Japan Weather in September 2026: Typhoon, Silver Week & What to Wear

September in Japan can be unpredictable: an early-month downpour or a mid-month evening when the humidity finally lifts. After a scorching summer, the air takes on the scent of roasted chestnuts and fat dripping onto charcoal. September isn't just a change in the weather; it's a change in the air that really defines the month.

Here's what to expect in September: real-feel forecasts by region, a packing list, and the month's best festivals.

Table of Contents

1. What Is the Weather Like in Japan in September 2026?

1. Japan Weather Snapshot in September 2026

2. September Weather 2026 Summary Table

2. Top Things to Do in Japan in September 2026: Festivals Worth the Heat

1. 5 September Experiences Worth the Heat

2. Featured Destinations & Events in September 2026

3. 3 Weather-Proof September Micro-Itineraries
   

3. Taste the Harvest: Japan's Autumn Bounty Begins in September

1. Autumn's Sweet Treasure

2. Savor the Flavors of the Sea

4. What to Wear and Pack for Japan in September

5. How Crowded Is Japan in September? Crowds, Prices & Booking Tips

6. Japan in September Travel FAQ
   

1. What Is the Weather Like in Japan in September 2026?

Nationwide Temperature Trends: It's Not Quite Autumn Yet

Although the calendar may show that fall is just around the corner, September in Japan usually still feels like summer, especially during the first half of the month.

In mid-September of 2024, temperatures hit 30°C (86°F) or higher at over 600 weather stations.

In September, daytime highs in Tokyo and Kyoto can reach 81-86°F (27-30°C), and temperatures are slightly cooler at night.

Osaka can still be hot in September, especially when walking around outdoor temples and cities. 

However, Hokkaido experiences a cooler, autumnal air, with average temperatures ranging from 17 to 22°C (63 to 72°F). This makes it one of the few places with early fall weather in September.

    September Typhoon & Rain Tips 

    Typhoons in Japan typically occur in September, with the first half of the month being the most prone to brief rain and sudden weather changes. Although major storms are rare at the end of September, travelers should stay informed as the typhoon season comes to an end.

Click here for official real-time typhoon updates covering all of Japan

• Okinawa and Kyushu are more likely to be affected, but local systems are well-equipped to handle disruptions efficiently.

• Rain usually comes and goes quickly; a humid morning can turn into a clear afternoon, so it's smart to carry a small umbrella and keep your plans flexible. 

• By mid-to-late September, the skies clear up and the humidity drops, particularly in areas such as Tokyo and Kyoto.

Japan Weather Snapshot in September 2026

A quick look at major destinations across Japan as summer fades and autumn quietly begins:

Hokkaido September Weather 2026 ｜Cool & Breezy Escape

Avg. Temp: 22–26°C (71–79°F)

Night Chill: Drops to 10–17°C

Tip for traveling in Hokkaido in September:

• Light jacket & sneakers recommended

• A cooling resort in Japan

• Ideal for early autumn seekers

• Crisp air, clear skies, and fewer crowds

If you want to escape the heat in Japan in September, head to Hokkaido. Take a walk through Furano's flower fields, enjoy buttermilk ice cream, and visit the penguins at Asahiyama Zoo.

Tokyo September Weather 2026｜Summer Hangs On, Comfort Creeps In

Avg. Temp: 24–30°C (75–86°F)

Humidity: High early in the month

Tip for traveling to Tokyo in September:

• Lightweight clothes + small umbrella

• Great for cultural exploration

• Pleasant for late-night city strolls mid-month onward

Tokyo's September weather still has a lot of lingering summer heat, so you'll have no problem wandering around the city in short sleeves or a tank top. Wake up your senses with fresh sushi and hot miso soup from Tsukiji Market. Experience the spirit of old Tokyo at the historic Senso-ji Temple. Take a cruise along the Sumida River to see the city from the water. Look down on Tokyo's busiest intersection from the Shibuya observation deck. Find peace in the heart of the town at the Meiji Jingu Shrine. Step into a dreamlike world of lights, colors, and digital art at TeamLab.

Read to know more about Tokyo Weather in September...

