How to Stay Cool, Protected, and Stylish from Mid-July to Mid-August
📷 If your travels bring you to Kyoto consider booking a tour or photography session with us!
Welcome to the Hottest Season in Japan
Japan’s midsummer, from mid-July to mid-August, is both brutally hot and deeply beloved.
Temperatures soar, humidity smothers, and the sun feels close—but this is also the time of:
- 🎇 Fireworks festivals (hanabi taikai)
- 👘 Yukata and summer festivals (matsuri)
- 🍉 Cold noodles and watermelon
- 🏞 Escaping to the mountains or seaside
The key to enjoying it all? Dress light, stay hydrated, and be sun-smart.
How Hot Is It Really?
☀️ Typical Midsummer Weather
| Region | Average Daytime Temps | Humidity | Nighttime |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tokyo/Osaka/Kyoto | 30–36°C (86–97°F) | Very high (70–85%) | Still hot (25°C+) |
| Fukuoka/Nagoya | 32–37°C (90–99°F) | Extreme | Muggy |
| Hokkaido | 22–30°C (72–86°F) | Cooler, less humid | Comfortable |
🌡️ Heat Index often exceeds 40°C (104°F) in major cities.
🧠 Heatstroke is a real risk, especially for those not used to humidity.
What to Pack (Ultra-Light, UV-Ready, and Sweat-Proof)
This is the time to pack light and airy, choosing clothes that breathe, dry quickly, and keep you from overheating.
🎒 Midsummer Essentials:
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| 👕 Quick-dry shirts | Synthetic or linen/cotton blends, light colors |
| 👗 Loose-fitting clothing | Dresses, shorts, or wide-leg pants for airflow |
| 🧢 Hat or cap | With UV protection—essential for head & neck |
| 😎 Sunglasses | For UV rays + glare from concrete |
| 🧴 Sunscreen (SPF 50+) | Apply every 2–3 hours, especially if sweating |
| 🧻 Sweat towel/mini towel | Common in Japan, used for wiping face/neck |
| 👟 Breathable walking shoes | Sandals with arch support or mesh sneakers |
| 🧦 Thin socks | If wearing closed shoes, choose moisture-wicking types |
| 👘 Optional yukata | Buy or rent one for festivals and photos |
🧳 Packing Tip: You won’t need many layers—focus on variety of quick-dry tops and bottoms.
What NOT to Wear
- ❌ Dark-colored clothes (absorb heat & show sweat)
- ❌ Heavy denim or long sleeves unless UV-cut
- ❌ Leather sandals or shoes (risk of odor + discomfort)
- ❌ Thick cotton T-shirts (trap sweat)
- ❌ Layers (you will regret them)
Dealing with Sweat, Sun, and Smells
🧼 Survival Kit:
- Deodorant wipes (You can buy them in Japan, but foreign brands are pricey—better to bring some from home)
- Cooling body sheets (sold everywhere—great after long walks)
- Pocket fans or USB neck fans
- Icy spray (冷却スプレー) from drugstores
- Body powder or anti-chafe stick (for inner thighs or under arms)
🌬️ Many Japanese people carry small fans or towels with them every day—you should too!
Event Days: What to Wear for Fireworks & Festivals
👘 Want to try a Yukata?
- Rent one in Kyoto, Tokyo, or festival towns (from ¥3,000–¥7,000)
- Wear with open sandals or geta
- Bring a mini fan and towel—yukata look elegant, but are warm!
🎇 Festival Tips:
- Wear very breathable clothing
- Choose sandals with back straps for stability
- Avoid bringing a backpack—use a crossbody bag or fanny pack
- Carry a water bottle or buy drinks frequently
- If sitting to watch fireworks, bring a foldable fan and ground mat
What to Buy in Japan if You’re Overheating
Japan is extremely prepared for summer survival. You’ll easily find:
- 🧴 Sunscreen and cooling sprays (Drugstores like Matsumoto Kiyoshi)
- 👕 UV-protection clothing at UNIQLO, GU, and Muji
- 🧻 Towel handkerchiefs at 100-yen shops
- 🌀 USB neck fans (Don Quijote, Loft, Tokyu Hands)
- 👟 Breathable summer shoes, even for wide feet
🛍 Pro tip: If you sweat through your clothes, don’t be shy—T-shirts and shorts are affordable and everywhere!
Conclusion: Midsummer Is Intense—but Unforgettable
Yes, it’s hot. Yes, it’s sticky. But it’s also the season of celebration. If you come prepared—mentally and physically—you’ll discover why Japanese summer is worth sweating for.
Embrace the heat. Dress smart. Drink often.
And don’t forget to look up when the fireworks light the sky.
🎥 For more travel tips and guides on all things Japan check out the PiQtour YouTube channel!
