“Hot town, summer in the city … “. The words to a well-known American classic rock song could have been written specifically about Tokyo in the warmer months. While summer in Japan is often a sweltering affair, there are still plenty of places you can go to either escape or enjoy the weather.
Omori Furusato Seaside Park
You don’t have to head for the southern islands to find a stretch of white sand perfect for a picnic. The riverside beach at Omori Furusato Park may not permit swimming, but you CAN build sandcastles, kick back with a book, or even dip a toe or ten in the water.
Senzoku Park
Stroll around the lake, take a paddleboat out on the waters, or enjoy a picnic in the shade of the leafy cherry trees. There’s no shortage of things to do at this sprawling park just steps from Senzoku-ike Station. You can even flesh out your picnic offerings from one of the many nearby cafes or bakeries.
Zoshiki or Mihara Shotengai
When the heat of the day gets to be too much, head for one of Ota’s traditional shopping arcades, or shotengai. These commercial streets are a throwback to Tokyo in the mid twentieth century, when small eateries, old-fashioned coffee and mom-and-pop stores dominated the Ota’s shopping scene. Today, you can often find trendy coffee shops and new eateries tucked in amongst the food markets and other merchandise.
Heiwajima Boat Races
Catch the summer action in Heiwajima’s watery stadium with unique motorboat races. Cheer on your favorite competitors and perhaps even place a bet or two. Sit in the “cheap seat” for the lively crowds and the chance to catch a bit of cooling spray from the boats as they race by. The nearby Big Fun Heiwajima complex offers air-conditioned fun with a bowling alley and movie theater.
Ota City Fireworks Festival
As night falls and the temperature lowers, settle in on the banks of the Tama River for a fireworks festival. Not as well-known as similar events such as the Sumida River Fireworks Festival, the Tamagawa Fireworks Festival promises fewer crowds while still delivering impressive pyrotechnics. Grab a seat under the night sky amongst the locals and congratulate yourself on a summer day well spent in Ota City.
