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Is July A Good Time to Visit Japan? July Worth the Challenges!
- Average temperature: 25–32°C (77–90°F) nationwide
- Record-breaking heat: 2°C in Hyōgo Prefecture (July 2025)
- Humidity: 70–80%
For travelers who want a quick summary, July is a month of trade-offs. You trade cool, comfortable weather for some of the most exciting cultural events of the year. Here is a simple look at the pros and cons of visiting Japan in July.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Vibrant Summer Festivals: July hosts Japan's biggest and most famous festivals (matsuri). | Intense Heat & Humidity: The main challenge. It can be draining, especially in big cities. |
| Lush, Green Scenery: The country is incredibly green and beautiful after the rainy season. | Rainy Season Remnants: The first week or two can still be wet and overcast in many areas. |
| Mountain & Hiking Season: The official climbing season for Mt. Fuji begins. Other mountains are perfect for hiking. | Typhoon Risk: The chance of typhoons increases, especially in late July and in the south. |
| Beaches & Coastal Fun: The hot weather is perfect for swimming and enjoying Japan's beautiful coastlines. | Summer Crowds: Japanese schools begin their summer holidays in mid-to-late July, making popular spots busier. |
| Longer Daylight Hours: You have more time in the day for sightseeing and exploring. | Higher Travel Prices: With the start of the holiday season, flights and hotels can be more expensive. |
What About the Rainy Season and Typhoons in Japan in July?
"Rainy Season" (Tsuyu): The official rainy season typically ends in most of Japan by mid-July. If you are traveling in early July, you may still experience some of its effects. However, it's not a constant, torrential monsoon.
It usually means more overcast days with periods of drizzle or sudden showers. It rarely washes out an entire day. Simply carry a small, foldable umbrella (which you can buy for a few dollars at any convenience store) and you will be fine.
Typhoon Season: Typhoon season in Japan runs from May to October, with the peak being in August and September. While a typhoon is possible in July, it is not a daily threat. If a typhoon is predicted to hit the area you are in, the main impact is on transportation.
Japan's Rainy Season 2026: How to Love Plum Rain Season (Tsuyu)
What is the Weather Like in Japan in July? A Regional Breakdown
Japan is a long country, stretching over 3,000 kilometers from north to south. The Japan season in July is officially summer. Generally, you can expect average temperatures to range from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F).
| City | Avg. High Temp | Avg. Low Temp | Avg. Precipitation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tokyo | 31°C / 88°F | 24°C / 75°F | 155 mm |
| Kyoto | 32°C / 90°F | 24°C / 75°F | 180 mm |
| Sapporo (Hokkaido) | 25°C / 77°F | 17°C / 63°F | 85 mm |
| Naha (Okinawa) | 32°C / 90°F | 27°C / 81°F | 240 mm |
| Nagano (Alps) | 29°C / 84°F | 20°C / 68°F | 135 mm |
Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka & Main Honshu: Hot & Humid
This is the most popular tourist route, covering Japan's biggest cities. In July, this region is the heart of the heat and humidity. Daily high temperatures in Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka often go above 30°C (86°F) and can easily reach 35°C (95°F).
The days are usually sunny and hazy. However, it's common to have short, powerful afternoon thunderstorms.
When exploring these cities, plan your outdoor activities for the early morning or later in the evening. Use the hot midday hours to explore indoor places like museums, shopping malls, and cafes.
Tokyo Weather in July: Cooler Places with Festivals & Fireworks
Hokkaido: Pleasantly Warm
If you want to escape the heat, Hokkaido is your answer. Japan's northernmost island is a paradise in July.
The weather here is pleasantly warm and much less humid than the rest of the country. Average high temperatures are around a comfortable 22°C to 26°C (72°F to 79°F). It's the perfect weather for being outdoors.
Hokkaido is the best place to visit in Japan in July if you love nature. It's ideal for road trips, hiking in its stunning national parks, and enjoying the beautiful scenery. The famous lavender fields in Furano are in full bloom, creating breathtaking seas of purple.
