Japan in July

Japan is a land of contrasts, where ancient traditions meet modern innovations, and July is a month that showcases this diversity in all its glory.

From the stunning natural landscapes of Hokkaido and the beaches of Okinawa to the bustling cities of Tokyo and Kyoto, Japan offers a wealth of experiences that will enchant and delight visitors in July. It is a time of year when the country comes alive with festivals, fireworks, and other exciting events that celebrate Japan’s rich cultural heritage.

Whether you’re a foodie looking to indulge in the freshest seafood and seasonal delicacies, an adventurer seeking to hike the stunning Japanese Alps or relax on a tropical island, or a culture lover wanting to witness traditional dances and ceremonies, Japan has something for everyone in July.

In this blog post, we’ll share some of the best things to see and do in Japan during this magical month, as well as provide insider tips to help you make the most of your trip. So, get ready to immerse yourself in the fascinating world of Japan in July, where every moment is filled with effervescent energy and enticing experiences.

Where to go

Japan is a land of incredible diversity, with each region offering its own unique charm and experiences. In July, there are many places to visit in Japan that showcase the best of the season. 

Hokkaido, located in the northernmost part of Japan, is a great destination for those seeking cooler temperatures and stunning natural landscapes. The Sapporo Beer Festival takes place in July and is a must-visit for beer lovers. 

Okinawa, in the south of Japan, offers a tropical paradise with crystal clear waters and white sandy beaches. It is the perfect place to relax and unwind after a busy day of sightseeing. If you love snorkelling and kayaking, you will enjoy our 7-Day Whale Watching & Water Exploration In Okinawa trip.

Tokyo, the capital city, is a hub of excitement and activity all year round, but in July, it comes alive with the Sumida River Fireworks Festival and the Mitama Matsuri at the famous Yasukuni Shrine. 

Kyoto, with its rich cultural heritage, is also a popular destination, and visitors can experience the Gion Matsuri, one of Japan’s most famous festivals. You can’t miss it if you travel to Kyoto in July, for example on this 7-Day Kyoto Highlights & Trips To Nara, Osaka, Hiroshima trip.

Trips you may like

9-Day Authentic Samurai and Sake Experience

This 9-day trip is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will immerse you in rich history and culture, as you uncover two of the things that make Japan truly unique; Sake and Samurai. When it comes to Sake, you’ll learn about the various processes behind making sake and the unique properties that make each style of sake different – and just how many different ways there are as you explore local sake breweries throughout Niigata and Yamagata. Now, it is time for your first introduction to the history of the Samurai. You’ll start in Nagoya and head out to Inuyama, where your swordsmith training will begin. Beginning with an exploration of Inuyama Castle, one of Japan’s five national treasures, you will then spend the next two days learning the art of sword-making, its importance in Samurai and Japanese culture, its origins and the training behind it. Next, you will have the rare opportunity to meet with katana artisans in their own ateliers, where you will watch their crafts being practised firsthand and learn the history of their trade. You’ll visit a tsukamakishi (hilt-wrapper), a shiroganeshi (habaki-maker), a sayashi (scabbard-maker), and a togishi (sword polisher), and might even see their own personal antique collections on this tour! This bucket-list trip captures the heart and history of Japan; Samurai and Sake, but also allows you time to explore the spiritual side of Japan, following walking trails to temples, meeting extraordinary locals and embracing the culture of this unique destination. Accommodation listed or similar.

