As the warm breeze of July arrives, Tokyo and the greater Kanto region welcome the liveliest travel season of the year. From fireworks bursting across urban skies and centuries-old traditional festivals to hidden natural getaways nestled in forests and by the sea, summer in Kanto is filled with color, rhythm, and delightful surprises—an ideal stage for a memorable summer journey.

Festivals and Fireworks: A Celebration Beneath the City Skies

Summer in Kanto is synonymous with festivals. From July through August, cities and towns across the region host vibrant traditional festivals and grand fireworks displays. These events offer travelers a chance to experience local culture and immerse themselves in joyful summer festivities.

Recommended Events:

• Sumida River Fireworks Festival (Tokyo)
  Attracting over a million spectators annually, this is Tokyo’s most iconic fireworks event. The colorful explosions beautifully complement the Tokyo Skytree for a magical summer night.
• Kanda Matsuri & Nezu Shrine Annual Festival (Tokyo)
  Traditional festivals held by historic shrines featuring portable shrines (mikoshi), music, and dance performances that evoke the spirit of Edo-era Japan.
• Kamakura Fireworks Festival (Kanagawa)
  Set against the backdrop of the sea, the fireworks launched from the ocean create a uniquely atmospheric summer evening in this historic coastal town.

Cool Natural Retreats Near the City: Lakes, Forests & Coastal Escapes

Beyond the hustle and bustle of the city, Kanto also boasts breathtaking natural attractions. From highland lakes to peaceful beach towns, it’s the perfect place to cool down and unwind.

Recommended Nature Spots:

• Okutama Valley (Western Tokyo)
  A hidden gem accessible by train, offering hiking trails, river play, and camping—a refreshing escape into nature.

• Lake Chuzenji & Kegon Falls (Tochigi Prefecture)
  A classic summer retreat with stunning lakeside views, majestic waterfalls, and proximity to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Nikko Toshogu Shrine, combining nature and culture.

• Shonan & Enoshima (Kanagawa Prefecture)
  A charming seaside town with scenic beaches, relaxed cafes, and the nostalgic Enoden train line—perfect for romantic strolls and sunset views.

Summer Delicacies: A Refreshing Taste of Seasonal Kanto

Summer in Kanto also brings a bounty of seasonal flavors. From traditional Japanese dishes to icy treats, every bite adds to your travel memories.

Recommended Summer Eats:

• Grilled Eel Rice (Unajū)
  A must-eat during “Doyo no Ushi no Hi” in July—richly flavored and believed to boost stamina in the summer heat.
• Cold Ramen and Soba
  Many popular noodle shops offer chilled versions of ramen or soba during summer—light, refreshing, and delicious.
• Japanese Shaved Ice (Kakigōri)
  Topped with matcha, brown sugar syrup, mochi, and other traditional toppings—each spoonful a burst of texture and flavor.
• Summer Beer Gardens (Tokyo Station, Roppongi, etc.)
  Open-air beer gardens pairing city night views with tasty bites—a favorite hangout for locals and travelers alike.

Transportation Tips: Connecting City and Nature with Ease

• Suica / PASMO IC Cards: Essential for subway, JR lines, and buses across Kanto.
• JR Kanto Area Pass: Great for short-term visitors covering day trips to Nikko, Kamakura, and more.
• Enoden Day Pass: Unlimited rides on the nostalgic Enoden line—perfect for exploring Enoshima and Shonan.
• Private Car Services: Ideal for families or group travelers—Kingtai Travel offers customizable private tours and chauffeur service.

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1: Tokyo City Excursion & Fireworks Night

• Morning: Visit Sensoji Temple & Tokyo Skytree
• Afternoon: Shopping in Odaiba + teamLab Planets
• Evening: Enjoy Sumida River Fireworks or a traditional yakatabune dinner cruise

Day 2: Kamakura & Enoshima Day Trip

• Morning: Explore Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine & Komachi Street
• Afternoon: Discover Enoshima Island & relax at seaside cafes
• Evening: Sunset beach views and sample summer festival street food

Day 3: Nikko Nature & Culture Escape

• Morning: Visit Nikko Toshogu Shrine & Shinkyo Bridge
• Lunch: Lakeside dining at Lake Chuzenji
• Afternoon: Explore Kegon Falls and return to Tokyo in the evening

Kanto in Summer: A Perfect Symphony of City and Nature

From Tokyo’s towering skyline to the tranquil highlands of Nikko, from brilliant fireworks to historic shrine festivals, Kanto welcomes every traveler with a multifaceted summer experience. Whether you’re seeking vibrant urban energy or a peaceful escape to nature, Kanto delivers an unforgettable chapter of summer.

For tailor-made tours and private transport options, contact Kingtai Travel and let us guide you through the magic of a Kanto summer adventure!