Early summer in Hokkaido bursts with vibrant festivals that draw both locals and visitors, offering a lively way to dive into the island’s rich culture and history. These events, held weekly during May and June, showcase Hokkaido’s unique traditions, food, and community spirit, making them a perfect way to deepen your connection to this stunning region.

A highlight is the Hokkaido Jingu Festival (also called the Sapporo Festival), a beloved tradition in Sapporo with over a century of history. Held in mid-June, it features a dazzling parade of more than 1,000 participants dressed in vibrant, traditional costumes. The procession winds through the city center, led by four mikoshi (portable shrines carried on the shoulders of enthusiastic locals) and eight dashi (ornate wheeled floats adorned with musicians and dancers performing lively routines). The energy is infectious, and the colorful spectacle is a feast for the senses.

Around the Hokkaido Shrine and nearby Nakajima Park, the festival atmosphere comes alive with rows of food stalls serving local delicacies like grilled seafood, yakisoba, and sweet treats. You’ll also find games, crafts, and performances that capture the essence of a classic Japanese matsuri.

Beyond this festival, Sapporo and other parts of Hokkaido host plenty of smaller events during early summer, so keep an eye out for local posters or ask locals for tips—you’re bound to stumble upon more unforgettable experiences during your trip!

Hokkaido’s northern landscapes transform into a kaleidoscope of colors in early summer, as the short but spectacular blooming season takes hold from May to June. Flower gardens, wildflowers, and even agricultural fields erupt in vivid hues, creating breathtaking scenes that beg to be explored on a leisurely stroll.

One must-visit spot is Panoramic Flower Garden Shikisai-no-Oka in Biei, where rolling hills are blanketed with vibrant stripes of blooms. From early summer, flowers like delicate lupines, cheerful campanulas, and lush peonies paint the fields in waves of color, with fragrant lavender stealing the show by late June. The sight of these blossoms against the backdrop of Biei’s patchwork hills and distant mountains feels like stepping into a living painting, perfect for photography or simply soaking in the beauty.

While Furano is famous for its sprawling lavender fields that burst into purple splendor in June, Sapporo offers its own floral gems. Head to Horomi Pass, where lavender fields stretch across gentle slopes, offering stunning views paired with cool, refreshing breezes—a welcome escape from the city. Whether you’re chasing Instagram-worthy shots or just craving a peaceful walk, these flower fields deliver unforgettable moments.

Pro Tip: Bring a hat and sunscreen, as the open fields can get sunny. Many gardens also have small cafés or shops nearby where you can grab a lavender-infused treat, like ice cream or tea, to round out your visit.

As June ushers in early summer, Hokkaido’s mountains awaken from their snowy slumber, with trails opening for hikers eager to explore breathtaking landscapes. The melting snow reveals lush greenery, alpine meadows, and panoramic views, making this the perfect time to lace up your boots and hit the trails.

One standout destination is Mt. Asahidake, Hokkaido’s tallest peak at 2,291 meters. Its trails typically open around the third weekend of June, welcoming adventurers until the first snowfalls in late September. From the ropeway at its base to the summit’s steaming volcanic vents and wildflower-dotted slopes, Asahidake offers a thrilling mix of challenge and beauty, with sweeping views of the Daisetsuzan National Park as your reward.

Other gems include Mt. Yotei, nicknamed “Ezo Fuji” for its striking resemblance to Japan’s iconic mountain, and Hokkaido Komagatake, an active volcano with a dramatic horn-shaped peak. Yotei’s symmetrical cone beckons experienced hikers with forested paths and crater views, while Komagatake’s rugged trails showcase volcanic landscapes and glimpses of shimmering lakes below.

Heads-Up: Even in June, patches of snow may linger on higher trails, and Hokkaido’s weather can shift quickly, bringing chilly winds or rain. Pack warm layers, waterproof gear, and sturdy boots to stay safe and comfortable. For a more relaxed experience or if you’re new to mountain hiking, consider joining a guided trekking tour. Local experts can lead you through these stunning yet demanding terrains, sharing insights about the area’s flora, geology, and history while ensuring your safety.

Pro Tip: Check trail conditions before heading out, and bring a small backpack with water, snacks, and a first-aid kit. Some trailheads also have nearby onsen (hot springs) for a soothing soak after your hike!

