August 26, 2024
Restless 25 - Australia, Hokkaido, Festivals, and Avoiding the Heat
Hello.
The heat outside remains oppressive. For the past few years, we’ve managed to escape the worst of it by heading to Australia, where we host our annual homestay with a group of students. This year, after Obon, we also took a week-long trip north to Hokkaido, where the climate is relatively cooler. Although Hokkaido was still hot during the day, it was much more bearable. Nowadays, it’s simply too dangerous to be outdoors during the afternoon in most of August in central Japan, especially if you’re cycling, running, or hiking.
Yet, honestly, I wouldn’t trade the summer for anything (yet). The summer festivals are just too amazing. The tradition and sense of community far outweigh the discomfort of the heat and humidity.
I’ve written more about this and other topics on my website, and you can find them listed below.
How about you? Do you enjoy summer in Japan? Or do you have any interesting ways to beat the heat? I’d love to hear from you.
Sean.
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