Transitioning from spring’s gentle warmth to summer’s (June-August) vibrant energy, Japan’s rich nature offers unique opportunities to holistically support mind and body health.
Particularly, Japan’s hot and humid summer naturally encoura es practices for internal purification and cooling. During this season, characterized by lush greenery and a lively atmosphere, traditional Japanese wellness emphasizes adapting to seasonal changes. By focusing on mind-body invigoration, cooling practices, and connection with nature’s
blessings, it encourages attunement with the season’s inherent energy.
Summer Wellness Activities
Incorporating Cooling Foods
Japan’s summer is rich in culinary wisdom for cooling the body from within. Somen noodles, hiyayakko (chilled tofu), and cold tea are prime examples. These foods are easily digestible and are said to have a cooling effect on the body. Summer vegetables like cucumbers, eggplants, and tomatoes, as well as fruits such as watermelon and melon, are rich in water and potassium, aiding in temperature regulation and preventing dehydration. Acidic foods like umeboshi (pickled plums) and sunomono (vinegared dishes) stimulate appetite and help recover from summer fatigue. Through these meals, you can feel a sense of coolness from within, prevent summer fatigue, and maintain vitality.
Refresh with Forest Bathing and Summer Flora
Experiencing Japan’s rich nature during summer fully refreshes mind and body. Forest bathing (Shinrin-yoku), walking through forests filled with the scent of trees, is scientifically proven to reduce stress hormones and boost immunity. Seasonal flowers unique to this time of year also soothe the mind. Hydrangeas blooming during the rainy season, morning glories glistening with dew, and vast fields of sunflowers and lavender—each flower’s beauty and fragrance stimulate the senses and alleviate daily fatigue.
Earthing and Refreshment by the Sea
Japan’s long and beautiful coastline provides ideal locations for summer wellness activities.
Earthing by the sea, or walking barefoot on sandy beaches, is reported to reduce inflammation, alleviate stress, and improve sleep quality by connecting with the earth’s natural energy. Beach walking while feeling the sea breeze and swimming in the ocean refresh mind and body, washing away daily fatigue. The sound of waves calms the mind, and the expansive horizon brings a sense of openness and mental peace.
Summer Wellness Information for Each Area
Hokkaido: Cool Summers and Abundant Blessings
Hokkaido is an ideal place to escape the heat of Honshu and refresh. The vast lavender fields of Furano and Biei calm the mind with their fragrance, offering an aromatherapy effect.
Canoeing and hiking in the Kushiro Wetlands or Shiretoko’s primeval forests provide excellent opportunities to experience clear air and untouched nature. Consuming seasonal blessings like melons and corn also helps replenish the body’s internal moisture.
Shinshu/Nagano: Mountain Serenity and Forest Healing
Nagano Prefecture, embracing the Japanese Alps, is appealing for its cool summer climate.
Trekking in high mountains or experiencing negative ions at places like Shiraito Falls in Karuizawa purifies mind and body. Many onsen resorts, historically famous for therapeutic bathing, are also recommended for healing summer fatigue. Fresh highland vegetables and soba noodles are also beneficial for mind-body health.
Kamakura/Enoshima: Ancient Capital Charm and Ocean Energy
In Kamakura, lined with historic temples and shrines, hydrangeas are in full bloom during the rainy season. Visiting
Meigetsu-in Temple, known as Hydrangea Temple, brings a sense of calm even on rainy days. A trip to Enoshima allows for easy access to beach earthing and beach yoga. It’s a unique wellness experience where the tranquility of an ancient capital merges with the vitality of the sea.
Okinawa: Subtropical Nature and Unique Food Culture
Okinawa, with its subtropical climate, focuses on wellness in its warm seas. Snorkeling and SUP in waters with colorful
coral reefs allow you to move your body while feeling the ocean’s vitality. Unique Okinawan cuisine ingredients like goya (bitter melon) and umibudo (sea grapes) are perfect for cooling the body and replenishing minerals. In the evening, stargazing is recommended for meditation and feeling one with nature.
Japan’s Cooling Items and Traditions
New Ways to Enjoy Onsen (Hot Baths)
While onsen might seem hot in summer, they are actually very effective for mind-body invigoration and fatigue recovery. Especially in cool mountainous onsen resorts, soaking in warm water amidst cool outdoor air promotes blood circulation and helps alleviate coldness from air conditioning or summer fatigue. Onsen steam baths also help open pores and expel waste products.
Water Baths: A Cold Experience to Sharpen Mind and Body
Some traditional bathhouses and natural environments offer cold water bathing or waterfall meditation (takigyo), which have been cherished as traditional cultural practices for spiritual discipline and purification since ancient times. Research suggests that cold water stimulation can activate the sympathetic nervous system, temporarily bringing a sense of alertness and invigoration. By stepping away from daily hustle and immersing oneself in cold water, the five
senses are sharpened, and a deep refreshing effect is expected.
Traditional Goods for Feeling Cool with the Five Senses
Japan has a culture of feeling cool through sight, sound, and touch in summer.
- Furin (Wind Chimes): The clear sound of wind chimes hung from eaves calms the mind and evokes a cool breeze.
- Uchiwa (Fans) and Sensu (Folding Fans): Creating a gentle breeze yourself not only lowers perceived temperature but also promotes mental peace through peaceful movements.
- Bamboo/Linen Items: Natural material items like bamboo mats and linen clothing are pleasant to the touch and highly breathable, helping to keep you cool.