Osaka September Weather 2026｜Zansho(Late summer) Heat Still Strong

Avg. Temp: 22–30°C (72–86°F)

Tip for traveling in Osaka in September:

• Sunscreen, water bottle, and portable fan

• Outdoor sites like Osaka Castle = hot walks

• Best to explore in the early morning or evening

• Osaka's weather in September is still warm and humid. It's comfortable to stroll around in lightweight clothing. 

Start your day like a local with a quiet morning at a retro kissaten, enjoying thick toast, hand-drip coffee, and a soft-boiled egg in nostalgic, Showa-style comfort. Then, visit Osaka Castle and walk its surrounding park. Take in panoramic city views from the Umeda Sky Building. Wander through the lively streets of Dotonbori, where neon lights reflect on the river below. Find peace in the lush gardens of Shitenno-ji Temple. End the evening at a teppanyaki restaurant, where you can watch your okonomiyaki sizzle and experience the flavors of Osaka one bite at a time.

Kyoto September Weather 2026｜Warm Days, Autumn Nights

Avg. Temp: 21–30°C (70–86°F)

Tip for traveling around Kyoto in September:

• Long sleeves for night strolls by Kamogawa

• Made for night festivals & moon viewing

•  Sweat-prone during daytime temple visits

To avoid the midday heat, visit major shrines such as Fushimi Inari Shrine before 8:30 am and save the warmer afternoons for climate-controlled museums. As dusk falls, enjoy the final month of Kawayuka, which offers riverside dining on platforms along the Kamogawa, before experiencing the traditional mid-autumn moon-viewing festival (Kangetsu-sai) under the clear late-September skies at Daikaku-ji Temple.

Fukuoka September Weather 2026｜Hot & Humid with Occasional Showers

Avg. Temp: 22–31°C (72–88°F)

Tip for traveling in Fukuoka in September:

• Rain protection + breathable layers

• Ideal for combining beach & indoor plans

• Early fall seafood is in season

In early fall, Fukuoka, on Kyushu, welcomes travelers with comfortable temperatures and a leisurely pace. Climbing up the Seaside Tower and strolling through Ohori Park is a relaxing daytime activity. At night, the yatai stalls bustle with ramen, mentaiko, and fresh seafood.

Okinawa September Weather 2026｜Summer Never Ends

Avg. Temp: 26–31°C (79–88°F)

Tip for traveling in Okinawa in September:

• Swimsuit, rash guard, & typhoon watch

• Best for snorkeling, diving, and island hopping

• Hotspot for "endless summer" seekers

In September, Okinawa has ideal beach conditions with warm 28°C ocean water and smaller post-summer crowds.  

The snorkeling around the Kerama Islands is some of the best in Japan, or take a drive along the coast of Kouri Island on sunny mornings. Always check the local typhoon updates and plan indoor cultural activities, such as Ryukyu glassblowing or a visit to Shuri Castle, in case of sudden tropical showers.

Click to get official real-time information: Typhoon Precautions in Okinawa

September Weather Summary Table 2026

First-time visitors should start with the classics in Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, where modern and historic Japan sit side by side.

Would you like more information about the weather in Japan in September? Visit the Japan Meteorological Agency's official website for more details.

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2. Top Things to Do in Japan in September 2026: Festivals Worth the Heat

5 September Experiences Worth the Heat

• 1) Catch Japan's Earliest Autumn Foliage in Hokkaido

• Audience: Nature Photographers, Hikers, Active Travelers

• Worried you'll miss autumn colors in September? By mid-to-late September, the slopes of Daisetsuzan National Park in Hokkaido turn red and gold, months before Tokyo or Kyoto show any color.

• 2) Indulge in the "Taste of Autumn" (Aki no Aji kaku)

• Audience: Foodies, Izakaya Lovers, Culinary Explorers

• September rains? Duck into an izakaya for freshly harvested sanma (grilled Pacific saury with sizzling fat), tender matsutake mushrooms, and seasonal chestnuts paired with cold draft beer.

• 3) Enjoy Peak Beach Season Without the Summer Crowds in Okinawa

• Audience: Sunseekers, Couples, Water Sports Enthusiasts

• August's sweltering air cools down slightly, but ocean temperatures around Miyakojima and Ishigaki stay near 27°C(80°F), with resort hotel prices dropping significantly.

