Top Weather Japan in June
Traveling to Japan in June offers a completely unique and refreshing experience for travelers who want to experience the country's early summer beauty, lush landscapes, and vibrant cultural life. June is also one of the most atmospheric times to visit the country, despite the fact that Japan's rainy season, locally known as "Tsuyu", begins. The rain brings the countryside to life, brightening the gardens with blooming hydrangeas and creating a calm, misty mood that makes the temples, mountains, and forests magical. Whether you're strolling the bustling streets of Tokyo, admiring the traditional temples of Kyoto, or relaxing in the mild climate of Hokkaido, June in Japan is full of natural attractions and cultural wonders.
Weather in Japan in June
June marks the beginning of summer and the famous rainy season. Most of Japan, especially central and southern regions like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, experience mild temperatures between 20°C and 28°C (68°F and 82°F). While you may encounter brief showers or cloudy skies, it rarely rains all day. Instead, showers refresh the atmosphere and make the air cool and comfortable. Northern regions like Hokkaido are pleasantly dry, providing a great escape from the rain for travelers. So, with the right packing – like a light raincoat, waterproof shoes, and an umbrella – you can still enjoy every bit of your trip.
Why visit Japan in June?
Traveling to Japan in June has several advantages. First, it’s off-peak travel season, which means fewer tourists, shorter lines, and better hotel deals. It gives you the chance to visit top attractions without the crowds, giving you a more peaceful experience. Secondly, June is the season of flowers - from the famous hydrangea (ajisai) flowers to irises and early summer greenery, gardens and parks look charmingly colorful. Major festivals such as the Sano Matsuri in Tokyo and the Yosakoi Soran Festival in Hokkaido also take place this month, allowing travelers to witness traditional Japanese dance, music and street celebrations.
Another reason to visit Japan in June is the food! The beginning of summer brings delicious seasonal dishes such as cold soba noodles, unagi (grilled eel) and refreshing matcha desserts. Many restaurants and cafes also start offering summer-themed menus that are perfect for the humid weather.
01. Hokkaido
Hokkaido is the best place to visit in Japan in June. It is home to mild temperatures, blooming meadows, and exciting festivals. You can start your trip to Sapporo by attending the Yosakoi Soran Festival at Odori Park and then take a ride on the Mount Moiway Ropeway.
Next, you can see the lavender flowers blooming at Farm Tomita and Shikisai-no-Oka in Furano and Biei. Nature lovers can visit the Asahiyama Zoo or go on a wildlife tour on the Shiretoko Peninsula. You can soak in the hot springs of Noboribetsu or see Mount Hakodate at night. Moreover, whiskey lovers can enjoy tastings and guided tours at Nikka Yoichi Distillery, another great place to visit in Hokkaido.
02. Okinawa
June weather in Okinawa is warm and tropical, making it ideal for beach activities and cultural encounters. After seeing whale sharks and manta rays at the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, you can continue your journey to nearby Cape Manzamo for ocean views.
You can relax on Kondoi or Yonaha Maehama beaches, or learn about Okinawa’s royal past by visiting Shuri Castle. You can also visit the Southeast Botanical Garden to see tropical plants or take a stroll through the lively Makishi Public Market. In the Kerama Islands, you can try island hopping or snorkeling in the Blue Cave.
You can walk along the Bise no Fukugi Tree Road or head to the American Village for a fun night out. With all that said, Okinawa is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Japan.
03. Nagano
Nagano is one of the best places to visit in Japan in June, as you can visit both outdoor attractions and cultural sites in mild weather. You can start your adventure at Zenkoji, one of the oldest temples in Japan, and explore its peaceful grounds. Then, you can visit the Nagano Prefectural Art Museum to see the work of Higashiyama Kai and local artifacts.
If you are interested in learning about local folklore, visit Togakushi Temple and take a walk in a beautiful forest in the upper hall. For those interested in history, Matsumoto Castle will fascinate you with its architectural views from the samurai era. At Jigokudani Monkey Park, you can also see snow monkeys.
You can relax in the hot springs of Beso Onsen, visit the Daio Wasabi Farm, or cycle to Karuizawa to complete your experience.
04. Rishiri and Rebun Islands
June offers perfect weather for exploring Rishiri and Rebun Islands, which are some of the best places to visit in Japan in June. On Rishiri Island, you can start by hiking up Mount Rishiri to see the entire island, or cycle along the island’s quiet coastal roads.
For clear views of the volcanic peaks, visit the Himenuma and Otatomari wetlands. At the next stop, you can visit Rebun Island, which is famous for its Cape Tour and alpine flowers like orchids and edelweiss. For breathtaking views of the ocean, you can hike to Cape Gorota and Cape Sukoton.
Moreover, you can visit a nearby onsen or participate in a hands-on sea urchin shaking session. Whether you are planning a 6-day trip to Japan or just a short vacation, these islands offer an unforgettable experience.
05. Explore Japanese Museums in Tokyo
Visiting museums is one of the best things to do in June to explore the history, art, and creativity of Japan. You can visit the Tokyo National Museum in Ueno Park and see ancient artwork, calligraphy, and samurai armor. Nearby, the National Museum of Nature and Science has dinosaur skeletons and hands-on science exhibits.
You can visit the Edo-Tokyo Museum to learn about Japanese culture and see how Tokyo has changed over time. You can visit the Ghibli Museum for animated films or the Mori Art Museum for modern art and cityscapes.
