If you thought wasabi was hot, wait until you experience summer in Japan! With temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F) countrywide, you're sure to break a sweat. The season typically starts in June and lasts until August, with some areas experiencing the heat well into September. 

But fear not! Japanese folks take time off work and school during this season to enjoy summer vacation. Popular activities include:

1. Visiting beaches🏖️

2. Going to summer festivals (matsuri)🎉

3. Hiking in the mountains⛰️

4. Enjoying outdoor activities such as camping and barbecuing🏕️

5. One of the most famous summer festivals in Japan is the Obon festival, which is held in mid-August and is a time to honor and remember ancestors. During this festival, people light lanterns and dance in traditional costumes.

But wait, there's more! Another popular activity during the summer is watching fireworks displays (hanabi taikai) that are held across the country. These displays are typically held in the evenings and draw large crowds who gather to watch the colorful explosions in the sky.

So, grab a cold drink and a fan, and get ready for a summer of fun, relaxation, and celebration in Japan!

What clothing items are recommended for a trip to Japan in summer?

For a trip to Japan in summer, it is recommended to pack lightweight and breathable clothing such as:

Packable waterproof jacket

Comfortable walking shoes

7 lightweight cotton/bamboo tops

2 lightweight sweaters

sleepwear (lightweight)

Undergarments

2 dressy outfits

Socks

swimwear (1 piece recommended over bikinis)

Shorts

Skirts

Sundresses

Lightweight pants or capris

Lightweight jacket or cardigan for cooler evenings or indoor air conditioning

It's important to note that Japan can be conservative, so it's recommended to avoid wearing revealing clothing such as short shorts or low-cut tops. It's also a good idea to bring comfortable walking shoes, such as sneakers or sandals, as there will likely be a lot of walking involved. Don't forget to pack socks, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. It may also be useful to bring a small umbrella or rain jacket as Japan can experience occasional summer showers.

What toiletries should be included in the packing list?

Having a fully equipped toiletries bag is crucial for a comfortable and hassle-free travel experience in Japan. Luckily, many convenience stores such as 7-11, Lawson, and Family Mart can provide you with restocks as needed. 

For pharmaceutical products, there are plenty of large pharmacies scattered all throughout the city, especially near train stations. These pharmacies carry Japanese versions of commonly used over-the-counter medicines and other pharmaceutical products. 

• Sunscreen

• Insect repellent

• Body lotion

• Face wash

• Moisturizer

• Deodorant

• Shampoo and conditioner

• Body wash or soap

• Razor and shaving cream

• Feminine hygiene products

• Toothbrush and toothpaste

• Dental floss

• Mouthwash

• Tweezers and nail clippers

• Makeup remover

• Contact lenses and solution (if needed)

• Prescription medications (if needed)

It's also a good idea to pack a small first aid kit with items like bandages, antiseptic cream, and pain relievers. If you're traveling with any electronics, don't forget to pack chargers and adapters

Here are some electronics and extras that are suggested for a trip 

• Smartphone and charger

• Camera and extra memory cards

• Portable charger or power bank

• E-reader or tablet

• Headphones or earbuds

• Travel adapter and converter (if necessary)

• Japanese phrasebook or language translation app

• Travel guidebook or map

• Travel journal or notebook and pen

• Reusable water bottle

• Snacks and gum for the flight and long train rides

It's also a good idea to make copies of important documents such as your passport and travel insurance and store them in a separate location from the originals. Additionally, it's recommended to bring some cash in Japanese yen as not all places accept credit cards.

Consider using packing cubes for packing your suitcase

Another benefit of using packing cubes is that they compress your clothes, allowing you to fit more items into your suitcase. This can be especially helpful if you're traveling with a carry-on only.

For example, you can use smaller packing cubes for socks, underwear, and accessories, and larger ones for shirts, pants, and jackets. This way, you can easily find what you're looking for without having to dig through your entire suitcase.

Overall, packing cubes can be a game-changer for keeping your suitcase organized and making the most of your packing space. So, if you haven't tried them yet, it's definitely worth giving them a shot!

Thank you for considering Travelalls as a helpful resource for planning your trip to Japan! Here are some further details on how Travelalls can assist you:

Custom Trip Planning: Use our website's trip planner tool to create a custom itinerary for your trip to Japan, including places to visit, accommodations, and activities.

Travel Site List: We also provide a travel site list that you can use to directly inquire about travel arrangements, such as flights and accommodations, and compare prices.

Packing Lists: Use Travelalls' packing software to ensure that you have all the essentials for your trip and stay organized throughout your travels.

We're here to help make your Japan travel experience the best it can be. Don't hesitate to reach out to us with any questions or feedback. Safe travels!