• 4) Experience Raw Traditional Festival Adrenaline in Kansai

• Audience: Culture Buffs, Adrenaline Junkies, Festival Enthusiasts

• Summer isn't over yet. September hosts Japan's fastest traditional matsuri, where taiko drums run nonstop, and each town pulls its own float.

• 5) Partake in Tsukimi (Traditional Autumn Moon-Viewing)

• Audience: Slow Travelers, History Enthusiasts, Families

• Early autumn evenings bring crisp, clear skies. Join local temples and teahouses for seasonal rice dumplings (tsukimi dango), matcha, and quiet live music under the full moon.

Featured Destinations & Events in September 2026

Osaka - Kishiwada Danjiri Festival 2026 (岸和田だんじり祭)｜September 19–20, 2026

The Kishiwada Danjiri Festival is one of Japan's most intense: crews of local men haul 4-ton wooden floats at a run through narrow streets.

Each massive wooden float (danjiri) is a handcrafted masterpiece, taking up to a year to complete, and weighing as much as 4 tons. Over 100 local men in traditional attire pull a single float at full speed through the narrow streets of Kishiwada, Osaka - racing around tight corners, often just inches from crowd barriers.

    Dates: September 19–20, 2026 (Saturday-Sunday), held annually on one day before Japan's Respect for the Aged Day(Sep. 21).

    Location: Kishiwada City, Osaka Prefecture (Accessible via the Nankai Line to Kishiwada Station or Haruki Station)

    What to Expect:

• Of course, there have also been past years when danjiri floats collided with utility poles or clipped the edges of nearby buildings, a testament to just how intense and unpredictable the event can be.

• The stalls along the parade route's surrounding pedestrian-only streets are worth a visit — yakitori and takoyaki are grilled, goldfish are scooped up, and retro carnival games are played, all side by side.

• Grilled yakitori, takoyaki sizzling on hot plates, traditional Japanese masks on display, goldfish scooping, and retro-style carnival games all come together to create a festive, nostalgic atmosphere. 

• Families, friends, and first-time visitors eat their way down the street and get pulled into the pull of the floats—this is a matsuri in its most local form.

• After dark, the pace slows, and lanterns light the floats, which is a sharp change from the afternoon's full-speed runs.

    Best Viewing Spots:

• Around Kishiwada Station - the main festival area with the largest crowds and liveliest scenes

• Around Haruki Station - slightly less crowded, but still full of excitement

    Travel Tips:

• Plan your route and arrive early to secure a spot near the float turning points or central plazas, where the action is most intense. Trains on the Nankai Line offer direct access from central Osaka. Expect large crowds, and don't forget to wear sunglasses, bring water, sun protection, and comfortable shoes to make the most of your day.

Tokyo - ULTRA JAPAN 2026: Tokyo's Ultimate Electronic Music Festival｜September 19–20, 2026

Ultra Japan is one of Asia's most significant urban EDM festivals, now celebrating its 11th anniversary. Held on the Odaiba waterfront, the two‑day event pairs global DJs with large-scale stage production and crowds that move well past dark. (View more information on the official website)

Venue: ODAIBA ULTRA PARK

Festival Highlights

• Expect heavy lighting, LED installations, smoke cannons, pyrotechnics, and a fireworks finale.

• Chill areas with air-cushion lounges and picnic zones between sets. 

• Food trucks and bars, international cuisine, and official merchandise stalls for ultimate festival convenience. 

• The festival also leans green: recycling stations and reusable cups are standard across the grounds.

Schedule

• Gates open at 10:00 a.m., and performances run from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. each day. 

• The evening closes with a spectacular fireworks display over the main stage.

History Headliners Light Up the Ultra Japan 2025 Lineup (*2026 Lineup TBD)

Main Headliners: Kelvin Harris/DJ Snake/ Hardwell/ Martin Garrix and other artists 

Like this event? We can add it to your itinerary and handle the ticket booking for you. Contact us to reserve the ticket right now.

Hokkaido: Daisetsuzan Peak Foliage & Hot Springs

[Target Audience: Leaf Peepers | Mountain Hikers | Wellness Travelers]

• Best Time: Mid-to-Late September

• The Experience: Mount Asahidake and Sounkyo Gorge showcase Japan's earliest autumn foliage. Take the Asahidake Ropeway up to alpine tundra bathed in fiery orange and gold, then soak in local outdoor hot springs (onsen) under the crisp mountain air.

