10 things to do in Japan this summer

A magical day trip destination for film buffs, this mini-cinema occupies a lovingly renovated former kindergarten in the lush hills of Yamanashi, an hour’s train ride from central Tokyo. Besides quality movies from around the world, you can look forward to organic popcorn, craft beer and the occasional restaurant pop-up.

Escape the city and get some cardio all in one go with this cycling extravaganza that hosts upwards of 1,000 people. The Tour de Tsumari is now in its 20th year and offers 70km, 90km and 120km loops for exploring the verdant Echigo-Tsumari area. Act fast – registration closes July 12.

The appropriately named Osaka Gigantic Music Festival is celebrating its 10th edition at Osaka Maishima Sports Island over four days and features a stacked line-up of major domestic acts. Highlights include Asian Kung Fu Generation, Band Maid and Awich, plus plenty of Kansai favourites like Hey-Smith, Rottengraffty and Hump Back.

Running between Kanazawa and Wakura Onsen on the Noto Peninsula, this sightseeing train is a moving showcase of local craftsmanship and design. Named after a traditional bridal custom, it wows with exhibitions of regional crafts including Wajima lacquerware and Kaga mizuhiki knot-work, and interiors accented with gold leaf.

One of the three ‘great festivals’ of Edo, this traditional matsuri is celebrated in all its glory only once every three years. 2026 is such a year: expect up to 54 grand mikoshi (portable shrines) being carried through the streets and scores of onlookers throwing water on the participants (on Aug 16 only).

If you’re looking to experience the charms of a Japanese hot spring town, this new ryokan overlooking Mt Kusatsu-Shirane is worth checking out. Opened on June 7, Kai Kusatsu features baths filled with Kusatsu’s renowned skin-softening waters, plus a private tunnel offering direct access to the Kusatsu onsen town area.

Japan doesn’t half-ass its hobbies, and Clutch Kickback is proof with tire smoke. The underground motorsport series folds drift, grip racing, tuned cars, music and street culture into one fast, grimy scene. They’ll be at Tsukuba Circuit on July 5, and in Chiba for a four-year anniversary party later in the month.

Shibuya has a new home for gigs and plays with the opening of this centrally located venue operated by entertainment giant Bandai Namco. The building has a capacity of around 2,000 and should attract a strong mix of acts especially from the animeand idol-adjacent corners of the Japanese music scene.

The Tavern – Lounge at the Andaz Tokyo Toranomon Hills has launched a new event series celebrating the resurgence of Japan’s city pop scene. The July 31 edition features a live performance by Sirup plus DJs Tomoyuki Tanaka and YonYon, alongside free-flow drinks (including an original cocktail inspired by city pop), canapés and sweeping Tokyo skyline views.

Okinawa’s newest luxury retreat caters especially to golfers – it’s right next to the PGM Golf Resort – but provides more than a place to unwind in between rounds. Spa L’Occitane en Provence offers treatments from Southern France, while the restaurants, including an offshoot of Tokyo’s two-Michelin-starred Ginza Sushi Kanesaka, draw in discerning diners.