ashushu 
Discover Japan in June
: Rainy Season
While June in Japan marks the beginning of the rainy season, it is also a time filled with quiet beauty, spiritual reflection, and seasonal celebrations. From blooming hydrangeas to traditional purification rituals, this month offers a unique and atmospheric experience of Japanese culture. Here’s what to expect if you visit Japan in June.
☔ The Rainy Season (Tsuyu)
June is known as the start of Tsuyu (梅雨), the rainy season in Japan. It typically begins in early June and lasts for about a month. Although it brings frequent showers and high humidity, Tsuyu is also responsible for lush greenery and vibrant flowers, making gardens and temples especially photogenic during this time.
Don’t let the rain discourage you—June’s calm atmosphere offers a peaceful break from the busy tourist seasons.
🌸 Hydrangea Season (Ajisai Matsuri)
One of the most beloved symbols of June in Japan is the hydrangea (ajisai). These colorful flowers bloom in shades of blue, purple, and pink throughout the month, and are often associated with the rainy season.
Many Ajisai Festivals are held across the country, especially at temples and shrines such as:
- Meigetsuin Temple (Kamakura) – known as the “Hydrangea Temple”
- Hasedera Temple (Kamakura) – beautiful ocean views and flower-covered paths
- Hakusan Shrine (Tokyo) – a popular spot for hydrangea viewing in the city
These festivals provide a beautiful and calming experience as you stroll through flower-lined paths, often with light rain adding to the atmosphere.
🌿 Nagoshi no Harae – A Mid-Year Purification Ritual
At the end of June, many Shinto shrines hold a ritual called Nagoshi no Harae (夏越の祓), or the Great Summer Purification. This tradition dates back over 1,000 years and is held on June 30th to cleanse the sins and impurities accumulated during the first half of the year.
🔘 What Happens During the Ritual?
Visitors pass through a large ring made of woven reeds (chinowa), usually three times in a figure-eight pattern, while praying for good health and protection from misfortune.
It’s a spiritual yet accessible tradition that gives insight into Japan’s respect for seasonal transitions and personal renewal.
🍵 Seasonal Foods and Experiences
June is a great time to enjoy seasonal wagashi (Japanese sweets) made with refreshing ingredients like matcha, yuzu, and agar jelly. Many cafés and teahouses offer summer-themed menus.
You might also notice firefly viewing events (hotaru matsuri) in rural areas during early summer evenings—an enchanting natural spectacle linked to Japanese poetry and aesthetics.
🏯 Tips for Travelers in June
- Bring an umbrella: Showers are frequent, but rarely all-day events.
- Dress comfortably: Light, breathable clothing is ideal for humid conditions.
- Explore temples and gardens: Fewer tourists and misty rain create a peaceful, photogenic environment.