Okinawa: Shoulder-Season Tropical Getaway

[Target Audience: Beach Lovers | Resort Vacationers | Families]

• Best Time: All Month

• The Experience: The water is clear, the reefs are healthy, and 28°C days come without July and August's sun or crowds.

3 Weather-Proof September Micro-Itineraries

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3. Taste the Harvest: Japan's Autumn Bounty Begins in September

Autumn Food in Japan: In September, autumn starts to show up on the menu. It's the season when the food gets rich. It's a season of abundance and flavor.

Freshly harvested chestnuts (kuri) are at their sweetest. Freshly harvested chestnuts (kuri) are at their sweetest right now.

Meanwhile, Japan's coastal waters offer a bounty of seafood that should not be missed. Pacific saury (sanma), red sea bream (tai), salmon, and early-season tuna are all at their seasonal best in September, when they are plump, flavorful, and full of umami.

A hearty kaisendon (seafood rice bowl) piled with the morning's catch, served with rice and a couple of seasonal side dishes, is the simplest way to taste the new season.

Autumn's Sweet Treasure: Discovering Japan's Beloved Kuri (Chestnuts) in September

Chestnuts begin appearing in wagashi (traditional sweets), rice dishes, and even tempura in September. From kuri-gohan (chestnut rice) to Mont Blanc cakes and candied chestnuts, chestnuts add a soft, creamy sweetness to fall menus.

Harvest season: Mid–late September

Where to try: Kyoto dessert shops, countryside farm cafés, or join a chestnut picking experience in Nara or Osaka countryside.

• 和栗専門 紗織 (Click to view the official site)

Check the location in Kyoto, Japan

• 神楽坂 茶寮 本店 (Click to view the official site)

Check the location of this store in Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo

Savor the Flavors of the Sea: Japan's September Seafood Highlights

If you eat seafood, September is the month to be in Japan. As the country transitions from summer to autumn, its coastal waters offer up rich seasonal catches that define the culinary experience of early fall.

• Pacific saury (sanma) is September's fish: grilled with salt, eaten with grated daikon.

• Red sea bream (tai) and oysters also reach peak flavor this month, known for their clean, umami-packed profiles.

• Fall salmon carries extra fat, which suits sushi and hot pot. Early autumn tuna, having fed all summer, develops a firmer texture and deeper taste, making it a standout for sashimi lovers.

In September, the same seasonal seafood shows up at Michelin-starred counters and seaside stalls alike.

Savor Japan like a local. Our eight-day Exciting Foodie Adventure runs from Tokyo to Kyoto on a private, customizable route, built around seasonal ingredients and the small, family-run spots most first-time visitors never find.

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4. What to Wear and Pack for Japan in September

In many parts of Japan, September still carries lingering heat and humidity. To stay comfortable during your travels, check out this September Japan packing list:

The September Layering System

• Base Layer (Breathable & Moisture-Wicking)

• What to pack: Dry-fit tees, Uniqlo AIRism tops, or 100% linen button-downs.

• Materials: Linen, modal, and synthetic dry-blend fabrics.

• Why: Linen and dry-blends allow heat to escape during humid daytime sightseeing while keeping skin dry.

• Mid Layer (Versatile Warmth for AC & Evenings)

• What to pack: Lightweight cardigans, thin denim shackets, or packable windbreakers.

• Materials: Lightweight merino wool, thin cotton knits, or nylon blends.

• Why: Essential for Hokkaido’s sharp evening temperature drops (10°C–15°C) and heavily air-conditioned Japanese trains and department stores.

• Bottoms (Quick-Drying & Flexible)

• What to pack: Wide-leg linen trousers, stretch-twill chinos, or quick-dry travel pants.

• Avoid: Heavy denim jeans—they retain humidity and take hours to dry if caught in a sudden September rainstorm.

• Footwear (All-Day Comfort & Rain Resistance)

• What to pack: Well-cushioned walking sneakers with water-resistant coating and slip-on capability.

• Why: You will easily clock 15,000+ steps daily. Slip-on shoes save real time at temples, ryokans, and izakayas, where you'll take them off at the door.

