If you’re considering a trip to Japan, June is not the best time to visit.
It is the start of the rainy season, known as tsuyu.
This usually lasts from early June to mid-July, but the exact timing varies depending on the region.
While recent years have seen a dramatic decrease in the amount of rain, it’s something to be aware of.
However, this also means fewer tourists.
And there are still a ton of things you can do as we will explore.
Overview of Japan in June
June is the beginning of summer in Japan.
It is a month with a lot of rainfall, also known as the “month of water.”
The rainy season starts in June, and it sweeps upward through Japan.
The rainy season begins and ends earlier in the south and starts later and lasts longer in the north.
Some days could be unpleasant and hot, and you can easily spend a whole day with short sleeves and shorts.
That said, it is recommended that you take a light jacket with you since the temperature might drop in the early morning or at night.
The weather will become much more humid in July and August, though.
Regional Differences
When visiting Japan in June, it’s important to remember that the rainy season affects different regions in different ways.
Here are some regional differences to keep in mind:
Northern Regions
In general, the northern regions of Japan, including Hokkaido and Tohoku, tend to experience the rainy season earlier and for a shorter duration than the southern regions.
However, this can vary from year to year, so it’s always a good idea to check the weather forecast before planning any outdoor activities.
Southern Regions
The southern regions of Japan, including Okinawa and Kyushu, tend to experience the rainy season later and for a longer duration than the northern regions.
This can make June a challenging time to visit these areas, as heavy rainfall can disrupt travel plans and outdoor activities.
That being said, each region of Japan has its own unique culture and attractions to offer, regardless of the weather.
Here are some highlights of each region:
| Region | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Hokkaido | Natural beauty, including national parks and hot springs |
| Tohoku | Rich history and culture, including traditional festivals and samurai castles |
| Kanto | Vibrant cities like Tokyo and Yokohama, as well as iconic landmarks like Mount Fuji |
| Chubu | Stunning natural scenery, including the Japanese Alps and Lake Biwa |
| Kansai | Ancient temples and shrines, as well as modern cities like Osaka and Kyoto |
| Chugoku | Beautiful coastal scenery, including the famous Itsukushima Shrine |
| Shikoku | Spiritual sites like the 88 Temple Pilgrimage, as well as scenic hiking trails |
| Kyushu | Volcanic landscapes, hot springs, and unique cultural experiences like the Nagasaki Lantern Festival |
| Okinawa | Beautiful beaches, coral reefs, and a unique culture influenced by its history as a kingdom and a US military base |
No matter where you go in Japan, there’s always something new and exciting to discover. Just be sure to plan and check the weather forecast before you go!
Festivals and Events
June is a month filled with festivals and events in Japan.
Here are some of the most popular ones:
Bunkyo Hydrangea Festival
The Bunkyo Hydrangea Festival is held in Tokyo’s Bunkyo Ward and features over 10,000 hydrangea plants in full bloom.
The festival takes place in the beautiful Hakusan Shrine, and visitors can enjoy the stunning display of colourful flowers while participating in various cultural activities.
Fussa Firefly Festival
The Fussa Firefly Festival is a magical event in the Tama River in Tokyo.
Visitors can see thousands of fireflies lighting up the night sky.
The festival also features food stalls, live music performances, and traditional Japanese games.
Sanno Matsuri
The Sanno Matsuri is one of Tokyo’s three biggest festivals, held every two years in June.
The festival features a grand procession of over 300 people dressed in traditional costumes, carrying portable shrines and other decorations.
Visitors can witness the rich cultural heritage of Japan while enjoying traditional food and drinks.
Hokkaido Shrine Festival
The Hokkaido Shrine Festival is a popular event in Sapporo, Hokkaido, and is held to celebrate the arrival of summer.
The festival features various performances, including traditional dance and music, and visitors can enjoy delicious local food and drinks.
Yosakoi Soran Festival
The Yosakoi Soran Festival is a vibrant event in Hokkaido that features over 200 dance teams from all over Japan.
The festival showcases a unique style of dance that combines traditional Japanese dance with modern music and costumes.
Visitors can enjoy the energetic performances and enjoy the fun by dancing with the teams.
Fukagawa Festival
The Fukagawa Festival is a historic event held in Tokyo’s Koto Ward to honour the local deity.
The festival features a grand procession of over 50 portable shrines and other decorations, and visitors can enjoy traditional music and dance performances.
Katsushika Shobu Matsuri
The Katsushika Shobu Matsuri is a traditional festival in Tokyo’s Katsushika Ward, held to celebrate the arrival of summer.
The festival features a grand procession of over 20 portable shrines and other decorations, and visitors can enjoy traditional food and drinks while watching the colourful parade.
Fuji Kawaguchi-ko Herb Festival
The Fuji Kawaguchi-ko Herb Festival is an annual flower event held at the shore of Lake Kawaguchi in Yamanashi, Japan.
The festival features around 100,000 stalks of lavender grown along the lakeside. The main areas for viewing the flowers are Yagizaki Park and Oishi Park.
Various events are held on the weekends, and visitors can enjoy the rejuvenating combination of a view of Mt. Fuji and the scent of lavender.
The festival runs for roughly a month, starting in mid-June.
Indoor Activities
In Japan in June, there are plenty of indoor activities to enjoy.
Here are some of the best options.
Museums
Japan is home to many world-class museums, and June is the perfect time to explore them.
Some of the most popular museums in Tokyo are the Tokyo National Museum, the Kyoto National Museum, and the National Museum of Modern Art.
These museums offer various exhibits, from ancient artefacts to contemporary art.
Aquariums
If you want a unique indoor activity, consider visiting one of Japan’s many aquariums.
The Churaumi Aquarium in Okinawa is one of the world’s largest and most impressive aquariums.
It features a massive tank home to manta rays and many other exhibits.
Shopping Malls
Japan is known for its shopping, and there are plenty of indoor shopping malls to explore.
Some of the most popular malls include the Ginza Six in Tokyo, the Daimaru in Kyoto, and the Sapporo Factory in Hokkaido.
These malls offer many shops, from high-end boutiques to affordable fashion.
They are a great place to spend a rainy day.
Before You Go
While you can still have fun, June is not the best time to visit Japan.
Rainy days, which can continue into early July and summer, mean the weather will be against you.
If you still decide to visit in June, head indoors to shop, enjoy great food, and visit tourist attractions.
There will be fewer crowds, and prices will be reasonable.
Enjoy!
