Japan in June

Japan in June is a fascinating time to explore, as it is a time of year when the country comes alive with vibrant colours, lively festivals, and exciting cultural events. June marks the beginning of summer in Japan, and it is a time when the weather is warm, and the skies are clear, making it the perfect time to explore the country’s natural beauty. 

From the stunning nature of Hokkaido to the bustling streets of Tokyo, there is no shortage of things to see and do in Japan in June. In this blog post, we will delve into the various aspects of Japan in June, including the weather, the festivals, and the sights to see, to help you plan an unforgettable trip to this beautiful country.

Where to go

Japan is a country that offers a unique travel experience all year round, and June is no exception. There are plenty of regions and places to explore during this time, each offering something different to visitors. 

Hokkaido is a popular destination during June, as the snow melts away, and the region’s stunning natural beauty comes to life with fields of wildflowers and beautiful lavender gardens. 

Tokyo is another must-visit destination, as the city is alive with a variety of festivals and events, such as Sanno festival.It is celebrated to indicate the beginning of the summer festival season in Japan. 

Kyoto is also a great option, with its stunning temples and traditional Japanese architecture. June is also a great time to explore the Japanese Alps and the surrounding regions, such as Takayama and Kanazawa. 

It’s important to note that June is also the rainy season in Japan, so it’s always a good idea to pack an umbrella and rain jacket. However, don’t let the rain discourage you from visiting, as the country’s beauty shines through in all weather conditions.

Trips you may like

9-Day Authentic Samurai and Sake Experience

This 9-day trip is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will immerse you in rich history and culture, as you uncover two of the things that make Japan truly unique; Sake and Samurai. When it comes to Sake, you’ll learn about the various processes behind making sake and the unique properties that make each style of sake different – and just how many different ways there are as you explore local sake breweries throughout Niigata and Yamagata. Now, it is time for your first introduction to the history of the Samurai. You’ll start in Nagoya and head out to Inuyama, where your swordsmith training will begin. Beginning with an exploration of Inuyama Castle, one of Japan’s five national treasures, you will then spend the next two days learning the art of sword-making, its importance in Samurai and Japanese culture, its origins and the training behind it. Next, you will have the rare opportunity to meet with katana artisans in their own ateliers, where you will watch their crafts being practised firsthand and learn the history of their trade. You’ll visit a tsukamakishi (hilt-wrapper), a shiroganeshi (habaki-maker), a sayashi (scabbard-maker), and a togishi (sword polisher), and might even see their own personal antique collections on this tour! This bucket-list trip captures the heart and history of Japan; Samurai and Sake, but also allows you time to explore the spiritual side of Japan, following walking trails to temples, meeting extraordinary locals and embracing the culture of this unique destination. Accommodation listed or similar.

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6-Day Tradition Meets Future in Tokyo & Kyoto

Japan is a real feast for all of your senses, with sumo, geisha, sake, karaoke, onsen, and izakaya waiting to be discovered. Spend six days exploring the highlights of this enthralling country, centred around Japan’s two major cities, Tokyo and Kyoto. Begin your trip with a guided tour of incredible Tokyo, where you will explore Tokyo’s dazzling lights, the Tsukji Market, famous for its tuna auctions and the ultra-cool shopping district of Shibuya, complete with a never-ending array of lights and mega-street crossings. Boarding the Shinkansen bullet train, you will travel at up to 320km/h from Tokyo to Kyoto in complete comfort. Arriving in Kyoto, you will be guided through the wonders of this city, visiting the famous Gion ‘Geisha’ district, Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and Nishiki Market, otherwise known as Kyoto’s kitchen! The highlight of this trip is a traditional group tea ceremony with an authentic Geisha, where you will learn the importance of this sacred Japanese ritual. Transferring back to Tokyo for the final leg of your journey, you will have the opportunity for last minute sightseeing and shopping before your private airport transfer! Thousands of years of history are concentrated in this fascinating nation – come and explore Japan’s attractions for yourself. Accommodation listed or similar.

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from USD 1,996

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10-Day Nature and Unique Culture of Japan

This 10-day journey highlights the hotspots, hidden gems, nature and unique culture of Japan! Taking you through parts of modern Tokyo, to the traditional and historical former capital Kyoto, stopping along the way in the food and nightlife capital of Japan, Osaka. From the serenity of grand gardens to conveyor belt sushi restaurants at the top of skyscrapers; from the observation decks sprinkled around the city to the humble little ramen shops tucked away on side streets, it’s understandable why Tokyo is the most popular starting point for travellers coming to Japan. Tokyo is where you will uncover the hot-spots and the hidden gems of the city. Next stop, historic Kyoto. From your first day in Kyoto, you may very well feel the elegant ambience of a city entrenched in history. Here you will be immersed in Japan’s culture with a local guide, exploring the beautiful scenery that is Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, taking part in a traditional tea-ceremony and wandering amongst free-roaming deer in nearby Nara . Known by many as the food capital of Japan, the city of Osaka, your next stop is bright, vivacious, and friendly, however it also has a historical side. Here, you will explore Osaka Castle, a monument that played an integral role in the unification of Japan, before strolling down Dotonbori, where you can see the popular Glico running man display and try out Osaka’s signature foods: Takoyaki and Okonomiyaki. This trip is the perfect trip for travellers looking for a combination of Japanese culture, nature and food. Accommodation listed or similar.

