Weather
June is the start of summer in Japan. Average temperatures are high, and so are humidity levels, although not as intense as they'll become in July and August. Average highs across most of Honshu, Kyushu, and Shikoku sit in the high 70s and low 80s degrees Fahrenheit (25°C-27°C), and overnight lows are not significantly lower. The humidity in many parts of the country, especially from Tokyo south, makes the temperatures seem hotter. On the northern island of Hokkaido, Sapporo is much cooler than other major cities, with an average June high of 70°F (21°C), but that may be a welcome break for many travelers.
The rainy season begins in the subtropical and tropical islands of Okinawa in May, but ends in late June. Hokkaido doesn't experience the rainy season, but most of the rest of Japan experiences increased rain from mid-June. It doesn't necessarily rain every day, but it's generally overcast and damp.
Crowds & Costs
June is a low travel season in much of Japan, with the exception of the geographic extremes: Hokkaido and Okinawa. Many Japanese people travel to these destinations in June, either to escape the heat (Hokkaido) or to embrace it (Okinawa). Okinawa's peak season starts later in June, when the rain tends to clear. Transportation and accommodation costs are higher in these places than at most other times of year.
Elsewhere in Japan, the heat and humidity keep floods of visitors at bay, although it's not a bad time per se to travel in the more urban areas of Honshu, Shikoku, and Kyushu. Just be prepared with waterproof clothing or an umbrella, avoid lengthy outdoor activities (such as hiking), and plan to spend some time at indoor attractions like museums, palaces, and restaurants.
Where to Go
To retreat from the heat and humidity of Japan's southern regions, Hokkaido is a great destination. Temperatures are generally warm without being hot, and it's less humid than the more southern parts of the country. Plus, one of Sapporo's major traditional festivals is held in June (see more below), drawing visitors.
At the other end of the country, Okinawa is a great place to go from late June for beaches, summery weather, and cooling ocean swims. You'll discover a completely different side to Japan from the one generally promoted, of high-tech Tokyo and traditional Kyoto.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
What to Do
While much of the country is a bit damp for pleasant hiking in June, if you want to get outdoors, the Japan Alps are a great place to go. These run down the center of Honshu, Japan's "main" island, and the range is home to the highest mountains in Japan. Head to the Chubu Sangaku National Park, or hike the ancient Nakasendo Trail, which connects Kyoto and Tokyo.
If general city sightseeing is more your thing, conditions are generally alright for this in June. The temples and gardens of Kyoto are always charming, Tokyo's bustling neighborhoods can be enjoyed in any weather, and the fascinating (and infamous) cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki pack a cultural and historic punch at any time of year.
Events in June
Natsu Matsuri, Nationwide. Japanese summer festivals, or natsu matsuri, are held in many towns, cities, neighborhoods, and even small local streets throughout the country, all summer. These usually include traditional dancing, music and costumes, portable shrines, large crowds, and plenty of food and drink.
Traveling to Japan in June? Check out these great itineraries
Hike Japan's Nakasendo Trail - 5 Days. Step back in time and immerse yourself in nature on this five-day hiking trip along the historic Nakasendo Trail, a mountain path connecting Kyoto and Tokyo that samurai and feudal lords once walked.
Explore Japan's Islands - 10 Days. Visit two of Japan's largest cities, Tokyo and Osaka, as well as some of the lesser-known islands surrounding Honshu. Stargaze on Hachijojima, admire the volcano on Aogashima, and wrap things up with fresh seafood and 20th-century history in Nagasaki.
Best of Old & New Japan: Tokyo, Kyoto & More - 14 Days. Old world meets new with this two-week exploration of Japan's historic and modern highlights. Start in the progressive city of Tokyo, spend the night in one of Shirakawa-go's distinctive farmhouses, soak in mountain hot springs near Takayama, and visit the Zen temples of Kyoto.
More Helpful Information
Japan in May
Japan in July
Best Time of Year to Visit Japan
How Many Days to Spend in Japan
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