mahalo nuiloaJapan’s summer is here in full force—and yes, it’s hot. With temperatures on the rise due to global warming, this summer is expected to be even more intense than the last. In fact, by June, the Japan Meteorological Agency had already issued heatstroke alerts, and the government has been urging people to adjust how they work outdoors.
But despite the heat, summer in Japan is an experience you simply shouldn’t miss. For many visitors, this season offers an unforgettable mix of tradition, nature, and hands-on cultural encounters. So how can you make the most of a hot summer day in Japan?
Let’s explore five refreshing ways to enjoy it.
① Start Early: Discover Iconic Spots Before the Heat Peaks
Popular sightseeing spots like Asakusa, Tsukiji, Meiji Shrine, and the Imperial Palace are must-visits for first-time travelers. Head out early in the morning—you’ll avoid the crowds and the harsh sun while enjoying a more peaceful atmosphere.
You can find more iconic spots information from here.
② Beat the Heat with Cool Indoor Attractions
Japan is rich in indoor wonders, from cutting-edge digital art to centuries-old cultural treasures.
- Art Aquarium in Ginza: Goldfish meet modern art in a dazzling, light-filled dreamscape.
- Tokyo National Museum in Ueno: A journey into Japan’s history through masterpieces and artifacts.
- Toyosu Fish Market: Watch a tuna auction or shop for gourmet ingredients used by top chefs.
- teamLab Digital Art Museums: A mesmerizing, immersive world unlike anything you’ve seen before.
- Akasaka Palace: Watch the majestic architecture inside of palace
- Factory Tours: From handcrafted shoes to beer breweries, adults will love this peek behind the scenes!
③ Try Traditional Japanese Experiences—Indoors and Cool
Why not create a memory that’s uniquely yours? Many cultural activities can be enjoyed in air-conditioned comfort.
- Tea ceremony
- Wagashi (Japanese sweets) making
- Japanese paper crafting
- Daruma doll painting
Every creation is a one-of-a-kind souvenir—your very own piece of Japan. You can check more detail from here.
④ Escape to Nature for a Breath of Fresh Air
Just 1–2 hours from center of Tokyo, you’ll find a world of cool forests, sacred mountains, and relaxing hot springs:
- Shuzenji Wasabi harvesting
- Mishima strolling water town
- Mt. Fuji’s lava caves & shrines: A cool underground adventure
- Okutama: Riverside cafes, cable cars to mountain shrines, and sake brewery tours
Nature in Japan isn’t just beautiful—it’s restorative. Please check more from here.
⑤ Dance the Night Away at a Summer Festival
Evenings are when Japan’s summer truly comes alive. Bon Odori festivals and luxurious summer festivals are held across the country, where locals dance in yukata, pay tribute to ancestors, and enjoy delicious festival food from glowing stalls.
These festivals aren’t just fun—they’re full of meaning, rooted in tradition, community, and the spirit of celebration.
From sun-dappled mornings to lantern-lit nights, summer in Japan is full of wonder, rhythm, and refreshing surprises.
Whether you’re wandering through temples at dawn, tasting chilled sake by a river, or spinning to the beat of Bon Odori, Japan’s summer invites you to slow down, cool off, and dive into something truly special. Ready to write your own summer story in Japan?
Mahalo Nuiloa Local Guide will coordinate a private tour according to your request. Would you like to make a trip that suits you? Please contact us from here.