In June, Hokkaido’s high-altitude landscapes create a magical spectacle known as unkai, or “seas of clouds.” The combination of cool nights, warm days, and moist air fosters thick fog that blankets valleys, transforming them into ethereal oceans of white waves rippling beneath mountain peaks. It’s a bucket-list experience that feels like stepping into a dream.

One of the best places to witness this phenomenon is Hoshino Resorts Tomamu in Shimukappu Village, home to the Unkai Terrace, a purpose-built viewing platform perched at 1,088 meters. Accessible by a scenic gondola ride, the terrace offers front-row seats to three distinct types of unkai:
・Pacific Ocean Unkai, formed by sea fog under high-pressure systems in eastern Hokkaido, creating a vast, shimmering cloud sea.
・Tomamu Unkai, born from radiative cooling on clear, calm nights, draping the valleys in soft, cotton-like layers.
・Bad Weather Unkai, which appears before or during stormy conditions, adding a dramatic, moody edge to the scene.

The unkai is most reliable from mid-May to mid-October, with June offering prime viewing chances. Sip a warm coffee from the terrace café as the sunrise illuminates the clouds, casting golden hues across the surreal landscape.

Another fantastic spot is Rusutsu Resort in the Yotei area, where unkai frequently graces the skies between June and August. Guests can hop on an exclusive early-morning gondola to the Yotei Panorama Terrace, soaking in jaw-dropping views of clouds swirling around Mt. Yotei’s majestic cone—a sight that feels otherworldly.

For those exploring southern Hokkaido, Kijihiki Highlands in Hokuto City is a hidden gem for unkai in May and June. Its rolling hills offer a quieter vantage point to watch clouds pool like a misty tide below.

Pro Tip: Unkai is weather-dependent, so check forecasts and aim for early mornings when conditions are calmest. Dress in layers—high-altitude terraces can be chilly—and bring a camera to capture the fleeting beauty. Some resorts offer live webcams to preview conditions before you go!

Hokkaido’s iconic shirakamba (white birch) trees, with their striking white trunks and fluttering leaves, create some of the island’s most enchanting landscapes. Unlike in other parts of Japan, where these trees are mostly alpine, in Hokkaido they thrive across plains and hills, often lining roads and paths in graceful rows that have become beloved scenic landmarks.

In June, the birches’ leaves deepen from a fresh spring green to a lush, vibrant hue, making their contrast with the pale bark even more captivating. One of the best places to experience this beauty is Funkawan Panorama Park in Yakumo Town, southern Hokkaido. Here, rows of white birches frame sweeping views of Funka Bay’s sparkling waters, with distant mountains adding drama to the scene. On a clear day, the interplay of green foliage, white trunks, and blue sea and sky feels like a postcard come to life—perfect for a leisurely walk or a moment of quiet reflection.

Other must-see spots include Tokachi Farm in Obihiro City, where birch-lined paths have starred in Japanese TV dramas, their elegance drawing visitors year-round. In Biei, the rolling hills are dotted with famous birch groves, like the serene Shirakaba Road, where the trees’ slender forms create a tunnel of natural beauty, especially stunning in early summer’s soft light.

Pro Tip: Bring a camera to capture the birches’ timeless charm, and wear comfortable shoes for exploring the paths. Many of these spots have nearby rest areas or farms where you can sample local treats, like fresh dairy from Tokachi or Yakumo’s seafood-inspired snacks, to make your visit even sweeter.

Noboribetsu Jigokudani, or “Hell Valley,” is the steaming heart of Noboribetsu Onsen, one of Hokkaido’s premier hot spring resorts. Its otherworldly landscape—marked by bubbling geysers, hissing fumaroles, and sulfurous clouds—earned its fiery nickname, evoking a mythical realm where demons are said to roam. This demonic theme weaves through the town, with striking oni (demon) statues and motifs adorning streets and shops, setting the stage for a truly unique spectacle.

From June 1 through late July, the Jigokudani Demon Fireworks (Oni Hanabi) light up the night sky every Thursday and Friday at 8:30 PM, bringing Hell Valley’s legends to life. The event stars the Yukijin, the guardian demon gods of the hot springs, who are believed to ward off misfortune and bring prosperity. Picture this: six masked Yukijin—three red, three blue—descend the steps of the Hell Valley Observatory, their silhouettes dramatic against the misty backdrop. Accompanied by rhythmic drumbeats, they wield handheld tezutsu fireworks, launching fiery pillars up to eight meters high, resembling volcanic eruptions that illuminate the valley in bursts of light. Locals say watching this display banishes bad luck and invites happiness, adding a touch of magic to the experience.

