Koenji becomes a huge attraction in the summer when it hosts one of Tokyo’s most popular festivals. The Koenji Awa Odori is a summer dance festival and is held annually during the last weekend in August.

Sado, the largest island in Japan, is usually a quiet, peaceful island. But every year for the three-day Earth Celebration (EC) in August, the island transforms into a lively, international hub. Presented by world-renowned taiko drumming ensemble Kodo, EC is a music festival that brings performing art talents together from within and outside of Japan.

Every prefecture in Japan offers a range of packaged snacks specifically designed to be purchased as souvenirs for friends, family or co-workers when traveling. These almost always showcase local food specialties or regional delicacies.

In the land of the rising sun, fireflies are the image of summer. Many cities throughout Japan even host firefly viewing festivals, where locals and visitors alike are welcome to marvel at the beautiful flashes of light that these insects use to either attract a mate, signal distress, or warn off predators.

You can eat sea urchin sushi at any time of the year in many of Japan's sushi restaurants, but people who really love uni recommend eating it in Hokkaido, especially when it's in season. Newly picked Shakotan uni is so fresh that you can still taste the sea. It is so creamy, it melts in your mouth.

A unique Tanabata festival to commemorate the poignant meeting of the star lovers, and perhaps, one of the biggest festivals of its kind takes place every year in Asagaya, Suginami ward.

Fukui prefecture, originally referred to as the Echizen region, is home to both energetic and delicate landscapes of Japan. Here I would like to introduce you to some stunning sceneries which the fusion of Fukui’s unique climate and historical aspects combine to create.

The city of Yokosuka Japan is most known for its Japanese and American Navy bases. The culture has been crossed and mixed and reflects in its food, atmosphere, and shopping. The US navy base opens to the public every year for Yokosuka Friendship Day in order to demonstrate the strong relationship between Japan and the US. If you plan on coming to Yokosuka for this event, consider staying for the weekend and visit the surrounding areas as well.

Grab your swimsuit and towel and follow us as we check out some of the best water parks to be found in the Greater Tokyo Area.

Every August 15th Nagatoro holds it’s dual Shinto/Buddhist festival on the banks of the Arakawa River. The popular festival merges two important local customs.

Come to Iwate to experience a colorful dreamscape of crystals and light. At the Kenji Miyazawa Fairy Tale Village, you can jump into a world befitting of fairies.

In summer, in central Japan, such temperatures are normal. Perhaps even more stifling than the heat, however, is the humidity. Even a simple walk to the local convenience store can leave you drenched in sweat and gasping for breath. Or, maybe I just need to work out more!