Things to do in July 2025 near Tokyo
Looking for things to do in July near Tokyo? It’s the hot summer season, but there are many fun or cooler activities available near Tokyo.
Things to do
in JULY 2025
Nearby Tokyo
Written by
Angus Miyaji
Things to Know
Events & Festivals
Things to Do
Places to Stay
Things to know about JULY 2025
July is the start of summer. The first few weeks are still the end of the Japanese rainy season, Tsuyu (梅雨), but from mid-July, the weather conditions become not as wet and very hot and humid, with daily highs frequently reaching 30−35 °C (86−95°F) or more. This period brings vibrant summer festivals, lush landscapes, and opportunities for outdoor activities (take precautions against the summer conditions).
Mountain areas like Nikko, Kusatsu, Nasu, Tsumagoi, Minakami, and Daigo offer some relief, but lower elevations remain warm.
What to wear in JULY
Pack lightweight, loose-fitting, and breathable clothing (cotton, linen, quick-dry fabrics). Essential items include strong sun protection (hat, sunglasses, high-SPF sunscreen), a reusable water bottle (can be bought in Japan) to stay constantly hydrated, and perhaps a sun umbrella (can also easily be purchased in Japan). Consider cooling accessories like a handheld fan or cooling wipes. For early July, a light rain jacket or umbrella is still advisable. Comfortable sandals or breathable walking shoes are a must.
*Most things you need to stay cool can be easily be bought at a good price in Japan.
One of our writers, Venice wrote a guide with ‘9 Tips and Ideas to stay during Japanese hot summner’, so have a read below if you are interested.
Holidays & Crowds in JULY
Crowds start to pick up from the Marine Day holiday (third Monday of July) with the start of school summer vacations, making popular leisure spots busier.
However, early July is usually much quieter, and even with this summer increase, these areas often remain less congested than during Japan’s peak travel times early May (Golden week) and mid-August (Obon).
Recommended Activity in JULY
In July, you can experience Japanese culture by attending lively summer festivals, like Kuki Chochin Festival, Kumagaya Uchiwa Festival, or the UNESCO registered Yamaage Festival in Nasu-Karasuyama.
Or you can escape Tokyo’s heat with a trip to cooler mountain destinations such as Nikko, Kusatsu, Nasu, Tsumagoi, Minakami, and Daigo near Tokyo.
Alternatively, enjoy refreshing river activities in places like Nagatoro and Minakami, explore Ibaraki’s scenic coastline, or discover beautiful highland trails and enjoy seasonal summer treats all near Tokyo.
News for MAY 2025
Japan’s Ministry of Transport has officially recognized the “North Kanto Flower Corridor” under its Garden Tourism registration system. This exciting initiative connects 12 beautiful gardens across Tochigi, Gunma, and Ibaraki prefectures, such as Ashikaga Flower Park and Hitachi Seaside Park aiming to boost regional tourism by showcasing their unique floral attractions.
Events & Festivals in July
12th (Sat) and 18th (Fri) July (2 days only)
Kuki Chouchin Festival
2025:
12th (Sat) and 18th (Fri) July (2 days only)
Japanese Name: 久喜提燈祭り「天王様」（久喜）
Kuki Chouchin Festival is one of the largest lantern festivals in Japan. On the 12th and 18th of July every year. Easy to get to from Tokyo! (Kuki City / 久喜市)
20th (Sun) to 22nd (Tue) July
Kumagaya Uchiwa Festival
2025:
20th (Sun) to 22nd (Tue) July
40min*
*from Tokyo
*from Tokyo
Japanese Name: 熊谷うちわ祭
Kumagaya Uchiwa Festival is the largest Gion Festival near Tokyo. No need to go to Kyoto to experience the excitement. Only 40min away! (Kumagaya City / 熊谷市）
25th July (Fri) to 27th July (Sun) *The Fourth weekend of July
Yamaage Festival
2025:
25th July (Fri) to 27th July (Sun) *The Fourth weekend of July
Japanese Name: 山あげ祭り(那須烏山市)
Visit Yamaage Festival, an exciting outdoor Kabuki festival registered by UNESCO. Join the fun in Nasu-Karasuyama City this July! (Nasu-Karasuyama City / 那須烏山市)
Recommend things to do in July
Nikko Natural Science Museum
Visit Nikko Natural History Museum, conveniently located near Lake Chuzenji, to discover the fascinating natural wonders and rich history of Oku-Nikko through engaging exhibits.
Watanabesahei Sake Brewery
Founded in 1842, Watanabesahei Sake Brewery is a traditional sake brewery in Imaichi, Nikko. They run a popular English brewery tour almost every day, and have a nice shop. Why not come to see a working sake brewery and learn how sake is made?
Katayama Sake Brewery
Katayama Sake Brewery is a very small, family-run sake brewery founded in 1879. Located near Watanabesahei in Imaichi, Nikko, it has a brewery shop to buy sake. Every drop of sake is gently made by hand, with the sake-pressing process alone taking three days!
Tonoike Sake Brewery
Established more than 80 years ago, Tonoike Sake Brewery is a traditional Sake brewery popular with overseas visitors. Visitors can drop by or book a tasting tour.
(Open 365 days)
Shimazaki Sake Brewery
Known as the ‘Cave Brewery’, we are a family-run sake brewery that produces award-winning aged sake. Come and visit the cave on our open-days or book a special tasting tour by our brewery owner.
Akechidaira Ropeway
Enjoy breathtaking views of Chuzenji Lake, Kegon Falls, and Mount Nantai.
Max Minakami
We have guides with guiding experience in Australia and New Zealand as well as Nepalese guides who can provide outdoor tours in English.
Nasu Animal Kingdom
Meet diverse animals, enjoy thrilling shows, and see learn about animal conservation.
Popular areas such as, “Asia Forest”, “Tropical Forest”, “Aqua Stage” and “Sky Stadium” are great for both children and adults.
Popular areas such as, “Asia Forest”, “Tropical Forest”, “Aqua Stage” and “Sky Stadium” are great for both children and adults.
Places to stay in July
Shima Onsen Kashiwaya Ryokan
Visit Kashiwaya Ryokan and experience Japanese tradition and great hospitality. Not only are the hot spring baths all private & tattoo-friendly, they can also offer delicious vegan & vegetarian options. Enjoy a quiet, relaxing onsen experience just a short trip from Tokyo. Direct buses from Tokyo station.
Hatcho-no-yu
Located in Nikko National Park, ‘Haccho no Yu’ is said to be the last hidden hot spring near Tokyo. At an altitude of 1,400 meters, surrounded by wildlife, enjoy our locally sourced meal and open-air baths beside a waterfall. Our winter snow activities are also highly recommended.
Chuzenji Kanaya Hotel
Visit us for a relaxing stay at our log cabin-themed hotel by Lake Chuzenji. We are known for our French cuisine rich heritage and onsen (hot spring) relaxation.
Yado Kanzan (Ryokan)
Indulge in Japanese hospitality in this cosy luxurious family-run ryokan with private onsen (hot spring) and direct views of beautiful Mount Tanigawa. Experience delicious Kaiseki cuisine, and learn about shakuhachi (Japanese bamboo flute) while listening to live demonstrations.
Contributor: Angus Miyaji
Founder of Nearby Tokyo and Japan World Link, Angus helps visitors discover off the beaten track destinations in the North Kanto regions (Tochigi, Gunma, Ibaraki & Saitama north of Tokyo). He regularly travels between Japan and the UK promoting tourism and Japanese sake.
