Summer Festivals in Japan 2025

Long, warm evenings, the rhythm of taiko drums echoing through historic streets, and the mouthwatering aroma of yakitori in the air create an unforgettable atmosphere. Japan's summer festivals, held from July to August, offer Malaysian travellers a rich cultural adventure filled with sights, sounds, and flavours unique to each region.

If you are planning your first trip from Malaysia to experience these vibrant festivals in 2025, this comprehensive guide is here to help. It covers everything you need to known - from festival dates and budgeting tips to safety information and travel advice - so you can enjoy a smooth, memorable, and meaningful journey.

Japan is one of the most popular travel destinations for Malaysians, with Japan National Tourism Organisation (JNTO) recording over 506,000 Malaysian visitors to Japan in 2024. While cherry blossom season is famous in spring, the fireworks, music, and lively atmosphere of Japanese summer festivals offer an entirely different experience.

Summer festivals are becoming one of the top reasons to visit Japan. Many Malaysians are already familiar with Japanese festival traditions through local events like Bon Odori in Selangor, Shah Alam, which draws over 35,000 people each year. For Malaysian travellers, visa-free entry (up to 90 days) and growing numbers of halal and Muslim-friendly restaurants in big cities make Japan's festivals easier to enjoy than ever before.

To make the most of your trip, try to catch these iconic festivals:

Festival dates can change due to weather or local events, so always check the following:

• Official festival websites (search the festival name + "official site")
  
  
• Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) event calendar
  
  
• Japan Meteorological Agency (for typhoon and weather updates)
  
  
• "Safety Tips" App from JNTO (real-time alerts in English and Malay)
  
  
• Tourist Information Centers (look for "?" signs at major train stations in Kyoto, Osaka, Tokyo)

Based on Bank Negara Malaysia projections, exchange rates are expected to be approximately ¥100 ≈ RM3.0–3.1 in mid-2025, though rates fluctuate. Here's a basic budget:

• Yukata rental (with dressing service): About ¥4,500 (≈RM135) per day
  
  
• Festival street food: ¥450–900 (≈RM13–RM27) per item
  
  
• Sumidagawa Fireworks reserved seats: From ¥5,000 (≈RM150) for standard; up to ¥30,000 (≈RM900) for VIP

Transport: Tokyo Metro 1-day pass: ¥800 (≈RM24); Kansai ICOCA Card: about ¥2,000 (≈RM60)

• Flight & hotel packages: Check AirAsia or Malaysia Airlines for bundled deals; booking early can save up to 25%.
  
  
• Rail passes: The nationwide JR Ordinary Pass for 7 days now costs about ¥50,000 (≈RM1,500), but regional passes (like Kansai Wide) can be cheaper if you stay in one region. The Seishun 18 Kippu for the 5-day pass (¥12,050) offers five days of unlimited travel on local and rapid JR trains (no Shinkansen), available during school holiday periods (spring, summer, winter). Purchase at major JR stations with your passport.
  
  
• IC Cards: Welcome Suica (Tokyo) and ICOCA (Kansai) are prepaid cards for trains, buses, and even vending machines. Sometimes there are special promotions for tourists.
  
  
• Festival viewing: Free public viewing spots are available for most events, so you can enjoy the excitement without reserved seating

Unexpected issues can arise while travelling and that’s where travel insurance comes in.

Look for policies covering:

• Medical Costs (at least RM300,000): Medical care in Japan can be expensive. A comprehensive policy ensures you're protected in case of sudden illness or injury.
  
  
• Trip delays/cancellations: Make sure your plan includes protection for trip interruptions due to weather-related events.
  
  
• Heat-related illness: Choose a plan that covers hospitalisation and treatment for heat-related conditions.
  
  
• Adventure activities: If you plan to hike or join outdoor tours, confirm that your policy covers adventure and outdoor activities.

Tokio Marine Malaysia offers travel insurance plans for trips to Japan. Always read the policy details and keep your insurance contact information handy.