Joanna James
Kyoto was once the imperial capital of Japan, and today, it’s a cultural hub loved by tourists. If you’re thinking of visiting, here are the best outdoor activities to try in Kyoto during summer.
It’s not just shopping you get to enjoy at Nishiki Market. Lurking in the corners is Japanese culture that’s been shaping the country for centuries. The market itself has been around for over 400 years, so you can imagine what a cultural gem it is. Filled with fresh, seasonal produce, local snacks, and Japanese delicacies, Nishiki Market has a vibrant atmosphere. Visit the market once, and you’ll return over and over again because the busy, bustling atmosphere grows on you with each visit. Summer is the perfect time to go, as the stalls are filled with fresh fruits like peaches and melons. You’ll also find some of the top hotels in Kyoto nearby. For instance, Park Hotel Kyoto is only about eight minutes away from the market.
Summer in Kyoto can be warm—not overwhelmingly hot, but warmer than usual. There’s a perfect way to cool off while enjoying a delicious Japanese meal. It’s called Kawadoko, a traditional way of dining on wooden platforms alongside or over a river. The cool rush of water flowing beneath or beside is sure to give you instant relief from the summer heat. Eating outdoors and enjoying Kyoto’s natural beauty makes the dining experience even better.
One thing that makes summer in Japan beautiful is its lively festivals. The Gion Matsuri Festival in Kyoto, for instance, is one of the largest and most well-known festivals in Japan. This vibrant festival is not a one-day affair—prepare for a month full of events! The festival takes place throughout July, with exciting events such as music, dance performances, parades of floats, delicious food, and craft stalls. The Yamahoko Junko is the highlight of the festival. It’s a beautiful procession of floats that are pulled through the streets of Kyoto. While watching the parade, you can also enjoy the delicious food offered by the many stalls. Must-tries include octopus balls, pancakes, and grilled chicken.
One of the most beautiful and peaceful places to visit in Kyoto, the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest is filled with tall, slender bamboo trees. If you find the summer heat too much, take a walk through this serene bamboo forest. Bamboo isn’t the only thing worth noting here; several important sites can be found inside. The Nonomiya Shrine, for example, is a small shrine built for the goddess of bamboo. Arashiyama Bamboo Forest is one of the must-visit places, no matter what season it is, but summer sprinkles a bit of extra magic. Bring your camera, won’t you? You’ll encounter plenty of beautiful moments you’ll want to capture.
Lasting only about an hour, Gozan no Okuribi takes place on the night of August 16. It’s an event that’s unique to Kyoto, making it even more special. The festival marks the end of the Obon festival, which is a Buddhist tradition that honours the ancestors. At 8 PM, the first five giant bonfires are lit on the hills around Kyoto, with the last one burning by 8:30 PM. These fires represent the spirits returning to their afterlife after visiting their families. By 9 PM, the fires slowly fade away. You can watch the bonfires from different parts of the city. The Kamo River and Funaokayama Park are popular spots.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