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6-Day Tradition Meets Future in Tokyo & Kyoto

Japan is a real feast for all of your senses, with sumo, geisha, sake, karaoke, onsen, and izakaya waiting to be discovered. Spend six days exploring the highlights of this enthralling country, centred around Japan’s two major cities, Tokyo and Kyoto. Begin your trip with a guided tour of incredible Tokyo, where you will explore Tokyo’s dazzling lights, the Tsukji Market, famous for its tuna auctions and the ultra-cool shopping district of Shibuya, complete with a never-ending array of lights and mega-street crossings. Boarding the Shinkansen bullet train, you will travel at up to 320km/h from Tokyo to Kyoto in complete comfort. Arriving in Kyoto, you will be guided through the wonders of this city, visiting the famous Gion ‘Geisha’ district, Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and Nishiki Market, otherwise known as Kyoto’s kitchen! The highlight of this trip is a traditional group tea ceremony with an authentic Geisha, where you will learn the importance of this sacred Japanese ritual. Transferring back to Tokyo for the final leg of your journey, you will have the opportunity for last minute sightseeing and shopping before your private airport transfer! Thousands of years of history are concentrated in this fascinating nation – come and explore Japan’s attractions for yourself. Accommodation listed or similar.

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10-Day Nature and Unique Culture of Japan

This 10-day journey highlights the hotspots, hidden gems, nature and unique culture of Japan! Taking you through parts of modern Tokyo, to the traditional and historical former capital Kyoto, stopping along the way in the food and nightlife capital of Japan, Osaka. From the serenity of grand gardens to conveyor belt sushi restaurants at the top of skyscrapers; from the observation decks sprinkled around the city to the humble little ramen shops tucked away on side streets, it’s understandable why Tokyo is the most popular starting point for travellers coming to Japan. Tokyo is where you will uncover the hot-spots and the hidden gems of the city. Next stop, historic Kyoto. From your first day in Kyoto, you may very well feel the elegant ambience of a city entrenched in history. Here you will be immersed in Japan’s culture with a local guide, exploring the beautiful scenery that is Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, taking part in a traditional tea-ceremony and wandering amongst free-roaming deer in nearby Nara . Known by many as the food capital of Japan, the city of Osaka, your next stop is bright, vivacious, and friendly, however it also has a historical side. Here, you will explore Osaka Castle, a monument that played an integral role in the unification of Japan, before strolling down Dotonbori, where you can see the popular Glico running man display and try out Osaka’s signature foods: Takoyaki and Okonomiyaki. This trip is the perfect trip for travellers looking for a combination of Japanese culture, nature and food. Accommodation listed or similar.

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14-Day Highlights of Japan: Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto & Osaka

Embark on a two-week trip that covers all the major Japan highlights! From historical to modern, from urban to rural; you can enjoy the great diversity of Japan. In each area, local guides will show you the highlights of the region and introduce the local culture. The trip starts in Tokyo, the current capital of Japan. You will receive an introduction to Japanese culture and learn about modern Japanese life. Then, you’ll visit Hakone where you can appreciate a fantastic view of Mt. Fuji. You’ll then venture out to the countryside of Takayama, which is a small rural town with its own unique culture and traditions. From Takayama, you will visit Shirakawago, which is a well-preserved old folk village by car. Then, you’ll head to north to Kanazawa, a city produced by the Samurai which is home to the most beautiful Japanese garden. You will then visit Kyoto, one of the most beautiful cities in Japan and the mecca of Japanese culture. Here, you can experience authentic Japanese things such as food, culture, temples, art, gardens, crafts and more. You’ll then travel to Nara by train or car. Nara is an older city than Kyoto and it was the centre of Japanese religion and academia. Finally, you’ll head west to Osaka, the second biggest city in Japan. Osaka is famous as a paradise of street food with very open-minded and friendly local people! Geographically, Osaka is very close to Kyoto, but you will find a huge difference between them. From Osaka, you will take a day trip to Hiroshima by bullet train before heading back to Tokyo where your trip will come to an end!

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Best Places to Visit in Japan in July

There is no shortage of exciting things to do and see in Japan in July, and visitors are sure to have an unforgettable experience. One must-visit experiences is climbing Mount Fuji, Japan’s most famous and tallest mountain. July is the most popular time to climb the mountain, as the weather is clear and the trails are open. Visitors can take in stunning views of the surrounding landscape and witness the sunrise from the summit, making for an unforgettable experience. You can visit Mount Fuji during our 6-Day Tokyo, Osaka And Mountains trip.

