As the start of summer, June is often overlooked, but it sees warm weather without the intense heat of July or August.

With fewer tourists than in spring or autumn, it’s ideal for first-time visitors looking to avoid crowds. Flights and hotels are also more affordable.

According to JNTO data (2016–2024), June is moderately popular. It sees fewer visitors than peak seasons like March–April and October–December.

Compared to July and August, June tends to be quieter, with summer vacation crowds still building. This makes it easier to book hotels and enjoy popular sights without long waits.

The rainy season begins in June, but it doesn’t rain every day. You’ll still find time to enjoy festivals, like Sapporo’s Yosakoi Soran Festival, and sample seasonal foods.

Nature is lush and green, with hydrangeas in full bloom across parks, roadsides, and temple paths. Kamakura’s Meigetsu-in Temple, for example, is especially stunning in mid-June, with around 2,500 colorful blossoms, and the Kansai region has its share of beautiful temples adorned with hydrangeas.

Even rainy days have charm—mossy gardens, shining stone paths, and soft mist create a peaceful atmosphere. June blends natural beauty, culture, and calm.

June marks the start of tsuyu, or the rainy season, in most of Japan. While it brings more frequent showers and overcast skies, it doesn’t rain all day, every day—expect a mix of cloudy, humid, and occasionally sunny weather.

Tsuyu typically lasts from early June to mid-July in central Japan. Rain usually comes in bursts, with light drizzle or short downpours rather than all-day storms. Tokyo averages about 150 mm of rain, making June its wettest month, but many days are still dry.

Temperatures in central Japan hover around 25–26°C (77–79°F) during the day and 18–19°C (64–66°F) at night. It’s warm and humid, so carry an umbrella and wear breathable clothes.

Regional weather varies:
・Hokkaido stays mostly dry and cool (18–20°C) and doesn’t experience a typical rainy season.
・Tohoku sees tsuyu start mid-June, with early June often dry and pleasant.
・Okinawa gets its heaviest rain in May and early June, with hot (around 30°C / 86°F), beach-ready weather by late June.
・Kyushu and Shikoku can see somewhat more consistent rain during June.

As the month progresses, humidity rises—especially in cities—so stay hydrated and pack light, quick-drying clothing. By late June, it’ll definitely start to feel like summer.

Packing smart for June will keep you comfortable through variable weather. Here are some essentials and tips.

June is certainly a good time to visit Japan’s most popular destinations like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, with slightly fewer tourists than at other times), but here we’ll focus on some slightly off the beaten path ideas for June. Whether you’re chasing good weather, traveling with kids, seeking breathtaking scenery, or avoiding crowds, here are a few suggestions.

If you’re looking to avoid Japan’s rainy season, head north—Hokkaido stays mostly dry in June and offers cool, crisp early summer weather perfect for outdoor adventures. Sapporo enjoys sunny days with average highs around 20°C (68°F), making it a great base for sightseeing. Don’t miss the vibrant Yosakoi Soran Festival (June 4-8, 2025) or the Hokkaido Shrine Festival (June 14-16), both adding color and culture to the city streets.

Just outside Sapporo, the flower fields of Furano and Biei start blooming by late June. While lavender peaks in July, you’ll still find rolling hills dotted with seasonal blooms—ideal for scenic drives or cycling tours.

Nature lovers will enjoy June’s fully accessible highland trails. Daisetsuzan National Park offers fresh alpine air and stunning hikes, while Shiretoko Peninsula in the far east comes alive with greenery and wildlife. Off the northern coast, Rebun and Rishiri Islands are hidden gems—think alpine flowers, dramatic cliffs, and peaceful ocean views.

If you prefer mountains, lakes, and fresh seafood over urban crowds, Hokkaido is a perfect early summer escape. Just keep in mind—it’s a big island, so plan your route carefully.

If you’re traveling with kids in June, consider Okinawa, Japan’s southern tropical islands, especially in late June when the weather starts to clear up. Okinawa offers a very different vibe from mainland Japan – beautiful beaches, a warm ocean, and a relaxed island culture.

By the second half of June, Okinawa’s rainy season is ending, making way for sunny, hot days perfect for seaside fun. Families can enjoy kid-friendly beaches with shallow, clear water. Children can splash in the warm ocean (water temps already around 25°C in June) and beaches like Emerald Beach or Zanpa Beach start to get lively. Many beaches have other facilities nearby and offer activities like banana boat rides.

Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium is one of the biggest, best aquariums in the world, famous for its giant whale shark and manta rays in a huge tank and the whole family will be wowed by the sea creatures. It’s a perfect half-day trip, and good for a rainy day if you happen to catch a shower.

