Summer in Tokyo is a special experience for foreign tourists visiting Japan. The unique blend of urban hustle and rich culture offers an experience that can’t be found anywhere else. In this article, we will introduce traditional summer events, recommended meals, and must-visit spots that you can only enjoy in Tokyo during the summer. Additionally, we’ll recommend a refreshing way to end your day with an outcall massage.
Traditional Summer Events in Tokyo
Tokyo’s summer is filled with numerous traditional events and customs, with fireworks festivals and Bon Odori being some of the most iconic.
The “Sumida River Fireworks Festival,” held every July, is one of the most representative events of Tokyo’s summer. This festival has a history dating back to the Edo period, with around 20,000 fireworks lighting up the night sky along the Sumida River. It’s an excellent opportunity to create special memories on a summer night, as locals and tourists alike gather to enjoy the show. Securing a spot along the river and watching the fireworks while enjoying the evening breeze is truly special.
Another must-experience summer tradition is “Bon Odori.” These traditional dance festivals are held in various locations throughout Tokyo, where you can join locals in enjoying traditional dances. For example, the Bon Odori held at Sensoji Temple in Asakusa is particularly popular among tourists. Wearing a colorful yukata and dancing with the locals allows you to experience Japan’s summer culture first-hand. Even in modern areas like Roppongi Hills and Yoyogi Park, you can enjoy Bon Odori and experience traditional Japanese culture in the heart of the city.
Furthermore, the “Awa Odori” is another highlight of Tokyo’s summer. Especially in August, the “Koenji Awa Odori” attracts dancers from all over the country, creating a lively and vibrant atmosphere. The rhythmic drums and flutes that accompany the Awa Odori provide an exciting spectacle, and tourists are welcome to join in the fun, making it a memorable experience.
Recommended Summer Foods
Tokyo’s summer offers a wide variety of delicious dishes that help beat the heat, with “unagi” (eel) and “hiyashi chuka” (cold noodles) being particularly recommended.
“Unagi” is a stamina-boosting dish that is considered a staple of Japanese summer cuisine. Especially on the “Doyo no Ushi no Hi” (the midsummer Day of the Ox), it is customary to eat grilled eel to ward off the summer fatigue. At long-established eel restaurants, you can savor the plump, grilled eel slowly cooked over charcoal. The sweet and savory sauce perfectly complements the white rice, rejuvenating your body tired from the heat. Ginza and Asakusa are home to many renowned restaurants with over a century of history, making them popular among tourists.
“Hiyashi chuka” is a refreshing noodle dish perfect for the hot summer months. Cold noodles are topped with colorful ingredients like cucumber, ham, egg, and tomato, and served with a tangy sauce that stimulates the appetite. In ramen shops in Shibuya and Shinjuku, you can often enjoy this dish as a summer special, making it an ideal choice when you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing.
Another quintessential summer treat in Tokyo is “kakigori” (shaved ice). In areas like Asakusa and Harajuku, you’ll find specialty shops offering luxurious shaved ice topped with plenty of fruits and syrup. Particularly, the Japanese-style flavors like matcha and kuromitsu kinako (brown sugar syrup and roasted soybean flour) are a must-try, providing a taste of Japanese summer in a cool and sweet form. Taking a break from the heat with a bowl of cold kakigori is one of the best ways to enjoy summer in Tokyo.
Must-Visit Summer Spots in Tokyo
Tokyo offers numerous attractions that are best enjoyed during the summer. Particularly popular are spots where you can escape the hustle and bustle of the city and relax in nature, or places where you can enjoy stunning night views.
“Tokyo Bay Noryosen” is a fantastic activity to spend a cool summer night. This evening cruise operates from dusk until night, taking you around Tokyo Bay while you enjoy beautiful views of Tokyo Tower and the Rainbow Bridge. The cruise features a beer garden-style setting, where you can enjoy food and drinks with friends or family while taking in the sights. Watching Tokyo’s skyline from the deck, feeling the cool breeze, provides a perfect way to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing.
“Yoyogi Park” and “Ueno Park” are popular spots for relaxing amidst nature in the heart of the city. These parks offer vast green spaces where you can spread out a picnic blanket and relax in the shade. Whether you’re reading a book or taking a nap surrounded by nature, it’s an excellent way to forget the summer heat. On weekends, these parks often host flea markets and events, adding an element of surprise to your stroll.
“Odaiba Beach” is a unique spot where you can feel the sea while still in the city. You can relax by the beach, enjoy the modern side of Tokyo, and unwind with the sound of waves. Watching the sunset over Tokyo’s skyline in the evening is especially breathtaking and provides a romantic end to your day.
Additionally, “Sumida River Terrace” offers a cool breeze and scenic views as you stroll along the riverside. At night, you can enjoy the illuminated Tokyo Skytree while taking in the nighttime scenery. With plenty of benches along the river, it’s easy to take a break and relax while enjoying the view.
Rejuvenate at the End of a Long Day with an Outcall Massage
After a full day of enjoying Tokyo’s summer attractions, you may find yourself physically exhausted. This is where an outcall massage can provide the perfect solution for rejuvenating both body and mind.
Melody Tokyo offers high-quality outcall massage services throughout the city. Professional therapists visit your accommodation directly, providing a massage tailored to your specific needs. Whether you’re tired from long hours of walking or feeling drained from the summer heat, a full-body massage can offer deep relaxation, helping you recharge for the next day’s adventures.
Melody Tokyo’s outcall massage service is available year-round, late into the night, making it convenient even after a long day of sightseeing and shopping. You can enjoy a soothing massage in the comfort of your own space, preparing yourself to fully enjoy the rest of your stay in Tokyo.
Enhance your summer memories in Tokyo by experiencing the relaxation that Melody Tokyo’s outcall massage services offer. Take a moment to forget your busy routine and indulge in a time of deep relaxation for both body and mind.
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