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14-Day Highlights of Japan: Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto & Osaka

Embark on a two-week trip that covers all the major Japan highlights! From historical to modern, from urban to rural; you can enjoy the great diversity of Japan. In each area, local guides will show you the highlights of the region and introduce the local culture. The trip starts in Tokyo, the current capital of Japan. You will receive an introduction to Japanese culture and learn about modern Japanese life. Then, you’ll visit Hakone where you can appreciate a fantastic view of Mt. Fuji. You’ll then venture out to the countryside of Takayama, which is a small rural town with its own unique culture and traditions. From Takayama, you will visit Shirakawago, which is a well-preserved old folk village by car. Then, you’ll head to north to Kanazawa, a city produced by the Samurai which is home to the most beautiful Japanese garden. You will then visit Kyoto, one of the most beautiful cities in Japan and the mecca of Japanese culture. Here, you can experience authentic Japanese things such as food, culture, temples, art, gardens, crafts and more. You’ll then travel to Nara by train or car. Nara is an older city than Kyoto and it was the centre of Japanese religion and academia. Finally, you’ll head west to Osaka, the second biggest city in Japan. Osaka is famous as a paradise of street food with very open-minded and friendly local people! Geographically, Osaka is very close to Kyoto, but you will find a huge difference between them. From Osaka, you will take a day trip to Hiroshima by bullet train before heading back to Tokyo where your trip will come to an end!

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What to Do in Japan in June

Japan in June is a time when visitors can immerse themselves in the country’s rich cultural heritage, enjoy natural beauty, and experience unique events. One of the top places to visit is the stunning Hokkaido region, which boasts beautiful lavender fields, national parks, and hot springs.  To visit Hokkaido, simply customise this 10-Day Hokkaido Skiing and Culture trip.

Another must-visit destination is Tokyo, where visitors can experience the vibrant culture of the city through its festivals, including the Sanno Matsuri, a festival that dates back to the 7th century. For those interested in traditional Japanese culture, Kyoto is a must-visit destination. The city is home to numerous temples, including the famous Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), and visitors can participate in traditional tea ceremonies and take part in cultural activities such as ikebana (flower arranging). If you would like to combine modern Tokyo with traditional Kyoto, customize our 6-Day Tradition Meets Future In Tokyo & Kyoto tour.

Additionally, June is a great time to explore the Japanese Alps and the surrounding regions, such as Takayama and Shirakawa-go, where visitors can experience the beauty of the Japanese countryside and stay in traditional Japanese-style accommodations. Lastly, June is the season for firefly watching in various locations in Japan, such as Kamakura and Kyoto, which is a magical experience. You will visit both of these beautiful regions during our 12-Day Highlights of Japan trip.

Festivals

Japan in June is a time of year when the country comes alive with festivals and special events that celebrate its rich cultural heritage. 

One of the most popular festivals is the Sanno Matsuri in Tokyo, which takes place every two years and features a procession of over 300 people dressed in traditional costumes, carrying portable shrines through the streets of the city. Include it in your 6-Day Adventures In Tokyo trip!

Another exciting event is the Sumida River Fireworks Festival, which takes place on the last Saturday of June and features a spectacular display of fireworks over the Sumida River in Tokyo. 

In Kyoto, visitors can witness the famous Aoi Matsuri, which is a procession of over 500 people dressed in traditional clothing, including a parade of horses and oxen. 

Finally, June is also the time for the Gion Matsuri in Kyoto, which is a month-long festival that features parades of traditional floats and ceremonies at various temples and shrines throughout the city.

These festivals and events are just a few examples of the vibrant and rich cultural experiences that Japan has to offer in June. Add as many festivals as you would like to any of our Japan tours – they are all fully customisable.

Weather in Japan in June

June marks the beginning of summer in Japan, with temperatures ranging from around 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F) depending on the region. While it is a great time to explore the country’s natural beauty and cultural events, it is important to note that June is also the rainy season in Japan, known as Tsuyu. 

Rainfall can be heavy and frequent, particularly in the southern and central regions of the country. However, the rain helps to create lush green landscapes and also offers a chance to experience some unique aspects of Japanese culture, such as enjoying a hot bowl of ramen on a rainy day. 

It is recommended to pack an umbrella and rain jacket when visiting Japan in June, as well as breathable clothing to stay comfortable in the warm and humid weather. Despite the rain, the beauty and excitement of Japan in June make it a worthwhile destination for travellers.

Things to Know Before You Go

Before visiting Japan in June, there are a few important things to keep in mind:

• Visa: Visitors from most countries can enter Japan as tourists without a visa for up to 90 days.
• Currency: Japan’s currency is the yen (JPY), and credit cards are widely accepted, especially in major cities. It is recommended to have cash on hand for smaller transactions and purchases.
• Cultural Notes: It is important to be respectful of Japanese culture, including bowing when greeting someone and removing shoes before entering certain buildings. It is also considered impolite to talk on your phone or eat while walking in public.
• Do’s: Do try the local cuisine, participate in cultural activities, and follow local customs.
• Don’ts: Don’t tip, blow your nose in public, or eat or drink on public transportation. It is also important to avoid smoking in public areas, as it is prohibited in many places.
• Other tips: It is recommended to have travel insurance, download a translation app, and be aware of the weather conditions and potential natural disasters during the rainy season. Additionally, it is customary to greet people with “Konnichiwa” (hello) and say “Arigato gozaimasu” (thank you) when receiving service.

Japan in June is a destination filled with rich cultural experiences and exciting events. From vibrant Sanno Matsuri festival in Tokyo, the stunning Sumida River Fireworks Festival, to the famous Aoi Matsuri procession in Kyoto, June in Japan is a fantastic time to visit. 

While the rainy season can bring some challenges, it also offers a chance to experience the lush green landscapes and unique aspects of Japanese culture.

To find your dream holiday to Japan in June, scroll through our gallery of fully customisable Japan trips or connect with our Local Designers on the ground and let them help you craft your ultimate Japan stay!