06. Enjoy a Karaoke Session
Karaoke is one of the best things to do in Japan in June to escape the hot weather and enjoy the city’s nightlife. So, to enjoy the air-conditioned rooms and huge collection of songs, you can visit Big Echo or Joysound. If you enjoy anime or video games, you can head to Pasella Resort in Akihabara, which offers themed karaoke.
You can also find small karaoke places on the side streets for a local feel. After exploring the city, you can visit Uta Hiroba and Manekineko, which are open 24 hours a day, making them perfect for late-night outings. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, karaoke is definitely one of the best things to do in Japan to have a fun and lively night out.
07. Discover Japan's Stunning Aquariums
June is a great month to visit aquariums in Japan, as it's rainy outside, but you can still enjoy the aquatic life indoors even when it's dry. So you could start by visiting Okinawa's Churaumi Aquarium to see the giant whale sharks up close. Tokyo's Sumida Aquarium now has a new jellyfish area that's great for relaxing.
You can see exhibits from Japan to Antarctica at the Port of Nagoya Public Aquarium. If you're near Yamagata, you can visit Kamo Aquarium and enjoy its colorful jellyfish.
Location: Churaumi Aquarium (Okinawa), Sumida Aquarium (Tokyo), Nagoya Public Aquarium Port
08. Agata Festival
The Agata Festival in Japan is a traditional Shinto event held annually at the Agata Shrine in Uji, Kyoto. It includes a grand procession and a ritual known as the Bonten Maoshi, which is believed to protect residents from evil spirits.
Here, watching devotees wave a unique wooden object called a bonten is one of the best things to do in Japan in June. When this is done, you can grab the piece of paper attached to the bonten to bring good luck and ward off bad energy. If you are planning a 5-day trip to Japan, this is a perfect cultural experience to add to your itinerary.
Location: Kyoto
09. Rice Planting Festival
The Osaka Rice Planting Festival has been around for 1,700 years and marks the beginning of the rainy season in Japan in June. As part of this event, you’ll see 12 women planting rice seedlings in the rice fields of Sumiyoshi Shrine and hear folk music and songs about rice planting.
This is a great opportunity to learn about Japanese agriculture and see how important rice is to Japanese cuisine, especially if you’re spending a week in Japan and want to include an authentic cultural experience in your itinerary.
Location: Osaka
10. Enshu Hamakita Hiryu Matsuri
In the city of Hamamatsu, the Enshu Hamakita Hiryu Matsuri celebrates the elements of fire, water, and music. At this event, you’ll see a fire display with dragon heads flying in the air, kite flying, and taiko drum performances. For those who love traditional Japanese festivals, this is a spectacular performance celebrating the god of the Tenyu River.
Location: Hamamatsu City
11. Aizen Festival
One of Osaka's biggest summer festivals is the Aizen Festival, which celebrates the Buddhist guardian deity Aizen Myo-oh. During this event, you can attend the famous Geisha Parade, also called the Hukago, which draws thousands of people. As a popular occasion for artists seeking God's blessings, this festival is a good opportunity to meet well-known Japanese artists in June.
Location: Osaka
Read more: 2 Weeks in Japan Itinerary: Perfect for First Time Visitors
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you travel to Japan in June?
Yes, you can definitely visit Japan in June if you want to enjoy the green and peaceful environment of the country with fewer people. However, you may have to face a lot of rain and humidity as Japan's rainy season (tsuyu) begins.
Is Japan crowded in June?
No, Japan is less crowded in June than in spring or autumn, making it a great time to travel for a more relaxing trip. You can visit events like Chagu Chagu Umakko in Iwate, Yosakoi Soran in Sapporo, and Sano Matsuri in Tokyo. For a charming view of the hydrangea blossoms, you can visit places like Kamakura, Hakone's Ajisai Train, or Meigetsuin Shrine.
Is June a good time to visit Japan?
Yes, June is a good time to visit Japan if you want to enjoy the rainy season (tsuyu) in central Japan. However, in Hokkaido in northern Japan, temperatures range from 14°C to 23°C where you can enjoy the cherry blossom season in full glory. In the Okinawa Islands, temperatures hover around 29°C, making the sea environment warm and allowing you to snorkel, dive, and see manta rays around Ishigaki.
Does typhoon season start in Japan in June?
Yes, typhoon season in Japan starts in June, but most of the rainy season occurs between August and September. The risk of typhoons in June is low to moderate, and the rainy season overlaps during this time.
What is special about June in Japan?
June is the start of the rainy season in Japan, which means mild weather and lots of greenery. During this time, you can enjoy colorful festivals such as Yosakoi Soran and Sano Matsuri. You can also attend events like the Chagu Chagu Umakko Horse Parade and the Hokkaido Shrine Festival in Japan in June.
Does Thrillophilia offer Japan tour packages from major metropolitan cities in India?
Yes, Thrillophilia offers a well-thought-out range of Japan tour packages from India, which include departures from all major metro cities. Whether you are flying from Delhi, Mumbai, or other important hubs, these packages are designed to help you easily explore Japan's fascinating blend of tradition and modernity.
Final Thoughts
Traveling through Japan in June lets you experience the country’s softer, more tranquil side. While some travelers worry about the rainy season, it actually brings a romantic, cinematic charm to the cities and countryside. The sound of raindrops in temple gardens, the sight of hydrangeas in full bloom, and the cool breeze after a summer shower create unforgettable moments. Add to that Japan’s excellent public transportation, polite hospitality, and cultural richness, and you have the perfect early-summer adventure.