Japan, known by the famous metaphor, The Land of the Rising Sun – is an island country with nearly two-thirds mountainous and heavily forested terrain. Today, Japan is among the dream travel destinations of people worldwide for its mind-blowing natural landscapes, like the Japanese Alps, historical sites and traditional festivals, to name a few. Moreover, Japan’s continuous efforts in technological advancements with neon-lit skylines and being a hub for pop culture, like anime, have won people’s hearts from every corner. So, if you plan to visit Japan in July, this guide is for you.
8 Places To Visit In Japan In July 2024
Here are a few places to explore in Japan in July for an overall welcome and refreshing experience:
1. Tohoku
Embark on a soul-satisfying journey to Tohoku, where limitless adventures await your presence in July. The region has more winter adventures, such as skiing. In summer, you can engage in the ultimate activities, including hiking, wildlife spotting, rafting and more. Its key attractions include Shirakami Sanchi, Lake Juniko, Michinoku Coastal Trail, and Senjojiki, to name a few. Discover the hidden gems while trekking and add a unique layer of thrill to the vacation. The temperature in Japan in July is such that you can easily participate in many activities and have the best time.
Distance from Tokyo: 627 Km Approx
How to Reach: Bus, Train, Plane, Car
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2. Kamikochi
Nestled within Chūbu-Sangaku National Park in the Japanese Alps, Kamikochi is the best place to visit in Japan in July. Go hiking and explore this gem in the Park for a thrilling experience. The well-maintained thrills range from moderate to difficult, inviting all to add fun to the trip. While hiking, you can enjoy the panoramic views of Myojim Pond, see the Kappa Bridge, and more. Additionally, encounter wildlife in between the adventure for the best time.
Distance from Tokyo: 192 km Approx
How to Reach: Public Transportation/Onfoot
3. Okinawa
Step into the tropical paradise, where turquoise beach waters and exotic vibes woo your mind, body, and soul. It remains one of the places to go in Japan during summer to engage in adventurous beach activities, like surfing, and escape the heat. As a history buff, you can also have a wholesome experience here. The ancient sites, including Shuri Castle and the Okinawa Peace Memorial, echo the country’s rich past. So, what are you waiting for? The mind-blowing beach time in the haven awaits.
Distance from Tokyo: 1598 Km Approx
How to Reach: Ferry, Train
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4. Mount Fuji
Whether you are a hiker or not, head straight to Mount Fuji to marvel at its natural beauty. Mount Fuji is one of Japan’s three sacred mountains and stands tall at 3,776 meters above the mean sea level. Hiking trails are most sought after here. This natural marvel mustn’t be missed at any point while visiting Japan.
Distance from Tokyo: About 100 km
How to Reach: Bus, Car
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5. Izu Penins
The Izu peninsula of Japan is home to numerous breathtaking beaches. Shimoda Beach is among the most popular ones and a great place to spend a leisurely summer day. Also, the beaches make your summer vacations perfect with various water sports, including scuba diving, snorkelling, and parasailing. Enjoying a bath in the ocean helps cool the heat in your head. And while you’re there, there is nothing more important than tasting the different seafood on offer – this would complete an all-around vacation!
Distance from Tokyo: About 300 km from Tokyo
How to Reach: Car, Taxi
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6. Hachijojima
If Tokyo reminds you of a bustling metropolitan city cramped for space, think again! The town is equally known for its several remote yet famous islands, albeit located at a distance of 300 km. A group of nine islands, prominent among them being the Hachijojima Island – makes it a stunning place to visit Japan in July.
Distance from Tokyo: About 300 km
How to Reach: Car
7. Karuizawa
Situated in the scenic highlands of Nagano Prefecture, Karuizawa remains the most popular and prominent summer destination for travellers worldwide. Near Mount Asama, this place is known and frequented for hiking and walking trails. Pretty waterfalls dot the surroundings and are an excellent retreat for the budget holidays in Japan in July.
Distance from Tokyo: By train, it is 126 km and by Road, it is 161 km
How to Reach: JR Hokuriku Shinkansen (bullet train)
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8. Hakuba
Though it is a village, Hakuba in Nagano is a great place to visit Japan in July. Its snow-capped mountains, serene lakes, and majestic hillocks give visitors a tremendous scenic hiking adventure. Nature lovers always rush to this place. However, a good chunk of travellers explore it the most during July.
Distance from Tokyo: Around 275 km
How to Reach: Bus, Bullet train
7 Things To Do In Japan In July
Japan is besieged with festivals during the summer months of July and August. July is a month of festivities here, with diverse local communities and temples hosting colourful festivals, followed by vibrant processions and thundering and mesmerizing fireworks.
1. Celebrate The Gion Matsuri
Celebrated elaborately in Kyoto, this festival is a month-long extravaganza in Japan. The highlight of this Matsuri is the float parade. The float, weighing around 12,000 kg, is a treat to watch. The visitors to Japan in July must make it a point to participate in this colourful and rhythmic parade and dance. The focal points of the festival are Yasaka Shrine, Shijo Avenue, and Kiyomizu Temple.
Location: Kyoto, Gion District
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2. Go Hiking
Hiking buffs cannot find a better place than Japan in July for hiking purposes. The mountainous terrain makes it a welcome place to wear hiking shoes and go on long or short trails to feel the adrenaline pumping. One of the best hiking spots in Japan, Kamikochi in the Northern Japan Alps of Nagano Prefecture, is worth exploring during the mid-summer month.