Like the rest of Japan, June in Okinawa isn’t quite peak tourist season, so you might find quieter resorts. Families with older children can try snorkeling in protected areas to see tropical fish, kayaking in mangrove forests, or visiting a fruit park to taste tropical fruits. There are also cultural theme parks like Okinawa World where kids can see a limestone cave and learn about local culture.

Keep in mind Okinawa is a 2–3-hour flight from Tokyo, so it’s a bit out of the way. But if you want a mix of beach time and culture, Okinawa in late June can be wonderful and relatively uncrowded compared to July and August. Just plan for hot weather and pack sunscreen and hats for the kids.

If you're seeking peace and quiet away from tourist crowds, head to Tohoku, the northern part of Japan’s main island. Often overlooked by international travelers, it’s full of underrated gems perfect for a serene June trip.

Chuson-ji Temple (Iwate): This UNESCO World Heritage site in Hiraizumi features a stunning gold-leaf hall and peaceful iris gardens. In June, you may be one of only a few visitors strolling the temple grounds. Read more about this area.

Lake Towada & Oirase Gorge (Aomori–Akita): Take a boat cruise across Lake Towada to admire forested mountain views, then explore the mossy trails of Oirase Gorge, where waterfalls glisten in the early summer rain. Read more about this area.

Sanriku Coast (Pacific Northeast): This coastal stretch offers dramatic cliffs and deep blue ocean vistas. A scenic drive or train ride through its quiet fishing villages is especially relaxing in June. Read more about this area.

Kakunodate (Akita): Known for its preserved samurai district, this historic town invites leisurely walks beneath a leafy green canopy. It’s calm, picturesque, and rarely crowded this time of year. Read more about this area.

Aizu-Wakamatsu (Fukushima): A castle town rich in samurai heritage, Aizu-Wakamatsu sees very few tour buses in June. Explore its historic sites at your own pace. Read more about this area.

Yamadera (Yamagata): Climb over 1,000 stone steps to this mountainside temple, surrounded by mist and birdsong. Rain adds to the temple’s mystical atmosphere. Read more about this area.

Tohoku sees some rain from mid-June, but the weather is cooler than much of Japan and perfect for uncrowded hot spring visits. Focus on one or two prefectures—like a loop through Iwate and Akita or a trip across Miyagi and Yamagata—and travel by train or rental car. You’ll leave wondering why more people haven’t discovered this peaceful side of Japan.

If you’re basing yourself in Tokyo, there are plenty of great day trip options nearby. Here are three standout destinations for June, each offering a different kind of escape.

Yokohama (Kanagawa)
Yokohama’s Minato Mirai 21 waterfront district features a futuristic skyline and attractions like the 69th-floor Sky Garden in Yokohama Landmark Tower, with sweeping views of the city and Mount Fuji. You can also ride Cosmo Clock 21 for a bay view or explore retro-modern spots like the Red Brick Warehouse, Cup Noodles Museum, and vibrant Chinatown.

For seasonal scenery, head to the vast Sankeien Garden for blooming hydrangeas, or visit the Hakkeijima Hydrangea Festival (June 7-29, 2025), where around 20,000 flowers brighten the grounds in June. More on things to do in Yokohama here.

Mount Takao (Tokyo)
Just 50 minutes from Shinjuku by Keio Line, Mount Takao is a lush, forested escape with several hiking trails, a cable car, and a summit view that may include Mount Fuji. Stop by Yakuo-in Temple along the way to see tengu statues and soak in the spiritual atmosphere. More on Mount Takao here

Nikko (Tochigi)
About two hours north of Tokyo, Nikko combines rich history and striking nature with highlights like the lavish Nikko Toshogu Shrine, set among towering cedar trees and famous for its ornate carvings. June rain swells Kegon Falls, which plunges into Lake Chuzenji and can be viewed up close from a platform reached by elevator.

The mountain scenery is at its greenest in June, with misty clouds hanging low over the forested hills. Nikko’s old slogan—"Never say kekko (wonderful) until you’ve seen Nikko"—rings especially true this time of year. Read more about Nikko here.

If you’re based in Kyoto, you’re perfectly positioned to explore nearby cultural and scenic treasures. Here are three rewarding day trips, each offering a unique experience for June.

Himeji (Hyogo Prefecture)
About 1 hour by Shinkansen, Himeji is home to Himeji Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site known as the ‘White Heron Castle’ for its graceful white exterior. In June, the castle grounds feature blooming hydrangeas and irises, adding a seasonal touch to its grandeur.

