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Things to do
in JUNE 2025

Nearby Tokyo
Profile photo rowing a boat on Lake Haruna in GUnma

Written by

Angus Miyaji

Things to know about JUNE 2025

June marks the beginning of early summer and, most significantly, the start of Tsuyu (梅雨), Japan’s rainy season. While this means frequent showers and rising humidity, it also brings incredibly lush green landscapes and the peak blooming season for flowers such as Hydrangeas. June in Japan offers a different kind of charm for visitors prepared for the weather.

What to wear in JUNE

A reliable umbrella, a waterproof jacket, and  waterproof shoes are highly recommended. Opt for light, breathable clothing (cotton, linen, quick-dry fabrics) to stay comfortable in the humidity. Evenings or air-conditioned interiors can feel cool, so a light layer is still useful.

*Unless you have unlimited packing space, I recommend buying a umbrella and a riain coat each for around 8-10 USD after arriving in Japan at a convenient store or UNIQLO which is everywhere in Japan.

Holidays & Crowds in JUNE

With no national holidays and the arrival of the rainy season, June usually sees fewer visitors, making it one of the least crowded and most budget-friendly months to explore Japan. Travelers prepared for potential rain can benefit significantly from easier bookings, lower prices, and a much quieter experience at attractions and Hotels than in peak seasons.

Recommended Activity in JUNE

Despite the possibility of rain, June highlights the vibrant beauty of hydrangeas (Ajisai) and irises (Ayame) in full bloom across the region. Notable suggestions include Ohira Mountain and Mito’s Hydrangea Festival, both set against stunningly lush green landscapes. Additionally, take the opportunity to enjoy waterfalls and excellent rainy-day activities, such as water sports, Sake brewery tours, various museums, relaxing in an onsen, or participating in local craft experiences like Mashiko pottery.

One of our writers, Heather wrote a guide with ‘4 Interesting Rainy Season Activities Nearby Tokyo’, so have a read below if you are interested.

Tochigi Hydrangea Festival in June
Itako iris festival

News for MAY 2025

Beautiful white wisteria
Don't miss these beautiful white, pink and purple flowers at Ichikai Shibazakura Festival in Ichikai Town

Japan’s Ministry of Transport has officially recognized the “North Kanto Flower Corridor” under its Garden Tourism registration system. This exciting initiative connects 12 beautiful gardens across Tochigi, Gunma, and Ibaraki prefectures, such as Ashikaga Flower Park and Hitachi Seaside Park aiming to boost regional tourism by showcasing their unique floral attractions.

Events & Festivals in June

Tochigi Hydrangea Festival in June
13th June (Fri) to 29th June (Sun)
Mt. Ohira Hydrangea Festival
2025:
13th June (Fri) to 29th June (Sun)
90 min*
*from Tokyo
Japanese Name: とちぎあじさいまつり
Mt. Ohira Hydrangea Festival in Tochigi city brings 2,500 magnificent ajisai flowers to life! Climb the steps and enjoy the colorful flowers. (Tochigi City / 栃木市)
Purple hydrangea at Mito Hydrangea Festival (Mito Ajisai Matsuri)
7th June (Sat) to 29th June (Sun)
Mito Hydrangea Festival
2025:
7th June (Sat) to 29th June (Sun)
90 min*
*from Tokyo
Japanese Name: 水戸のあじさいまつり
Mito Hydrangea Festival brings 6000 magnificent Ajisai flowers to life! Pink, blue, and purple - the rainy season couldn't get more colorful! (Mito City / 水戸市)
Itako iris festival near Tokyo
23rd May (Fri) to 22nd June (Sun)
*Annual bloom peak is around June 10th
Suigo Itako Iris Festival -75 min from Tokyo
2025:
23rd May (Fri) to 22nd June (Sun)
*Annual bloom peak is around June 10th
75 min *
*from Tokyo
Japanese Name: 水郷潮来あやめまつり
Visit a Edo-themed Japanese festival surrounded by beautiful iris flowers beside a historical Japanese canal. (Itako City / 潮来市)
People gathering at Heike Taisa Festival in Yunishigawa Onsen (in Nikko City, Japan)
7th June (Sat), 8th June (Sun)
Heike Taisai Festival (Yunishigawa Onsen)
2025:
7th June (Sat), 8th June (Sun)
2hrs 40min*
*from Tokyo
Japanese Name: 平家大祭
Visit the Heike Taisai Festival in Yunishigawa Onsen in Nikko (near Kinugawa Onsen and Oku-Kinu ). See the Heike parade and join the Heike Clan tale.
People at Kanuma Satsuki Azalea Bonsai Festival at Kanuma Kaboku Center
24th May (Sat) to 2nd June (Mon)
Kanuma Azalea Festival (Kanuma Satsuki Azalea Bonsai Festival)
2025:
24th May (Sat) to 2nd June (Mon)
1 hr 30 min*
*from Tokyo
Japanese Name: 鹿沼さつき祭り
Visit Kanuma Satsuki Azalea Bonsai Festival this spring to admire the colorful miniature bonsai trees, each a result of skill and patience. (Kanuma City / 鹿沼市)

