October is a wonderful time to visit Japan.
With the typhoon season mostly over by the end of September, October offers some of Japan’s fairest and most comfortable weather.
It’s a time of harvest and harvest festivals, outdoor excursions, autumnal hikes, and art and culture.
Weather and Climate
In October, Japan experiences pleasant mild weather and climate.
Temperature Variations
The weather is warm but not too hot in most parts of Japan in October moving on into November.
In the major cities of Honshu and Kyushu (Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, Fukuoka), average October highs remain in the low 70s F (low 20s C), but overnight lows drop to the high 50s (around 15° C), so you’ll need a sweater.
It is important to note that the temperature variations in Japan can differ greatly depending on the location.
Like cherry blossom season, the autumn foliage is incredibly beautiful in Japan.
Regions and Cities
When it comes to experiencing the beauty of Japan in October, there are several regions and cities that you should consider visiting.
Each location has its own unique charm and attractions that make it a must-see destination during the autumn season.
Exploring Tokyo
Tokyo is a bustling metropolis that offers a diverse range of experiences in October.
The city’s parks and gardens are transformed into picturesque landscapes of reds, oranges, and yellows.
You can take a stroll through Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden or visit the Meiji Shrine to witness the fall foliage in all its glory.
Other things to do in this are food events such as the Hokkaido food festival, an outdoor food event, and the Tokyo ramen show.
You can even enjoy the Tamagawa fireworks festival in October.
Kyoto’s Autumn Beauty
Kyoto’s stunning temples, shrines, and gardens are especially breathtaking during the autumn season.
In October, the maple trees surrounding the city’s most famous attraction, Kiyomizu-dera Temple, turn vibrant shades of red and orange.
Hokkaido’s Harvest Season
Hokkaido is a northern island that is famous for its picturesque landscapes and delicious cuisine.
Fields of pumpkins, corn, and other crops transform the island into a harvest wonderland during October.
Nagasaki and Kyushu
The southern island of Kyushu is home to Nagasaki, a city with a rich history and culture.
In October, the city hosts the Nagasaki Kunchi Festival, a celebration of the city’s unique blend of Japanese and Chinese influences.
Honshu Highlights
Honshu is Japan’s largest island and home to many of the country’s most famous attractions.
You can visit the iconic Mount Fuji, which is surrounded by stunning autumn foliage.
Okinawa in October
Okinawa is a tropical paradise that is perfect for a relaxing getaway in October.
The weather is warm and pleasant, and the beaches are less crowded than during the summer months.
You can take a scuba diving or snorkeling trip to explore the island’s vibrant coral reefs or visit the Shuri Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Nagoya Festival
The Nagoya Festival is one of Japan’s most famous festivals, and it takes place in October.
The festival features parades, music, and dance performances, and attracts visitors from all over the country.
Other attractions in this region of central Japan include Atsuta Shrine and the new Ghibli park.
Festivals and Events
From traditional celebrations to modern food festivals, there is something for everyone.
Nagasaki Kunchi
People celebrate food, fun, and Nagasaki’s diverse cultural past and present at Nagasaki Kunchi, a vibrant festival with over 400 years of history that occurs annually from 7-9 October.
The festival showcases a parade of colorful floats, traditional dances, and music performances.
A group of young men carries a large dragon through the streets, performing the highlight of the festival, the dragon dance.
Hiroshima’s Autumn Festivals
Hiroshima’s Autumn Festivals are a series of events that take place throughout October in the city of Hiroshima.
The festivals include the Hiroshima Flower Festival, the Hiroshima Food Festival, and the Hiroshima International Animation Festival.
The Hiroshima Flower Festival is a celebration of autumn flowers and features a parade of flower floats.
The Food Festival is a food lover’s paradise, with stalls selling local delicacies and international cuisine.
Finally, the Hiroshima International Animation Festival is a showcase of the best animated films from around the world.
Takayama Matsuri
This is a traditional festival that takes place in the city of Takayama in Gifu Prefecture.
