Japan transforms during July. Streets fill with festival-goers in colorful yukata (summer kimonos), fireworks light up night skies, and the countryside explodes into vibrant greens and purples. This mid-summer month marks a special time when centuries-old traditions merge with modern summer fun across the country.
Japan in July brings a mix of heat, cultural celebrations, and outdoor adventures that create unique travel experiences. While temperatures climb and humidity rises, the month rewards visitors with some of Japan’s most spectacular festivals, seasonal foods, and natural beauty.
Is July a Good Time to Visit Japan?
July marks the heart of summer in Japan, bringing both seasonal challenges and exceptional cultural experiences you won’t find at other times of the year.
Why You Should Visit?
July kicks off Japan’s most exciting festival season, with events that have continued for centuries. The grand Gion Matsuri in Kyoto dates back over 1,100 years and fills the ancient capital with massive decorated floats, street food stalls, and locals dressed in summer kimono.
The natural landscape also reaches peak beauty in many regions. Hokkaido’s lavender fields burst into purple blooms, creating stunning photo opportunities against mountain backdrops. For outdoor enthusiasts, July 1st marks the official opening of Mt. Fuji’s climbing season, allowing you to conquer Japan’s most iconic peak.
Also Read: Festival in Japan: A Vibrant Celebration of Culture and Traditions
What to Look Out For?
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High humidity levels reaching 70-85%, especially in Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto
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Temperatures regularly hitting 30°C or higher in central and southern regions
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Lingering rainy season (tsuyu) during early July in some areas
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Larger crowds at major festivals, popular beaches, and tourist sites
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Higher accommodation prices during festival periods (book at least 2-3 months ahead)
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Limited availability for popular tours, ryokans, and hotels in festival cities
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Mosquitoes and insects, particularly near water bodies and rural areas
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Increased risk of sunburn due to strong summer UV rays
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Potential for sudden afternoon thunderstorms in urban areas
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Typhoon risk increasing toward late July, particularly in southern regions
Overview of Weather in Japan in July
July weather varies significantly across Japan’s diverse geography, from the cooler northern island of Hokkaido to the tropical beaches of Okinawa.
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Weather Parameter |
Typical Range |
|---|---|
|
Average Temperature |
23°C to 31°C (Tokyo/Osaka) |
|
Average Rainfall |
150–250 mm (varies by region) |
|
Daily Wind Speed |
3–5 m/s |
|
Temperature of the Sea |
22°C to 26°C (main islands) |
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Humidity: High across most regions, typically 70–85%, making temperatures feel hotter than they actually are.
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Sunshine: 4–6 hours of direct sunshine daily, increasing as the month progresses and the rainy season ends
Also Read: Lakes in Japan: A Complete Indian Traveler’s Guide to Lakeside Beauty
Best Things To Do in Japan in July
Japan in July opens up numerous seasonal activities impossible during other months. From mountain adventures to beach relaxation, these experiences showcase the diversity of summer in Japan.
Climb Mount Fuji
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Location: Mount Fuji, between Yamanashi and Shizuoka Prefectures
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Why It’s Great in July: The official climbing season runs July 1 through early September, with mountain huts and facilities fully operational only during this period
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What to Expect:
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Four different trails of varying difficulty levels suitable for different fitness levels
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Cool temperatures (5-15°C) at higher elevations providing relief from summer heat
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Spectacular sunrise views from the summit if you stay overnight at a mountain hut
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Crowds on weekends and holidays; weekday climbs offer more peaceful experiences
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Full climbing services including rest stations, emergency support, and food vendors
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Experience Gion Matsuri
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Location: Kyoto, particularly Shijo-dori area
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Why It’s Great in July: This 1,100+ year-old festival is considered Japan’s most famous matsuri, running the entire month with peak events mid-month
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What to Expect:
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Massive traditional floats (yamaboko) parading through central Kyoto streets
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Yoiyama street festivities with food stalls, games, and locals in yukata
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Traditional music performances on wooden flutes, drums and bells
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Special access to merchant houses normally closed to the public
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Evening illuminations creating magical atmosphere in the ancient capital
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Also Read: Best Restaurants in Japan for Authentic Cuisine
See Lavender Fields in Hokkaido
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Location: Furano, Hokkaido, Japan
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Why It’s Great in July: Mid-July brings peak lavender blooms across Hokkaido’s farm region, creating stunning purple landscapes
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What to Expect:
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Rolling hills covered in vibrant purple lavender stretching to the horizon
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Pleasant temperatures averaging 20-25°C, much cooler than the rest of Japan
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Farm tours where you can learn about lavender cultivation and processing
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Local products including lavender ice cream, oils, soaps, and crafts
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Multiple flower varieties beyond lavender creating rainbow-colored fields
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Enjoy Fireworks Festivals
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Location:Sumida River (Tokyo), Osaka, Nagoya
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Why It’s Great in July: Traditional Japanese fireworks (hanabi) reach their peak during July with spectacular shows nationwide
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What to Expect:
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Massive displays featuring up to 20,000 fireworks in various shapes and colors
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Traditional Japanese fireworks techniques creating unique patterns
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Food stalls selling summer favorites like shaved ice and grilled corn
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Riverside picnic spots filling with families on blankets hours before shows begin
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Many locals wearing yukata (summer kimono), creating festive atmosphere
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Explore Beer Gardens & Summer Cuisine
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Why It’s Great in July: Rooftop beer gardens open seasonally across Japan, offering cooling drinks and special summer menus
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What to Expect:
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All-you-can-drink deals at major department store rooftops
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Special summer-only menus featuring grilled meats and seasonal vegetables
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Evening breezes providing relief from daytime heat
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Extended hours with many gardens open until 10pm or later
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Family-friendly options with non-alcoholic beverages and kid’s menus
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Also Read: Top 30 Things to Buy in Japan: Essential Souvenirs & Must-Have Items!
