If you’re planning a trip to Japan in August, there are many things to consider.
August is the hottest month of the year in Japan, with high humidity and hot nights and it’s not advisable to choose this time if it can be helped.
However, there are still many great experiences to be had during this time, such as attending summer festivals and trying traditional summer foods and drinks.
Despite the hot weather, August is a popular time for locals to travel, and due to that, there are some cool and interesting events for your trip to Japan.
Understanding Japan’s Climate in August
Want to visit Japan in the month of August?
Here’s what you need to know about the summer weather.
Temperature and Weather Patterns
The Japan summer can be a dangerous time to visit with many locals suffering from heatstroke.
August is the hottest month in Japan, with temperatures ranging from the high-20s to mid to late-30s Celsius (mid-70s to low-100s Fahrenheit).
The weather is generally hot and incredibly humid, with occasional rain showers and thunderstorms.
Additionally, August is also the beginning of typhoon season in Japan, which can bring heavy rain and strong winds.
Be sure to check the weather forecast regularly and stay up-to-date on any typhoon warnings.
Add to that the rainy season can continue into early July, you can see why it’s not the best time to visit.
In terms of regional weather patterns, the northern island of Hokkaido tends to be cooler than the rest of Japan, with average temperatures in the mid-20s Celsius (mid-70s Fahrenheit).
August Festivals in Japan
Despite the summer heat, this is the month when the country celebrates some of its most exciting festivals.
In fact, it’s festival peak season.
For the most part, we’ll focus on ones in Northern Japan as that’s where you’ll see many options and also where you’ll want to be to escape the humidity.
Obon Festival
This is a traditional Japanese festival that takes place in mid-August.
It is a time when Japanese people honor their ancestors and welcome the spirits of the dead back to the world of the living.
During the festival, people light lanterns and dance in the streets to honor their ancestors.
Many towns and cities across Japan hold Obon festivals, so you should have no trouble finding one to attend.
Awa Odori Festival
The Awa Odori Festival is one of the largest dance festivals in Japan.
It takes place in Tokushima, on the island of Shikoku, and attracts thousands of visitors every year.
During the festival, dancers perform traditional Awa Odori dances in the streets.
Nebuta Festival
The Nebuta Festival is held in Aomori City, in the northern part of Japan.
It is one of the most famous festivals in Japan and is known for its impressive illuminated floats.
The floats are made of washi paper and are painted with pictures of historical or mythical figures.
During the festival, the floats are paraded through the streets, accompanied by dancers and musicians.
Kanto Festival
The Kanto Festival is a unique festival that takes place in Akita City, in the northern part of Japan.
During the festival, performers balance long bamboo poles on their hands, foreheads, and shoulders, each pole decorated with dozens of lanterns.
The festival has a lively and festive atmosphere, and it’s a great way to experience Japanese culture.
Nagaoka Fireworks
The Nagaoka Fireworks is one of the largest fireworks displays in Japan.
It takes place in Nagaoka City, in the northern part of Japan.
During the festival, thousands of fireworks are launched into the sky, creating a spectacular display of colors and shapes.
Traveling to Japan’s Regions in August
If you’re planning to travel at this time, here’s what you can do in the areas where the weather is bearable.
Hokkaido
Hokkaido is Japan’s northernmost island, and it’s known for its cooler temperatures and beautiful scenery.
It’s a great destination for those looking to escape the heat of the rest of Japan.
Some of the top things to do in Hokkaido in August include visiting the lavender fields in Furano, hiking in the national parks, and exploring the city of Sapporo.
Tohoku Region
The Tohoku region is located in the northeast of Japan, and it’s known for its beautiful natural scenery and rich cultural heritage.
In early August, the region hosts the Sandai Matsuri, which is a series of festivals that take place over multiple days.
Japanese Cuisine in August
August is a great month to experience Japanese cuisine.
With the hot and humid weather, Japanese people tend to eat light and refreshing meals.
Here are some popular foods to try during August:
- Kakigori: This is a shaved ice dessert that is perfect for cooling down on a hot summer day. It’s usually topped with syrup, condensed milk, and fruit.
- Somen: This is a type of thin noodle that is served cold with a dipping sauce. It’s a popular dish during the summer months because it’s light and refreshing.
- Unagi: This is a freshwater eel that is grilled and served with a sweet sauce. It’s believed to give you energy during the hot summer months.
- Hiyashi Chuka: This is a cold noodle dish that is typically served with vegetables, eggs, and ham. It’s a popular dish during the summer months because it’s refreshing and filling.
- Mizu Yokan: This is a sweet jelly dessert that is made with agar and sweetened red bean paste. It’s a popular dessert during the summer months because it’s light and refreshing.
In addition to these popular dishes, there are also many summer festivals that offer a variety of street food.
Practical Tips for Visiting Japan in August
In this section, we will cover some practical tips for visiting in August, including clothing and accessories, as well as travel and transportation.
Clothing and Accessories
When it comes to clothing and accessories for August in Japan, the key is to dress for the heat and humidity.
Here are some tips to help you stay cool and comfortable:
- Clothing: Lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton and linen are your best bet. Loose-fitting clothing will also help keep you cool. Shorts and short-sleeved shirts are acceptable in most places, but keep in mind that some temples and other cultural sites may have dress codes that require you to cover your shoulders and knees.
- Hat and sunglasses: Protect your face and eyes from the sun with a hat and sunglasses. A wide-brimmed hat will provide more coverage than a baseball cap.
- Sunscreen: Don’t forget to apply sunscreen regularly, especially if you plan to spend a lot of time outdoors.
- Umbrella: While it may seem counterintuitive, carrying an umbrella can be a lifesaver in the heat. A lightweight, compact umbrella can provide shade and help keep you cool.
Missing the highlights
If you visit in August, you’ll be too late for the cherry blossom season and too early for Autumn leaves.
Even though foreign visitors do choose August due to the festivals.
To us though, the summer time is probably the worst time to visit Japan.
Spending time in major cities will be tough due to the extreme heat.
On a slightly positive note, there are few travelers at this time and if you love the sun, beach trips are doable.
Before You Go
If you can, avoid a trip to Japan in August.
The Japanese summer is simply draining.
It’s much nicer earlier in the year in March, April, or in Autumn such as October or November.
The only way to really enjoy this time of the year is to spend your vacation solely in Hokkaido or northern Honshu.
But I advise a different time of year.
