Japan in July: Sizzling Summer Fun or Just Too Steamy?

Is July a good time to visit Japan? Read on and discover the charms and challenges of summer in Japan

So you're eyeing July for your grand Japanese adventure? Perhaps you're envisioning lush green landscapes, vibrant summer festivals, and maybe even a daring ascent of Mount Fuji. But isn't July... hot? And to that, my friend, Japansophy says: Yes! But also, "Yes, in the best possible ways, with delicious treats and unforgettable experiences!"

July in Japan is a full-throttle embrace of summer. It’s a time when the country truly comes alive with a different kind of energy – one that's fuelled by cold noodles, glittering fireworks, and a collective determination to make the most of the sun-drenched days. So, is July a good time to visit Japan? Absolutely! As long as you know what to expect and pack your sense of adventure (and maybe a few extra changes of clothes).

Japanese weather in July: sweat, sunshine, and spectacular skies

Let's not sugarcoat it: July in Japan is hot and humid. We're talking sticky, often-muggy temperatures that can hover around the high 20s to low 30s Celsius (that's mid-80s to low 90s Fahrenheit). The humidity is the real MVP of the weather, making it feel even warmer. Tokyo, Osaka, and other major cities will feel like giant steamers.

What to pack for Japan in July? Think light, breathable, and quick-drying. Cotton, linen, and moisture-wicking fabrics will be your best friends. Pack plenty of t-shirts, shorts, skirts, and dresses. Loose-fitting clothing is key. The sun can be very intense so a baseball cap and high SPF sunscreen are essential – but you can buy these everywhere in Japan. A lightweight scarf or shawl will keep the sun off your shoulders (also great for wrapping up in air-conditioned trains), and a portable fan or cooling spray can be a real lifesaver. And because summer also means occasional sudden downpours, a compact umbrella or lightweight rain jacket is a smart addition. Check out Japansophy’s Ultimate Japan Packing List for more tips on what to take when travelling in Japan.

July's charms: what to see, do, and devour!

Despite the heat, July unfurls a tapestry of unique Japanese experiences that you simply won't find at other times of the year.

Festival Fever: From Grand Spectacles to Local Gems

July is prime festival season in Japan, especially for firework displays! Many cities host colossal fireworks festivals (hanabi taikai) over rivers or bays, drawing enormous crowds. Imagine gazing up at the night sky, illuminated by dazzling pyrotechnic artistry, with the scent of street food wafting through the air. It's truly magical.

Beyond the fireworks, there are countless local summer festivals (matsuri) bursting with energy. The most famous is undoubtedly the Gion Matsuri in Kyoto, a centuries-old spectacle that runs throughout July, culminating in massive parades of elaborate floats (yamaboko) on July 17th and 24th. It's a grand, immersive experience, but be prepared for intense crowds and book accommodation far in advance!

Osaka has its own major event, the Tenjin Matsuri, also in July, featuring a spectacular boat procession and fireworks. Keep an eye out for smaller, charming local matsuri wherever you go. These are fantastic opportunities to witness traditional dances, enjoy street food, and soak in the vibrant community spirit.

Early July is the perfect time to enjoy ajisai (hydrangea)

Floral fantasies: hydrangeas and lotus blooms

While cherry blossoms dominate spring, July offers its own floral beauty.

• Hydrangeas: These beautiful, colourful blooms flourish during the rainy season (which often extends into early July), adding a vibrant touch to temples, gardens, and even city streets. Their lushness is a wonderful contrast to the summer greens. Kamakura is particularly famous for its hydrangea temples.

• Lotus flowers: As the weather truly heats up, you'll start to see elegant lotus flowers blooming in ponds and temple grounds. Their large, serene blossoms are a symbol of purity and enlightenment, and they're especially beautiful to witness on warm, still mornings. Shinobazu Pond in Tokyo’s Ueno Park is captivating at this time of year.

