The Japanese summer is short and extremely hot. Thermometers fluctuate, most of the time, between 30 and 35, and can reach, in some cases, almost 40. Before the temperature rises for good, the Japanese need to face the rainy season, which takes place in June. It rains, non-stop, for weeks, until the heat sets in. After the rainy season, the weather becomes muggier and typhoons start to appear more frequently in August and September.
Try focusing on Okinawa
A good tip is the Okinawa region, known as the “Caribbean of Japan”, and offers beautiful beaches and tropical temperatures during the summer. Okinawa is the southernmost prefecture of Japan, between Kyushu and Taiwan, and is somewhat different from the rest of Japan, where everything has its identity, colors and flavors, and even the modern Japanese dialect. Okinawa is an archipelago divided into three main island groups: Okinawa (around Okinawa Island), Miyako (around Miyako Island) and Yaeyama (around Ishigaki Island). Do not miss snorkeling, diving, hiking and watching marine life.
You have other adventurous options
Strolling through large urban centers, such as Tokyo and Kyoto also beckons positively, but requires a little more attention during the heat wave. You need to hydrate well and take care of your skin, bring hats or caps, light clothes that are more breathable, such as cotton and fans to fan yourself during the day.
The summer in Japan also marks the holding of many summer festivals, which take place across the country, such as the Matsuri, Obon, and Hanabi. Matsuri are festivals in general and take place in temples and shrines, and Obon is a Buddhist event where the Japanese pay homage to their ancestors. The festival of the stars celebrates the love story between star Vega and star Altair. On this date, it is common for people to write their wishes on a lucky paper. Hanabi is fireworks festivals and take place in the summer.
Witness the mount Fuji
Summer is also a good time to climb the famous Mount Fuji, as most of the snow has melted and the weather is more pleasant. It is common for people to go early in the morning to see the sunrise over the Pacific Ocean. The journey is possible in different routes, from easier to more complicated, but it is important to book in advance and go prepared. The season to climb Fuji-san (as the Japanese affectionately call Mount Fuji) starts in July and runs until the first week of September.
Foods in summer
Due to the intense heat in the country, the Japanese opt for more refreshing and light foods, such as iced coffees and teas, cold soups, ice cream and frozen noodles. To eat, be sure to try the omen, which is a kind of pasta, only cold. Hiyashi is another dish recommended to recover from intense heat, which consists of ramen noodles with lots of vegetables, ham, omelet, seafood and cold sesame or soy broth.
Kakigori is also very popular there during this time of year. You can add different syrups to give it a sweet taste, such as strawberry, melon, mango, green tea, banana, chocolate syrup and if you want to make a joke, you can add syrups with different colors and make a rainbow. Beer also goes well with the heat wave and is very popular in the season.