Things to do in Japan in August

August in Japan is a time of celebration, a time when the country comes alive with vibrant festivals, mouth-watering food, and a spirit of joy that sweeps across the land. It’s a time when the weather is just right, not too hot, not too cold, perfect for exploring the rich tapestry of culture and tradition that Japan has to offer. So, if you’re wondering what to do in Japan in August, look no further.

Experience a different dimension of Japanese culture by immersing yourself in the vibrant, lively, and colourful festivities that light up the nation during August. These cultural celebrations offer an enchanting blend of age-old traditions, epic parades, and magical fireworks, ensuring an unforgettable experience for every traveller planning to discover Japan by train.

From the mesmerizing Aomori Nebuta Festival that lights up the city streets with colossal float displays, to the enchanting lantern festival in Japan, known as Tanabata Matsuri, where star-crossed lovers are celebrated. 

So, if you’re planning a trip and wondering about the festivals in Japan in August, get ready to be swept off your feet by the cultural richness and festive spirit that awaits you.  So, don your yukata and join the locals in these captivating festivals that are quintessentially Japanese.

Weather in Japan in August

Japan in August is a symphony of warmth and celebration. Firstly, the weather in Japan in August is like a warm hug, with a gentle blend of sun-kissed days, with temperatures reaching a comfortable 32°C. If you’re wondering, how hot is Japan in August? Well, it’s pleasantly warm, perfect for exploring the country’s rich tapestry of culture and tradition. When considering what to wear in Japan in August, think light, breathable fabrics to keep you cool as you navigate through the vibrant cityscapes.

But the real magic unfolds when the sun dips below the horizon. Lanterns glow, music fills the air, and the streets come alive with Japanese festivals. The air is filled with the rhythm of Bon Odori dances and the sky lights up with spectacular fireworks. There’s no shortage of things to do in Japan, with each festival offering a unique glimpse into the country’s heritage. And if you’re seeking respite from the heat, head north to Hokkaido, where the temperature is more forgiving. So, come August, pack your bags and let Japan’s warmth embrace you. It’s not just the weather that’s hot in Japan in August, it’s the spirit of celebration too! Now let’s explore the festivals in the month of August among the other things to do in Japan in August.

Aomori Nebuta Festival – August 2 to August 7

Image Credit: Aomori Tourism

The Akita Kanto Festival, is a celebration of Balance and grace. Held in Akita City, this Japanese festival sees participants marching through the streets, skillfully balancing towering bamboo poles on their hips, shoulders, and foreheads. These poles, adorned with lanterns, symbolize ears of rice.

The roots of Akita Kanto Festival can be traced back to the Edo period (1603-1868) when farmers in Akita City would pray for a bountiful harvest. The festival originated from Neburi Nagashi, a ceremony held to ward off summer drowsiness and was celebrated in the Horeki Period (1751–1764), in the middle of the Edo era. It was first referred to in a travel diary of 1789, “The Road Where the Snow Falls”.

One of the most dynamic festivals in Japan, the Aomori Nebuta Festival takes place in early August in Aomori City. This festival is known for its colossal float displays featuring colourful and dramatic depictions of samurai and mythological figures, illuminated from within to light up the city streets at night. Therefore, with traditional music and the hypnotic chant of “Rassera, Rassera,” this grand spectacle promises an electrifying atmosphere.

You can taste the famous Inaniwa udon, one of the three ruling udon noodles of Japan, Yokote yakisoba with a sunny-side-up fried egg topping, or the Baba Hera ice cream, a beautiful looking ice-cream made by elderly ladies of Akita.

So, if you’re exploring festivals in Japan in August, the Akita Kanto Festival offers a unique blend of tradition, spectacle, and community spirit. It’s an unmissable event that beautifully complements the dynamic Yosakoi Festival. Experience the magic of Japan in August at the Akita Kanto Festival and create lifelong memories.

Akita Kanto Festival – August 3 to August 6

Image Credit: Oh Matsuri

Held in Akita City, the Akita Kanto Festival is a spectacle of balance and grace. Participants parade through the streets balancing towering bamboo poles adorned with lanterns, representing ears of rice, on their hips, shoulders, and foreheads. This festival, held at the beginning of August, is a prayer for a good harvest and a remarkable sight that attracts crowds of both locals and visitors.

Hanagasa Festival in Yamagata – August 5 to August 7

Held in Yamagata City, this festival is renowned for its enchanting parade where participants, adorned in traditional outfits, dance through the city streets carrying hanagasa, or flower-adorned hats, in rhythmic movements.

Image Credit: Japan Tourism

The grand finale on the last night features a stunning spectacle of dancers creating dynamic formations. Moreover culminating in a vivid display of local culture and communal spirit.

