July is a great month when Japanese summer finally arrives! Here are 10 best things to do in Japan in July including summer festivals, events an popular beaches!
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Japan in July
July in Japan is the epitome of summer. With daytime average temperatures in the capital city of Tokyo ranging between 24-28°C (75.2-82.4°F), it’s warm and sometimes quite humid. As the month progresses, many areas see the end of the rainy season (Tsuyu), bringing clearer skies and sunnier days.
For students, July marks the beginning of the summer holidays. Schools close their doors, giving families an opportunity to travel or participate in various summer activities. One notable event in July is Marine Day (Umi no Hi), celebrated on the third Monday of the month. This day not only honors the significance of the sea in an island nation like Japan but also marks the official opening of many beaches for the season.
But it’s not just about the beaches! July is alive with color and festivities. Across the country, you’ll find an array of summer festivals featuring traditional dances, foods, and games. Moreover, the night skies light up as numerous firework displays are held. These fireworks festivals are a significant summer attraction, drawing locals and tourists alike.
All these factors combined make July an optimal travel season. So, if you’re considering a trip to Japan, July offers a vibrant and culturally immersive experience.
1. Summer Festivals
-Kyoto Gion Festival
Kyoto Gion Festival (祇園祭) is counted as one of three greatest festivals in Japan. This traditional festival has been held for over 1,000 years at Yasaka Shrine, the famous shrine in Gion area in Kyoto. It takes place for the entire month of July, yet the main event with procession is held on 17th and 24th.
More information about Gion Festival ▶ Gion Festival: The Complete Guide
Date: 1–31 July (main events: 17 and 24 July)
<< Book your tickets to Gion Festival!! >>
-Shonan Hiratsuka Tanabata Festival
Tanabata Festival a.k.a. Star Festival is a traditional annual event in Japan, which celebrates the meeting of two lovers separated by milky way. Shonan Hiratsuka Tanabata Festival (湘南ひらつか七夕まつり) is one of the biggest Tanabata festivals in Japan, and it’s about 1 hour away from central Tokyo.
Date: early July
Official Website:
http://www.tanabata-hiratsuka.com/
(Japanese)
For more info, please check out the link below!
Japan’s 3 Biggest Festivals in July
2. Chill at Kawadoko
Kawadoko (or Kawayuka) is a traditional style of restaurant in Kyoto, specially for summer time. Kyoto’s iconic river, Kamogawa has numbers of cafes and restaurants lined, which extend their wooden open-air terrace towards the river only in summer time. Enjoy food and drinks, and relax with the sound of river streaming by nature!
Kamogawa River: 5 Nice Viewing Restaurants and Cafes on Kamogawa River
3. Sumida River Fireworks Festival
The biggest fireworks festival in the country, Tokyo’s traditional Sumida River Fireworks Festival features approx. 22,000 fireworks, and attracts nearly 1 million viewers. The festival is held on the last Saturday of July every year.
Official Website:
https://www.sumidagawa-hanabi.com/
More info about fireworks festivals in Japan:
Best Fireworks in Japan Summer
in Tokyo:
Best Fireworks in Tokyo Summer
4. Beach
Japanese beach season officially kicks off from early to mid July depending on locations, and lasts till the end of August. During the season, beaches are lined with beach huts offering food, drinks, rental facilities, toilets, shower and etc. Although Tokyo is not a beach destination, there are some great ones accessible from the city.
Beaches near Tokyo:
More beaches in Japan:
5 Best Beach Destinations in Japan apart from Okinawa
5. Fuji Rock Festival
The biggest outdoor music festival in Japan, Fuji Rock Festival is held on the last weekend of July for 3 days. Setting in the sprawling nature in Naeba area, Niigata Prefecture, the event gives people a unique experience to enjoy music in a relaxing environment. The event also features some of the biggest names every year and the past performing acts includes Red Hot Chili Peppers, The Chemical Brothers, Björk, Muse, Foo Fighters, Radiohead , Oasis and more!