Summer in Japan Where to go

I will share where to go when visiting Japan in the summer. Enjoy summer in Japan to the fullest with activities unique to summer.

Beaches

Speaking of summer, you can't miss the beach! If you're staying near Tokyo, I recommend visiting the beaches of Kanagawa Prefecture. Located just an hour by train from Tokyo Station, Kanagawa Prefecture boasts numerous renowned beaches, some of which offer stunning views of Mt. Fuji. For more detailed information, please refer to the post.

The Yaeyama Islands in Okinawa Prefecture are renowned as one of Japan's premier beach destinations. For further details, please refer to the post.

Rivers

If you're unsure about where to go in Japan during the summer, why not consider embarking on a thrilling river cruise or fishing? These activities offer a refreshing way to experience Japan's natural beauty and unwind during the hotter months.

Chichibu Nagatoro, located in Saitama Prefecture, about two and a half hours from Tokyo Station, is famous for its Arakawa rafting. While listening to an entertaining guide, you'll navigate the scenic rock pavements of Chichibu Nagatoro, a designated special natural monument of Japan, experiencing both leisurely floats and thrilling rapids. Beyond rafting, Nagatoro offers a variety of activities including canoeing, fishing, and barbecue, ensuring a day packed with excitement and adventure.

Waterfalls

During the hot and humid summer in Japan, we recommend going to see waterfalls surrounded by nature and filled with negative ions. It is said that there are approximately 2,500 waterfalls across Japan, and there are a variety of waterfalls, from powerful surges to gentle flows resembling threads of silk. Why not take a break from the heat and immerse yourself in the soothing sounds of a nearby waterfall, allowing nature to refresh your spirit?

Kegon Falls, located in Nikko City, Tochigi Prefecture, is one of Japan's three major waterfalls and is the most famous waterfall in Japan. Formed by an eruption about 15,000 years ago, the sight of water plummeting from a height of 97 meters is truly spectacular.

Fireworks Festivals and Summer Festivals

Fireworks displays and summer festivals are quintessential to Japanese summer culture. Immersing yourself in the spectacle of dazzling fireworks while savouring delicious food and drinks from festival stalls creates unforgettable memories. I also highly recommend renting a yukata and going to a summer festival.

Aquariums

On a very hot day, why not cool off at the aquarium and be soothed by the sight of sea creatures? Each aquarium offers a variety of activities, such as shows featuring dolphins and other animals, as well as interactive exhibits where you can get up close with sea creatures. These experiences ensure that you can enjoy your visit all day long. It's a perfect place to go in the summer, providing both fun and education in a cool, relaxing environment.

Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium is the most visited aquarium in Japan, attracting approximately 3 million visitors every year. The highlight is the Kuroshio Sea, one of the largest aquariums in the world, where you can witness an awe-inspiring sight of many fish and whale sharks swimming gracefully. This spectacular display of marine life is truly a sight to behold.

Flower Gardens

There are many flower parks all over Japan where you can enjoy seasonal flowers, so I recommend visiting beautiful flower fields that can only be seen in the summer.

At Farm Tomita in Hokkaido, you can enjoy colourful flower fields, including lavender, during the summer. The garden spread over an area of 150,000 square meters, will make you feel like you've wandered into a picture book, offering an extraordinary experience.

Summer Retreats

For those who don't enjoy the heat of summer in Japan, I recommend a trip to a summer retreat where you can spend the season comfortably.

Karuizawa is accessible just one hour from Tokyo by the Hokuriku Shinkansen. It maintains a pleasant temperature of about 25 degrees Celsius even in midsummer. This makes it a very popular summer resort, with some shops open only during the summer. The area offers many attractions, including famous museums, outlet malls, trekking courses, and waterfalls, ensuring that your summer trip to Japan is both comfortable and fulfilling.