. These elevated retreats serve refreshing drinks, delectable cuisine, and breathtaking city panoramas, making them perfect for unwinding and socializing. Take, for instance, Ginza Sky Lounge, centrally located in Tokyo. Here, visitors can savor cocktails, craft beers, and gourmet dishes amidst panoramic city views, as the restaurant completes a full rotation every 80 minutes.
Exploring Japan's night markets during summer evenings is another delightful immersion into local culture and cuisine. These vibrant hubs are bustling with enticing aromas, colorful sights, and a diverse array of stalls. Popular spots like Nakamise Street in Asakusa, Tokyo, and Tenjibashisuji Shotengai in Osaka transform after dusk, offering a lively mix of street food, souvenirs, and unique finds to explore.
Finally, to cap off a hot summer day, Japan's evening illuminations offer a spectacular way to unwind. Cities across Japan host dazzling illumination events that turn urban landscapes into enchanting wonderlands year-round. During summer, Tokyo sparkles with the Tokyo Night Festival, enchanting the city with vibrant floats, lanterns, street food, and lively performances. This magical festival unfolds in various Tokyo neighborhoods such as Asakusa and Roppongi.
Cultural Workshops and Experiences
During Japan's summer, beyond its vibrant festivals and outdoor pursuits, there's a chance to delve into the country's rich cultural traditions. Cultural workshops abound during these months, providing hands-on experiences that foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of Japan's heritage.
During summer events in Japan, yukata, a lightweight kimono, is a favored attire worn by locals and visitors alike. Many tourist destinations offer yukata rental shops where you can learn to wear and experience this traditional garment.
Workshops provide an immersive way to experience Japanese culture. For example, crafting your own hand-painted fans, or "uchiwa," is both practical for staying cool in the summer and creates beautiful keepsakes. Another option, albeit more costly, is participating in Japanese tea ceremony classes. Typically held in historic tea houses, these classes offer a serene and enlightening experience where you can learn about the etiquette, philosophy, and steps involved in making and serving matcha tea, providing a tranquil escape from the summer heat.
Photography and Art Inspired by Japanese Summers
A summer trip in Japan presents a unique blend of art and seasonal beauty, offering abundant opportunities for artists and photographers to engage with the country’s natural landscapes and cultural heritage. Photography workshops in bustling cities like Tokyo and Kyoto provide guided tours to capture the essence of summer festivals, verdant gardens, and historic landmarks illuminated by seasonal light. Beyond professional guidance, picturesque locations such as the iconic Mount Fuji, the picturesque village of Shirakawa-go, and the tropical beaches of Okinawa serve as stunning settings for creating artwork that celebrates Japan’s natural splendor, regardless of one's photography skills. Additionally, art enthusiasts can find inspiration and delve deeper into Japanese culture at renowned galleries such as the Tokyo National Museum and Kyoto Municipal Museum of Art.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, a Japan trip during summer offers a captivating blend of experiences that cater to every traveler's interests. Whether you're capturing the essence of summer through photography, attending a summer festival in a yukata, or indulging in seasonal delicacies, the season unfolds with cultural festivities, awe-inspiring natural beauty, and culinary delights that promise an unforgettable adventure.
Discover the spirit of Japan's summer with Bokksu Boutique, your gateway to authentic Japanese flavors delivered to your doorstep. Mark your calendars for July 1st, when we unveil our exclusive Boutique Summer Collection—a celebration of Japan's sun-soaked days and culinary delights.
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