Thinking of visiting Hokkaido in June? That’s a great idea!
As a Hokkaido local who has explored the island for over 20 years, I can say June is one of the best times to visit.
In this guide, you’ll find the best things to do, what to eat, weather tips and itinerary ideas for your June trip.
Let’s get started!
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Why Visit Hokkaido in June?
June is the start of summer in Hokkaido! But the weather is still mild and fresh, not hot at all. It’s a perfect month for outdoor lovers.
Since it’s before the peak season (July & August), you’ll enjoy fewer crowds and cheaper prices, compared to the next months.
The best part is that, unlike the rest of Japan, Hokkaido doesn’t have a rainy season in June!
Top Things to Do in Hokkaido in June
Whale Watching in Rausu
Rausu is a small port town on the Shiretoko Peninsula, known for its rich nature and marine life. June is the best season for spotting killer whales in the wild. You might be able to see dolphins as well on a good day!
Join a nature cruise tour from the port, guided by locals who know this sea best. Rausu can be chilly even in summer, so don’t forget to bring a jacket!
Rausu makes a perfect day trip from Utoro, the center of Shiretoko tourism on the other side of the peninsula.
Early Summer Hiking
Hiking near Lake Akan
Hiking season in Hokkaido starts in June. The snow has melted from most trails, so you can enjoy the fresh greenery.
For a relaxed hike, I recommend the Shiretoko Five Lake trails, walking paths at the Kushiro Marshland National Park, Akan Mashu National Park, Mount Moiwa in Sapporo, Mount Hakodate, and Mount Tarumae.
If you’re up for a challenge, check out Rishiri & Rebun Islands. These remote northern islands offer quite a few trails with panoramic ocean views and beautiful wild flowers.
Visit flower fields
The flower bloom peak is in July, but you can already enjoy early bloom in mid to late June.
It’s a chance to enjoy the popular flower fields like Farm Tomita in Furano and Shikisai no Oka in Biei, without the crowds.
Hokkaido Festivals & Events in June
Yosakoi Soran Dance Festival, Sapporo
During the Yosakoi Soran Dance Festival, Sapporo turns into a massive dance floor with over 10 stages across the city!
Yosakoi Soran dance is a mixture of the lively "Naruko" clappers from the Yosakoi Festival in Kochi and the catchy rhythms of Hokkaido’s own "Soran Bushi.”
It’s a must-see event in early summer in Hokkaido.
Dates: June 6-8, 2025
Location: Multiple locations - check the official website
Hokkaido Shrine Festival, Sapporo
Known locally as the "Sapporo Matsuri," the Hokkaido Shrine Festival is a traditional local favorite that dates back over a century.
On the last day of the festival, you will find mikoshi (portable shrines) parading through the streets with locals dressed up in traditional Heian-era costumes.
At Nakajima Park, enjoy 400 stalls offering street food, snacks and games for kids!
Dates: June 14-16, 2025
Location: Hokkaido Shrine, Nakajima Park, Odori
Lake Shikotsu Summer Festival
The Lake Shikotsu Summer Festival celebrates the season with scenic lakeside views and local traditions.
You’ll enjoy grilled Shikotsu Trout, freshly caught from the lake, acoustic live music and a special performance of traditional Ainu dance by the Chitose Ainu Culture Preservation Society.
Date to be confirmed (2024 was on June 30)
Location: Lake Shikotsu
Seasonal Foods to Eat in Hokkaido in June
Fresh uni (sea urchin)
Hokkai shrimp
Okhotsk atka mackerel
Green asparagus
Hokkaido Weather in June
The average temperature in June is 15–24°C (59–75°F). It gets pleasantly warm on a sunny day, but morning and evening can still be cold.
Rainfall is rare compared to mainland Japan, but it could still rain in mid to late June for a few days in a row.
Make sure to bring a foldable umbrella and a light jacket for evenings.
Best Hokkaido Itineraries for June Travel
THAT’S ALL!
I hope you found this guide helpful for your trip! I’m sure you’ll love the fresh early summer in Hokkaido.
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