Events in Japan in July
Festivals and celebrations in Japan in July form the cultural highlight of summer, with centuries-old traditions coming alive in cities large and small. These events offer Indian travelers authentic cultural immersion beyond typical sightseeing.
Tenjin Matsuri (Osaka)
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Date: July 24–25
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Venue:Osaka Tenmangu Shrine and Okawa River
Osaka’s 1,000-year-old Tenjin Matsuri ranks among Japan’s top three festivals, featuring a dynamic boat procession with 100 decorated vessels carrying shrine mikoshi (portable shrines), musicians, and dancers down the Okawa River. The festival honors the deity Tenjin with two days of celebrations.
Hakata Gion Yamakasa (Fukuoka)
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Date: July 1–15
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Venue: Kushida Shrine, Fukuoka
This high-energy festival in Fukuoka features teams of men racing through city streets carrying massive 1-ton decorated floats on their shoulders. The main race, Oiyama, takes place before dawn on July 15th, with teams competing to complete a 5km course in the shortest time.
Also Read: Japan Visa Extension for Indians
Things to Know Before You Visit Japan in July
Planning a successful trip to Japan in July requires preparation for both the seasonal weather conditions and cultural considerations. How to plan a trip to Japan in July depends heavily on understanding these practical matters.
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Visa requirements: Indian citizens need a tourist visa for Japan; apply at least 4-6 weeks before travel
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Currency: Japanese Yen (¥/JPY); 1 JPY ≈ 0.55 INR; carry cash as many places don’t accept cards
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Time zone: Japan Standard Time (JST), 3.5 hours ahead of India
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Emergency numbers: 110 (police), 119 (ambulance/fire), 03-3580-3311 (Tokyo Tourist Information)
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Language: Basic English is understood in major tourist areas; download a translation app
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Electricity: 100V with Type A/B plugs; bring an adapter for Indian devices
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Internet: Purchase a travel SIM at the airport or rent a pocket WiFi device
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Transportation: Consider a 7/14/21-day Japan Rail Pass for cost savings (must purchase before arrival)
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Tipping: Not practiced or expected in Japan; might even cause confusion
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Etiquette: Remove shoes when entering homes, ryokans, and some restaurants
What to Wear?
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Lightweight, breathable cotton or linen clothing for city sightseeing
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Quick-dry, moisture-wicking shirts and pants for outdoor activities
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Comfortable walking shoes with good ventilation
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Fold-up rain poncho or small umbrella for sudden showers
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Light scarf or jacket for heavily air-conditioned museums and restaurants
What to Pack?
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High SPF (50+) sunscreen and UV-blocking sunglasses
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Portable handheld fan or cooling towel for relief from heat
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Mosquito repellent with DEET for evenings near water
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Pocket tissues (many public restrooms don’t provide paper)
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Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated and reduce plastic waste
Also Read: Japan With Kids | A Family Travel Guide
Transport
Japan’s world-class transportation system makes getting around efficient even during the busy July season. Understanding your options helps maximize both time and budget.
Shinkansen (Bullet Trains)
These high-speed trains connect major cities with speeds up to 320 km/h, turning a Tokyo-Kyoto journey into just over 2 hours instead of 6+ by car. The Japan Rail Pass (¥29,650/~INR 13,500 for 7 days) offers unlimited rides and significant savings for foreign tourists if you’ll make at least one long-distance round trip.
Domestic Flights
Budget carriers like Peach and Jetstar offer affordable flights between major cities, often cheaper than bullet trains for longer distances. A Tokyo-Sapporo flight takes 90 minutes versus 8+ hours by train, with advance fares starting from ¥5,000 (~INR 2,300) one-way.
Local Trains and Subways
Urban rail networks are extensive, punctual and air-conditioned. Prepaid IC cards like Suica or Pasmo (¥2,000/~INR 900 initial charge) work across multiple cities and eliminate the need to purchase individual tickets for each journey.
