20 Best Things to do in Japan in August | Attractions | Activities | Tours

Last Updated: 03/04/2023

 

If you have a couple of days to spare next month, there are many incredible things to do in August in Japan. Summer will have rolled into its last month before the onset of the cold season toward mid-September, presenting excellent hot weather for sunbathing on beaches and Okinawa’s famous watersports, which are certainly among the best things to do in August.

There’s no better time to enjoy parasailing, hot air balloon rides, and Stand Up Paddling(SUP), given the perfect weather conditions that ensure fun times on the beach and in the water. Here’s more on how to make the most of your summer trip to Japan:

1. Question reality by Blue Cave Okinawa diving

Diving in the shining blue cave of Okinawa is one of the most popular things to do when you visit the prefecture. Experience the cave’s stunning blue waters and feed the tropical fish!

武藤潜水
Dive into the Mysterious Blue Cave of Okinawa and Discover the Underwater World While Feeding the Tropical Fish!
Onna, Okinawa

2. SUP in the blue paradise of Lake Biwa

Full of color and life in August, the Lake Biwa Stand Up Paddling(SUP) is a great way to spend an afternoon out in alluring waters. Experience cruising around a floating torii gate and magnificent view of mountains in the backdrop!

颯浮(さっぷ)〜KYOTO SUP TRIP〜
Explore the Surrounding Area of the Otorii Gate of the Shirahige Shrine in Lake Biwa on a SUP
Takashima, Shiga

3. Rise with Mount Fuji: paragliding adventure in Shizuoka

The breathtaking meadows of Shizuoka are paradises of green, perfect for a paragliding experience with friends and family. Savor the thrill of heights and the beauty of nature from the sky like a bird! This activity can be enjoyed with group of friends or family.

今井浜フライングスクール(Imaihama Flying School)
Paragliding experience & tandem flight course (Suitable for kids)
Kamo-gun, Shizuoka
今井浜フライングスクール(Imaihama Flying School)
Paragliding experience at Shizuoka
Kamo-gun, Shizuoka
今井浜フライングスクール(Imaihama Flying School)
Paragliding experience at Imaihama (1 day course)
Kamo-gun, Shizuoka

4. Ride the waves in Okinawa

Okinawa's generous archipelagos ensure scenic surfing in paradises of blue water & green hills. Play on the white sandy beach and learn how to surf like a pro in Chatan!

サーフサイドサービス ハイサイ
Beginner-Friendly Surfing Lessons in Okinawa with a Professional Instructor Qualified from the World Surfing Federation
Chatan, Okinawa

5. Become one with the sea on a glass-bottom boat

Nothing will get in the way of a spectacular viewing of the sea off Uradome coast, thanks to a glass-bottom kayak tour! The boat offers unobstructed scenes of marine life below the water surface!

鳥取県自然体験塾
Enjoy the Clear Waters of Uradome with a Transparent Kayak Tour
Iwami, Tottori

6. Hokkaido, Otaru: blue cave cruise

With shades of blue rivaling the vibrancy of a clear sky, the Otaru blue cave offers an out worldly cruise. Be sure to bring some snacks for the friendly seagulls!

株式会社ツウセン(TUUSEN)
Exhilarating Blue Cave Cruising Tour from Otaru
Otaru, Hokkaido

7. Waterpark adventure in Biwa lake

Japan’s largest freshwater lake hosts an adventure waterpark of trampolines, slides, and an adorable giant duck floating on the water. This Lake Biwa experience is fun for all age groups!

8. Parasailing Okinawa: The sky isn’t the limit

The Okinawa sky is privy to some of the best seascape views in the country. Get harnessed to a parachute, and take a seat from a beautiful vantage point tethered by 200 meters of rope!

Sea World(シーワールド)
Get the Thrills Out of Parasailing with 200m Rope Length in Okinawa!
Sakimotobu, Motobu, Okinawa

9. Champagne and hot air balloons in Saitama

When the summer heat kicks in, escape into the sky with a hot air balloon ride in Saitama. Enjoy that soothing feeling of flight, and gain insight into the exciting workings and history of the mechanism!

ウイニングバルーンクラブ
Night Glamping Experience and an Exciting Hot Air Balloon Flight During Sunrise in Saitama
Kazo, Saitama

10. Shower climbing in the mystical Yanbaru forests

If you're planning a trip to Okinawa, make sure to add shower climbing in the mystical Yanbaru forests to your itinerary. This thrilling activity allows you to explore the island's natural beauty up close and get your adrenaline pumping while experiencing one of the most unique adventures the region has to offer.

冒険島
Unexplored Yanbaru shower Climbing & Canyoning
Nago City, Okinawa Prefecture

11. Snorkeling among dolphins in Shizuoka

Speaking of ways to cool off in the hot season, snorkeling in the sea of Hirizo beach is a great way to explore the underwater. Bump into tropical fish and equally colorful marine enthusiasts!

ドルフィンビーチ
Dolphin snorkel experience in a wide cove
Shimoda, Shizuoka

12. Bridge swinging adventure in Hokkaido

bridge swinging in Hokkaido

Bridge swinging adventure in Hokkaido can be an exciting and adrenaline-pumping experience for thrill-seekers. With the rush of wind in your hair and the stunning river views below, it's the perfect way to combine adventure and nature into one thrilling activity.