Hokkaido in Summer: Weather, Festivals, Flowers & Itineraries (with Kids)
Okinawa & Southern Islands: Hot, Humid & Sunny
Okinawa and the southern islands are in full summer mode in July. The weather is very hot, very humid, and very sunny. It's perfect for anyone wanting a beach vacation. You can spend your days swimming, snorkeling, and diving in the crystal-clear waters.
However, this region has the highest risk of typhoons. A typhoon can disrupt travel plans for a few days, so it's important to have some flexibility in your schedule.
The Japanese Alps (Nagano, Takayama): Best for Avoid Heat
The Japanese Alps offer another wonderful escape from the city heat. Because of the higher altitude, places like Nagano and Takayama are much cooler and more comfortable. The air is fresh, and the scenery is spectacular.
This region is excellent for hiking, exploring traditional villages, and enjoying the peaceful mountain atmosphere. It's a great place to go in Japan in July to balance a trip that also includes hot cities like Tokyo or Kyoto.
Top 1 Things to Do in Japan in July: Enjoy 100+ Japan Festivals in July
July is one of the best times to experience festival culture in Japan. From massive parades to intimate neighborhood gatherings, a festival is happening almost every day, somewhere in the country.
It is nearly impossible to give an exact number for how many festivals happen in Japan during July. However, it is safe to say there are hundreds, and possibly even thousands, of them across the country. Millions flock to experience Japan's most spectacular summer festivals—and for good reason.
Major July Festivals
| Festival | Where | When | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gion Matsuri | Kyoto | Entire July (peak: July 17) | Ornate yamaboko floats, traditional music, thousands of food stalls |
| Tenjin Matsuri | Osaka | July 24-25 | 3,000 costumed participants, river processions, grand fireworks finale |
| Sumida River Fireworks | Tokyo | Last Saturday of July | 20,000 fireworks with illuminated Tokyo Skytree backdrop |
| Shitamachi Tanabata | Tokyo (Kappa Street) | Early July | Colorful paper ornaments, bamboo wishes, traditional atmosphere |
| Furano Lavender Festival | Hokkaido | Throughout July | Purple lavender fields in full bloom, cooler 21°C temperatures |
Gion Matsuri (Kyoto): It's one of Japan's most famous festivals. It runs for the entire month of July, but the main events are the grand procession of floats (Yamaboko Junko) on July 17th and 24th.
These massive, beautifully decorated floats are pulled through the streets by dozens of people. The evenings leading up to the procession, called Yoiyama, are magical.
Tenjin Matsuri (Osaka): This festival is over 1,000 years old and is considered one of Japan's top three festivals. It features a massive land procession and a spectacular river procession with over 100 boats. The festival ends with a huge fireworks display over the river.
Another major highlight of summer is the fireworks festivals (hanabi taikai). Japanese fireworks are an art form—they are massive, perfectly symmetrical, and incredibly creative.
Sumidagawa Fireworks Festival (Tokyo): Usually held on the last Saturday of July, this is one of Japan's most famous and crowded fireworks displays. Millions of people gather along the Sumida River to watch the spectacular show.
10 Best Places to Visit in Japan in July (Beat the Heat & More)
Now that you understand the weather and festivals, let's talk about where to go in Japan in July.
- For Escape to Cooler Climates: Hokkaido, The Japanese Alps (Nagano, Takayama)
- For Festival Lovers: Kyoto & Osaka.
- For Nature & Outdoor Enthusiasts:
- For Mountain Climbers: Fuji.
- For Coastal Scenery & Relaxation: The Izu Peninsula or Seto Inland Sea.
- For Adventure: Kamikochi, Yakushima Island
Escape to Cooler Climates: Hokkaido & Japanese Alps
If you are truly worried about the heat, the simplest solution is to spend the majority of your time in Japan's cooler regions.
- Hokkaido: Japan's northern island is the ultimate summer escape. With average highs of a comfortable 25°C / 77°F and low humidity, the weather is perfect for being outdoors.