Buses
Highway buses provide budget-friendly intercity travel, with overnight options saving on accommodation costs. The “Seishun 18” ticket (¥12,050/~INR 5,500) offers five days of unlimited travel on local JR trains during summer vacation periods.
Also Read: Japan Visa for Indians Costs Just ₹450!
Where to Stay?
July accommodation requires advance booking due to festival periods and summer vacation. Prices vary significantly by location and property type.
Budget Hotels:
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Hotel Gracery Asakusa
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Location: 2 Chome-10-2 Kaminarimon, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0034, Japan
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Website:https://gracery.com/asakusa/
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Price Range: INR 6,000–INR 8,000 per night
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Kuromon Royal Niponbashi
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Location:2 Chome-2-23 Nipponbashi, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0073, Japan
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Price Range: INR 4,500–INR 7,000 per night
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Mid-range Hotels:
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Mitsui Garden Hotel Kyoto Shijo
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Location: 707-1 Myodenji-cho, Shijo-sagaru, Kyoto 600-8472, Japan
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Price Range: INR 11,000–INR 15,000 per night
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Hotel Mystays Premier Sapporo Park
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Location: 2 Chome-2-10 Minami 9 Jonishi, Chuo Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido 064-0809, Japan
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Website:https://www.mystays.com/hotel-mystays-premier-sapporo-park-hokkaido/
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Price Range: INR 10,000–INR 14,000 per night
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Luxury Hotels:
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The Peninsula Tokyo
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Location: 1-8-1 Yurakucho, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 100-0006, Japan
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Website:https://www.peninsula.com/en/tokyo/5-star-luxury-hotel-ginza
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Price Range: INR 40,000–INR 60,000 per night
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Hotel Okura Kyoto
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Location: 604-8558 Kyoto, Nakagyo Ward, Kawaramachi-Oike, Japan
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Website: https://www.hotel.kyoto/okura/
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Price Range: INR 36,000–INR 50,000 per night
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Also Read: Japan Monuments: Landmarks of Heritage, Harmony, and History
What to Eat?
July’s heat inspires special summer dishes across Japan. These seasonal foods provide cooling relief and showcase fresh local ingredients.
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Somen (chilled thin wheat noodles) – Try at Menya Musashi in Tokyo
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Kakigori (shaved ice with flavored syrup) – Try at Himitsudo in Tokyo
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Unagi (grilled eel, traditionally eaten in summer) – Try at Unagi Hirokawa in Kyoto
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Hiyashi Chuka (cold ramen with colorful toppings) – Try at Yaro Ramen in Osaka
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Zaru Soba (cold buckwheat noodles) – Try at Sarashina Horii in Tokyo
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FAQs
Is July a good time to visit Japan?
July offers special experiences including major festivals, fireworks displays, and outdoor adventures, though you’ll face heat and humidity. For the best balance, combine city visits with cooler mountain or northern regions.
How hot is Japan in July?
Most regions experience daytime temperatures between 25-35°C with high humidity making it feel hotter. Hokkaido stays cooler at 20-25°C, while Tokyo and Kyoto often reach 30-33°C with 70-85% humidity.
What is the average temperature in Japan in July?
Average temperatures range from 23°C (Hokkaido) to 31°C (central Japan) with Okinawa reaching 33°C. Nighttime brings minimal relief, dropping only to 23-25°C in most cities.
Can I do sightseeing in Japan in July?
Yes, but plan smartly by visiting indoor attractions during midday heat and outdoor sites in early morning or evening. Many attractions extend summer hours, with night illuminations at temples and gardens.
What to wear in Japan in July?
Pack lightweight, breathable clothing like cotton shirts, shorts, skirts, and dresses. Bring a light jacket for air-conditioned spaces, comfortable walking shoes, and a small towel to wipe sweat (common practice in Japan).
Are tourist attractions open in Japan in July?
Most attractions operate with extended summer hours, though some outdoor activities might be limited during extreme heat. Parks, museums, and cultural sites remain fully operational, often with special summer programs.
Is it safe to travel to Japan in July?
Japan remains extremely safe for tourists year-round, with low crime rates. The main safety concerns in July are heat-related issues like dehydration and heatstroke, plus occasional typhoons in late July, primarily affecting southern regions.
How to plan a trip to Japan in July?
Book accommodations 3-4 months in advance, especially during festival periods. Research and reserve festival viewing spots or tours early. Consider a north-to-south itinerary, starting in cooler Hokkaido and ending in central Japan.
What are the best places to visit in Japan in July?
Kyoto (for the Gion Matsuri), Hokkaido (for its cooler weather and lavender fields), Tokyo (for fireworks and modern experiences), rural onsen towns (for natural hot springs), and Kamakura or Enoshima (for beach access) make for excellent destinations in Japan in July.
