The scorching summer may be hard to bear, but it’s also the perfect time to travel. With vibrant flower fields, lively seaside views, tranquil green forests, and cool mountain areas, the breathtaking scenery in Japan that you can only experience in summer is something you definitely shouldn’t miss!

 

1. Flower Viewing

Akeno Sunflower Field: Located in Hokuto City, a hilly area in the northwest of Yamanashi Prefecture, Akeno offers the most dazzling summer scenery. From late July to late August each year, the “Akeno Sunflower Festival” is held, where approximately 600,000 sunflowers transform the area into a bright sea of flowers. The blue sky, green grass, and vibrant sunflowers create a picture-perfect scene, reminiscent of an oil painting. Most importantly, it’s a fantastic place for photos! With the rolling green mountains as a backdrop, the sunflowers sway in the wind, making you feel like you’re walking through a scene from a comic book. Visitors can also participate in various festival activities, such as navigating a sunflower maze, making handicrafts, and enjoying sunflower ice cream.

Farm Tomita: If you want to experience the romantic summer of Hokkaido, you must visit Farm Tomita, known for its vibrant and refreshing charm. Farm Tomita is the birthplace of Hokkaido lavender and is the most famous lavender field in the Furano area. The heat does not diminish the enchanting allure of these floral gems, drawing people from afar to partake in this summer feast. The colorful flower fields behind the farm are a must-see, exuding a strong exotic charm. They resemble a luxurious and exquisite summer flower carpet, spreading out in rich and vibrant colors that captivate the eye.

 

2. Sea Viewing

Okinawa: For an unforgettable sea-viewing experience, Okinawa, located at the southernmost tip of Japan, is an excellent choice. It seamlessly blends ancient traditions with modern vitality, showcasing a unique charm. Okinawa’s coastline is long and winding, with pristine white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, making it a paradise for diving and snorkeling. You can dance with colorful tropical fish, explore the mysterious underwater world, and marvel at the wonders and beauty of nature.

Tsunoshima Bridge: Spanning between Shimonoseki’s Kanda and Tsunoshima in Yamaguchi Prefecture, the Tsunoshima Bridge, completed in 2000, is 1,780 meters long, making it the second-longest sea-crossing bridge in Japan and the longest on the main island. During construction, the height and alignment of the bridge piers were carefully designed to protect the local natural scenery while blending seamlessly with the surroundings. The white winding bridge over the emerald sea, with beaches and lighthouses along the coast, creates picturesque scenes. Visitors add a touch of romance and vitality to the island!

Kashiwajima: Located in Otsuki Town, Kochi Prefecture, the modest Kashiwajima island isn’t heavily promoted but has garnered a loyal following due to its stunning waters comparable to those of Okinawa and its serene, paradise-like beauty. The exceptionally clear waters are perfect for diving, and boats seem to float on the transparent surface, creating a magical and beautiful sight. The various seaside activities, like snorkeling, fishing, and wave paddling, evoke an exciting anticipation for summer. This hidden gem of an island holds all the stunning and carefree beauty of summer, quietly waiting for visitors to discover.

 

3. Mountain Forests and Gorges

Takachiho Gorge: Located in Nishiusuki District, Miyazaki Prefecture, Takachiho Gorge was formed 120,000 years ago when lava from Mount Aso flowed into the Gokase River. The gorge reaches depths of up to 100 meters, creating a mystical atmosphere with its layered forests. The unique scenery includes columnar joint cliffs and beautiful waterfalls formed by streams cascading down the valley. The clean and cool breeze through the V-shaped gorge offers picturesque views in all seasons. Summer is an excellent time to visit, as you can row a boat through the deep gorge, surrounded by lush greenery and dramatic cliffs shaped by millennia of erosion. At night, you might even encounter fireflies, turning your visit into a magical adventure.

Tsutanuma Pond: Tsutanuma, one of the “Seven Ponds of Tsuta” located in the Oirase Stream area of Aomori Prefecture, is famous for its stunning autumn scenery known as “Tsutanuma Morning Glow.” Before witnessing this fiery beauty, the deep green hues create a serene and vibrant hidden gem that feels like an escape to another world. Whether it’s sunny or rainy, Tsutanuma’s unique landscape is always a sight to behold. The lush green surroundings are far from monotonous, each spot exuding an endless charm that can make the summer heat seem distant and insignificant.

Shirakami Sanchi: For many, forests hold a special place in their hearts, and the green forests can indeed soothe the soul tired from the bustling city life. Shirakami Sanchi, a vast mountainous area spanning southwestern Aomori and northwestern Akita Prefectures, is a pristine beech forest region untouched by human activity. Designated a World Heritage site by UNESCO, Shirakami Sanchi includes the famous Aoike Pond, whose cobalt blue waters add an extra layer of mystery to the forest. It’s a popular spot for visitors seeking to immerse themselves in the healing power of nature.

 

4. Summer Travel Tips

Japan’s summer climate is hot and humid, so it’s important to stay hydrated, use sunscreen, and take measures to prevent heatstroke. Given the relatively high rainfall, it’s a good idea to carry an umbrella on a regular basis.