Held at the Hell Valley Observatory, the 30-minute show is free to watch, and the crisp June evenings in Hokkaido—free from the mainland’s rainy season—make for ideal viewing conditions. After the fireworks, the Yukijin often parade down the main shopping street, happily posing for photos or even playfully photobombing visitors, making it a fun, interactive moment to cap the night.

Pro Tip: Arrive by 8 PM to snag a spot on the observatory’s raised steps (closed-toe shoes required for safety). Dress warmly, as nights can be cool, and check the Noboribetsu Tourism website for any weather-related updates, as rain may lead to cancellations. Pair your visit with a soak in one of Noboribetsu’s renowned onsen afterward—many ryokans, like Dai-ichi Takimotokan, offer stunning views of the valley and therapeutic baths to unwind.

Early summer in Hokkaido brings a burst of flavor with its world-famous melons, a must-try delicacy that defines the season. Leading the pack is the Yubari melon, renowned for its juicy, sunset-orange flesh and honey-like sweetness. First auctioned in late May, these prized melons flood markets from June through July, delighting foodies with their melt-in-your-mouth texture.

For an unforgettable treat, head to the Yubari City Agricultural Cooperative Center, where, during peak season, you can dive into an all-you-can-eat Yubari melon experience. Available for a limited time in June and July, this buffet lets you slice into these golden gems to your heart’s content, savoring their refreshing sweetness in a cozy, farm-fresh setting. It’s a melon lover’s dream come true!

Furano, another melon hotspot, also hits its stride in June, producing lush, aromatic varieties that rival Yubari’s fame. Toward late June, markets across Hokkaido brim with diverse options, including the succulent Raiden melons from Kyowa Town in central Hokkaido, known for their crisp bite and balanced flavor. Visiting a local market or farm stand is the perfect way to sample and compare these regional treasures, each offering a unique twist on summer’s favorite fruit.

Pro Tip: Look for roadside stalls or farmers’ markets like Furano’s Marche for the freshest picks, often paired with melon-inspired treats like soft-serve or smoothies. Bring a reusable bag to carry your haul, and if you’re at the Yubari buffet, pace yourself—those melons are addictive! For a quirky souvenir, grab a Yubari melon jelly or candy to share the flavor at home.

Early summer in Hokkaido heralds the season for uni (sea urchin), a creamy, ocean-fresh delicacy that’s a highlight of the island’s culinary scene. Surrounded by pristine waters, Hokkaido produces some of Japan’s finest sea urchins, with each region offering its own harvest window. From May to August, the Sea of Japan coast teems with uni, but June marks the start of the season in Shakotan, the island’s most celebrated sea urchin hub, drawing food lovers eager for its briny-sweet treasures.

Hokkaido boasts two standout varieties: the Ezo-bafun uni, prized for its vibrant orange hue and rich, buttery flavor, and the Kitamura-saki uni, with its paler, golden flesh and delicate, subtly sweet taste. For a true treat, order an uni rice bowl (uni don), where both types are artfully arranged over steaming rice, letting you savor their contrasting textures and flavors in one blissful bite. Raw as sashimi or nestled in sushi, uni shines with its melt-in-your-mouth decadence.

Beyond raw preparations, uni elevates a range of dishes—try it steamed for a custardy warmth, grilled for a smoky depth, or swirled into a velvety pasta sauce for a gourmet twist. Coastal eateries in Shakotan, like those along the Shakotan Peninsula, serve it fresh from the day’s catch, often with views of the turquoise sea that birthed it.

Pro Tip: Visit a local seafood market like Otaru’s Sankaku Market or Shakotan’s roadside stalls for the freshest uni, often sold in wooden boxes (kita). Pair your meal with a crisp Hokkaido sake to complement the uni’s richness, and book a table at popular spots in advance—June’s uni frenzy fills seats fast! If you’re exploring, ask locals about uni festivals, which sometimes pop up in coastal towns during summer.

