Think you can’t enjoy Japan in the summer? Think again. While the heat can be intense, it’s absolutely possible to have an incredible time—as long as you come prepared.
From local cooling gadgets to the hidden world of underground malls, Japan is uniquely equipped to help you beat the heat. Here’s how to travel smart, stay safe, and actually enjoy Japanese summer.
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🔥 Know Your Boss Battle: What Summer in Japan Is Really Like
If Japan were a video game, summer would be one of the ultimate boss battles. Between the scorching temps and relentless humidity, it’s not a season you want to stumble into unprepared.
So, when is summer in Japan?
While locals generally consider July to mid-September to be “summer,” the heat often starts in June and lingers into October. The peak is late July to mid-August, when even the shade feels like a sauna.
Average temperatures:
- Tokyo: 31°C in July, 33°C in August
- Kyoto/Osaka: 33°C+ in July, up to 35°C in August
But thanks to 75–85% humidity, it often feels much hotter—like 40°C (104°F). The term for this is taikan ondo (体感温度) or “heat index,” which reflects how your body perceives the heat.
🛡️ Tip 1: Gear Up with Heat-Fighting Tools
Japan has more heat-beating products than you can imagine. Before you even start sightseeing, hit up convenience stores, drugstores, or places like UNIQLO and MUJI.
Essentials:
- Loose-fitting, quick-dry, UV-protective clothing
- UNIQLO AIRism basics (made specially for Japanese summer)
- USB or neck fans
- Cooling gel packs or neck rings
- UV sun umbrellas
- Mini towels for sweat
- Cooling sprays or sheets
- Construction-style cooling vests (yes, really!)
Bonus: A more detailed shopping list is coming soon—stay tuned for our next post!
🧭 Tip 2: Limit Sun Exposure (Go Underground!)
Japan has incredible underground walkways to help you avoid direct sunlight—and they’re often full of great shops, cafés, and hidden gems.
Underground areas to explore:
- Tokyo: Yaesu Underground Mall near Tokyo Station
- Osaka: Umeda Underground City, Namba Walk
- Kyoto: Underpasses near Kyoto Station, Kawaramachi, and Teramachi-Shinkyogoku (with shaded arcades)
And remember: indoor activities count as sightseeing!
Cool off with a tea ceremony, indoor craft class, or department store browsing to recharge.
❄️ Tip 3: Use Cold Shelters
As soon as you feel overheated, don’t push it. Step into a:
- Cafe
- Konbini (convenience store)
- Department store
- Train station lobby
Pro tip: Pin cool-off spots on Google Maps in advance. And don’t be afraid to return to your hotel mid-day—30 minutes of rest under AC can completely reset your energy.
🏨 Tip 4: Check Your Hotel’s AC Settings
Some hotels in Japan have central AC with no personal control.
Before you book, check reviews to see if guests could adjust the temperature.
If not, ask the front desk for a fan—but ideally, just book a place where you can set the AC yourself.
🌙 Tip 5: Sightsee at Night
Japan at night is unforgettable. The air is cooler, the lights are beautiful, and many attractions take on a magical vibe after dark.
Evening highlights:
- Temple illuminations
- Riverside strolls
- Summer festivals (matsuri)
- Fireworks (hanabi)
- Rooftop beer gardens
Just remember: even at night, stay hydrated!
🍧 Tip 6: Embrace Seasonal Foods & Festivals
Summer in Japan is delicious and festive. Cool off with seasonal dishes and celebrate like a local.
Must-try summer treats:
- Kakigori (かき氷): Fluffy shaved ice with syrups
- Hiyashi chuka (冷やし中華): Chilled ramen
- Sōmen (そうめん): Thin cold noodles
- Unagi (うなぎ): Grilled eel
And don’t miss:
- Yukata: Lightweight summer kimono
- Bon Odori festivals
- Fireworks shows
- Lantern-lit evenings
✋ Tip 7: Ignore the Summer Haters
Yes, summer is hot. But it’s also one of the most vibrant times to visit Japan.
People say “Don’t go to Japan in summer,” but let’s be honest—they just weren’t prepared. Or they didn’t watch this video.
Not everyone can visit during cherry blossom or foliage season. And guess what? Summer offers experiences you won’t find any other time of year.
Just a few highlights:
- Mt. Fuji climbing season
- Flower fields of sunflowers and hydrangeas
- Kids catching cicadas in the park
- High school baseball nationals (Summer Koshien)
- Massive music festivals like Fuji Rock and Summer Sonic
- Wind chimes and cicada songs filling the air
✈️ Final Thoughts: Go When You Can—And Make It Awesome
Let’s face it—every season in Japan has some kind of challenge:
- Spring: too crowded
- June: too rainy
- Summer: too hot
- Fall: typhoons and tourists
- Winter: too cold
If you wait for the perfect time, you’ll never go.
So go when you can.
And with the right prep, your summer trip to Japan can be one of the most memorable adventures of your life.
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