- The Japanese Alps (Nagano, Takayama): Higher altitudes mean cooler temperatures. Exploring the beautiful mountain resort of Kamikochi or the historic streets of Takayama is far more pleasant than being in the cities. The fresh mountain air is a welcome relief.
Embrace the Heat (Smartly) in the Cities: Tokyo, Osaka & Kyoto
Do not plan to walk around outdoors from 11 AM to 4 PM. This is the hottest part of the day. Use this time for a long lunch, visiting an air-conditioned museum, exploring an underground shopping mall, or even returning to your hotel for a rest.
Plan your temple-hopping and park-strolling for the early morning and evening.
Use the heat as an excuse to explore Japan's world-class indoor attractions. From the teamLab Borderless digital art museum in Tokyo to the Kaiyukan Aquarium in Osaka, there are endless air-conditioned wonders to see.
Tokyo Itineraries | Spend 1 Day, 2 Days, 3 Days, 4 Days in Tokyo Japan
For Festival Lovers: Kyoto & Osaka
If you are in Japan in July, you absolutely cannot miss the summer festivals. The Kansai region, home to Kyoto and Osaka, is the epicenter of the action.
The crown jewel is Kyoto's Gion Matsuri, spanning the entire month with its climax on July 17th. In Osaka, the Tenjin Matsuri (July 24-25) rivals Gion in magnificence.
Top Things to Do in Osaka: 11 Best Osaka Attractions & What to See
Top 10 Things to Do in Kyoto | Kyoto Destinations & Must-See (for First Timers)
For Nature & Outdoor Enthusiasts: Hokkaido
As mentioned before, Hokkaido is the perfect summer destination. The mild weather makes it ideal for exploring the great outdoors.
Furano and Biei: These towns are world-famous for their rolling hills covered in flowers. In July, the lavender fields are at their peak, creating a stunning landscape of vibrant purple. You can also see fields of poppies, sunflowers, and other colorful flowers. It's a photographer's dream.
Daisetsuzan National Park: This is Japan's largest national park, often called the "Roof of Hokkaido." In July, the snow has melted from the high peaks, opening up amazing hiking trails. You can see alpine flowers, volcanic landscapes, and beautiful wildlife. It's a true wilderness adventure.
Hokkaido in Summer: Weather, Festivals, Flowers & Itineraries (with Kids)
For Mountain Climbers: Mt. Fuji
For many travelers, climbing Mt. Fuji is a once-in-a-lifetime goal. The official climbing season for Japan's most iconic mountain begins on July 1st. During this time, the trails are free of snow, the mountain huts are open, and the weather is most stable.
Climbing Mt. Fuji is a serious challenge, but it is very well-supported for climbers of all levels. The most popular way to climb is to start in the afternoon, rest at a mountain hut around the 7th or 8th station, and then hike to the summit in the dark to watch the sunrise (goraiko).
Mount Fuji Guide (2025): Attractions, Where to See & More Mount Fuji
For Coastal Scenery & Relaxation: The Izu Peninsula or Seto Inland Sea
If you want beaches but Okinawa seems too far or risky due to typhoons, there are great alternatives.
Izu Peninsula: Just a couple of hours from Tokyo by train, the Izu Peninsula has beautiful coastlines, sandy beaches, and charming hot spring towns. It's a popular weekend getaway for Tokyo residents and offers a more relaxed pace.
Seto Inland Sea: This calm sea is dotted with hundreds of small islands. You can go island-hopping, visit art installations on Naoshima Island, or cycle along the scenic Shimanami Kaido cycling route. The weather is hot, but the sea breezes make it more manageable.
For Adventure Who Plan to Explore Mountain Trail
With the mountains free of snow and lush with greenery, July is a prime month for hiking. It's a wonderful way to escape the heat of the cities and see a different side of Japan.
Kamikochi: Located in the Japanese Alps, Kamikochi is a breathtaking river valley with some of Japan's most beautiful mountain scenery. The trails here are relatively flat and easy to walk, making it accessible for everyone. The air is cool and refreshing.
