Japan in summer means Japan in full colour. Vibrant festival floats flood city streets. Rooftop gardens pack out. Freezing glasses foam with beer. Rice fields run verdant green. Men don g-string esque fundoshi loin cloths. Families party with deceased ancestors and smash watermelons on beaches. We think summer is an unsung, brilliant secret in the Japan travel calendar, and the best time of year to experience Japan's most exquisite sights – particularly if you'd prefer them without the crowds. I