July is one of the best months to travel in Hokkaido. True summer arrives, bringing warm days, blue skies, and peak access to the island’s outdoor highlights. What is more, Hokkaido remains far more cooler weather-wise than most of Japan.
While July is busier than June, Hokkaido’s scale ensures it never feels overwhelming, especially outside major festival weekends.
Hokkaido Weather in July
July brings some of Hokkaido's warmest and most pleasant weather of the year. Days are typically sunny and comfortable, making it an excellent time to explore the island's cities, countryside, mountains, and coastlines. One of the greatest advantages of visiting Hokkaido in summer is the extended daylight, with the sun not setting until around 7:15–7:30 pm(or later), giving travelers plenty of time to enjoy sightseeing, outdoor dining, festivals, and scenic drives.
In Sapporo, daytime temperatures typically range from 24°C to 27°C (75°F to 81°F), while evenings cool to a comfortable 17°C to 20°C (63°F to 68°F). Light summer clothing is usually sufficient during the day, although a light jacket or extra layer can be useful in the evening or when visiting mountain areas. Breathable fabrics, comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and a small umbrella for occasional showers are recommended for a comfortable July visit.
| Location | Average High | Average Low | Rainfall |
| Sapporo (Central) | 24°C–27°C | 17°C–20°C | Low–Moderate |
| Otaru (West Coast) | 23°C–26°C | 18°C–20°C | Low–Moderate |
| Asahikawa (Interior) | 25°C–28°C | 16°C–19°C | Low |
| Hakodate (South) | 24°C–27°C | 18°C–21°C | Low–Moderate |
What to Pack for Hokkaido in July
July is particularly well suited for hiking, flower viewing, festival-going, and exploring the island's diverse natural landscapes. Travelers can generally expect pleasant mornings, warm afternoons, cooler evenings, and moderate humidity.
If you're planning a trip to Hokkaido in July, pack light summer clothing, comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Mornings and evenings can feel noticeably cooler than the middle of the day, particularly in mountain areas, along the coast, or after rain showers. A light jacket or sweater is often all you need. You'll also appreciate having an extra layer when entering air-conditioned trains, hotels, museums, and restaurants. A small umbrella or lightweight rain jacket is worth bringing as well, just in case.
Hokkaido Festivals & Events in July
Across the island, summer is in full swing in July as lavender fields burst into bloom, mountain trails are fully accessible, festivals fill city streets with energy, and some of Hokkaido's finest seasonal foods reach their peak.
Sapporo Summer Beer Festival (Late July–August)
One of Hokkaido's signature summer events, the Sapporo Summer Festival transforms Odori Park into a giant outdoor gathering space. The famous Odori Beer Garden stretches for blocks through the city center, featuring local and international beers, food stalls, live entertainment, and a festive atmosphere that draws visitors from across Japan. The major Japanese beer companies Kirin, Sapporo, Asahi, Suntory and an array of foreign beer manufacturers set up their stalls throughout Odori Park. The festival has been a Sapporo summer tradition since 1954 and is one of the largest outdoor beer garden events in the country.
Makomanai Fireworks Festival (Mid July)
One of Hokkaido's largest fireworks displays, the Makomanai Fireworks Festival lights up the summer sky with approximately 22,000 fireworks synchronized to music, lighting effects, and special effects. The event has become one of Sapporo's premier summer spectacles.
Lavender Season in Furano & Biei (Early–Mid July Peak)
Although not a traditional festival, lavender season is one of Hokkaido's most anticipated summer events. Fields of purple lavender, colorful flower gardens, and sweeping rural landscapes attract visitors from around the world. July is the best time to experience the region's iconic summer scenery.
Hokkai Heso (belly naval) Matsuri (Late July)
Held in Furano, this unique and distinctly Hokkaido festival is famous for its "belly dancing" performances, where participants paint faces on their torsos and parade through the streets. The event is lively, humorous, and unlike any other festival in Japan.
Otaru Ushio Festival (Late July)
The historic port city of Otaru celebrates its maritime heritage with parades, traditional performances, food stalls, and a spectacular fireworks display over the harbor. The festival brings a festive energy to one of Hokkaido's most charming destinations.
Recommended Tours of Hokkaido in July
Blue Pond & Hills of Seasonal Colors
- Witness the surreal cobalt-blue hues created by natural minerals in the water—an unforgettable, otherworldly sight that changes subtly with light and weather.
- Enjoy a peaceful stroll along well-maintained walking paths surrounded by pristine Hokkaido wilderness and see the beauty of The Blue Pond of all sides.
- From lush greenery in summer to icy blue in winter, the pond transforms with the seasons, offering a unique view year-round.
- At Shikisai no Oka (“Hills of Seasonal Colors”), marvel at rolling hills blanketed in vibrant rows of seasonal flowers—lavender, sunflowers, tulips, poppies, and more depending on the time of year.
- Hop on a farm tractor for a charming “flower tractor” ride to tour the entire hillside in comfort while enjoying panoramic views.
- Meet adorable alpacas at the on-site mini farm—fun for all ages and perfect for a few lighthearted selfies.
Hill of the Buddha, Sapporo Gems & Sake Tasting
- Visit The Shari-Zan Butsugan-ji Temple, one of the newest and most religious spots in Hokkaido! It is “home” the largest (45m) lying Buddha in Japan! This amazing place is now considered to be one of the strongest power spots in Japan!
- Arrive at The Hill of The Buddha. As you approach from a short distance away, you’ll see only the head of the Buddha poking out from an artificial hill. Your imagination will be piqued by what you cannot see. Finally, you will reach the roofless hall where the entire Buddha looms. The ethereal sight is one you’ll remember forever.
- From the top observation deck of The Sapporo T.V. Tower, we will enjoy 360 degree panoramic views of the entire city of Sapporo. Absolutely breathtaking!
- Enjoy varies types a Japanese sake at a Sake Stand Bar. Learn about sake from a very knowledgeable staff that run the sake strand bar.
The Port City of Otaru & Local Beer Brewery
- Take a stroll along the one kilometre Otaru Canal. Otaru’s canal played an important role in the town’s port industry during the first half of the twentieth century.
- Sightsee along Sakaimachi Street, a very well preserved traditional merchant street. The street runs about 800 metres north to south. Many western style buildings that were built in the late 1800s and early 1900s line this street.
- Lovers of “tinkly music” will love the visit to The Music Box Museum. Here, see many kinds of music boxes made of grass, wood or other material. Their gentle sounds will captivate you immediately when you step into the museum.
- Observe The Otaru Steam Clock which was a gift from the city of Vancouver, Canada to Otaru in June 1994.
- A visit to one of Kitaichi’s many glassware shops. Otaru’s most prominent. Nowadays, Otaru is a hub for Japan’s domestic glassware industry, attracting glass enthusiasts from all over Japan and the world. Beautiful glassware of all shapes and sizes are on display.
- Tour ending “beer tasting” along The Otaru Canal at the German Beer Brewery.