For foodies, a trip to the Gion Matsuri in Kyoto is a must-visit. This festival is known for its street food stalls selling traditional Japanese snacks and drinks, such as takoyaki, yakitori, and yukata-clad festival-goers.

The Tohoku region in the north of Japan is also a great place to visit in July, as it is home to many scenic spots and natural wonders. Visitors can take a boat ride through the stunning Oirase Gorge or enjoy a dip in one of the many natural hot springs in the area.

Finally, a trip to the remote island of Shikoku, home to the Shikoku Pilgrimage, is a unique and spiritual experience. Visitors can walk the ancient pilgrimage route, stopping at the 88 temples along the way, and immerse themselves in Japanese culture and history. Here is a trip during which you can enjoy just that: 5-Day Shikoku 88-Ohenro Pilgrimage Tour By Private Car.

Festivals in Japan in July

July is a month of vibrant festivals and special events throughout Japan, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the country’s rich cultural heritage. One of the most famous festivals is the Gion Matsuri, held in Kyoto, which spans the entire month of July and features a series of traditional events, including parades of ornate floats and street food stalls selling local delicacies. 

The Sumida River Fireworks Festival, held in Tokyo, is another highlight of July in Japan, with over 20,000 fireworks lighting up the night sky over the Sumida River. If you would like to attend this festival or any other during your trip, it’s a good idea to talk to our Local Designers in Japan in advance.

For music lovers, the Fuji Rock Festival is held annually in the mountains of Niigata Prefecture and attracts top international and local musicians. The festival boasts a stunning natural setting and a relaxed atmosphere, making it a unique experience for music fans.

Additionally, July is the season for the Tanabata Festival, which is celebrated throughout Japan. The festival celebrates the meeting of two lovers represented by the stars Vega and Altair, and people write their wishes on colourful strips of paper and hang them on bamboo branches. 

Overall, July in Japan is a month filled with exciting festivals and special events that showcase the best of the country’s culture and traditions.

Weather

July is a popular time to visit Japan, as it falls within the summer season and offers warm and pleasant temperatures throughout most of the country. The average temperature in Tokyo, for example, is around 26°C (78°F), while in Hokkaido, the northernmost region of Japan, temperatures can be cooler and more comfortable for those looking to escape the heat.

It is important to note that July is also the rainy season in Japan, known as tsuyu, so visitors should be prepared for some rainfall. However, the showers are usually short and intermittent, and many parts of the country remain relatively dry. 

Things to Know Before You Go

Before travelling to Japan in July, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip:

• Visa: Visitors from many countries can enter Japan for up to 90 days without a visa. However, it is important to check visa requirements for your specific country before travelling.
• Currency: The currency used in Japan is the Japanese yen. Credit cards are widely accepted, but it is a good idea to carry some cash as well, especially for smaller purchases.
• Cultural notes: Japan has many unique cultural customs and practices, such as removing shoes before entering homes and some restaurants, and bowing as a form of greeting. It is important to familiarize yourself with these customs before travelling to Japan to avoid unintentional offences.
• Do’s: Do try traditional Japanese food, such as sushi and ramen, and do explore Japan’s beautiful natural scenery.
• Don’t: Don’t talk loudly on public transportation, as it is considered impolite, and don’t leave a tip at restaurants, as it is not customary in Japan.

Japan in July is a vibrant destination filled with festivals, unique experiences, and warm weather. The Gion Matsuri in Kyoto, Sapporo Beer Festival, Sumida River Fireworks Festival, and Fuji Rock Festival are just a few of the exciting events that take place throughout the month. 

Visitors can also enjoy exploring Japan’s beautiful natural scenery, trying traditional Japanese food, and immersing themselves in the country’s rich cultural heritage. 

While July is the rainy season in Japan, the showers are usually short and intermittent, and temperatures remain warm and pleasant. 

To find your dream holiday to Japan in July, scroll through our gallery of fully customisable Japan trips or connect with our Local Designers on the ground and let them help you craft your ultimate Japan stay!