• Accessories (Sun & Rain Defense)

• What to pack: Compact UV-blocking umbrella (doubles for sun and sudden typhoons), polarized sunglasses, and a lightweight silk or cotton neck scarf.

Insider Tips from Experience

• The Dry-Sock Trick: I always keep a fresh pair of socks in a Ziploc bag in my daypack. If a sudden rain shower turns your shoes damp, swapping into dry socks at a café instantly saves your afternoon.

• Local Drugstore Lifesavers: Don't waste luggage space on bug sprays. Pick up Skin Vape (mosquito spray) and Muhi (instant cooling itch relief) at any Japanese drug store (Matsumoto Kiyoshi or Welcia). They are tailored specifically for Japan’s active September tiger mosquitoes during outdoor festivals.

Clothing & Mobility Guide for Senior Travelers

• Button & Zip Overlayers: Choose zip-up cardigans or buttoned jackets rather than pullovers. This makes it effortless for older travelers to adjust temperatures on crowded subways without fussing.

• Non-Slip Traction: Wet wooden temple steps and smooth train station tiles can be slick after rain. Ensure footwear has deep rubber tread with firm arch support.

• AC Shock Protection: The contrast between humid outdoors and icy indoor air can trigger chills. A soft modal scarf wrapped around the neck offers instant draft protection when stepping inside.

Effortless Travel with Private Car Tours

Navigating changing weather, stairs, and rainy transfers with luggage can be exhausting. Our private car tours eliminate weather stress with climate-controlled, door-to-door transport—keeping your family cool, dry, and comfortable across Japan.

Book your customized private itinerary with driver and guide at least 3–6 months in advance to secure a smooth and relaxing journey across Japan.

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5. How Crowded Is Japan in September? Crowds, Prices & Booking Tips

While often marketed as a "quiet" month, official JNTO (Japan National Tourism Organization) data shows September consistently hosts over 2.1 to 2.3 million international arrivals. It is far from empty. Instead, September sits in the shoulder-season gap: summer family crowds have departed, and peak foliage rush (October–November) hasn't yet begun.

The main exception is Silver Week (September 19–23, 2026). During these national holiday clusters, domestic travel surges by nearly 35%–40%, causing temporary spikes in hotel rates and heavy traffic around Kyoto, Hakone, and Nikko.

Cost Breakdown: September Savings

• Hotel Rates: Expect 15% to 28% lower room rates at luxury hotels and traditional ryokans compared to peak November foliage season.

• Flight Fares: International airfares drop by roughly 15%–20% compared to July–August summer peaks.

• Attraction Lines: Average wait times at major sights (like Kyoto's Fushimi Inari or Tokyo Disney Resort) decrease by 30–45 minutes outside of Silver Week.

Recommended Booking Timeline

Plan Smart with Our Travel Experts

Planning around JNTO crowd patterns, regional weather, and Silver Week is where a local team earns its keep. 

We've handled luxury ground arrangements in Japan for over a decade, and our travel designers hold preferred ryokan allocations, private air-conditioned transport, and skip-the-line access that independent booking tools can't offer.

Contact our travel design team today to lock in your 2026 custom itinerary, private driver, and boutique stays.

6. Japan in September Travel FAQ

1)Will I encounter typhoons in September when traveling to Japan in 2026?

Severe typhoon disruptions during a September trip to Japan are rare, as most storms pass quickly within 24 to 36 hours.

While September is part of Japan's typhoon season, major cities feature resilient infrastructure designed to manage heavy rain. Travelers should monitor JMA weather apps and pack lightweight rainwear. At UME Travel, our 24/7 concierge team tracks local weather alerts to re-route bullet trains, reschedule outdoor tours, or move your private transfer when conditions shift.

2)Are there major public holidays and Silver Week in September 2026?

Yes, Japan observes a 5-day "Silver Week" public holiday cluster from September 19 to 23, 2026.

The consecutive holidays include Respect for the Aged Day (September 21), a Citizen's Holiday (September 22), and the Autumnal Equinox (September 23). While tourist attractions remain open, domestic travel surges significantly. We strongly advise booking Shinkansen seats, private vehicles, and popular hotel accommodations well in advance to avoid holiday price spikes and transport delays.

