Looking for somewhere to escape Japan’s soaring summer temperatures?
While many visitors head straight for the country’s famous cities and beaches, there are plenty of lesser-known destinations where cooler weather, unique cultural experiences and spectacular scenery offer the perfect seasonal getaway.
From white sand beaches on the Kii Peninsula to mountain villages, centuries-old diving traditions and an extraordinary snow-cooled sake brewery, these four destinations reveal a refreshing side of Japan that deserves a place on every summer itinerary.
Senjojiki Rock FormationsRelax On Shirarahama Beach In Wakayama, Kii Peninsula
Wakayama Prefecture might be known for the Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage trails, but in the summer months, the beach is where the locals go to cool off.
Located on the southernmost tip of the Kii Peninsula, Shirarahama Beach is the jewel of Japan’s coastline. Boasting pristine white sand, it is officially recognised as the “sister beach” to Waikiki Beach in Hawaii.
Embark on a snorkelling or scuba diving excursion or head out on a glass-bottomed boat tour and get a front row seat to the colourful tropical fish swimming around in the colonies of table coral.
After some time in the water, head to the Sandanbeki caves or wander along the vast rock flatbed of Senjojiki, a part of the Yoshino-Kumano National Park.
For more information, visit: visitwakayama.jp/en | visit-kii.com
Shirarahama BeachDiscover The Cooler Climate Of Tenkawa Village, Nara Prefecture
Surrounded by the Omine Mountains, just two hours from Nara City, Tenkawa Village is one of Japan’s most overlooked treasures that feels suspended in time.
With temperatures averaging three to five degrees lower than the Nara Basin area, it makes for a cooling respite, especially in the summer months.
Make a stop at the Tenkawa Daibenzaiten-sha Shrine, soak in the healing waters of Dorogawa Onsen or hike along parts of the Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage trail.
Beyond its spiritual allure, Tenkawa is quietly evolving with local gems like SÉN, a one MICHELIN Star and Green Star restaurant celebrating regional produce and Tenkara Gelato, serving seasonal gelato flavours made with the village’s pure mountain water.
For more information, visit: visitnara.jp
ISESHIMA © SHOKO Photography 2024Experience Japan’s Legendary Ama Divers In ISESHIMA, Mie Prefecture
Head to ISESHIMA for a rare and immersive glimpse into an ancient Japanese tradition while cooling off in the waters of the Ago Bay.
The Ama, renowned female free divers, have been practicing their craft for centuries, diving without modern equipment to harvest pearls and seafood from the ocean depths.
Join these incredible women on a dive and witness their skill firsthand, from understanding the delicate art of implanting the pearl nucleus into the oysters to witnessing the divers’ skillful and graceful underwater techniques.
The experience also provides insight into the Ama’s unique way of life, which blends sustainable practices with a deep connection to nature and community.
For more information, visit: iseshima-kanko.jp/en
Hakkaisan Brewery in Minamiuonuma CityVisit An Extraordinary Snow Storage Brewery, Niigata Prefecture
Niigata might be famous for its powder snow in the winter, but in summer, travellers can find a touch of this snowy paradise at Hakkaisan Brewery in Minamiuonuma City.
Founded in 1922, Hakkaisan Brewery now runs several facilities, including the Uonuma no Sato complex.
Here, visitors can experience firsthand how the brewery takes advantage of the region’s unique climate with a guided tour of the Hakkaisan Yukimuro Snow Room, a 4℃ natural refrigerated sake storage facility that maintains its temperature all year round.
Take in the sight of 1,000 metric tons of snow before tasting their refreshing Hakkaisan Clear Sparkling “AWA” with its lovely fruity aroma and refreshing taste, perfect to combat the summer heat.
For more information, visit: discover-niigata.com
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