Japan Summer Travel Guide: 4 Best Local Cool Spots to Escape the Heat

 

It’s only the mid-May now, and temperatures in Japan have already hit 30°C! With predictions showing that summers are getting hotter every year, it’s important to be well prepared if you’re planning to travel to Japan during the summer months.

Last year, we shared “Top Things Malaysians Should Know About Summer in Japan”, where you got plenty of useful tips on how to survive the heat. Today, we want to share with you some of the locals’ favourite spots to escape the summer heat (避暑地)

Karuizawa

Karuizawa is the closest highland destination from Tokyo and also the easiest to reach — whether by Shinkansen (approx. 1 hour) or car (2 to 2.5 hours). Being located in the highlands, it offers cool and refreshing air, just like Genting Highlands. It’s a lovely place for a relaxed stroll and a slow-paced getaway. There’s also the popular Prince Outlet Shopping Mall, making it very convenient for families and big groups.

*Tabigo Private Chartered Service available here.

Kamikochi

Kamikochi is located in Nagano Prefecture, nestled deep in the Japanese Alps at a higher elevation. It is only open from April to November each year, making summer one of the best seasons to visit. Kamikochi is famous for its breathtaking natural scenery and is a paradise for outdoor activities such as hiking and camping. At here, you can enjoy its stunning alpine valley, crystal-clear river views, and well-maintained nature trails.

Lake Biwa

Lake Biwa is located in Shiga Prefecture and is Japan’s largest lake. It offers a chill and relaxing atmosphere with far fewer tourists compared to popular spots in Kyoto. The area is filled with beautiful sightseeing spots such as Shirahige Shrine (with its iconic torii gate in the water) and Biwako Valley Ropeway, making it perfect for a relaxed 1-day itinerary. Best of all, it is easily accessible from Kyoto Station and Kansai Airport.

*Checkout Tabigo One-way Transfer Service here.

Hokkaido

Last but not least, Hokkaido is always one of the top choices for traveling in Japan during summer. Located in the northernmost part of Japan, it enjoys pleasant temperatures between 18–25°C. In July, the region becomes especially popular for its stunning lavender fields, offering breathtaking views perfect for photography. If you have extra time, we highly recommend adding the Shiretoko Peninsula to your itinerary. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a pristine nature area where you can observe wildlife against dramatic sea views.

Japan’s summer might not offer the most comfortable temperatures, but it’s also the best time to experience Japan’s vibrant summer culture, like the matsuri or firework festivals. On top of that, we highly recommend opting for our private chartered service to make your trip much more comfortable and “chill”. 😎