Recommend things to do in June

Nikko Natural Science Museum

The exterior of Nikko Natural History Museum
Visit Nikko Natural History Museum, conveniently located near Lake Chuzenji, to discover the fascinating natural wonders and rich history of Oku-Nikko through engaging exhibits.

Ride Experience

Ride experience's bike tours nearby Tokyo
Experience our incredible cycling tours, tailor-made for everyone, from novices to seasoned cyclists. Discover the breathtaking beauty of Mother Nature as you pedal your way through awe-inspiring landscapes.

Watanabesahei Sake Brewery

Outside of Watanabesahei Sake Brewery
Founded in 1842, Watanabesahei Sake Brewery is a traditional sake brewery in Imaichi, Nikko. They run a popular English brewery tour almost every day, and have a nice shop. Why not come to see a working sake brewery and learn how sake is made?

Katayama Sake Brewery

Outside of Katayama Sake Brewery in Nikko
Katayama Sake Brewery is a very small, family-run sake brewery founded in 1879. Located near Watanabesahei in Imaichi, Nikko, it has a brewery shop to buy sake. Every drop of sake is gently made by hand, with the sake-pressing process alone taking three days!

Tonoike Sake Brewery

Entrance of Tonoike Sake Brewery in Mashiko
Established more than 80 years ago, Tonoike Sake Brewery is a traditional Sake brewery popular with overseas visitors. Visitors can drop by or book a tasting tour. (Open 365 days)

Shimazaki Sake Brewery

Tour of inside the cave at Shimazaki Sake Brewery
Known as the ‘Cave Brewery’, we are a family-run sake brewery that produces award-winning aged sake. Come and visit the cave on our open-days or book a special tasting tour by our brewery owner.

Akechidaira Ropeway

Enjoy breathtaking views of Chuzenji Lake, Kegon Falls, and Mount Nantai.

Max Minakami

Rafting in Minakami town in Gunma
We have guides with guiding experience in Australia and New Zealand as well as Nepalese guides who can provide outdoor tours in English.

Shoai Samurai

Group photo after Shoai Samurai indigo dying experience in Mibu town, Tochigi prefecture, Japan
Visit Shoai Samurai for a unique, eco-friendly Japanese culture experience. Try traditional indigo dyeing (Aizome) and support the local community. Create your masterpiece while making a positive impact!

Nasu Animal Kingdom

Nasu Animal Kingdom
Meet diverse animals, enjoy thrilling shows, and see learn about animal conservation.
Popular areas such as, “Asia Forest”, “Tropical Forest”, “Aqua Stage” and “Sky Stadium” are great for both children and adults.

Places to stay in June

Chuzenji Kanaya Hotel

Outside of Chuzenji Kanaya Hotel
Visit us for a relaxing stay at our log cabin-themed hotel by Lake Chuzenji. We are known for our French cuisine rich heritage and onsen (hot spring) relaxation.

Nikko Kanaya Hotel

Entrance of Nikko Kanaya Hotel in central Nikko
Welcoming overseas VIPs for the last 150 years. Come immerse in our rich heritage amidst Nikko’s majestic landscapes. UNESCO World Heritage sites are very close.

Yado Kanzan (Ryokan)

Staff of Kanzan Ryokan in front of Mt. Tanigawa dake.
Indulge in Japanese hospitality in this cosy luxurious family-run ryokan with private onsen (hot spring) and direct views of beautiful Mount Tanigawa. Experience delicious Kaiseki cuisine, and learn about shakuhachi (Japanese bamboo flute) while listening to live demonstrations.
Profile photo rowing a boat on Lake Haruna in GUnma
Contributor:  Angus Miyaji Founder of Nearby Tokyo and Japan World Link, Angus helps visitors discover off the beaten track destinations in the North Kanto regions (Tochigi, Gunma, Ibaraki & Saitama north of Tokyo). He regularly travels between Japan and the UK promoting tourism and Japanese sake.
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