July is very humid and hot in Osaka. Most of the first half of the month experiences rainfall, which decreases by the middle of the month. At the same time, you could expect very high temperatures, often exceeding 99°F (37°C). The crowds and prices begin to increase in mid-July as students start their summer vacation in Japan.
How Hot and Humid Is It in July in Osaka?
The hot weather combined with high humidity makes it feel even hotter.
Temperatures in July often exceed 86°F (30°C), with some days even reaching 100°F (38°C).
Humidity could reach 80% to 90%, similar to some humid summer cities in the United States. However, the heat could feel even more oppressive and uncomfortable. Just standing outdoors could make you sweat, increasing the risk of dehydration.
Rainfall could be unpredictable. Before mid-July, it often rains heavily for long periods. After mid-July, the rain turns into heavy showers and the thunderstorms increase.
Tips for Visiting Osaka in July
Although July in Osaka could be hot and humid, with proper planning, you could still enjoy a comfortable and pleasant visit. Read below for some tips on visiting Osaka in July.
Try to schedule outdoor activities in the morning when temperatures are cooler, such as Universal Studios Japan, Osaka Castle, etc.
Consider indoor activities from midday to the afternoon. Osaka offers many indoor attractions, including Osaka Museum of History, Shinsaibashi-suji Shopping Arcade, and Kaiyukan, which could help you stay cool. Otherwise, you may feel extremely fatigued.
Plan to visit one or two places each day and avoid overly packed schedules. Due to the heat and potential rain, you may need to spend some time seeking shelter from the rain or cooling off.
Avoid outdoor hiking activities. If you plan to hike in Koya or Kumano Kodo, consider visiting during cooler months. Alternatively, you could choose to go to Hokkaido, Nagano, or Takayama, where the weather is more comfortable for outdoor activities.
What to Wear and Take to Osaka in July
When visiting Osaka in July, it's essential to dress for the heat and humidity.
Clothes: Start with lightweight, moisture-wicking shirts to keep you cool and dry. Opt for breathable fabrics, such as cotton or linen, which allow for better air circulation.
Other essentials: Consider taking a portable fan to help combat the heat while you're out and about. A small towel is also handy for wiping away sweat throughout the day. Lastly, remember to apply sunscreen to protect your skin from UV rays.
Top Things to Do in Osaka in July
1. Join the Osaka Tenjin Matsuri
Fireworks over Tenjin Matsuri celebrations along river in Osaka.The Osaka Tenjin Matsuri is one of Japan's three major festivals, alongside Tokyo's Kanda Matsuri and Kyoto's Gion Matsuri. It takes place on July 24th and 25th at Tenmangu Shrine in Osaka. There are lively street parades featuring music and traditional costumes. The festival lasts for 2 days, with the second day being particularly bustling, but be prepared for the heat!
2. Enjoy Cool Summer Treats
Cold soba noodles are a delicious summer dish served with a chilled dipping sauce, perfect for beating the heat. For a refreshing treat, try kakigori (shaved ice), a popular summer snack available at restaurants, cafés, street vendors, festivals, and beaches. To enhance your culinary experience, consider visiting food-themed museums, such as the Takoyaki Museum or the CupNoodles Museum, where you could even create your own dishes, making it a fun outing for the whole family!
3. Visit Universal Studios Japan
Universal Studios Japan(USJ) Night ViewJuly could be quite hot at Universal Studios Japan, so aim to arrive by 7am to get in line. The park has limited shaded resting areas but there are places to get drinking water and many indoor attractions. It may rain at any time, so please take rain gear. Heavy rainfall could lead to rides being temporarily closed. Even during the summer, it is still crowded, even if it rains.
Tips for your visit:
- To make the most of your visit, purchase a fast pass to keep wait times less than 15 minutes.
- Try to do outdoor rides in the morning and save indoor and water attractions for the afternoon to avoid the heat.
- Weekdays are less crowded than weekends. After 5pm, temperatures cool down, making it a great time for photos, night views, and fireworks.
- If your schedule allows, consider a half-day ticket for entry at 2pm and visit until 10pm, so you could enjoy outdoor rides after sunset — just be mindful of ride closing times.
4. Sunbathe at Osaka's Beaches
Senjo-jiki in Shirahama-choIf you have extra time in Osaka, consider a trip to Shirahama Beach and its hot spring resorts. It is ideal for a day trip or overnight stay. The beaches near Osaka Bay are great for sunbathing, although swimming is not recommended.
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