Shinobazu Pond is a hot spot for lotus blossoms in July

Cooling off: waterparks and beaches

When the heat gets intense, sometimes the only solution is to get wet! Japan has some fantastic waterparks that offer a splashy escape from the humidity. Think thrilling slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers – perfect for families or anyone needing a serious cool-down. While some may open in June, many are fully operational and at their peak in July (and not yet too crowded). Similarly, Japan has beautiful beaches, particularly along its southern coastlines and on islands like Okinawa. You may find that you even have most of the beach to yourself, since beach life doesn’t really kick-off in Japan before August.

Summer food glorious summer food!

This is where Japan truly excels in July. Forget heavy, hot meals; summer is all about light, refreshing, and often icy delights. You'll want to dive headfirst into kakigori, soft-serve ice-cream, chilled noodle dishes and iced cucumbers. For a deeper exploration of these and other amazing summer bites, check out our dedicated Japansophy article on Japanese Summertime Treats!

Matcha soft-serve ice-cream is a delicious way to cool down on a hot July day

Conquering the peak: climbing Mount Fuji

July marks the official start of the Mount Fuji climbing season, typically running from early July to early September. If scaling Japan's iconic peak is on your bucket list, this is the time to do it. The trails are open, mountain huts are operational, and public transport to the trailheads is available. Be prepared for crowds and remember to pack layers, even in summer, as temperatures at the summit are significantly colder!

Beer gardens and outdoor BBQs

As the sun sets, the heat often lingers, making outdoor evening activities particularly appealing. Beer gardens pop up on rooftops and in parks across major cities, offering a lively, breezy atmosphere for enjoying cold beers and casual food with friends. You’ll also come across outdoor grilling restaurants that allow you to rent a BBQ and purchase a meat  & veg package or even bring your own: perfect for a casual summer evening. Many will offer “tabehodai” (all-you-can-eat) or “nomohodai” (all-you-can-drink) option. Just don’t forget the mozzie spray!

Recommendations for a trip to Japan in July: Strategising for a smoother summer trip

To make the most of your July visit and minimise the impact of crowds and heat, here are a few Japansophy tips:

• Beat the crowds before the summer holidays: While July is busy, the true peak of domestic travel for Japanese families (the main summer school holidays and Obon) often begins in late July and runs into August. This means early to mid-July can be a slightly less crowded window for popular spots (including Disneyland and USJ).

• Consider Okinawa: If you're chasing truly tropical vibes and don't mind embracing the heat, Okinawa is spectacular in July. Its stunning beaches, vibrant marine life, and unique culture offer a distinct Japanese experience.

• Theme park fun: Theme parks like Tokyo Disneyland/DisneySea and Universal Studios Japan are always popular, but in July, they often have special summer events, parades, and water attractions to help you cool off. Go early, stay late, and embrace the high energy!

• Escape to the highlands: For a blissful respite from the humidity, head for higher altitudes. Pretty towns like Karuizawa in the Japan Alps offer cooler temperatures, lush greenery, and a more relaxed atmosphere. It's a popular summer retreat for a reason!

• Head north to Hokkaido: Japan's northernmost island, Hokkaido, offers a wonderfully refreshing escape. While other parts of Japan swelter, Hokkaido enjoys milder, more pleasant summer temperatures. It's famous for its lavender fields (especially in Furano in July), delicious produce, and beautiful natural landscapes. If you crave comfort and outdoor activities without intense heat, Hokkaido is your July haven.

  
  

Embrace the heat, embrace the fun!

Visiting Japan in July is an experience unlike any other. It’s a time of vibrant festivals, cool culinary delights, and a chance to see a side of Japan that's brimming with summer energy. Yes, it will be hot and humid, but with smart planning, appropriate packing, and a willingness to embrace the seasonal rhythm, you'll find that Japan's July charms are utterly irresistible. So go ahead, pack those light clothes, prepare for some serious slurping of cold noodles, and get ready to dive headfirst into a truly unforgettable Japanese summer!

Do you have any fun memories of Japan in July? Got any tips for us? Let us know in the comments.