Right next door, Koko-en Garden offers Edo-style landscaped beauty with ponds and tea houses—especially atmospheric in the rain thanks to covered walkways and peaceful scenery. You can also visit the nearby Himeji City Museum of Art and other cultural institutions for a deeper dive. More on Himeji here.

Ohara (Kyoto)
Around 40 minutes by bus from central Kyoto, Ohara is a tranquil mountain village that blends nature and tradition. Its highlight, Sanzen-in Temple, features mossy gardens, the historic Ojo Gokuraku-in Hall, and vibrant hydrangeas in June.

Stroll a scenic path lined with shops and local treats, then explore nearby temples like Shorin-in, Hosen-in—famous for tea and garden views with a 700-year-old pine—and Jakko-in, with its quiet stone steps nestled in forest. More on Ohara here.

Kurama & Kibune (Kyoto)
Just under an hour north of Kyoto Station, the area around Mt. Kurama makes for a rewarding day trip from downtown Kyoto, offering spiritual sites and forested hikes through cedar-covered mountains. Kurama-dera Temple rewards visitors with sweeping views, and the trail to Kifune Shrine offers a peaceful 2–3 hour trek. At Kifune Shrine, known for its water omikuji fortunes, the atmosphere is lush and serene and well worth visiting. More about this area here.

After your hike, relax with riverside kawadoko dining, where you can enjoy Kyoto cuisine on platforms built over the gently flowing Kibune River.

Below are some of the most popular tours being booked for June.

Yosakoi Soran Festival (Sapporo; June 4–8)
Sapporo bursts into energy as dance teams in vibrant costumes fill the streets with powerful choreography and pulsating music that mixes traditional and modern beats. Some groups even perform with glowing props at night. If you're visiting Hokkaido in early June, this is a dynamic, contemporary take on Japanese festivals you won’t want to miss. View details here.

Atsuta Festival (Nagoya; June 5)
Held at one of Japan’s most sacred shrines, Atsuta Jingu, this one-day festival features traditional ceremonies, martial arts, horseback archery, and classical dances. As night falls, lanterns light up the shrine before a beautiful fireworks finale. If you’re near Nagoya in early June, this is an unforgettable way to experience spiritual and cultural Japan in one setting. View details here (Nagoya Convention & Visitors Bureau).

Kanazawa Hyakumangoku Matsuri (Kanazawa; June 6–8)
Kanazawa’s signature festival reenacts the grand arrival of Lord Maeda Toshiie in 1583. The highlight is a Saturday parade of participants in full samurai and noble attire marching through the city. It’s a historical spectacle and cultural celebration that showcases Kanazawa’s proud heritage. View details here (official website).

Sanno Matsuri (Tokyo; June 7–17)
One of Tokyo’s historic “Three Great Festivals,” Sanno Matsuri offers a more refined and traditional vibe than louder celebrations. Centered around Hie Shrine in central Tokyo, it features rituals, dances, and in odd-numbered years, a smaller-scale parade on June 15. It’s a great chance to experience a classic festival without battling huge crowds. View details here.

Tohoku Kizuna Festival (Osaka; June 13-15
Experience the spirit of Tohoku’s six great festivals—right in Osaka! From June 13 to 15, the Tohoku Kizuna Festival lights up the Osaka Expo site with dazzling parades, regional flavors, and a powerful celebration of culture and resilience. Read more about the Kizuna Festival here.

Chagu Chagu Umakko (Morioka, Iwate; June 14)
This rural parade features around 100 horses adorned in colorful gear with jingling bells, walking 15 km from Takizawa to Morioka. The event honors horses’ role in local farming life and offers a picturesque, peaceful festival experience in the Tohoku countryside. A charming and unique tradition for those exploring northern Japan. View details here (official website).

Expo 2025 Osaka Kansai (Osaka; April 13 - October 13)
Osaka’s second time hosting the World Expo continues throughout June, with global pavilions and cutting-edge exhibits centered on the theme ‘Designing Future Society for Our Lives.’ Held once every five years, it’s a fun and exciting event worth visiting. On June 28, there’s a fireworks show where you can enjoy a taste of Japan’s summer culture.

Admire Seasonal Flowers
Hydrangeas are a beloved sight in June. Many shrines and gardens host hydrangea festivals, where you can stroll through thousands of blooms in misty, peaceful settings. In Tokyo, Hakusan Shrine hosts the Bunkyo Hydrangea Festival (June 7–15), with over 3,000 plants.

