3 best travel destinations to stay cool during the summer in Japan

In theory, yes. But in reality, summer in Japan is known to be scorching hot and humid to the point that many people would rather hole up in their air-conditioned houses than step foot outside and melt under the sun. However, don’t worry since Japan also has a plethora of destinations where you can find shelter from the blazing summer heat. 

Let’s check out some of the best travel locations to stay cool during this summer in Japan with GoEMON!

1. Biei Town - Hokkaido 

The best destination for those seeking to escape from the summer heat in Japan is undoubtedly Hokkaido. As the island is located in the northernmost of Japan, the weather at Hokkaido is also the lowest in the entire country. Hokkaido’s average temperature is around 25 degrees, significantly lower than over 30 degrees on the main islands of Honshu and Kyushu. Levels of humidity here are also much lower in comparison with other reasons, making the summer heat much easier to handle.

Thanks to the weather, practically anywhere in the Hokkaido region would make a great summer travel destination for those who are bad with the heat. However, one spot that GoEMON would like to suggest is Biei town. 

Source: Livejapan

Located near the heart of Hokkaido, Biei is a small town renowned for its tranquility and natural beauty. This makes the town a perfect location for those who are looking for a place to destress and take a break from the busyness of their everyday lives. There are a plethora of healing activities to do and locations to visit in Biei, from leisurely cycling through vast hills, heading up to the woods, or exploring famous natural attractions. Two of the most well-known attractions here include Shirogane Pond, a man-made pond famous for its deep-blue waters and vast lavender fields that you cannot find anywhere else. 

Website: https://www.biei-hokkaido.jp/en/ 

Address: Biei Town, Kamikawa District, Hokkaido

2. Biwako Valley - Shiga Prefecture 

Another location that is perfect to visit during the summer in Japan is Biwako Valley. Located in Shiga Prefecture around 40 kilometers away from Kyoto, Biwako Valley is an alpine resort overlooking Lake Biwa - the latest freshwater lake in all of Japan. Since the resort is high up in the mountains, the weather here is also cooler than the lowland area. You might even feel a bit chilly, so we recommend bringing along a light jacket in case it gets cold. 

To get to the Valley, visitors will have to take the ropeway up to the top of the mountain. It features a 360-degree glass cabin, providing an amazing view of Lake Biwa and the surrounding area. 

Source: Booking

Arriving at the top, visitors can engage in various sports and leisure activities, such as taking the lift to “stroll” around the area while enjoying the scenery and taking in fresh, clean air, clear the Skywalker obstacle course located 5 meters above the ground, try out the free playground equipments such as swings and climbing walls available throughout the area, or take out in summer sledding if you want something a bit more speedy. Make sure to also check out the magnificent panoramic view of Lake Biwa and its surrounding areas at the Biwako Terrace. The magnificent view is sure to blow your mind away. 

Website: https://www.biwako-valley.com/en/ 

Address: 1547-1 Kido, Otsu Shiga 520-0514, Japan

3. Karuizawa Town - Nagano Prefecture 

The final location that GoEMON would like to introduce to you is Karuizawa. Situated in the southeastern part of Nagano Prefecture at an elevation of 1,000 meters, the town’s average temperature ranges at roughly 21 degrees even in August. Karuizawa is also known for its magnificent nature and mountainous views, serenity, and interesting history. This makes it the perfect hideaway for those wanting to escape from the blazing heat of summer but also those who are looking for somewhere to relax and chill. 

Source: Booking

Karuizawa is most famous for the active volcano Mount Asama which last erupted in 2015 and Shiraitonotaki Falls - a waterfall located in the middle of the forest with an impressive arc of 70 meters. Those who are into art and history should not miss out on the many art galleries and museums situated throughout the town. We also recommend cycling to explore the area and truly enjoy the peace and beauty that nature here has to offer. There are many cycling routes for you to choose from, as well as plenty of bicycle-renting locations. 

Website: https://visitkaruizawa.com/en/

Address: Karuizawa Town, Kitasaku District, Nagano

Make sure not to miss out on these locations if you are looking for somewhere to escape from the sweltering heat of Japanese summer! 

Don’t forget to follow GoEMON Global for the latest updates on life in Japan!