Difficulty: Moderate to High
3. Witness Sumo Wrestling
Japan is synonymous with Sumo wrestling. The most notable sumo wrestling festival is the Grand Sumo Tournament or Honbasho. It is held six times yearly- January, March, May, July, September, and November. So, if you visit Japan in July, you can witness the July tournament, held in the Nagoya region of Japan, where thousands of visitors thronged. Nagoya welcomes the rush when people flocked to witness sumo bouts spread over two weeks. Here is your chance to see what you have only seen in the movies or on TV! There isn’t any way of enjoying your time while vacationing in Japan.
Location: Nagoya, Aichi Prefectural Gymnasium, Japan
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4. Watch The Sumidagawa Fireworks Festival
Sumidagawa Fireworks is an annual fireworks festival held on the last Saturday of July. It is conducted in the historic Asakusa district of Tokyo, the Japanese tradition of competition between rival pyrotechnic groups. Get dazzled by the incredible views and relive your childhood memories of an awesome Diwali. The lights, the glow and the sound will truly mesmerize and surprise you!
Location: Along the Sumida River running through Tokyo
5. Participate In Shinjuku Eisa Festival
Shinjuku Eisa is a popular mid-summer event held in Japan towards the end of July. Both residents and tourists go to the town swing to hear the pulsating music that originated in the Okinawa region of Japan. This is a great way to get into the culture of Japan and learn about the people’s ways. It is a fulfilling experience that gets into your head with lots of fun and enjoyment.
Location: Public spaces of Shinjuku, Tokyo
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6. White Water Rafting
Engage in the ultimate adventure in Japan- white water rafting. You can go rafting with friends, family, or a partner at some of the best spots. These include the Kawauso River, Togakushi River, Kuma River, Hokkaido’s Shiretoko River, and Yugawa River. With each upcoming rapid, feel a mix of emotions of fear and excitement, and enjoy every second of the adventure. The breathtaking natural views and strong currents make rafting in Japan a must-to-do adventure for a fantastic experience.
Difficulty: Moderate to High
7. Paragliding
Whether you are a beginner or a professional paraglider, you can do paragliding in numerous destinations in Japan for an adrenaline-fueled experience. The scenic landscapes and the ideal wind conditions make this adventurous activity more fun and enthralling. If you plan to visit Japan in July, you can consider paragliding amidst surreal surroundings. Some of the best spots for paragliding in Japan are Okinawa, the Japanese Alps, Nasu, Hakuba, Yamanakako, and Miyazaki.
Difficulty: Moderate to High
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Why You Should Visit Japan In July?
Image Credit: Maheshwaran Shanmugam for Pexels
The snow melts, and trees will blossom in full during July. Nature is at its best during July in Japan. This mid-summer month also promises great outdoor touring with little interference from the inclement weather. That is perhaps one of the significant reasons that Japan remains worth exploring in July, and it is an excellent time for touring. Here are the notable reasons to visit Japan:
- It is the ideal time to visit the beaches and to make merry at the glittering golden beaches.
- It is the best place for scuba diving and has spectacular visibility amidst sharks, turtles, and splendid coral reefs.
- The pulsating summer sports featuring world-class athletes and gymnasts are the great stimulants for visiting Japan in July.
- Japan is a land of numerous festivals. During summer, one can witness the country’s biggest and best festivals, such as ‘matsuri” and Gion Matsuri.
- It is a great time to explore hiking and biking trails in Japan. The weather is clear with sunshine, and tourists throng to Japan in July for long hikes over the mountainous terrain.
Weather In Japan In July
Most parts of Japan wait for the dawn of July. July heralds summer as the tail-end rains diminish, allowing for a sunny summer. By then, temperatures reach comfortable levels of early 30 degrees Celsius, fulfilling outdoor vacations. In Japan, July is hot, humid, and sultry, but it is also a great tropical vacation with family and friends.
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Japan is a land of diverse heritage rich in culture and natural wealth. A great place to visit in the summer, despite the heat, Japan offers the highest value for money for all visitors and a warm welcome. So, what are you waiting for? Plan a fantastic trip to Japan in July to experience the country’s aura and vibes.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Japan In July
How is the weather in Japan in July?
Japan in July is considered hot and humid. With the rains taking a back seat, nature will be in full bloom during July, enabling the tourists to enjoy sightseeing to the hilt.
What kind of clothing is required for visiting Japan in July?
Being summer, normal cotton clothing is ideal for tourists to Japan in July. You should, though, ensure carrying a good number of towels as standby options for the beach visits.
How many days of travel is to be planned to see various places in Japan?
Normally a seven-day trip is ideal to cover the important places in Japan. Several package tours are available for 6 nights and 7 days that will take the tourists to all the prominent places in Japan.
How much does it cost to tour Japan?
It depends on the accommodation chosen. Still, usually, it varies from INR 50,000 to INR 100,000 to enjoy different places in Japan during the mid-summer month.
What is the currency of Japan?
Yen is the official currency of Japan. You should ensure changing your local currency into Yen before leaving for Japan. You can also exchange currency at the port of entry or in any of the several foreign exchange dealers in Tokyo.
What is the local conveyance available in Japan?
Japan is well served by the local buses and for the long-distance travels, bullet trains and normal trains are also available.
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