Coolcation Destinations in Japan: Where to Visit and Stay Cool in Japan in Summer
Summer in Japan is as vibrant as it is intense. If you’re visiting Japan in the summer, know that alongside the excitement of summer festivals comes the heat. With temperatures often soaring above 30℃ (86°F) and humidity that clings to your skin, summer in Japan, especially in big cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, may feel overwhelming.
Thankfully, Japan offers plenty of cool-weather escapes (also known as coolcation!) where you can cool down without missing out on adventure. From the breezy mountains of Nagano to the coastal beauty of Miyazaki, you’ll find destinations where the air feels lighter and the pace more relaxed.
Key Highlights
- Escape Japan’s summer heat by heading to cooler regions like Hokkaido or the Japanese Alps, where fresh mountain air and breathtaking scenery set the tone for a relaxing coolcation.
- Enjoy seasonal activities such as taking a refreshing walk in lavender fields, hiking to a waterfall, and visiting open-air onsens (hot springs).
- Stay at resorts near scenic mountains or lakes, such as Club Wyndham Sundance Resort Karuizawa, for easy access to cultural sites and outdoor activities.
Where to cool down in Japan during hot months?
When visiting Japan in summer, these regions are your best bet for beating the heat!
1. Hokkaido: A naturally cool place
Wondering which part of Japan is cooler? Japan’s northernmost region stays pleasantly mild even in peak summer, with breezy mountains and open countryside.
- Furano & Biei: Wander through lavender fields where the highland air is crisp and refreshing, far from the heavy city heat. Visit Farm Tomita for its purple carpets of blooms and the scent of fresh herbs.
- Asahikawa: Escape into Daisetsuzan National Park for hikes under alpine skies and chilled river valleys.
- Hakodate: Cool coastal air sweeps through this port city. You can ride the ropeway up Mount Hakodate at dusk for panoramic city views and enjoy a temperature drop of a few degrees.
Tip: Stay within easy reach of nature trails and charming towns to hop between festivals, hikes and hot springs.
2. Tohoku: Lakes, lanterns and mountains
This northern region is full of lakes, mountains, and coastlines that stay comfortably cool in summer.
- Aomori: Enjoy the Nebuta Festival on pleasantly cool evenings. You can also pay a visit to the apple orchards or stop by Lake Towada for a scenic paddle.
Note: The Nebuta Festival is a summer festival in Aomori, Japan, known for its large, illuminated paper floats called Nebuta that depict samurai, gods, and mythical figures.
- Lake Towada: The high elevation and gentle winds keep this crater lake pleasantly cool for hiking and boating.
- Yamagata (Zao Onsen): High-altitude hot-spring towns like Zao let you soak outdoors while surrounded by crisp mountain air.
- Iwate: The dramatic Geibikei Gorge boat ride offers shade and chilled spray, nature’s version of air-conditioning.
Tip: Time your visit to local summer matsuri (festivals) to see the region’s cultural heart. Think giant illuminated floats and rhythmic taiko drums under a sky that’s cool enough for yukata comfort.
3. Okinawa: Where ocean breezes do the cooling
Though tropical, this summer destination in Japan cools you down with constant ocean breezes, shaded beaches, and island waters.
- Ishigaki Island: Snorkel and dive in the cool turquoise waters of Kabira Bay for a natural chill.
- Miyako Island: Long white beaches and calm seas make it perfect for cooling swims and shaded seaside lounging.
- Kerama Islands: Known for clear waters, island-hopping here means endless dips in refreshing lagoons.
Tip: Bring reef-safe sunscreen and snorkelling gear.
4. Shikoku: Gorges, rivers, and valleys
Shikoku one of Japan’s most naturally cooling destinations, with mountains, rivers and shaded valleys that make it an ideal escape for adventure seekers.
- Iya Valley (Tokushima): Misty gorges, vine bridges and emerald rivers define this untouched region. Try rafting the Yoshino River or staying at a ryokan built into the cliffs.
- Kochi: The sea breezes at Katsurahama Beach balance the warm sun, while rivers nearby offer a refreshing dip.
- Oboke Gorge: Take a white-water ride or a slow sightseeing boat through narrow canyon walls draped in forest green.
Tip: Base yourself in Iya Valley or Kochi for easy access to both rivers and culture.
5. The Japanese Alps: Japan’s Summer Refuge
Stretching across central Honshu, the Japanese Alps offer mountain retreats with a view and a true breath of fresh air during summer.
- Kamikochi: Often called the “Swiss Alps of Japan”, this valley offers trails beside turquoise rivers and peaks still capped with snow.
- Matsumoto: Beyond its famous black castle, Matsumoto thrives on local soba and art museums. The evening breeze here feels like silk after a day’s exploration.
- Nagano & Toyama: Hike alpine routes like Tateyama Kurobe, dotted with wildflowers and highland lakes that shimmer under crisp skies.
Where to stay: Club Wyndham Shirakabaso Shiga-Kogen offers direct access to mountain trails and a soak-with-a-view onsen.
6. Fuji Five Lakes: Views of Japan’s Icon
Nestled at the northern foot of Mount Fuji, this region is one of Japan’s most scenic escapes. Each of the five lakes offers unique views and plenty of activities.
- Lake Kawaguchi: The most famous for postcard-perfect Fuji views and lakeside strolls.
- Lake Yamanaka: Popular for cycling routes, paddleboats, and water sports.
- Lake Motosu: Known for its clear waters and serene camping spots.
- Lake Shoji: Quiet and intimate, perfect for reflection and photography.
- Lake Saiko: A hub for hiking, caving, and shaded forest walks.