3)Is September a good time to visit Japan for senior travelers and families?

September is an excellent travel month for seniors and families seeking lower hotel rates and manageable crowd levels after peak summer.

With summer family rushes winding down, popular destinations like Kyoto and Tokyo offer a relaxed pace. To accommodate changing weather and reduce walking fatigue, UME Travel provides door-to-door private vehicle transfers, luggage forwarding services, and flexible daily itineraries tailored specifically for multi-generational families and older adults.

4)How should travelers handle luggage logistics during rainy September weather?

Luggage forwarding services (Takkyubin) provide the easiest way to travel luggage-free between Japanese cities during wet weather.

Navigating rain-slicked train platforms or cobblestone streets with heavy suitcases can be stressful. Travelers can send bags directly from hotel to hotel for roughly $15–$25 per piece via hotel front desks or convenience stores. UME Travel handles all luggage forwarding logistics for clients, ensuring your bags arrive safely while you enjoy hands-free sightseeing.

5) Where are the best places to stay in Japan during September?

Strategic accommodations with direct station access or tranquil luxury ryokans offer the best comfort during September's shifting weather.

UME Travel curates premium 4-star boutique hotels and 5-star international luxury stays prioritizing location, design, and exceptional service. In urban hubs like Tokyo and Osaka, we recommend hotels connected to major transit centers to keep you dry during sudden showers, while hot spring ryokans in Hokkaido make a quiet early-autumn base.

6) What should travelers pack for Japan's shifting September weather?

Breathable, moisture-wicking layers paired with water-resistant footwear are essential for traveling in Japan during September.

Daytime temperatures remain warm and humid, while evenings turn crisp, especially in northern regions like Hokkaido. Pack linen button-downs, light cardigans, quick-dry trousers, and a compact umbrella. Avoid heavy denim or thick sweaters. Local Japanese drugstores also sell highly effective anti-mosquito sprays (Skin Vape) and itch-relief gels for early autumn festival outings.

7) Are tourist attractions and restaurants less crowded in September?

Sightseeing attractions are noticeably less crowded in September compared to spring cherry blossom and late autumn foliage peak seasons.

Outside of the mid-month Silver Week holiday, queue times at major shrines, theme parks, and museums drop by 30% to 40%. However, popular fine dining restaurants and cultural experiences still require advance reservations. UME Travel’s dining concierges secure hard-to-get Michelin and omakase reservations months ahead so you never miss out on seasonal autumn culinary treats.

8) What happens to outdoor itineraries if it rains heavily in September?

Rainy days in Japan are easy to fill: big-city museums, covered shopping arcades, and underground food halls.

A sudden shower rarely ruins a day in Japan. You can explore subterranean shopping networks (Chikagai), view seasonal art exhibitions, or enjoy traditional tea ceremonies indoors. When booking with UME Travel, your private guide will swap an outdoor park walk for an indoor activity on the spot, with climate-controlled transport between stops.

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Travel to Japan in September with UME Travel in 2026!

September in Japan is the in-between month: summer's last heat, fall starting to show. With fewer crowds, cooler evenings, and a calendar full of seasonal foods and festivals, September lets you see  Japan at a slower, quieter pace.

Do you have more ideas for personalizing your September itinerary in Japan? Contact us today to schedule a complimentary one-on-one consultation.

Read on for more information about the weather in Japan throughout the year, as well as the best places to visit.

Japan Weather in January 2027: Snow, Onsen & Hatsumode Tips

Japan Weather in February 2027: Snow Festival & Plum Blossoms

Japan Weather in March 2027: Climate, Cherry Blossoms & Seasonal Highlights

Japan Weather in April 2027: Embrace Spring Beyond Sakura

Japan Weather in May 2027: Why the Best Time to Visit (Temps & Tips)

Japan Weather in June 2027: Lush Greenery & Hydrangea Blooms

Japan Weather in July 2027: Festivals and High-Altitude Escapes

Japan Weather August 2027: Honest Guide & Festival Tips

Japan Weather in September 2026: Typhoon, Silver Week & What to Wear

Japan Weather in October 2026: Foliage & What to Wear

Japan Weather in November: Peak Foliage & What to Wear (2026)

Japan Weather in December 2026: Illuminations & Ski Season