By mid-July, the rainy season usually comes to an end, and schools begin their summer vacation toward the end of the month. It is the season when summer truly arrives in Japan.
July 7 is Tanabata (七夕), also known as the Star Festival. It is a good opportunity to write your wishes on a tanzaku wish strip. Around the time the rainy season ends, lotus flowers begin to bloom across the country.
July 23 is Taisho (大暑), or Great Heat, one of the 24 seasonal divisions of the traditional Japanese calendar. It marks the hottest period of the year. It is also the season when juicy fruits such as peaches, melons, and watermelons are at their best.
Tanabata is said to have developed from a combination of Chinese traditions and ancient Japanese rituals. People decorate bamboo branches with colorful ornaments and tanzaku carrying their wishes. Tanabata festivals are held throughout Japan, some in July and others according to the old lunar calendar in August.
Among the most famous are the Sendai Tanabata Festival, the Shonan Hiratsuka Tanabata Festival, and the Anjo Tanabata Festival, all of which attract large crowds and involve the entire community.
As Japan enters the height of summer, July is also an important month for job hunting.
The Second Half of New Graduate Recruitment
At many companies, the process of extending job offers to new graduates is largely completed between late June and early July. However, many small and medium-sized enterprises continue their recruitment interviews throughout July.
For that reason, July can be considered the second half of the recruitment season for students seeking employment after graduation.
If you are an international student who has not yet received a job offer, do not give up.
There are still many excellent SMEs looking for talented candidates. Stay positive, keep applying, and continue searching for companies where you can shine.
Mid-Career Recruitment Becomes More Active
Many employees in Japan receive their summer bonus in July. As a result, more people begin considering a job change after receiving their bonus.
Because of this, corporate recruitment activities also tend to become more active during this period.
In 2026, there has been a noticeable trend of companies placing greater emphasis on mid-career hiring rather than new graduate recruitment.
If you are considering changing jobs, you may feel disadvantaged because you will be competing with experienced Japanese candidates. However, there is no reason to lose hope.
Even if you are not planning to change jobs immediately, this is a good time to observe which companies are hiring. The information you gather now may be useful for your future career plans.
Do Not Forget Your Tax and Insurance Payments
Between June and July, local governments send notifications regarding resident tax and National Health Insurance premiums.
Be sure to check the payment deadlines and make your payments on time. Ideally, these should be completed by early July.
Failure to pay taxes or insurance premiums may negatively affect future applications, including the renewal of your residence status.
If you are employed by a company, the necessary deductions are usually handled through payroll. However, it is still a good idea to confirm that everything is being processed correctly.
JLPT
The first JLPT, or Japanese-Language Proficiency Test, of the year will be held on July 5.
Since the test is offered only once or twice a year depending on the country, be sure not to miss the opportunity if you plan to take it.
The second test will be held on December 6, with applications accepted from August 17 to September 7.
July marks the beginning of Japan’s hot summer season.
Take care to avoid heatstroke and summer colds, and stay safe during outdoor activities. Typhoons also become more common during this time of year, so it is important to pay attention to weather warnings and possible flooding.
On the Day of the Ox, or Doyo no Ushi no Hi, which falls on July 27 in 2026, many people in Japan eat grilled eel, or unagi, to help endure the summer heat.
Enjoy the season, stay healthy, and make the most of the opportunities that summer brings.
By Hajime Saito
X: @hajimesaitoYJC
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