Japan Weather in June 2026: Coolest Summer Month to Travel

June sees the arrival of summer (June to August) and also the rainy season (June to mid-July) in Japan. In June, the average daily maximum temperature is about 79°F (26°C ), and there are about 10 rainy days.

June is the best time to go if you would like a summer trip to Japan, especially with your teenage kids. You could avoid the domestic tourist crowds who travel during Japan's school vacations (July and August) and enjoy reasonable prices on flights and hotels.

I visited Japan last June and everything was perfect. The key is all in how you plan it! In this article, I'll share how to enjoy Japan better. You'll find insights on the weather, where to go, clothing, crowds, and more.

Japan's Weather and Climate in June

June is the beginning of summer and the rainy season in Japan. The weather gets hotter, and rainfall becomes more frequent.

Compared to July and August, June is the coolest summer month. The heat and humidity are more comfortable for you.

In central cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, it's not too hot yet. Temperatures range between 19-26°C (67-79°F). After rain, you'll feel muggy as the humidity increases.

In Hokkaido and mountainous areas of Japan (Takayama and Kamikochi), the weather is cooler. Hokkaido, in particular, is the coolest region in Japan during June, with highs reaching only 21°C (70°F).

It doesn't rain every day in June, and showers or light rain are common. More rain falls in late June. When it does rain, you can expect a pleasant coolness, making it perfect to wear a long-sleeved shirt over a T-shirt.

Tokyo and Central Japan Weather in June: Not too Hot

You'll expect muggy weather in central Japan cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka.

In June, this region isn't too hot yet. Temperatures usually range between 19-26°C (67-79°F), with occasional highs of 30°C (86°F). However, humidity can reach up to 75%, making it feel hotter than it is. A T-shirt is perfect for this weather.

The rainy season begins this month. It doesn't rain every day, and when it does, it's usually just light showers. This means you'll have plenty of dry time to explore the attractions of these cities. If you prefer more sunny days, visiting in early June is a better option.

The rainy season (June to September) makes it the worst time to view Mount Fuji from a distance. Due to the rain, visibility of the mountain is at its lowest and is often hidden by clouds.

You could also take advantage of quieter travel with a family trip in June, as it's before the local summer vacation (usually after mid-July).

From my experience in central Japan in June, Tokyo is cooler and gets more rain compared to Kyoto and Osaka. During my 3 days in Tokyo, it rained constantly, making the temperature feel cooler afterward. However, in the following 6 days in Kyoto and Osaka, it was sunny every day, with strong sunshine that made me feel hot.

Hokkaido and Northern Japan in June: A Dry Getaway

Unlike Japan's mostly hot and humid weather, Hokkaido in June is pleasantly cool and dry.

You can experience warm spring-like weather in Hokkaido during this time, with temperatures ranging from 12-21°C (53-70°F) and more sunny days.

With plenty of sunshine, you could fully enjoy outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and admiring flowers.

Okinawa and Southern Japan: More Sun in Late June

In June, Okinawa is hot and rainy. The daily high temperature averages 31°C (88°F), perfect for water activities like snorkeling and diving.

Okinawa experiences its rainy season this month, with frequent rainfall. This might affect your water fun and make the ocean water less clear.

The rainy season usually ends around late June. After that, you can expect more sunny days for your beach vacation.

Top 6 Places to Visit in Japan in June

June in Japan is a great time to explore the outdoors without sweating too much. You can enjoy summer through unique festivals, charming natural scenery, and exciting events. Here are our top 6 well-selected places to visit in Japan in June.

1. Kamakura: Admire the Best Scenery of Hydrangeas

Hydrangeas blooming in June symbolize Japanese summer. Kamakura is a popular place to admire them.

For the best hydrangea viewing, head to Meigetsu-in Temple and Hasedera Temple. These two spots offer plenty of flowers and serene Japanese Zen settings, perfect for taking great photos.

Hasedera Temple is my top pick. It features a wide variety of hydrangeas in different colors, offers more areas to explore, and is easily accessible. However, it can get crowded, especially on weekends. Still, the lines for entry and taking photos are orderly.

If you prefer a quieter experience, we can take you to Meigetsu-in Temple. The highlight is a stone path lined with blue and purple hydrangeas. But it's a bit far, and the temple is rather small, so there might not be as much to explore.

2. Tokyo: Immerse Yourself in the Traditional Sanno Festival

Looking to experience Japanese culture at a traditional festival? Check out the Sanno Festival in Tokyo! It is one of the country's Three Great Festivals.

