Overview

July in Japan is packed with vibrant summer festivals, spectacular fireworks displays, and ancient traditions. As the rainy season transitions into summer, with typhoon season beginning, summer fully arrives with lively celebrations across the country. Whether you’re experiencing the grandeur of Kyoto’s Gion Matsuri or relaxing on Okinawa’s beaches, July offers a mix of cultural excitement and seasonal beauty.

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Top 5 Events

1. Gion Matsuri

Where: Kyoto

When: Throughout July (main parades on 17 and 24 July)

• One of Japan’s most famous festivals, dating back over 1,100 years
• Features grand yama and hoko floats parading through Kyoto’s streets
• Yoiyama evenings (14–16 and 21–23 July) offer food stalls, performances, and illuminated floats

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2. Tenjin Matsuri

Where: Osaka

When: 24–25 July

• One of Japan’s top three festivals, dedicated to the deity of scholarship
• Includes a river procession with boats carrying mikoshi (portable shrines)
• Concludes with a massive fireworks display over the Okawa River

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3. Sumidagawa Fireworks Festival

Where: Tokyo, Sumida River

When: Last Saturday of July

• One of Japan’s largest and most iconic fireworks events
• Thousands of fireworks light up the Tokyo skyline
• Best viewed from parks, riverbanks, or nearby rooftops

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4. Tanabata – Star Festival

Where: Nationwide (notable events in Sendai and Hiratsuka)

When: 7 July (Sendai’s main festival held in August)

• Based on the legend of star-crossed lovers Orihime and Hikoboshi
• People write wishes on colourful strips (tanzaku) and hang them on bamboo
• Sendai’s version is especially grand, with streamers, decorations, and parades

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5. Gujo Odori

Where: Gujo Hachiman, Gifu Prefecture

When: Mid-July to early September (peak nights: 13–16 August)

• Japan’s most famous participatory folk dance festival
• Held nightly in a historic town setting, with live music and locals dancing in yukata
• Visitors are encouraged to join in — no experience required

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Additional Events

Kagoshima Rokugatsudo Lantern Festival

Where: Kagoshima City

When: Mid-July

• Thousands of lanterns illuminate temples and shrines in a peaceful night festival

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Beaches and Marine Activities

Where: Okinawa, Shonan (Kanagawa), Izu (Shizuoka)

When: All of July

• July marks the start of official beach season — ideal for diving, surfing, and relaxing
• Okinawa offers coral reefs, while Shonan is known for lively beach bars

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Hakata Gion Yamakasa

Where: Fukuoka

When: 1–15 July (main race on 15 July)

• Teams race through city streets carrying heavy floats in a high-energy event
• Concludes with a dramatic pre-dawn race

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Lake Biwa Fireworks Festival

Where: Lake Biwa, Shiga Prefecture

When: Late July to early August

• Stunning fireworks reflected on Japan’s largest lake
• Best viewed from Otsu Port or lakeside parks

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Ukai – Traditional Cormorant Fishing

Where: Nagaragawa River, Gifu Prefecture

When: May to mid-October

• Historic night-time fishing technique using trained birds
• Best experienced via river cruise under lantern light

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Additional Tips

• Stay hydrated, as July is hot and humid in many regions
• Book early, especially for Kyoto and Tokyo during Gion and Sumidagawa festivals
• Wear a yukata – many summer festivals encourage traditional dress
• Try festival food – including kakigori (shaved ice), yakisoba, and takoyaki
• Check local fireworks schedules, as displays vary across cities and weekends

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