The southern part of Japan remains in the rainy season until the end of the month and experiences quite high rainfall. Taking Naha in Okinawa as an example, the average rainfall this month reaches 273 mm across 20 rainy days. This means that it’s even possible to encounter no sunny days during your short stay. Additionally, the high rainfall results in high humidity, which, together with high temperatures, leads to stuffy weather. This region may also be hit by typhoons this month. Although the likelihood is not very high, you still need to keep an eye on the weather forecast before and during your trip. 

Rainy Season in Japan

The cities located in central Japan, including Osaka, Tokyo, Nara, Kyoto, Nagoya, etc., are also gradually entering the rainy season this month. However, since it is the early stage of the rainy season, the rainfall is slightly lower than in the southern regions. On average, the rainfall is around 200 mm, with an average of 10-15 rainy days. The likelihood of continuous rain is not very high, but you should be prepared for sudden and intermittent showers. 

Hokkaido, on the other hand, is the only region in Japan that is very sunny in June, with average rainfall and rainy days usually within 100 mm and 10 days.

See Also: Rainy Season in Japan

Daylight Hours/Sunshine Hours

June is one of the months with the longest daylight hours of the year in Japan. From Okinawa in the south to Hokkaido in the north, daylight lasts between 14 and 15 hours. The sun sets late at around 19:00-19:30 and rises early at around 04:00-06:00, and attractions like Senso-ji Temple open as early as 06:00. So, as long as you get up early, you will gain rich time for sightseeing.

However, except for Hokkaido, most other parts of Japan do not have very long hours of sunshine because they experience a lot of rain this month. Despite its short duration, the sunshine is quite intense this month. In these areas, whenever the sun comes out, you need to take thorough sun protection measures.

Is June a Good Month to Visit Japan?

For most visitors, June is not a very good time to visit Japan. From the perspective of the climate of Japan, many places are in the plum rainy season at this time, and the temperature is a bit high. From the perspective of scenery, it’s true that the plants are lush and green, but there are no iconic sights like cherry blossoms, autumn leaves, or Mount Fuji covered by a large scale of snow. However, some visitors think Japan in June is worth visiting for the following reasons:

1. Due to the not very favorable conditions mentioned above, during this time, the crowds in Japan are relatively smaller. Even on rainy days, quietly admiring shrines in cities like Kyoto is still a good idea, isn’t it? 

Quiet Shrine in June

2. Thanks to the fewer tourists, the airfares and accommodation prices are usually more affordable this month, meaning that you can have a budget-friendly trip.

3. There are still perfect destinations like Hokkaido in June. Hokkaido in June has wonderful weather conditions, cool and sunny. Moreover, there are also some highlights that you should never miss. First, Hokkaido in June has some lively festivals, such as the Yosakoi Soran Festival, where many teams dressed in traditional costumes perform dances throughout Sapporo. Second, in late June, the famous Furano and Biei are already blooming with a variety of colorful flowers, and the lavender is also beginning to bloom.
4. In June, some cities have already started holding large-scale romantic fireworks festivals.

Biei with Colorful Flowers in June

Packing List for Visiting Japan in June

Clothes: As summer arrives, in most cities, you need breathable short-sleeve T-shirts, light long pants, shorts, skirts, dresses, and other summer clothes to stay cool. Also, due to the humid air, those made of quick-dry fabrics are more recommended. Considering that temperatures can be a bit lower in the mornings and evenings or on some rainy days, it is advised to bring long-sleeve shirts or light jackets just in case. If you go to Hokkaido, it is recommended to wear T-shirts, thin jeans or other long pants, and shirts during the day, and add a denim jacket at night.

Shoes: To keep comfortable and safe in cities with high precipitation, like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Okinawa, you can pack breathable, waterproof, and anti-slip sneakers or water shoes. The latter one is also suitable for water activities in Okinawa. For trips to Hokkaido, comfortable flats are OK.

Others: As long as your destinations include places other than Hokkaido, you need to bring umbrellas or raincoats to prevent rain, and sunglasses and sunscreen to prevent the strong UV rays. With growing temperature and humidity, mosquitoes are rampant this month, so mosquito repellent can’t be forgotten.

Tips for Visiting Japan in June 2026

1. For visiting cities in central Japan, early June is more recommended, as temperatures are slightly lower and rainfall is less frequent at that time. If traveling in late June, you are recommended to find some indoor attractions that you are interested in beforehand, so you have enjoyable places to visit on rainy days.

2. If you are sensitive to the heat, when visiting cities outside Hokkaido, plan to explore indoor attractions or rest in cafes and restaurants during the hottest noon. Under this condition, to finish your traveling list leisurely per day, you can get up earlier, after all, daylight hours are exceptionally long this month.

June Weather of Major Japan Cities