Summer Checklist: 7 Activities You Cannot Miss Out On This Summer in Japan
Each season in Japan has its own charm, but it is undeniable that summer might just be the best season yet. Well, maybe not in terms of weather considering the blazing heat radiating from the sun, but the seemingly endless array of activities, festivals, and events to participate in.
Summer is approaching its peak, and it would definitely be a waste to let time go by without enjoying the season to the fullest. Therefore, in this article, GoEMON will introduce you to our list of 7 activities that you definitely should not miss out on during this summer in Japan! Let’s dive in, shall we?
1. Climb Mount Fuji
Source: GaijinPot
As one of the most, if not the most iconic symbols of Japan, conquering Mount Fuji is undoubtedly one of the most popular activities that many locals and tourists alike would like to check off their to-do list in Japan. If you are also one of those people then congratulations! This is the perfect time for you to do so as the official climbing season stats from early July to mid-September and peaks dueing late July to late August. The weather during this period is the most suitable for climbing and enjoying the view on top of the mountain. There are also various trails you can take depending on how challenging you want your climb to be, the duration of the climb, as well as the type of scenery you would like to enjoy during the climb.
You can check out further details on climbing Mount Fuji in one of our previous article via: https://goemon-jp.com/posts/beginners-guide-to-conquering-mount-fuji-the-highest-moutain-in-japan-5ruv3GyMxx4k3igzFRzce6
2. Vibe along to your favourite artists at summer music festivals
Source: Thedigitalnomad.asia
As the second largest music industry in the world only after the United States, the summer music festival is another exciting aspect that music lovers should check out during the summer in Japan. There are a plethora of different music festivals held throughout the season in Japan, catering to different music tastes. Some of the most popular music festivals include the Fuji Rock Festival in Niigata Prefecture, Summer Sonic in Tokyo and Osaka, the Rock in Japan Festival in Ibaraki Prefecture, Osaka Gigantic Music Festival, and many more. These festivals are the perfect opportunities for you to not only enjoy music from your favorite artists but also check out the works of other artists as well!
3. Enjoy the magnificent fireworks
Source: AloJapan
When it comes to summer in Japan, one simply cannot fail to mention fireworks. Thus, one of the most popular and most anticipated activity during this hot season in Japan is going to fireworks displays. These firework displays of various scales are held all across Japan throughout the hot summer months, so you can easily find one that matches your schedule. These events are a great way for you to not only enjoy the magnificent fireworks but also first-handedly experience Japan’s attractive culture.
You can check out further details on firework displays in one of our previous articles via: https://goemon-jp.com/posts/hanabi-fireworks-an-indispensable-part-of-japanese-summer-5TEjo3eTgGsYv9rUdMEMyw
4. Have fun at summer festivals
Source: R.gooope.jp
Similarly to firework displays, summer festivals are another must-attend event during the summer in Japan. In fact, many summer festivals also include a firework display segment, though most of the time they will be held on smaller scales. These summer festivals or “natsu matsuri” in Japanese, are the best way for you to enjoy and immerse in Japanese culture, where you can wear traditional clothing like yukata, witness the traditional rituals and performances, have a taste of the many delicious street food, as well as participate in traditional games and activities. The lively atmosphere of these summer festivals is sure to leave you impressed, so make sure to join one if you have the time to!
5. Travel to escape from the blazing summer heat
Summer is the perfect season for traveling - the sky is blue, the sun is shining, and everyone is in the mood for festivals and celebrations. In theory, everything seems perfect, but reality hits hard. Summer in Japan is known to be scorching hot and humid to the point that many people “fear” stepping outside and would rather hole up in their air-conditioned rooms. However, for those who love to travel yet hate the heat, don’t worry! There are plenty of locations in Japan where the temperature during summer is significantly lower than the national average, thus you can travel to your heart’s content without fear of melting under the sun!
You can check further details on cool locations to travel to during the summer in Japan via:
6. Cool yourself down with seasonal foods
Source: Savorjapan
Japan is known for its cuisine, especially the diverse range of delicious seasonal foods throughout the entire year. Summer is also no exception, with tons of dishes to keep you cool and refreshed to beat the summer heat. These foods are top-notch in terms of both presentation and taste and is sure to keep you wanting more! You can try main dishes such as Nagashi Soumen, Chilled Tanuki Udon, or desserts such as Kakigori, Kuzumochi, or Warabimochi: the list goes on and on.
For more information on Japanese summer food, check out one of our previous article:
https://goemon-jp.com/posts/top-7-seasonal-foods-to-try-this-summer-in-japan-ftuL2qzcJD4j9fKxPUiQRa
7. Emerege yourself in a sea of fireflies and go stargazing
Source: Blog.japanwonderfultravel.com
Finally, two activities quite well-known among locals but not to tourists to Japan during the summer are stargazing and firefly viewing. For the former, Japan offers incredible stargazing spots, especially in the countryside where there is less light pollution. The same also goes for firefly viewing. Also known as Hotaru-gari, this is another interesting summer tradition in Japan. Fireflies are active in quiet, peaceful areas during humid evenings, generally right after sunset until 9 PM. Make sure to keep your voice down and refrain from making large noises to not disturb the fireflies!
Summer is coming to an end soon, so make sure to experience all of these activities while you still have the time to! How many activities in this checklist have you checked off? Let us know in the comments down below!
Don’t forget to follow GoEMON Global on our official Facebook for the latest updates on life in Japan via this link right here: https://www.facebook.com/GoEMONGlobal
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