Yakushima Island: This subtropical island south of Kyushu is a UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its ancient cedar forests. Hiking through these mystical, moss-covered forests is like stepping into a fairytale. The island does get a lot of rain, but July is one of its better months.
What to Wear in Japan in July? What to Pack for the July Weather
Packing for July requires ruthless practicality over style. Start with 6-7 lightweight, quick-dry shirts because you'll sweat through at least one daily. Pack one light cardigan for aggressively air-conditioned buildings where temperatures plummet to 20°C.
Comfortable sandals or mesh sneakers that won't get ruined if they get wet. A wide-brimmed, foldable hat is better than a baseball cap for protecting your neck. High-SPF sunscreen is a must.
You will definitely want one for the first part of the month and for sudden afternoon showers. A small, foldable umbrella is easy to carry.
Japan July's Public Holidays and Crowds
Be aware of Umi no Hi (Marine Day). This is a national holiday held on the third Monday of July. It creates a three-day weekend for many people in Japan. During this weekend, trains and popular tourist destinations can be much more crowded, and hotel prices may be higher.
If your trip falls over this weekend, be sure to book your long-distance train tickets and accommodation in advance.
How to Plan a Japan July Trip: Most Recommended Itineraries
Itinerary 1: Tokyo Osaka Kyoto (Classic & Festival Fun)
For first-time visitors, the "Golden Route" is the best choice. Your journey begins in the vibrant capital, Tokyo, with a day trip to see majestic Mount Fuji. From there, a bullet train will speed you to Kyoto.
A major highlight of visiting in July is the chance to experience the famous Gion Matsuri in Kyoto and the Tenjin Matsuri in Osaka. This classic itinerary perfectly blends Japan's iconic cities with its most celebrated summer festivals.
Day 1-2: Tokyo (Meiji Jingu Shrine, Shibuya Crossing, Senso-ji Temple, Tsukiji Fish Market)
Day 3: Mt. Fuji (Mount Fuji 5th Station, Lake Kawaguchi, Kubota Itchiku Art Museum, Tenjo-san Park Cable Car or Lake Cruise)
Day 4-5: Kyoto (Kinkakuji Temple, Nishiki Market, Gion, Yasaka Shrine, Ninenzaka & Sannenzaka, Kiyomizudera Temple)
Day 6 Nara (Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, Todaiji Temple, Nara Park)
Day 7-8: Osaka (Osaka Castle Park, Shinsaibashi-suji & Dotombori)
Itinerary 2: Hokkaido for Summer & Family
To escape the summer heat, consider a trip to Hokkaido. Japan's northern island has pleasant weather and stunning natural scenery. Starting in Sapporo, you will travel to Furano and Biei to witness vast, colorful flower fields in full bloom.
You can see the magical Blue Pond and explore the dramatic volcanic landscapes of Noboribetsu's "Hell Valley" and beautiful Lake Toya. This route is ideal for nature lovers looking for a refreshing and scenic summer vacation.
- Day 1: Sapporo
- Day 2: Sapporo (Shiroi Koibito Park, Clock Tower, Odori Park, TV Tower (Photo Stop), Tanukikoji Shopping Street)
- Day 3: Sapporo - Asahikawa - Biei - Furano (Asahiyama Zoo, Patchwork Road, Shikisai no Oka)
- Day 4: Furano & Biei (Shirogane Blue Pond, Shirahige Falls, Farm Tomita, Ningle Terrace)
- Day 5: Furano to Noboribetsu (Date Jidaimura Theme Park, Noboribetsu Hell Valley)
- Day 6: Noboribetsu - Lake Toya (Lake Toya Cruise, Volcano Science Museum, Usuzan Ropeway, Showa Shinzan Bear Ranch)
- Day 7: Lake Toya - Otaru - Sapporo (Otaru Canal, Sakaimachi Street, Otaru Music Box Museum, Kitaichi Glass Museum)
- Day 8: Sapporo Departure
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