Visiting Nagoya in August offers several advantages:
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Abundant cultural events: Nagoya hosts numerous festivals and cultural events during August, showcasing traditional Japanese arts, music, and dance.
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Unique experiences: The Obon Festival, celebrated in mid-August, is a time for honoring ancestors and connecting with family traditions. Nagoya’s Bon Odori dance performances are particularly renowned.
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Fireworks displays: Spectacular fireworks illuminate the night sky over Nagoya Castle and other locations throughout August, creating memorable spectacles.
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Extended hours: Many attractions, such as the Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology, offer extended hours in August, providing more time for exploration.
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Festival atmosphere: The city exudes a lively festival atmosphere during August, with decorated streets and festive street food vendors.
Weather In Nagoya During August
August in Nagoya, Japan
Temperature:
- Average high: 32°C (90°F)
- Average low: 26°C (79°F)
Precipitation:
- Average rainfall: 170 mm (6.7 inches)
- Number of rainy days: 10
Humidity:
- Average humidity: 75%
Sunshine:
- Average sunshine hours: 7 hours per day
Other Weather Conditions:
- Typhoons: August is the peak month for typhoon season in Japan, so there is a chance of strong winds and heavy rain during this time.
- Heat and Humidity: The combination of high temperatures and humidity can make it uncomfortable to be outdoors for extended periods of time.
- Afternoon Thunderstorms: Afternoon thunderstorms are common in Nagoya during August.
- Sunscreen and Hats: It is essential to wear sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the strong UV rays.
Clothing Recommendations:
- Pack light, breathable clothing such as cotton or linen.
- Bring a rain jacket or umbrella for possible showers.
- Wear comfortable shoes as you will likely be doing a lot of walking.
- If you are concerned about the heat, consider bringing a portable fan or misting device.
Things To Do In Nagoya In August
Festivals and Celebrations Unique to August in Nagoya:
1. Nagoya Bon Dance Festival (Danjiri Matsuri) (August 13-15)
- A vibrant festival featuring traditional “danjiri” floats adorned with intricate carvings and lanterns. The floats are paraded through the city center accompanied by energetic drum performances and lively dancing.
2. Nagoya Ebisu Festival (August 20-21)
- Held at Atsuta Jingu Shrine, this festival celebrates the god of commerce and good fortune, Ebisu. Visitors can pray for financial success and witness traditional Japanese rituals like the “kagura” dance.
3. Nishiki Matsuri (August 14-16)
- A colorful festival centering around Nishiki Shrine in Nakamura Ward. The highlight is the parade of over 50 elaborately decorated “dango” (rice dumpling) floats. Visitors can also enjoy various cultural performances and street food stalls.
Other Notable Events in August:
1. Osu Kannon Summer Festival (Mid-August)
- Held at Osu Kannon Temple, this festival features lanterns, food stalls, and live performances.
2. Nagoya Port Festival (Early August)
- A maritime festival at Nagoya Port with ship tours, boat races, and a fireworks display.
3. Nagoya Star Light Festival (August)
- A summer illumination event that transforms the city into a canvas of twinkling lights and projections.
Things to See and Do:
1. Nagoya Castle
- A historic castle that served as the seat of the Owari Clan during the Edo period. Visitors can explore its towers, moats, and gardens.
2. Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology
- A museum showcasing the history and innovations of Toyota, one of the world’s largest automakers.
3. Atsuta Jingu Shrine
- One of the most important Shinto shrines in Japan, known for its sacred sword and ancient treasures.
4. Nagoya Sea Life Aquarium
- Home to over 50,000 marine creatures, including sharks, penguins, and jellyfish.
Food to Try:
- Tebasaki: Spicy fried chicken wings
- Hitsumabushi: A dish of grilled eel over rice, served with various toppings
- Miso Nikomi Udon: Thick udon noodles in a savory miso-based broth
- Nagoya Cochin Miso Katsu: Chicken cutlets deep-fried and coated in a sweet miso sauce
Tourism In Nagoya, Japan During August
Nagoya is a vibrant metropolis bustling with activity in August. The city plays host to a plethora of festivals and events that draw visitors from far and wide.
One of the most renowned is the Nagoya Bon Festival, which takes place annually from August 13th to 16th. This lively celebration features traditional Bon dance performances, where participants don colorful happi coats and wooden clogs. The streets come alive with the infectious rhythms of drums and the cheerful atmosphere of locals and tourists alike.
Another highlight of August in Nagoya is the Obon Yasuri Matsuri, held on August 15th. This unique festival involves participants using metal rasps to create a distinctive grating sound that is believed to ward off evil spirits. The rasping sound reverberates through the streets, adding to the city’s vibrant ambiance.
Beyond these festivals, Nagoya offers numerous other attractions in August. The city’s renowned art museums, such as the Nagoya City Art Museum and the Tokugawa Art Museum, showcase exceptional exhibitions that captivate art enthusiasts. The Oasis 21 shopping mall, renowned for its distinctive elliptical glass roof and cascading waterfall, provides a serene oasis amidst the urban landscape.
Nagoya’s culinary scene also comes to life in August. The city is renowned for its miso katsu, a local delicacy of pork cutlets fried with a thick miso sauce. Visitors can indulge in this savory dish at numerous restaurants throughout the city, each offering its unique take on this beloved local dish.
In summary, August in Nagoya presents a vibrant and dynamic blend of festivals, cultural events, and culinary delights, making it a captivating destination for tourists seeking an immersive experience in Japan’s rich traditions and urban allure.
