Nara Weather in June

June marks the onset of Nara’ rainy season and summer. The primary weather characteristics during this period are high precipitation and humidity, which may impact your itinerary to some extent. Temperatures are not exceptionally high, partly because June is the beginning of summer and partly because the rain falls frequently. However, toward the end of the month, temperatures may suddenly rise, leading to muggy conditions. The standout advantages of June are fewer crowds and lower costs.

Plum Rainy Season

June marks the onset of Nara’s rainy season, and is the city’s wettest month. On average, it sees 182 mm of precipitation and 13 rainy days. In some years, rainy days can reach around 18. Typically, early June brings gradually increasing rainfall as the rainy season just begins. As a result, the weather of Nara at this time is unstable, with frequent shifts between sun and rain. By mid-to-late June, the peak rainy season arrives, bringing more persistent and intense downpours. Frequent rainfall inevitably limits outdoor activities like hiking Mount Wakakusa or walking through Nara Park. Moreover, rainy days often veil the scenery in a haze.

The persistent rainfall also leads to high humidity. This month, Nara’s average humidity reaches 68%, making the temperature 3-5℃ (5-9℉) higher than it actually is.

See Also: Everything You Need to Know about Rainy Season in Japan

A Bit High Temperature

Though Nara enters summer in June, due to relatively high precipitation, overall temperatures are not very high. Most days this month see daily highs between 25-30 degrees Celsius (77-86 degrees Fahrenheit) and lows around 15-25°C (59-77°F), with significant diurnal temperature variation. However, because the climate of Nara this month usually fluctuates between rainy and sunny conditions, temperatures are also not very stable. On rainy days, the high may only reach around 20℃ (68℉), a cool level. Conversely, on clear days, especially those in mid- and late month, the high can climb to approximately 35℃ (95℉).

As mentioned, high humidity this month amplifies the perceived temperature. Once the forecast says that the daily high hits 30℃ (86℉) or above, the weather will become muggy and oppressive.

Daylight Hours / Sunshine Hours

June has the longest daylight hours of the year, which are about 14.5 hours nearly every day. Visiting Nara this month, you will find that the dawn breaks at 04:43-04:46, and dusk doesn’t set in until 19:04-19:13. Since rainy and overcast weather dominates this month, the sunshine hours are about only 5 hours per day on average. However, once the sun is present, you are recommended to take sun protection measures: the UV index peaks at 10 this month, a level that can harm your exposed skin in a short 15-25 minutes.

Advantages of Visiting Nara in June

June’s rainy, humid, and occasionally muggy weather makes it less than ideal for visiting Nara. However, this month also offers some advantages:

1. There are fewer tourists in Nara this month, meaning quieter attractions. Besides, even for famous attractions and restaurants, you won’t have to worry about long lines.
2. The travel costs are low. Both transportation and accommodation expenses tend to be more affordable. Plus, with lower demand for hotels, you can easily book a wonderful room.
3. Lush greenery flourishes everywhere, which appears even more vibrant after rainfall. June also marks the prime viewing period for hydrangeas.
4. This month offers excellent opportunities to experience traditional Japanese culture, featuring festivals like the Saikusa Festival.
5. The deer of Nara in June are quite beautiful, with bright fur and white spots on the back. You also have a chance to see lovely baby deer this month.

If these advantages appeal to you and you are considering a trip to Nara in June, the following information will help ensure a more comfortable and richer journey.

What to Wear when Visiting Nara in June 2026?

Clothes: With stuffy and humid weather, cool, lightweight, and breathable clothes are your top choice. So, for a June trip to Nara, pack short-sleeved T-shirts, short-sleeved shirts, shorts, and pants made of cotton, linen, or quick-dry materials. Females may also want to pack lightweight and stylish dresses. Since encountering cool rainy days is quite possible, you also need to bring light jackets or shirts.

Shoes: It’s OK to wear both sandals and sneakers. However, considering that the road may be slippery and the grasslands may be wet in this rainy season, non-slip and water-resistant ones are more suitable. Or, you can also bring portable waterproof shoe covers.

Accessories: You may encounter both rainy days and sunny days with intense sunlight in June, so, you are recommended to pack a parasol.

Special Highlights in June in Nara

Beyond Nara’s famous and must-see attractions like Todaiji Temple, Kasuga Taisha Shrine, and Kofukuji Temple, you can also visit the following highlights during June - after all, the daytime is exceptionally long this month, providing you plenty of time to travel around.

1. Saikusa Festival

On June 17th each year, Nara’s oldest shrine, Sukagawa Shrine, hosts the Saikusa Festival, one of Japan’s most ancient ceremonies. During the ritual, several females in traditional clothes perform sacred dances holding lilies, praying for the expulsion of disease and abundant harvests.

2. Colorful Hydrangeas

Toshodaiji Temple with Lotus

As mentioned, June marks the season for hydrangeas, a signature sight of Japan’s rainy season. Nara’s Toshodaiji Temple, Yakushiji Temple, and Joruriji Temple all feature vibrant hydrangeas that blend harmoniously with their ancient architecture. If you have ample time and are particularly fond of these flowers, Yatadera Temple, located about 10 kilometers (6 miles) from Nara, is well worth a visit. It boasts approximately 60 varieties and 10,000 hydrangea plants.

3. Nara Lotus Road

Lotus flowers begin to bloom in Nara in mid-June and reach their peak in late June. During this time, the Lotus Road connecting four temples, including Saidaiji Temple, Kikoji Temple, Toshodaiji Temple, and Yakushiji Temple, becomes the prime spot for lotus viewing in Nara. These temples offer a combined ticket, making it easier to admire these beautiful blooms.

Tips for a Trip to Nara in June

1. To ensure a pleasant travel experience during rainy seasons like June, you are advised to pay close attention to the weather forecast during your trip and flexibly adjust your itinerary accordingly. Outdoor activities are still OK when it rains lightly. Even the deer remain active in wet weather. However, when it rains heavily, outdoor exploration is inconvenient, so consider indoor attractions like the Nara National Museum and the Nara City Art Museum or activities like soaking in hot springs.
2. By month’s end, midday weather may become increasingly muggy. You are recommended to have a rest in restaurants or cafes during this period.