The Sanno Festival marks the beginning of Japan's summer festival season. It takes place every two years from June 7 to 17. The next one will be in 2026.

The most exciting part of this festival is the portable shrine parade and the decorated float parade. Locals dressed in traditional clothes carry portable shrines and floats through the streets while drumming, clapping, and shouting. You'll be totally drawn in by the vibrant atmosphere.

3. Hakone: Hiking and Taking Trains to Enjoy Natural Beauty

If you enjoy nature and active outdoor adventures, head to Hakone. You can also relax in high-quality hot springs while you're there.

You and your kids can take an easy hike along the ancient Hakone Hachiri route. You're not just getting close to nature, you'll also learn about this route's history and culture with the help of our private guide.

Plus, a major highlight of June in Hakone is the blooming hydrangeas along the railway. As you ride the train, you'll see these flowers and lush greenery lining both sides of the tracks, filling you with peace. That's a big reason why I love Hakone in June!

4. Shirakawa-go: Explore a Traditional Japanese Rural Village

Interested in experiencing the traditional Japanese countryside? Don't miss Shirakawa-go! The thatched-roof farmhouses here look like praying hands, giving them a unique charm.

Though not as popular in June as it is in winter, Shirakawa-go still boasts picturesque scenery. Enjoy peaceful hikes along country roads, where you'll encounter lush green rice fields, crystal-clear flowing streams, and vibrant, colorful flowers.

5. Nagano: Best Time to Observe Fireflies at Night

Looking for something special? Try firefly viewing in Nagano. This popular June event is a beloved summer activity for Japanese families.

Every first half of June, Nagano hosts its Firefly Festival. You'll witness tens of thousands of fireflies in specially protected parks. Watching them dance around you feels like stepping into a fairy tale.

The park is specially designed for watching fireflies. With its natural streams, rice paddies, and walking paths, you can safely enjoy the sights after dark without disturbing these magical insects.

6. Kyoto: Enjoy Shrines and Temples in Lush Greenery

Kyoto is a must-visit in Japan. With its many historic buildings and authentic cultural experiences, you can easily immerse yourself in the traditional Japanese atmosphere here.

Exploring Kyoto's shrines and temples in June gives you a peaceful feeling. Surrounded by lush greenery, it allows you to experience Japanese culture while enjoying the coolness of early summer.

Sanzen-in Temple offers the perfect summer experience in Kyoto. Nestled in the mountains, you can enjoy the cool weather, wander through well-designed Japanese gardens, and admire the blooming hydrangeas.

What to Wear in Japan in June?

It's perfect to wear a light long-sleeved shirt over a short-sleeved shirt to handle varying weather conditions.

When it's raining, the temperature drops, making lightweight long sleeves a great choice. Long sleeves are also useful indoors, whether you're visiting shopping malls, museums, or taking subways. These air-conditioned spaces are often on full blast, making you feel cool.

After the rain or on sunny days, the weather can turn hot, making short sleeves suitable.

Don't forget to pack a portable umbrella. It can help you escape sudden showers and provide shade from the sun, too.

Is Japan Crowded and Expensive in June?

No, June is Japan's shoulder season. You can enjoy lower costs and fewer crowds before the busy summer vacation in July and August. If your schedule is flexible, I strongly recommend visiting Japan in June, especially for families with kids.

Although crowds may not be massive, popular attractions such as Tokyo's Sensoji Temple and Kyoto's Sannenzaka can still become crowded. To avoid the large crowds, it's better to begin your trip between 8:00 and 8:30 a.m.

You can also expect lower hotel prices this month. During the peak summer vacation from July to August, hotel prices will increase by 30-40%.

Planning Your Summer Trip Now!

From authentic cultural experiences to the outdoor beauty of nature, and from top cities to hidden gems, no matter what you want to explore, we can make it happen. Contact us to tailor your summer trip now!

You can also check out our two popular Japan tours for inspiration.

• 8-Day Essential Japan Family Trip with Culinary Delights
• 13-Day Japan Family Vacation with Theme Parks

Monthly Weather and Travel Information for Japan

Learn about the weather in Japan for 12 months and find out the best places to visit each month.

• Japan in January
• Japan in February
• Japan in March
• Japan in April
• Japan in May
• Japan in June
• Japan in July
• Japan in August
• Japan in September
• Japan in October
• Japan in November
• Japan in December