June in Hokkaido is tailor-made for a road trip, with mild weather, lush green landscapes, and long daylight hours that stretch your adventures well into the evening. Rent a car and cruise through some of the island’s most breathtaking routes, where every mile unveils postcard-worthy views and hidden gems.

One iconic drive is the Sea of Japan Ororon Line, a 380-km coastal ribbon winding from Otaru to Wakkanai. This route hugs the rugged shoreline, treating you to sparkling views of the Sea of Japan and, on clear days, the surreal sight of Rishiri Fuji—a volcanic peak that appears to float on the horizon like a mirage. Stop at Cape Kogane in Rumoi to catch a fiery sunset painting the waves in hues of gold and pink, a perfect moment to stretch your legs and snap photos. With the summer solstice extending daylight past 7 p.m., you’ll have plenty of time to linger at charming fishing villages or roadside stalls serving fresh seafood along the way.

For a different flavor, venture inland on National Route 12, connecting Sapporo to Asahikawa. This road boasts Japan’s longest straight stretch—29 km between Bibai and Takikawa—where wide-open farmlands, rolling hills, and distant mountains create a mesmerizing, almost meditative drive. Flanked by wildflowers in June, it’s a serene contrast to the coastal drama of the Ororon Line.

Pro Tip: Book your rental car early, as June is peak season, and opt for a GPS with English settings for stress-free navigation. Pack snacks and a playlist, but keep an eye on speed limits—Hokkaido’s straight roads can tempt you to accelerate, so drive safely to savor the journey. Look for local cafés or farm stands en route, like those near Asahikawa serving creamy soft-serve, to fuel your adventure. If you’re on the Ororon Line, check tide times at Cape Kogane for the best sunset views.

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For a truly unforgettable way to see Hokkaido’s stunning landscapes, hop aboard a hot air balloon in June, when clear skies and vibrant greenery create a perfect aerial canvas. Drifting above lush fields, patchwork farmlands, and snow-dusted mountains, you’ll get a bird’s-eye view of the island’s beauty that’s nothing short of magical.

In Niseko, the season kicks off on June 1 with a tethered hot air balloon ride, offered early in the morning when the air is calm and crisp. Floating 30 meters above the ground, you’ll gaze out at Mt. Yotei—Hokkaido’s “Ezo Fuji”—its majestic cone framed by the rugged Niseko mountain range and rolling meadows below. The gentle sway of the balloon and the quiet of dawn make this 5–10-minute ride feel like a serene escape, with plenty of chances to snap jaw-dropping photos.

Beyond Niseko, Tokachi and Furano offer their own hot air balloon adventures, showcasing their iconic landscapes from above. Tokachi’s vast plains and golden canola fields shimmer in the morning light, while Furano’s lavender patches and colorful flower fields look like a painter’s palette from the sky. Free-flying tours in these areas, often lasting 30–60 minutes, let you glide over the countryside for an even deeper immersion, depending on the operator.

Pro Tip: Book your balloon ride in advance, as spots fill up fast in June. Dress in layers—mornings can be chilly at higher altitudes—and bring a camera with a strap to capture the views safely. Check sunrise schedules, as start times shift with the season. After your ride, celebrate with a hearty Hokkaido breakfast at a nearby café, like fresh pastries or miso soup, to warm up and savor the moment.

While much of Japan grapples with the rainy season in May and June, Hokkaido enjoys a delightful escape—a mild, inviting climate tailor-made for outdoor adventures. With temperatures that strike a perfect balance—neither swelteringly hot nor uncomfortably cold—early summer days feel just right, paired with extended daylight hours that let you soak up every moment of the island’s beauty.

Dressing for Hokkaido’s early summer is a breeze, whether you’re hiking, festival-hopping, or strolling through flower fields. Pack long-sleeved shirts for cooler mornings and breezy evenings, switching to light tees when the sun warms things up. Always keep a light jacket handy, as temperatures can dip unexpectedly, especially at dawn or dusk when the air carries a crisp edge. A foldable umbrella or raincoat is wise, too, for occasional light showers.

Thanks to the long days—lingering well past 7 p.m. around the summer solstice—you’ll have ample time to explore Hokkaido’s lush green hills, vibrant wildflower meadows, and sparkling coastlines. From panoramic vistas to charming local markets, the great outdoors beckons with endless possibilities. So grab your camera, lace up your shoes, and dive into the unforgettable splendor of Hokkaido’s early summer!