Tanabata Matsuri – August 6 to August 8

Dive into the magical world of star-crossed lovers at the Tanabata Matsuri held in Sendai. This festival, also known as the Star Festival, celebrates the once-a-year meeting of the deities Orihime and Hikoboshi, represented by the stars Vega and Altair, respectively.

Image Credit: Japan Travel 

Sendai’s Tanabata Matsuri, known as one of Japan’s most spectacular, paints the city in a riot of colors. Streets come alive with detailed, rainbow-colored streamers, rivaling the splendor of the lantern festival in Japan. The festival reaches its peak with a breathtaking firework display, a grand conclusion to this mesmerizing event.

The roots of Tanabata Matsuri trace back to the Nara period (710-794 AD), when Empress Kōken introduced it to Japan. Initially called Kikkoden, or “The Festival to Plead for Skills”, it was a time when girls wished for improved sewing and craft skills, and boys for better handwriting. Over the years, it merged with Japanese traditions, notably Obon, a Buddhist festival honoring ancestors.

During Tanabata, individuals pen their wishes on small pieces of paper known as tanzaku and hang them on bamboo branches. The streets and shopping districts are decked out with stunning and vibrant decorations, including large paper lanterns, streamers, and handmade ornaments. Tanabata is a time for communities to unite and celebrate. Festivals are held across Japan, showcasing lively parades, traditional music and dance performances, and mouthwatering food stalls.

So, if you’re exploring festivals in Japan in August, the Tanabata Matsuri presents a magical fusion of love, tradition, and spectacle. It’s an unmissable event that beautifully complements the dynamic Yosakoi Festival. Experience the magic of Japan in August and create lifelong memories.

Yosakoi Festival in Kochi – August 9 to August 12

Image Credit: Visit Kochi Japan

This festival celebrates a unique style of dance called ‘Yosakoi’, characterised by energetic movements and colourful costumes. Thousands of dancers from all across Japan, brandishing naruko (hand-held wooden clappers), take to the streets in teams to perform their original choreographies.

Their vigorous and joyous performances, accompanied by traditional and contemporary music, create a contagious and invigorating atmosphere that embodies the vibrant spirit of the Japanese summer.

Awa Odori in Tokushima – August 12 to August 15

Image Credit: Tama Tourism

Experience the thrilling rhythms and infectious energy of the Awa Odori, held in Tokushima Prefecture. Translated as the ‘Awa Dance’, this celebration is known as the largest dance festival in Japan.

Groups of choreographed dancers and musicians, known as ‘ren’, parade through the streets, their traditional costumes adding an extra splash of colour to the lively event. Spectators can also dance alongside the performers during some of the festivities

Gozan Okuribi – August 16

Image Credit: Discover Kyoto

Kyoto’s Gozan Okuribi festival, also known as Daimonji, concludes the Buddhist Obon period when ancestral spirits are believed to return to this world. Five giant bonfires are lit on Kyoto’s surrounding mountains, creating a serene and profoundly spiritual sight.

Earth Celebration in Sado – August 18 to August 20

Credits: EarthCelebration

For a unique and enriching experience, consider heading to Sado Island in Niigata for the Earth Celebration. This event is hosted by Kodo, one of the world’s foremost taiko drumming groups. Moreover, this festival showcases their soul-stirring performances and offers workshops where you can try your hand at this traditional art form.

The festival also highlights international music and art collaborations, fostering a sense of global community. Set amidst the breathtaking natural beauty of Sado, the Earth Celebration is a rhythmic retreat you wouldn’t want to miss. In conclusion, Japan’s festive spirit is in full bloom in August, bringing together communities and offering visitors an exciting, immersive cultural experience. These festivals, with their vibrant parades, traditional dances, and dazzling firework displays, are the heartbeat of the country during the warm summer nights.

Don’t miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in these mesmerizing August celebrations that truly embody the soul of Japan.

Food and Drink in Japan

In August, Japan is a feast for the senses. Firstly, the hot weather calls for refreshing treats like kakigori (shaved ice) and chilled somen noodles. In particular, in Tokyo, you can savour hiyashi chuka, a cold ramen dish perfect for the summer heat. Next, head to Kyoto for yudofu, a delicate tofu dish enjoyed in serene temple settings. Meanwhile, in Osaka, don’t miss takoyaki, delicious octopus balls often found at lively festivals. Finally, up north in Hokkaido, enjoy fresh seafood like uni (sea urchin) and ikura (salmon roe). With so many things to do in Japan, from exploring temples to enjoying fireworks, the food in August adds a delicious touch to your adventures. Embrace the flavors and festivities of Japan in August!