August is a suitable time to visit Fukuoka for the following reasons:
- Hakata Gion Yamakasa Festival: Held from July 15th to 18th, this renowned festival features vibrant parades and the display of ornate floats known as “kamakura.”
- Obon Festival: Falling in mid-August, Obon is a time when Japanese families honor their ancestors by visiting temples, placing lanterns on graves, and engaging in traditional dances.
- Zenpukuji Temple’s Lotus Garden: August is when the temple’s lotus pond bursts into bloom, creating a picturesque sight for visitors to admire.
- Summer Sales: Japanese stores hold summer sales in August, offering discounts on a wide range of goods, from clothing and accessories to electronics and home appliances.
- Culture and Nightlife: Fukuoka is known for its vibrant culture and bustling nightlife, with numerous restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues open until late.
Weather In Fukuoka During August
August Weather in Fukuoka, Japan
August is one of the hottest and most humid months in Fukuoka, Japan. Here’s an overview of the typical weather conditions during this month:
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Temperature:
- Average high: 32.5°C (90.5°F)
- Average low: 27.0°C (80.6°F)
- Average mean: 29.8°C (85.6°F)
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Humidity:
- Average humidity: 77%
- High humidity can make the heat feel even more oppressive.
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Rainfall:
- Average rainfall: 249mm (9.8in)
- August is one of the rainiest months in Fukuoka, with frequent showers and occasional thunderstorms.
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Sunshine:
- Average sunshine hours: 184 hours
- Despite the rainfall, Fukuoka still receives a fair amount of sunshine.
Other Weather Features:
- Typhoons: August is the peak season for typhoons in Japan. While it’s unlikely that Fukuoka will be directly hit by a typhoon, the outer bands of a typhoon can bring heavy rain and strong winds to the city.
- Afternoon Thunderstorms: During the afternoon, it’s common to experience brief but intense thunderstorms. These storms usually pass quickly, leaving behind humid and muggy conditions.
Tips for Visiting Fukuoka in August:
- Dress lightly: Wear loose-fitting, breathable clothing to stay cool.
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration.
- Avoid strenuous activities: It’s not advisable to engage in strenuous activities during the hottest part of the day.
- Seek out cool places: Visit air-conditioned museums, shopping malls, or take a dip in the sea.
- Be prepared for rain: Pack an umbrella or raincoat in case of showers.
- Monitor typhoon forecasts: Stay informed about any potential typhoon approaching Fukuoka.
Things To Do In Fukuoka In August
Festivals and Celebrations in Fukuoka in August:
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Hakata Gion Yamakasa (July 1-15): A 700-year-old festival featuring a spectacular parade of floats and elaborately decorated “Yamakasa” floats weighing over one ton. The festival culminates in a breathtaking race where teams of runners carry the Yamakasa through the streets of Hakata.
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Sumo Exhibition at Hakataza Theatre (Early August): Watch skilled sumo wrestlers demonstrate their techniques and agility in a thrilling exhibition match.
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Hakata Summer Festival (Mid-August): A lively festival celebrated along the Hakata River. Enjoy a variety of food stalls, street performances, and a dazzling fireworks display.
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Fukuoka Castle Festival (Mid-April - Late August): Witness the reconstruction of the city’s historical Fukuoka Castle during this festival. Participate in traditional tea ceremonies, archery demonstrations, and other cultural activities.
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Hakata Dontaku Port Festival (Mid-August): A colorful and lively festival celebrating the fusion of Japanese and foreign cultures in Fukuoka. Enjoy a parade of floats, traditional dance performances, and a grand fireworks display.
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Hakata Gion Chigo Festival (Mid-August): A charming festival where young children dressed in traditional costumes dance and sing through the streets, blessing businesses and homes with good fortune.
Other Activities in August:
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Visit Fukuoka Tower: Ascend to the observation deck of the iconic Fukuoka Tower for panoramic views of the city and Hakata Bay.
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Explore Ohori Park: Stroll through the lush gardens and admire the stunning Japanese architecture of this beautiful park.
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Visit the Kyushu National Museum: Discover the rich history and culture of Kyushu through a vast collection of artifacts, including a mummified child from the Edo period.
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Enjoy the Nightlife: Fukuoka has a vibrant nightlife scene with numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from.
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Shop at Canal City Hakata: Indulge in a shopping spree at this massive underground shopping center featuring over 200 stores and restaurants.
Tourism In Fukuoka, Japan During August
Immerse yourself in Fukuoka’s vibrant culture and captivating festivities in August. The renowned Hakata Gion Yamakasa, a spirited summer festival, captivates the city from July 15th to July 16th. Witness the thrilling spectacle of teams adorned in traditional attire dashing through the streets with massive floats, showcasing the city’s rich heritage.
Don’t miss the Hakata Dontaku Festival, which takes place from May 3rd to May 4th. This lively event features colorful parades, energetic dances, and a lively atmosphere that permeates the streets. Embrace the infectious rhythm of taiko drumming and marvel at the artistry of traditional Japanese crafts.
Head to Ohori Park, a serene oasis in the heart of the city. Stroll along the tranquil lakeside paths, admire the blooming lotus flowers, and visit the Kyushu National Museum for a glimpse into the region’s captivating history.
Indulge in Fukuoka’s culinary delights, renowned for its mouthwatering street food and fresh seafood. Explore the bustling Nakasu district, a nocturnal hub teeming with lively bars, restaurants, and food stalls, or venture into the atmospheric alleys of Tenjin to savor authentic ramen and local delicacies.
Take advantage of the convenient public transportation system to venture beyond the city center. Visit Dazaifu, a charming town steeped in history and home to the Kyushu National Museum, or embark on a day trip to Yanagawa, known for its picturesque canals and traditional boat rides.