12 amazing things to do in Tokyo this summer

There’s something about the atmosphere of a matsuri (festival) with its street stalls, lanterns and attendees in yukata that makes it the pinnacle of a Japanese summer. Matsuri are held throughout the year for different occasions, often tied to Buddhist or Shinto practices, but the biggest ones are held in the months of July and August, making them unmissable occasions for anyone looking for a large helping of Japanese food, culture and entertainment.

Most shrines and temples will hold matsuri big enough for residents in nearby neighbourhoods to attend, but festivals such as the Fukagawa Matsuri means closing main roads to make way for the grandest procession of the year. 

Your phone screens will never do these dazzling displays justice. Japan takes immense pride in its fireworks, with shows often lasting between one to two hours. The biggest spectacles are divided into four parts, much like an orchestra symphony, and feature different shapes and colours chosen to symbolise certain themes or events. You’ll want to get there ahead of time to secure a prime viewing spot as the grounds get busy quickly with clusters of families, friends and couples setting up their picnics to watch the display. 

While spring may be the best time to see cherry blossoms, tulips and wisteria, summer is when himawari (sunflowers) get their time to shine. You’ll find a number of sprawling fields in and around Greater Tokyo, where you can stroll through rows and rows of yellow sunflowers, eat sunflower-themed food, and even enjoy a sunflower maze.

The best time to see the flowers is from July through to the end of August, though they’re blooming slightly earlier than usual this year, with some fields already reaching their peak. 

You don’t have to pay exorbitant prices for a beach getaway as sandy shores are just a short train ride away from Tokyo. If you fancy combining your day of tanning with some sightseeing, head to the seaside city of Kamakura, which is home to the Great Buddha at Kotokuin Temple.

For beach lovers with small children in tow, the island of Enoshima features an interesting aquarium and feels a world away from Tokyo with its surfer-style cafes and coffee shops. Whatever coastline you head to, don’t forget to pack plenty of sunscreen and a pair of shades. 

Make the most of summer by exploring a different side of Tokyo. Hidden among quiet residential streets are children’s parks where giant concrete elephants become slides, a blue robot stands in the middle of a housing complex, and an enormous banana somehow fits right in. Bring the kids, your camera or a picnic, or simply take a detour on your next walk around the city.

Traditional matsuris aren’t the only kind of festival Japan is known for in the summer. Some of the biggest names in the music industry are hitting Fuji Rock at the end of July, with artists by the likes of Fujii Kaze, Turnstile, Mitski and XG performing at this year's three-day fiesta. 

Later in August, Tokyo's Summer Sonic will see another exciting line-up of international artists including The Strokes, L'Arc-en-Ciel, Jamiroquai, Blackpink's Jennie, Keshi and more.

One of the many joys of summer is indulging in seasonal treats, from refreshing kakigori and luscious ice cream to innovative cocktails. It’s also the perfect time to enjoy Japan’s exceptional fruit, with dessert and pastry shops across the country serving up sweets showcasing the best produce of the season, including peaches, melons, mangoes, grapes, citrus and more.

If you’re looking for the ultimate summer treat, don’t miss these luxurious seasonal desserts and drinks, available for a limited time only.

Tokyo might be short on space, but it more than makes up for it with clever high-rise escapes. This summer, when the city feels crowded and hot, look up – you might just find a breezy rooftop garden hidden atop a shopping mall. Whether you’re lounging under the shade or soaking in skyline views, these green hideaways are free to enter and perfect for a budget-friendly summer break.

World-class cocktails are best paired with killer views, of which there are no shortage of in Tokyo. While the sight of city lights illuminating the night sky are second-to-none, there’s no real reason to wait until the sun goes down to get started on cocktails during the summer. Get a side of nachos with your frozen margarita to admire the city in broad daylight, or watch the sunset with a cosmo in hand from one of the highest bars in town. 

Every weekend you’ll find a diverse selection of flea, antique and farmers markets dotted across Tokyo. Selling everything from secondhand furniture and clothing to rare collectibles, artisanal crafts and seasonal food, these vibrant markets open up a world of bargains and treasures.

You might come across an exquisite Japanese tea set for the mere price of a bowl of ramen or vintage European jewellery for a steal. We recommend that you visit in the early morning if you want the best pick of the day, or near closing time if you're looking for marked down deals.