Planning a trip to Japan this August? From spectacular summer festivals and outdoor movies to sunflower fields and refreshing seasonal desserts, there are plenty of unique experiences to add to your itinerary. Here are some of the best things to do in Japan this August 2026!
1. Aomori Nebuta Festival
📅 August 2–7, 2026 | Aomori
Experience one of Japan’s most spectacular summer festivals at the Aomori Nebuta Festival. Giant illuminated Nebuta floats depicting warriors, legends, and historical figures parade through the streets of Aomori, creating an incredible nighttime spectacle.
The festival reaches its peak from August 4 – 6, while the grand finale on August 7 features award-winning floats on Aomori Bay alongside a spectacular fireworks display.
2. The Stardust Theater
📅 August 2–16, 2026 | Nagano
For something a little different, spend an evening watching classic 35mm films under the stars at The Stardust Theater near Mt. Yatsugatake. This unique open-air cinema sits around 1,300 meters above sea level, surrounded by the beautiful Nagano highlands.
Since temperatures can drop quickly after sunset, make sure to bring a jacket or warm blanket and enjoy a movie night surrounded by nature.
3. Ito Anjin Festival
📅 August 8–10, 2026 | Shizuoka
Celebrate Japanese summer culture at the Ito Anjin Festival, a three-day event inspired by William Adams, the English navigator who became known in Japan as Miura Anjin.
The festival features lanterns floating down the Matsukawa River, energetic taiko performances, local food stalls, and a spectacular fireworks finale. On the final night, up to 20,000 fireworks light up the sky over the Ito Coast.
4. Zama Sunflower Festival
📅 August 14–16, 2026 | Kanagawa
Step into a sea of yellow at the Zama Sunflower Festival, where around 550,000 sunflowers bloom across 5.5 hectares of fields. The festival is free to enter and offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy the scenery and take beautiful summer photos.
Walk through the sunflower maze, visit the observation decks, and explore local food stalls while enjoying the vibrant summer atmosphere.
5. Roppongi Hills ICE! ICE! ICE!
📅 Until August 31, 2026 | Tokyo
Looking for a delicious way to cool down in Tokyo? Roppongi Hills ICE! ICE! ICE! brings together limited-edition kakigori, ice cream, gelato, and other refreshing summer desserts from 16 participating shops.
With plenty of creative seasonal treats to try, it’s the perfect event for a summer dessert hunt around Roppongi Hills.
6. Blue Cave Otaru
📅 April–October 2026 | Hokkaido
For an adventurous summer experience, explore the stunning coastline around Otaru’s Blue Cave by sea kayak or sightseeing boat. The crystal-clear Shakotan Blue waters and dramatic coastal scenery make this a memorable Hokkaido experience.
For the 2026 season, sightseeing boats are restricted from entering the cave itself due to rockfall risks. However, visitors can still enjoy the beautiful scenery and vibrant blue waters from outside the cave.
Planning a Japan Trip This August?
Japan in August is filled with seasonal festivals, outdoor experiences, summer food, and unforgettable scenery. Whether you want to experience a traditional festival, explore nature, or simply enjoy Japan’s summer atmosphere, there’s always something happening across the country.