The autumn festival takes place on 9-10 October and features a parade of ornate floats, traditional music performances, and food stalls selling local delicacies.
Nihonmatsu Lantern Festival
In the city of Nihonmatsu in Fukushima Prefecture, the Nihonmatsu Lantern Festival is a traditional festival that occurs annually on the first weekend of October.
The festival showcases a parade of lantern floats, traditional dances, and music performances.
Local residents create the lantern floats, which feature intricate designs and patterns.
Niihama Taiko Festival
The Niihama Taiko Festival is a traditional festival that takes place in the city of Niihama in Ehime Prefecture.
The festival is held annually on the second weekend of October.
Outdoor Activities
Here are some of the best outdoor activities to enjoy in Japan during October.
Hiking in Japan
If you’re a hiking enthusiast, you’ll love Japan in October.
The country is home to some of the most beautiful hiking trails in the world, and the autumn foliage makes them even more stunning.
Some of the best hiking trails to explore in October include the Kamikochi Trail, the Kumano Kodo Trail, and the Nakasendo Trail.
National Parks
Japan is home to many national parks, and they’re even more beautiful in October.
The parks are filled with colorful autumn foliage, making them the perfect place to take a hike, have a picnic, or simply enjoy the scenery.
Shimanami Kaido Cycling
Shimanami Kaido is a 60-kilometer cycling route that connects six islands in the Seto Inland Sea.
The route offers stunning views of the sea and the surrounding islands, and it’s even more beautiful in October when the autumn foliage is at its peak.
Autumn Foliage
The season typically runs from mid-October to late November, with the leaves changing colors from green to vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow.
Here are a few places to experience the beauty of autumn foliage in Japan.
Nikko’s Autumn Leaves
To experience the beauty of autumn foliage in Japan, many people visit Nikko, a popular destination.
The area features several temples and shrines, including the famous Toshogu Shrine, surrounded by beautiful maple trees that turn vibrant shades of red and orange in the fall.
Additionally, visitors can enjoy red Japanese maples at the nearby Lake Chuzenji, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests.
Towada-Hachimantai National Park
Towada-Hachimantai National Park is located in the northern part of Honshu, Japan’s main island.
The park is known for its stunning autumn foliage, with colorful leaves covering the mountains and forests.
The Oirase Gorge, a popular hiking spot, is particularly beautiful in the fall, with the leaves of the beech and maple trees turning vibrant shades of red and orange.
The Fuji Five Lakes Area
The Fuji Five Lakes area in autumn offers stunning views of colorful foliage and Mount Fuji.
Visitors can enjoy walking along the lakeshore, taking in the natural beauty of Oishi Park.
Or climbing Mt. Kachikachi for panoramic views of the area.
Food and Drink
Harvest Season Delicacies
October is a great time to visit Japan if you are a foodie.
With the harvest season in full swing, you can expect to enjoy some of the freshest and most delicious produce.
One of the highlights of the season is the new rice, also known as shinmai.
This rice is only available from September to December and has a sweeter and softer taste than regular rice.
You can enjoy it on its own or as part of a traditional Japanese meal.
Seasonal food at this time of year are persimmons.
Harvesters collect persimmon fruit from September to November, and it is a popular ingredient in many Japanese dishes due to its sweet and tangy taste.
People can consume it raw or cooked.
Japanese pears are in season from September to November, and visitors can try them too.
Sake Tasting
Japan is famous for its sake, and October is a great time to sample some of the best varieties.
Niigata is a top sake-producing region, and you can visit local breweries to learn about the brewing process and taste some of the seasonal varieties.
You can also try some of the local food, which pairs perfectly with sake.
Before You Go
Japan is a wonderful country to visit and October is a great month to do so.
From mild weather, hot spring baths, great food, and lots of festivals, this month has it all.
Late October to early November is arguably my favourite time of the year.
Enjoy your travels if you plan on visiting Japan.
