Planning to visit Japan in June?? June is the beginning of summer in Japan as well as the rainy season which usually start from mid June to early July across the country. The temperature is moderate, yet the humidity level is pretty high and there are several days of raining. Therefore, many travellers might avoid visiting Japan, yet it’s a great time of the year to travelling Japan without crowds, and June is actually as enjoyable as the rest of the months in Japan!
Let’s check out the best things to do in Japan in June!
Japan in June
In June, Japan blossoms with a vibrant energy. The weather, transitioning from spring’s freshness into summer’s warmth, creates an ideal atmosphere for exploration. The average temperature in June in Tokyo ranges from 21°C (69.8°F) to 24°C (75.2°F).
Experience the colorful Hydrangea bloom, an enchanting sight particularly in places like Tokyo and Kamakura. Participate in traditional festivals reflecting centuries-old customs. Discover seasonal culinary delights that add an extra flavor to your visit. But remember, it’s also the start of the rainy season, so don’t forget your umbrella. Japan in June is a blend of beautiful landscapes, cultural experiences, and delicious food, offering unforgettable memories for every traveler.
1. Hydrangea
Hydrangea (Ajisai) is a symbol of the rainy season in Japan, and there are numbers of events across the country in June, featuring those adorable hydrangea flowers blooming colourfully.
Several hydrangea festivals are held in Tokyo in June including the Bunkyo Hydrangea Festival which take place in Bunkyo ward (near Ueno area). Kamakura City is also famous for hydrangea flowers, and beautiful hydrangeas can be enjoyed with the historical buildings. Check out the attached links below for more details about hydrangea events in and around Tokyo!
▶ Best Places to See Hydrangea in Japan
▶ Best Spots for Hydrangeas Viewing in Tokyo
▶ 3 Best Temples in Kamakura for Hydrangea Viewing
2. Sanno Matsuri
Sanno Festival or Sanno Matsuri (山王祭) is counted as one of Tokyo’s three greatest festivals from Edo period along with Kanda Festival and Fukagawa Festival. The festival is held at Hie Shrine in June in even numbered years which alternates with the Kanda Matsuri, which takes place in odd-numbered years. The celebration continues for 11 days, and on a main day the festival features a large procession with numbers of Mikoshi (portable shrines) and carriers in traditional costumes going on parade through the central area of Tokyo. The next Sanno Festival is estimated to be held in mid June in 2024.
Official Website: https://www.tenkamatsuri.jp/
3. Matcha Desserts
How dreamy to enjoy the finest Matcha dessert with all-you-can-eat style?? From late spring to early summer is the season for Matcha products, and numbers of venues across Japan holds Matcha dessert buffets during the season, and each buffet offers a wide variety of quality and creative Matcha desserts!
Related article: Best Matcha Afternoon Teas in Tokyo
4. Indoor Activities
If it’s raining outside, why not to have fun inside?? Japan offers hundreds of options to be entertained with indoor activities from classic indoor facilities like museums, aquariums and indoor amusement parks to unique ones. If you are keen to have unique and “only-in-Japan” kind of experience, I’d recommend you to try Karaoke, Pachinko, Animal Cafe, Maid Cafe and other kinds of themed cafes and restaurants!
For modern and high-tech experience, VR and digital art museums are a top choice. Or if you wish to enjoy the traditional side of Japan, tea ceremony and Samurai experience are much recommended! For ladies, how about being indulged by Japanese relaxation and hospitality? Why not to try indoor Onsen spa or beauty salons (hair dresser and nail salon) to pamper yourself while travelling!
Check out the hottest indoor activities available in Tokyo!
10 Hottest Indoor Activities in Tokyo
5. Sapporo, Hokkaido
Hokkaido is one of the best destinations to travel in Japan during the rainy season. Because they don’t really have a rainy season in Hokkaido, and you can enjoy the cool, breezy and mostly sunny weather there in June. The capital city, Sapporo offers plenty of tourist attractions and seasonal events during summer!
More info ▶ Best Things to Do in Sapporo
-Yosakoi Soran Matsuri
The energetic and powerful dance festival featuring the traditional Yosakoi Dance and Soran Bushi folk music. Around 300 teams with 30,000 participants are performing for the event. It takes place in Sapporo City annually, attracting around 2 million viewers.
Official Website: https://www.yosakoi-soran.jp/
-Hokkaido Shrine Festival
Hokkaido Shrine Festival or also called Sapporo Festival (北海道神宮例祭 (札幌まつり)) is a traditional Shinto festival held in mid June for 3 days. During the festival, there will be special events and a lot of stalls lined around Nakajima Park. On the last day of the festival, a large parade sets off from Hokkaido Shrine then go through the city center with portable shrines and hundreds of people dressed in traditional costume.
Official Website: http://www.hokkaidojingu.or.jp/festival/
Check out more great things to do in Hokkaido!