Tip: Stay at or close to the lakeside for sunrise or sunset views of Mount Fuji; it’s worth waking up early for.
5 cool Japanese eats on summer days
As you explore summer destinations in Japan, here are suggestions on what you could consume to help you stay cool!
- Chilled ramen: Served in a chilled soy-based broth and sometimes with floating ice cubes, it’s a refreshing twist from Yamagata, which is a national favourite.
- Mizu manju: From Gifu, these translucent sweets resemble raindrops. Made with kuzu starch and filled with red bean paste, they’re chilled in spring water.
- Uji kintoki: This is Kyoto’s ultimate summer indulgence; fluffy shaved ice drizzled with matcha syrup and topped with sweet red bean paste.
- Nagashi somen: This playful dining sends cold somen noodles flowing down bamboo chutes in icy spring water, which you must catch with chopsticks.
- Hiyayakko: Silken tofu is topped with soy sauce, ginger, scallions, and bonito flakes. This minimal-ingredients-maximum-refreshment dish is a classic in summer meals.
7-day coolcation itinerary in Japan
This itinerary lets your experience several summer destinations in Japan —Hokkaido, the Japanese Alps, and the Fuji Five Lakes.
- Day 1: Arrival in Sapporo, Hokkaido
Touch down in Sapporo, Hokkaido’s vibrant capital, and gateway to Japan’s northern charm.
Check in at Wyndham Garden Sapporo Odori, perfectly located near Odori Park, where tree-lined walkways and fountains offer a refreshing welcome.
Stroll through the botanical gardens to enjoy alpine blooms, and then tuck into a bowl of cold ramen with crisp cucumber, tomato, and egg. As evening falls, wander Susukino’s neon-lit izakayas (gastropub or informal bar that serves a variety of alcoholic drinks and small, shareable dishes) for a relaxed dinner and your first taste of northern hospitality.
- Day 2: Furano & Biei Flower Fields
Take a day trip to Furano and Biei, famous for their technicoloured flower fields that stretch to the horizon. Walk through rows of lavender and sunflowers at Farm Tomita, their scent carried by cool highland winds. Don’t miss the ethereal Blue Pond, its turquoise surface mirroring the surrounding pines.
Try a scoop of lavender soft serve, and then return to Sapporo for the Sapporo Summer Festival, where beer gardens and live music light up the evening.
- Day 3: Lake Toya & Mount Usu
Head south to Lake Toya, a serene volcanic caldera lake known for its crystal waters and cool mountain air. Spend the day cruising or canoeing across the lake, watching steam rise gently from nearby vents.
Ride the Mount Usu Ropeway for sweeping views of the Pacific coast and distant peaks. Lunch on zaru soba (cold buckwheat noodles with a refreshing dipping sauce) before soaking in an onsen with a lake view. Stay overnight at a lakeside ryokan or return to Sapporo for city comforts.
- Day 4: To the Japanese Alps (Nagano)
Travel to Nagano and check in at Club Wyndham Shirakabaso Shiga-Kogen or Club Wyndham Chikumakan Nagano.
Spend the afternoon exploring Matsumoto Castle, one of Japan’s most beautiful fortresses, and then cool off with a bowl of matcha kakigōri (green tea shaved ice). In the evening, slip into an outdoor onsen, letting the mineral-rich water soothe tired legs while mountain breezes drift past.
- Day 5: Kamikochi & Hot Springs
Journey into the heart of the Japanese Alps at Kamikochi, a protected highland valley known for its emerald rivers and wooden suspension bridges. Hike along the Azusa River Trail, where each turn reveals snow-tipped peaks reflected in the clear water.
For lunch, enjoy nagashi sōmen, chilled noodles caught from flowing bamboo flumes, and end the day in Shibu or Nozawa Onsen, where rustic streets lined with steaming baths create the perfect alpine nightscape.
- Day 6: Yamanakako & Mount Fuji Views
Travel to Club Wyndham Sundance Resort Kawaguchiko in the Fuji Five Lakes area. Cycle along the shores of Lake Yamanaka, pausing at viewpoints where Mount Fuji seems to float above the water.
Enjoy a lakeside picnic with watermelon or explore nearby flower parks in full bloom. As dusk falls, dine on local trout or tempura while the setting sun paints Fuji in shades of rose and gold, a scene worth framing.
- Day 7: Relaxation & Departure
Spend your morning gliding across the lake in a paddleboat, browsing local craft shops for souvenirs and treat yourself to one last Hokkaido soft serve before your journey. Whether heading home or continuing south, you’ll leave Japan refreshed and recharged.
Quick coolcation travel tips and packing guide
Here are some quick tips for the best summer vacation in Japan.
- Best time: July to early September for flower fields, festivals, and mild mountain weather.
- Clothing: Breathable fabrics for hot days, light jackets for alpine nights, and layer clothing for temperature changes.
- Essentials: Comfortable walking shoes, water bottles, and items such as portable fans or cooling sprays or body sheets.
- Transport: A JR Rail Pass or rental car makes regional travel easier.
- Timing: Plan hikes or sightseeing in the early mornings or late afternoons to avoid the hottest parts of the day.
- Hydration: Consume water frequently, and seek air-conditioned spaces when needed, such as underground shopping malls that are usually connected to train stations.
- Stays: Consider resorts near coolcation spots for a balance of comfort, convenience, and culture.
Plan your ultimate summer coolcation
From slurping chilled soba beside a mountain stream to cycling along a lake, Japan offers endless ways to stay refreshed while soaking in its culture and natural beauty. Start planning your ultimate summer coolcation today and book your stay at a Club Wyndham Asia resort in Japan for comfort, convenience, and unforgettable experiences.
