If you are going to go sightseeing, you want to incorporate into your itinerary things that you can only see and experience during that time of the year. In this issue, we will introduce the conditions, events, and recommended spots in July in Hokkaido for those who wish to do so.
To learn more about Hokkaido in summer, check here!
About Hokkaido in July
Weather
Hokkaido in July has a mild and comfortable climate during the daytime, with average temperatures ranging from about 20 to 25 degrees Celsius (68 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit). However, due to the vastness of Hokkaido, temperatures vary from region to region, with hot days exceeding 30°C (86°F), but relatively cool and comfortable at night.
Events
In July, Hokkaido hosts a variety of festivals and events that add color to the summer season. Usually, summer festivals and fireworks displays are held in July, creating a festive atmosphere in the city and allowing visitors to enjoy the lively summer in Hokkaido.
Travel
July is the perfect time to enjoy the great nature of Hokkaido. Flowers are in full bloom at this time of year, especially in the hilly areas of Biei and Furano, where you can enjoy colorful flower fields. Visitors can also enjoy outdoor activities such as canoeing and rafting on Hokkaido’s clear, cool rivers and lakes. Nature tours that allow visitors to observe wildlife are also popular, especially on the Shiretoko Peninsula, where you can see animals in their rich natural environment.
July Fashion
Since it can feel hot during the day, light, breathable clothing is recommended: a T-shirt or short-sleeved shirt and shorts or lightweight long pants are appropriate. However, mornings and evenings can be cooler, so a light cardigan or long-sleeved shirt is recommended. Also, do not forget to bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen due to the strong sunlight. Be sure to dress appropriately for a comfortable summer in Hokkaido.
Enjoy a fireworks display on a summer night
In Hokkaido in July, as summer arrives, spectacular fireworks festivals are held throughout the region to color the night sky. The sight of fireworks dancing across Hokkaido’s vast sky will be an unforgettable summer memory for locals and tourists alike. Enjoy the music and food stalls while savoring Hokkaido’s unique summer traditions.
The status of the fireworks festivals changes from year to year, so it is advisable to check the official website before visiting.
Toyohira River Fireworks Festival (Doshin UHB Fireworks Festival) （豊平川花火大会 ）
This fireworks festival is held on the banks of the Toyohira River in Sapporo. It is a historical fireworks display with thousands of fireworks shot off every year, including elaborate and creative fireworks. This is a very popular event because it is held in the central area of Sapporo. Traffic regulations will be enforced on the day of the event, so it is recommended to check the information in advance before going.
Makomanai Fireworks Festival （真駒内花火大会）
The Makomanai Fireworks Festival held in July is one of the largest fireworks displays in Hokkaido. A total of 22,000 fireworks will be launched by Japan’s leading pyrotechnicians. Seats at the Makomanai Sekisuihaim Arena, the venue of the festival, are all ticketed and subject to a fee. Tickets are only sold online, so you need to purchase them in advance on the official website. The front row seats are so close to the fireworks that sparks can fall from them, making it a spectacular event.
Official website: https://www.makomanai-hanabi.com/
Hakodate Port Fireworks Festival（函館港花火大会）
The Hakodate Port Fireworks Festival is one of Hakodate’s three major fireworks displays. The Panorama Starmine, a 600-meter-long display, creative starmine, underwater fireworks, and many other highlights are unique to a fireworks display at a port. With many food stalls lining the streets, this is a fireworks display loved by the locals.
Hokkaido’s representative summer event
Hokkaido in July is bustling with events filled with the charm of summer. This is the time of year when festivals are held in many parts of Hokkaido, and many fireworks displays are also held. The long days of summer make the nights bright and lively, so you can enjoy the lively atmosphere of the city.
The availability of events changes from year to year, so it is recommended to check the official website before visiting.
Sapporo Odori Beer Garden（札幌大通りビアガーデン）
This is one of the largest beer gardens in Japan held in Odori Park. A large number of seats are available in the spacious venue. Many unique beer gardens appear, and the park is crowded with visitors during the daytime.
We also offer a wide variety of food items that go well with beer, such as Hokkaido’s famous Genghis Khan and seafood. Why not spend a relaxing time under the refreshing weather?
Otaru Tide Festival（ おたる潮まつり）
The Otaru Tide Festival is a festival that began as a way to pass on Otaru’s history and culture and to pray for the development of Otaru. The festival is held for three days, and is crowded with spectators and fireworks.
Hakujahime Festival（白蛇姫まつり）
The Hakujahime Festival (White Snake Princess Festival) is a summer festival held at Lake Shikaribetsu in the town of Shikaoi. The festival is based on a story based on the legend of the Ainu, the indigenous people of Hokkaido, and features dances performed by a 13-meter and 8-meter-long white snake and a princess. Other attractions include Kamui Noomi (a traditional Ainu ceremony) and Mukkuri (a traditional Ainu musical instrument) performances, allowing visitors to experience Ainu culture up close and personal.
July is the best time to visit! Spectacular Sightseeing Spots in Hokkaido
July in Hokkaido attracts visitors with its lush nature and bright flower fields. During this season, the land of Hokkaido is covered with colorful flowers, creating a picturesque landscape. This is the best season to visit Hokkaido and experience its spectacular nature and floral beauty.
Blue Cave（青の洞窟）
The “Blue Cave” on the Italian island of Capri is a world-famous scenic spot. Japan’s “Blue Cave” is located on the Shakotan Peninsula in Hokkaido. There are two options to visit the “Blue Cave”: kayaking and snorkeling. If you are afraid of the water or are not a good swimmer, you can rest assured that your instructor will guide you through the process. The mysterious scenery inside the cave is undeniably impressive.
Farm Tomita（ファーム富田）
Farm Tomita, famous for its lavender fields, is a sightseeing farm located in Furano Town. There are many kinds of flower gardens in the spacious park, and visitors can enjoy seasonal flowers other than lavender.
Lavender blooms from late June to mid-August, when the purple lavenders fill the entire slope, creating a very beautiful sight.
Hokuryu Sunflower Village（北陵町ひまわりの里）
Hokuryu Town Sunflower Village is the largest sunflower field in Japan, with approximately 2 million sunflowers in bloom. It is also popular as an Instagram-worthy spot, attracting many tourists every day.
The area can be enjoyed by adults and children alike, and various events are held during the “Sunflower Festival” that usually starts in late July. Taking advantage of Hokkaido’s vast land, the sunflower fields spreading all over the island are energizing just by looking at them.
Hokkaido in July is full of summer events such as fireworks displays and festivals!
Enjoy the best summer in nature-rich Hokkaido!
For those who want to know more about Hokkaido
