Today, July 18, the Japan Meteorological Agency announced that the rainy season is considered to have ended in the Kanto Koshin, Hokuriku, and southern Tohoku regions. The rainy season ended one day earlier than normal in the Kanto Koshin region, five days earlier than normal in the Hokuriku region, and six days earlier than normal in the southern Tohoku region.
Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island, is uniquely free from the rainy season (tsuyu) that affects much of the country from June to July. During this period, visitors can enjoy cool, comfortable weather while exploring vibrant festivals, lush flower fields, and cultural events. This guide highlights key attractions and practical tips for international travelers seeking to experience Hokkaido’s summer charm.
Early June Highlight: YOSAKOI Soran Festival
Historical Roots and Cultural Fusion
Held annually in early June in Sapporo, the YOSAKOI Soran Festival blends Kochi Prefecture’s lively Yosakoi Festival with Hokkaido’s traditional Soran Bushi fishing folk songs17. Originating in 1992, the festival began with just 10 teams and 1,000 participants but has grown into a major event attracting over 2 million visitors17. Its founding philosophy—“The city is our stage! Japan will change”—reflects its mission to revitalize local culture through dynamic performances7.
Experiencing the Festival
The festival’s main stage at Odori Park features teams competing in high-energy dances combining traditional movements with modern flair1. Participants use naruko clappers, originally designed to scare birds from rice fields, adding rhythmic intensity to their routines1. Travelers can join workshops at Waodori Square or watch the grand finale on Sunday night, where teams showcase meticulously choreographed performances1. With Sapporo’s mild early-summer climate (averaging 15–20°C), outdoor enjoyment is effortless compared to mainland Japan’s humid tsuyu7.
Mid-June Cultural and Natural Attractions
Iōyama Festival in Kaminokuni
The Iōyama Festival (June 14–15) in Kaminokuni-cho celebrates the region’s history with a torchlight procession led by children ascending Mount Iō to Iōyama Shrine25. The main event includes folk song performances, local food stalls, and a koto (harp) concert, offering insights into Hokkaido’s rural traditions25.
Kurinso Week in Tsubetsu
From June 14–22, the Kurinso Week festival in Tsubetsu’s Nonno Forest showcases 300,000 pink kurinso (Japanese primroses) blooming across wetlands3. Visitors can stroll wooden pathways while learning about forest therapy—a practice linking nature immersion to reduced stress3. The site’s remote location (24 km from central Tsubetsu) ensures tranquil immersion in Hokkaido’s wilderness3.
Late June to July: Coastal Delights and Flower Fields
Otaru Nishin-Otate Festival
In late June, Otaru’s Nishin-Otate Festival celebrates herring, a fish central to Hokkaido’s maritime history. Travelers grill fresh herring (¥300 each) at waterfront stalls while exploring historic canals and glassblowing workshops4. The event underscores Hokkaido’s identity as a hub of seafood and craftsmanship.
Flower Fields of Tokachi and Furano
From late June to July, Tokachi’s Hinode Park and Furano’s Farm Tomita burst with lavender, poppies, and sunflowers. The Lavender Festa Kamifurano (July 12–21) illuminates fields nightly, creating surreal landscapes perfect for photography6. Nearby, the Takino Suzuran Hillside National Park offers hiking trails amid 400 hectares of blooms6.
Practical Tips for Travelers
Climate and Clothing
Hokkaido’s June–July temperatures range from 10°C (mornings) to 25°C (afternoons). Pack light layers, a waterproof jacket, and insect repellent for outdoor events36.
Transportation
During major festivals like YOSAKOI, Sapporo’s subway system (e.g., Namboku Line to Odori Station) is more efficient than driving due to road closures1. For rural areas like Tsubetsu, renting a car provides flexibility, though shuttle buses to Nonno Forest run on weekdays3.
Cultural Etiquette
Respect local customs: ask permission before photographing performers, dispose of trash properly, and avoid loud noises in residential areas near event venues57.
Conclusion
Hokkaido’s rain-free summer combines cultural vibrancy and natural splendor, offering respite from mainland Japan’s tsuyu. From Sapporo’s electrifying dances to Furano’s lavender-scented nights, the island invites travelers to discover its unique blend of tradition and tranquility. By planning ahead and embracing local customs, visitors can fully immerse themselves in Hokkaido’s seasonal magic.
- https://www.japan.travel/en/spot/471/
- https://hokkaido-michinoeki.jp/michiekiinfo/kaminokuniinfo/20302/
- https://www.town.tsubetsu.hokkaido.jp/soshiki/sangyoshinko/1/801.html
- https://otaru.gr.jp/event/nisinnotate2025
- https://www.town.kaminokuni.lg.jp/hotnews/detail/00002689.html
- https://www.furanotourism.com/jp/spot/spot_D.php?id=459
- https://ja.wikipedia.org/wiki/YOSAKOI%E3%82%BD%E3%83%BC%E3%83%A9%E3%83%B3%E7%A5%AD%E3%82%8A
- https://www.visit-hokkaido.jp/event/detail_11059.html
- https://www.town.tsubetsu.hokkaido.jp/soshiki/sangyoshinko/1/3714.html
- https://www.town.kaminokuni.lg.jp/hotnews/detail_sp/00003208.html
- https://l-tike.com/event/mevent/?mid=425875
- https://pitwu.com/2015/05/%E5%A4%96%E5%9B%BD%E3%81%AE%E6%96%B9%E3%81%9F%E3%81%A1%E3%81%AE%E5%89%8D%E3%81%A7%E8%B8%8A%E3%81%A3%E3%81%A6%E3%81%8D%E3%81%9F%E3%82%93%E3%81%A7%E3%81%99%E3%81%91%E3%81%A9%E3%80%81%E3%82%88%E3%81%95/
- https://www.yosakoi-soran.jp/en/
- https://www.yosakoi-soran.jp/en/schedule_event
- https://www.pref.hokkaido.lg.jp/sr/sky/homepage/midori/midori-homepage/kitohana_00.html
- https://www.kaminokuni.jp/?p=1114
- https://www.gutabi.jp/event/detail/2385