Japanese irises also bloom this month, offering a refined beauty. The Meiji Shrine Inner Garden in Tokyo features a classic iris garden peaking mid-June. For a countryside escape, the Suigo Itako Iris Festival in Ibaraki offers blooms along old waterways—often with yukata-clad visitors adding to the timeless scenery. You can book a rowing boat tour here.

Enjoy Cultural Performances & Workshops
June’s rainy spells are a great excuse to explore indoor culture. Catch a Kabuki show at Ginza’s Kabukiza Theater, where single-act tickets make it easy for first-timers.

Prefer something hands-on? Try a tea ceremony, sushi-making class, or calligraphy session—activities found in most major cities. You’ll not only stay dry but walk away with a deeper appreciation for Japan’s artistry and mindfulness. Kimono photoshoots also make for a great cultural memory, rain or shine.

Visit Museums & Aquariums
When the weather turns wet, head indoors. Top picks include Tokyo National Museum for history and art, and Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, one of the largest aquariums in the world. Tokyo’s Sunshine Aquarium, perched on a rooftop in Ikebukuro, is another memorable visit.

Watch Fireflies at Night
Firefly (hotaru) season begins in mid-June—a magical, short-lived experience. Just after sunset, parks and riversides glow with flickering lights. In Tokyo, Hotel Chinzanso offers a firefly garden event (from May 16 to June 30), while public spots like Ikuta Ryokuchi Park in Kawasaki and areas in Fukuoka are known viewing spots.

In rural areas, locals may point you to quiet rivers or rice paddies where fireflies gather. Keep flashlights off and voices low—these tiny lights are shy and fleeting.

Japanese cuisine is deeply tied to the seasons, and early summer brings a fresh wave of flavors. Here are some delicious foods and drinks to try during your June trip.

Seasonal Fruits
June is a tasty fruit season, with bright red Sato Nishiki cherries from Yamagata offering a juicy, jewel-like treat found in mid-late June. Melon season also begins—especially in Hokkaido and Shizuoka—and you’ll spot melon parfaits and melon-flavored sweets on café menus.

Ume (Japanese Plums)
The rainy season is called "plum rain" because it coincides with the ripening of ume (plums). Try umeboshi (pickled plums), umeshu (plum liqueur often served on the rocks), or seasonal drinks like plum soda and plum jelly for a tart, refreshing taste of early summer.

Cold Noodles
June is when cold noodles return to menus—especially somen, thin white wheat noodles served chilled with light dipping sauce. You may also see hiyashi chuka, a refreshing ramen salad topped with egg, vegetables, and meats.

Kakigori & Japanese Sweets
Shaved ice, or kakigori, appears at shops and festivals, with flavors like Uji Kintoki (matcha with sweet beans) and fruit-loaded options. Look out for hydrangea-themed wagashi (Japanese sweets) and minazuki, a tasty steamed glutinous rice cake sweetened with sugar and topped with azuki beans eaten on June 30 to ward off bad luck.

Mugicha & Summer Drinks
To stay cool, many people switch to mugicha, a caffeine-free roasted barley tea with a toasty, thirst-quenching flavor. Seasonal soft drinks and limited-edition Frappuccinos also often debut at Starbucks in June, adding fun variety to your beverage choices.

To make your June trip smooth and enjoyable, keep these practical tips and cultural pointers in mind.

Check the Weather Daily
Use a weather app to check forecasts each morning, including hourly predictions. If a warning is issued for heavy rain or flooding, consider avoiding rural or mountainous areas that day (cities are typically unaffected).

Have Indoor Backup Plans
To ensure a fun trip, always have a few indoor options in mind—museums, aquariums, galleries, or shopping centers. Major stations like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka are shopping hubs themselves, with entire malls inside.

Transportation Tips
Heavy rain can occasionally delay trains, especially in the mountains or along the seaside, but shinkansen and major lines typically run on time even in wet weather. Use an IC travel card (Suica, Pasmo, Icoca) for seamless travel on trains and buses without needing to buy individual tickets.

Umbrella Etiquette
When on trains or buses, keep your umbrella wrapped or in a plastic sleeve to avoid dripping on others. It’s also polite to carry it vertically, tip down, especially in crowded spaces—and many shops and buildings provide umbrella wipers or plastic bags at the entrance, so please consider using them.

Rainy June offers quiet, poetic moments—like the sound of rain on shrine rooftops or a frog croaking in a misty rice field. These are perfect examples of wabi-sabi, Japan’s idea of finding beauty in impermanence—embrace the mix of showers, calm, and seasonal delights.