July is summer in full swing: hot, humid and buzzing with festivals, fireworks and the start of the Mount Fuji climbing season. The rains clear, Hokkaido's lavender fields bloom, and warm evenings come alive with lanterns and street food. Here are the best places to visit in Japan in July.
Early July still sees the tail end of the rainy season, but by mid-month it usually lifts to reveal hot, humid, sunny summer days. Temperatures climb into the low thirties in the cities, so plan for heat: light clothing, plenty of water and shady midday breaks.
For cooler air, head to the highlands, the northern coast or Hokkaido, all of which offer a welcome escape from the humidity.
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July is one of the greatest months for matsuri (festivals). The crown jewel is Kyoto's Gion Matsuri, which runs all month and culminates in grand processions of towering, ornately decorated floats — one of Japan's most famous celebrations.
Osaka's spectacular Tenjin Matsuri in late July combines land processions with a river pageant and fireworks. Across the country, evening fireworks displays (hanabi) light up the summer nights.
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July marks the opening of the official Mount Fuji climbing season. For a few short weeks, the trails and mountain huts are open and the summit is within reach of anyone reasonably fit.
The classic experience is to climb overnight and watch the sunrise (goraiko) from near the top. It is demanding but unforgettable — and July, before the August peak, tends to be a little quieter on the mountain.
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In Hokkaido, July is the month the famous lavender fields of Furano and Biei burst into bloom, rolling purple to the horizon beneath a comfortable summer sky. It is one of the country's most photogenic sights.
July is also ideal for the beaches of Okinawa, for hiking in the cool highlands, and for river activities and mountain retreats away from the city heat.
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Our pick of places for July:
July is loud, warm and full of life — Japan at its most festive.
There is no easier way to experience Japan in July than with us. On our small-group trips we handle the trains, the reservations and the timing, and travel with a guide who knows exactly where to be this month — from the floats of Gion to a sunrise on the summit of Fuji. Browse our Japan trips below and let us build your July adventure.
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