Kyushu Summer Travel: A Spectacular Journey Through Volcanic Wonders and Onsen Culture

As the summer sun shines over Japan’s southern region, Kyushu welcomes travelers with its vibrant energy and diverse offerings. This land, where volcanic landscapes meet rich cultural traditions and healing hot springs, presents a refreshing escape filled with majestic natural beauty, soulful onsen towns, and colorful summer festivals. Let’s embark on a southern journey and discover the unique charm of Kyushu in summer! Aso & Kurokawa Onsen: Serenity Amid Volcanic Majesty and Hidden Hot Springs Aso Kuju National Park Home to one of the world’s largest caldera basins, Aso offers breathtaking views of the grassy plains of Kusasenri and the active volcanic craters. The mild summer weather is perfect for horseback riding, highland hiking, and even hot-air balloon rides for panoramic views—an outdoor paradise for nature lovers. Kurokawa Onsen Street Nestled in the forests near Aso, Kurokawa Onsen is known for its traditional Japanese ambiance and roughly 30 charming ryokans scattered along mountain paths. Enjoy stargazing while soaking in a night bath, or join the “Nyuto Tegata” hot spring pass tour to experience Kyushu’s most authentic onsen culture. Beppu & Yufuin: Where Hot Springs Meet Arts and Culture Beppu Jigoku Meguri (Hell Tour) Beppu is Japan’s number one city for…

Hokkaido Travel: A Summer Symphony of Cool Breezes and Floral Splendor

As summer approaches, Japan’s northernmost island, Hokkaido, is emerging as one of the most sought-after destinations for travelers looking to escape the heat. With its refreshing climate, breathtaking flower fields, rich natural landscapes, and seasonal delicacies, Hokkaido offers a rejuvenating summer retreat unlike any other. Let’s explore this vast northern paradise and uncover the stories behind its iconic sights and experiences. Furano & Biei: Lavender Dreams and Patchwork Hills Farm Tomita Renowned as one of Hokkaido’s signature summer attractions, Furano’s lavender fields reach full bloom in July. The expansive purple landscapes at Farm Tomita are picture-perfect and ideal for couples and families. Visitors can also take part in workshops to create lavender sachets, oils, and other fragrant souvenirs. Patchwork Road in Biei Adjacent to Furano, Biei is famous for its picturesque hills and farmland. Driving or cycling along the “Patchwork Road” or “Panorama Road” reveals an ever-changing landscape of colorful flowers, golden wheat fields, and photogenic trees like the “Seven Stars Tree” and “Parent and Child Tree,” making it a favorite among photographers. Daisetsuzan & Sounkyo: Highland Escapes and Mountain Adventures Mount Asahidake As the tallest peak in the Daisetsuzan range, Mount Asahidake is ideal for summer hiking with its…

Summer Travel in Japan’s Kansai Region: A Midsummer Landscape Woven with Tradition and Passion

In the peak of summer 2025, Japan’s Kansai region embraces the most vibrant and lively season of the year. From Kyoto’s Gion Festival and Lake Biwa’s fireworks festivals to Osaka’s bustling summer food fairs and seaside amusement parks, the summer in Kansai blends rich historical culture with modern charm, offering travelers an unforgettable summer panorama. Kansai in summer is filled not only with sunshine and lush greenery but also with many scenic spots and activities that help visitors forget the heat and fully enjoy the season. This is the perfect time to immerse yourself in traditional culture, explore natural wonders, and indulge in night fireworks and street festivals. Kyoto: The Millennium City’s Grand Summer Festivals As the cultural heart of Japan, Kyoto displays its thousand-year history in poetic beauty every summer. Especially notable is the month-long “Gion Matsuri” held throughout July, regarded as one of Japan’s three major festivals and the best choice to experience traditional summer vibes. Gion Matsuri (July 1–31) The month-long festival’s highlight is the spectacular “Yamaboko Junko” parade, where huge, elaborately decorated floats slowly wind through the city, weaving between modern buildings and ancient streets, creating a grand and solemn spectacle. During the evenings, the “Yoiyama”…