Overview

August in Japan is a month of spectacular fireworks, lively summer festivals, and traditional Obon celebrations. While the weather is hot and humid, the energy of matsuri (festivals) and bon odori (Obon dances) makes it an exciting time to visit. However, typhoon season is in full swing, so it’s essential to keep an eye on weather forecasts when travelling.

‍

Top 5 Events

1. Nebuta Matsuri

Where: Aomori City, Aomori Prefecture

When: 2–7 August

• One of Japan’s most famous and colourful festivals
• Enormous illuminated floats are paraded through the city, accompanied by dancers and taiko drums
• Culminates in a spectacular fireworks display over Aomori Bay

‍

2. Awa Odori

Where: Tokushima, Shikoku

When: 12–15 August

• Japan’s largest Obon dance festival, drawing over 1 million spectators
• Features thousands of dancers in colourful traditional attire
• Streets are filled with music, food stalls, and joyful celebration

‍

3. Obon – Festival of the Dead

Where: Nationwide (notable in Kyoto, Tokushima, Nagasaki)

When: 13–16 August

• A spiritual time when ancestors’ spirits return home
• Families visit graves, light lanterns, and join in bon odori dances
• Some areas hold Toro Nagashi (lantern floating) ceremonies to send spirits back to the afterlife

‍

4. Kanto Matsuri

Where: Akita City, Akita Prefecture

When: 3–6 August

• Performers balance giant poles with glowing lanterns on their bodies
• A mesmerising mix of strength, balance, and tradition
• The streets are alive with drumming, chanting, and cheering crowds

‍

5. Gozan no Okuribi (Daimonji Festival)

Where: Kyoto

When: 16 August

• Huge bonfires shaped like kanji characters are lit on mountains around Kyoto
• Marks the end of Obon by guiding spirits back to the spirit world
• Best viewed from riversides, rooftops, or hills around the city

‍

Additional Events

Tanabata Matsuri (Sendai)

Where: Sendai, Miyagi Prefecture

When: 6–8 August

• Japan’s largest Star Festival with massive paper streamers and lively parades

‍

Nagaoka Fireworks Festival

Where: Nagaoka, Niigata Prefecture

When: 2–3 August

• One of Japan’s top three fireworks festivals, including the symbolic Phoenix display

‍

Yamaga Toro Matsuri

Where: Yamaga, Kumamoto Prefecture

When: 15–16 August

• Women dance in yukata while balancing glowing lanterns on their heads in honour of ancestral spirits

‍

Osaka Tenjin Matsuri Fireworks

Where: Osaka

When: 25 July into early August

• Boat processions and fireworks light up the Okawa River in this citywide celebration

‍

Kochi Yosakoi Festival

Where: Kochi City, Shikoku

When: 9–12 August

• High-energy dance festival combining traditional and modern styles — spectators often join in

‍

Fuji Mountain Climbing Season

Where: Mount Fuji

When: July to early September

• The official season to summit Japan’s most iconic mountain for sunrise views

‍

Beach and Summer Resort Season

Where: Okinawa, Izu Peninsula, Shonan

When: All of August

• Perfect for diving, snorkelling, and traditional beach festivals with fireworks and music

‍

Additional Tips

• Stay hydrated, as August is one of the hottest and most humid months in Japan
• Monitor typhoon forecasts, especially if travelling to coastal or remote areas
• Book accommodation early, particularly in festival cities like Aomori, Tokushima, and Kyoto
• Dress for the heat – light, breathable clothing and a fan or parasol can be helpful
• Try summer foods, including kakigori (shaved ice), yakitori, and chilled somen noodles

‍