HOA北海道アウトドアアドベンチャーズ
Bridge swinging in Hidaka
Saru-gun, Hokkaido

13. An electric three-wheeled bike tour of Ishigaki Island

An electric three-wheeled bike tour of Ishigaki island

Discover the beauty of Ishigaki Island's sunset spots during an electric three-wheeled bike tour with a guide. As you cruise along the island's picturesque coastline, you'll witness stunning sunsets while creating memories that will last a lifetime.

14. Miyakojima stargazing: Wish on a shooting star!

The Milky way and its countless stars ensure that the Miyakojima sky is anything but dull on a clear day in August. Remember your time here with pen art picture manipulations!

タビワク 宮古島
Miyakojima Starry Sky Photo Tour (Watch the Beautiful Night Sky and the Milky Way)
Miyakojima, Okinawa

15. Jet ski tour of stunning Sesoko and Minna Islands

Experience the ultimate thrill of Jet Ski touring as you explore the stunning Sesoko and Minna Islands. With crystal clear waters, gorgeous beaches, and an abundance of marine life, this adventure is perfect for adrenaline seekers looking to combine excitement with natural beauty.

ファイブオーシャン(FIVE OCEAN)
Jet ski touring in Sesoko Island & Minna Island
Nago, Okinawa

16. Underwater sea walking in Okinawa

From adventures in the sky to attractions in the depths below, an underwater sea walk in Okinawa makes for incredible stories. Tell friends how you walked past schools of black-and-white fish!

沖縄 青の洞窟専門店 ブルーオーシャン
Walk Under the Water in Okinawa and Meet Cute and Unique Fish Species
Onna, Okinawa

17. Flyboarding in Ginowan city of Okinawa

Flyboarding in Ginowan city of Okinawa

Get ready to soar above the crystal-clear waters of Okinawa by trying out the thrilling activity of flyboarding in Ginowan city. With the wind in your hair and the rush of adrenaline, you'll experience an unforgettable adventure like no other.

ONLY ONE MARINE
Unlimited rides on flyboards and other marine activities
Ginowan, Okinawa
マリンショップアウル
Flyboarding and other water sports (Choose any two)
Ginowan, Okinawa

18. All day fun in Ishigaki island: mangrove kayaking, SUP, snorkeling, and more!

For many aquatic delights in one place, head over to idyllic Ishigaki island. The menu entails mangrove kayaks and SUPs, snorkeling in a blue cave, and an abundance of tomato clownfish!

石垣島  ADVENTURE PiPi(ピピ)
One-Day Package Tour to Enjoy the Beauty of Ishigaki Island! (The Tour Includes Mangrove Kayaking, Snorkeling, and SUP)
Misakicho, Ishigaki, Okinawa

19. Master fishing in Okinawa

Unleash your inner angler and embark on an easy fishing tour that even beginners can enjoy in the beautiful waters of Okinawa. With the help of experienced guides and top-of-the-line equipment, you'll have everything you need to catch your first big fish and create unforgettable memories.

沖縄海うさぎ・海あしび
Fishing tour that even beginners can enjoy
Kadena, Nakagami District, Okinawa

20. Ceramic classes to add flair to your home

Molding beautiful cups and vessels on a pottery wheel is a fulfilling experience that calms the spirit. Get started on this ancient handicraft in a ceramic class in Kyoto!

瑞光窯 京都清水店(zuikougama)
Beginner-Friendly Ceramic Pottery Workshop in Kyoto
Higashiyama ward, Kyoto

In conclusion, Japan is a summer paradise filled with a wide variety of activities that are sure to satisfy any adventurer. From snorkeling in Okinawa's pristine waters to shower climbing in the mystical Yanbaru forests, there's something for everyone. For thrill-seekers, flyboarding and jet skiing in Sesoko Island & Minna Island, as well as blue cave diving and underwater walking, offer unique and exhilarating experiences. Meanwhile, kayaking and stand up paddling are perfect for those who want to take things at a more leisurely pace. With so many amazing things to do, Japan is a top destination for anyone looking to make the most out of their summer vacation.

Summary

    FAQs

      Frequently asked questions

      QIs August good time to visit Japan?

      AAugust is a fantastic time to visit Japan, with plenty of exciting activities and tours to book. Snorkeling, shower climbing, flyboarding, jet skiing, blue cave diving, underwater walking, kayaking, and Stand Up Paddling are just a few of the thrilling adventures available during this time.

      QWhat is Japan's weather like in August?

      AAugust in Japan offers a perfect balance of warm, sunny weather and refreshing rain showers, making it an ideal time to visit. With temperatures hovering around 30°C (86°F), it's the perfect time to explore the country's breathtaking landscapes and bustling cities.

      QWhere is the best place in Japan in August?

      AHokkaido and Okinawa are both great places to visit in August for different reasons. Hokkaido offers cooler temperatures, beautiful landscapes, and outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and wildlife spotting. Meanwhile, Okinawa boasts warm weather, crystal-clear waters, and water-based activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, and jet skiing.

      QWhat clothes to wear in Japan in August?

      ALightweight and breathable clothing is recommended in Japan in August due to the warm and humid weather.

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