July in Japan sees summer getting into full swing; the rainy season has ended in most parts of the country and the temperatures continue to rise. It’s a great time for outdoor beer gardens, beach trips and water sports in crystal-clear lakes and rivers.
Another great way to cool down is to head to one of Japan’s many mountain ranges, where the higher altitude means cooler temperatures than the cities. Simply enjoy the verdant surrounds or consider going on a hike – there are walks to suit all fitness levels.
It’s also a month full of lively summer festivals. We've highlighted a few below that you can keep in mind when planning your future travel to Japan. They are selected from a list compiled by JNTO's Tourist Information Center that provides details on which festivals were scheduled for or went ahead in 2021 and which were cancelled. The full list can be found at the end of this article.
NOTE: Many websites only have information in Japanese so you may need to use an online translation service such as Google Translate 
or DeepL . Alternatively, the Chrome browser allows you to translate many webpages from Japanese into English.
Please note that dates, times and functions are subject to change without notice and can vary slightly each year. In particular, the schedule of outdoor events and flower festivals may change due to the weather. Be sure to check the latest information in advance.
Hakata Gion Yamakasa Festival
Where: Kushida-jinja Shrine and surrounds, Fukuoka
When: Cancelled in 2021 (originally scheduled for 1-5 July 2021)
Summary: One of Japan’s most thrilling festivals and is listed as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. Men in traditional outfits race through the streets of Hakata with yamakasa – vibrantly decorated 1-tonne floats. Display-only yamakasa adorned with elaborate decorations can also be seen throughout the city during the festival period.
JNTO website: Hakata Gion Yamakasa Festival
Gion Matsuri
Where: Yasaka Shrine, Shijo-Karasuma area and surrounds
When: Cancelled in 2021 (usually held over the month of July, with the main processions held on 17 July and 24 July)
Summary: First held in 869, Gion Matsuri is considered one of the three grandest festivals in Japan. The parades feature floats, some weighing several tonnes, that are elaborately decorated with exquisite craftwork.
JNTO website: Gion Matsuri
Soma Nomaoi
Where: Minami-Soma City, Fukushima
When: 24 - 26 July 2021 (annually on the last Saturday, Sunday and Monday of July)
Summary: Soma Nomaoi is a celebration of martial skill and horse riding, and after 2011 it has also become a symbol of resilience and survival for the residents of Soma. It has been held for over 1000 years and is a nationally designated Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property.
JNTO website: Soma Nomaoi
Owari Tsushima Tenno Festival and Fireworks
Where: Tsushima-jinja Shrine, Tennogawa Park, Aichi
When: Cancelled in 2021 (originalled scheduled for 24-25 July 2021)
Summary: Held on the Tenno River in Tsushima, the highlight of the night festival is the exhibition of five traditional Makiwara boats, decorated with hundreds of large paper lanterns, gliding down the river to the sound of traditional flutes and drums. There is also a fireworks display. The morning festival features the boats redecorated with gorgeous tapestries with mannequins and dolls dressed in traditional Noh costumes. The festival is a National Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property and is registered as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Aichi Now website: Owari Tsushima Tenno Festival and Fireworks
Tenjin Matsuri
Where: Osaka Tenmangu Shrine and surrounding areas, Osaka
When: Cancelled in 2021 (the main event is on 25 July but there are events held for around a month leading up to this day)
Summary: A sensational summer festival dating back to 951 and considered one of the three grandest festivals in Japan. The lively festival is full of rituals, music and dance and traditional performances. The highlight is the evening procession of 100 illuminated boats carrying portable shrines down the river, with the celebrations culminating in a dazzling firework display that lasts for over an hour.
JNTO website: Tenjin Festival
Hachinohe Sansha Taisai Festival
Where: Ogami Shrine, Chojasan Shinra Shrine, Shinmeigu Shrine and others, Aomori
When: Cancelled in 2021 (usually held annually between 31 July and 4 August)
Summary: The largest festival in the Hachinohe region with a history of over 290 years and featuring 27 large ornate floats, a procession of mikoshi (portable shrine) amongst many other events.
Aomori Sightseeing Guide: Hachinohe Sansha Taisai Festival
Gujo Odori
Where: Hachiman-cho, Gujo City, Gifu
When: The 2021 in-person events have been cancelled but there are plans for an online event. It is usually held from mid-July to early September.
Summary: Guji Odori Festival community festival held over three months and features 10 different dances. It has over 400 years of history and along with being an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property and is considered one of the three most important bon festivals in Japan.
JNTO website: Gujo Odori Festival
More information
- Calendar of Events | July 2021
