September in Japan is the transition from summer to the autumn season. Most areas of Japan become less crowded, and the weather is mostly very nice at this time of year. In September, sports fans can watch baseball games, the Tokyo sumo wrestling tournament, and experience motorsports at various racetracks. In addition, there are festivals in various places that cannot be missed. Check out things to do in Japan in September 2026 here, and feel free to contact us to start planning your tailor-made trip to enjoy Japan September!
Table of Contents
1. Things to Do in Japan September 2026
2. Japan Tour September 2026: Best 10-Day Itinerary
3. Best Places to Visit in Japan in September
4. Weather in Japan September 2026
5. What to Wear in September in Japan
1. 10 Best Things to Do in Japan in September 2026
During September in Japan, the heat gradually subsides, and the arrival of the autumn season makes the climate pleasant. As the trees begin to change color and cool breezes blow, you will enjoy a comfortable and relaxing time when going to Japan in September. Let's see the top things to do in September in Japan and browse ahead for our best private guided Japan in September travel below (All tour itineraries can be tailored to meet your preferences):
10 Days Tokyo - Mt.Fuji - Hakone - Kyoto - Nara - Osaka Tour
10 days | From $ 4866
14 Days Tokyo - Mt.Fuji - Kyoto - Nara - Arashiyama - Hiroshima - Miyashima - Himeji - Okayama - Kurashiki - Osaka
14 days | From $ 8365
9 Days Tokyo - Hakone - Mt.Fuji - Kyoto - Nara Tour
9 days | From $ 4421
8 Days Tokyo - Mt.Fuji - Osaka - Kyoto
8 days | From $ 5486
Watch the Sumo Wrestlers Tournament: Cheer Loudly and Witness Fierce Sumo Battles between Talented Competitors in September Japan
If watching sumo wrestlers train isn't enough, then attending a tournament is a must-see experience, which is also the No.1 best thing to do in Japan in September. The September Sumo Tournament takes place from September 13, 2026 - September 27, 2026 at Ryogoku Kokugikan in Tokyo. The energy in the arena is electric, with cheering crowds, thundering footsteps, and the rhythmic slap of mawashi belts as grapplers compete in intense matches. If you like, you can also try some delicious sumo bento boxes that are sold outside the stadium in Tokyo September 2026.
Admire Early Autumn Leaves: Visiting Japan in September to Experience the Earliest Fall Colors
If you love exploring nature and enjoying foliage, don't miss the Hokkaido autumn leaves, which are enchanting things to see in Japan in September. Hokkaido in September is the earliest place in Japan to enjoy the fall foliage. In general, according to the Japan red leaves forecast, by mid-September, the foliage in various scenic spots in Hokkaido will begin to change color one after another, and the leaves in the highlands are always the first to change color. And Sounkyo Gorge in Daisetsuzan National Park in the highlands is the first place in the whole of Japan where you can enjoy the red leaves, and it is not only the best-known maple-viewing spot in Daisetsuzan National Park but also the best place to see the autumn leaves in Hokkaido. Its maple forests are overlapped in layers, with red, yellow, and green colors intertwined, creating a stunning view that will make you feel shocked and moved. It is beautiful scenery that you cannot miss during September in Japan 2026.
Owara Kaze No Bon: A Festival in Japan September 2026 to Enjoy Graceful Bon Dance, Haunting Folk Music and More
The Owara Kaze no Bon Festival is held in Toyama Prefecture from September 1st to 3rd every year. It has a history of more than 300 years. During this Japan festival September 2026, you will find that men, women, and children in the town put aside their work, put on hats, and dance to the accompaniment of shamisen, Erhu, and drums, sing folk songs, and display elegant dances to pray for good weather and a good harvest. The timbre of the shamisen and the Erhu, together with the dance, creates a dreamy and beautiful scene that is popular among tourists.
Attend the Sapporo Autumn Food Fest 2026: An Unmissable Festival in Japan in September for Foodies
Held from September 20 to September 28, 2026 in Sapporo, the Sapporo Autumn Harvest Festival is based on "food" and uses the most delicious cooking methods to give back to the residents of Hokkaido with fresh ingredients such as corn, potatoes, apples, melons, and seafood from the rich agricultural products of Hokkaido. The main venue is Odori Park 4-11 chome, where agricultural and livestock products, processed foods, wine, and Japanese sake from all over Hokkaido gather together. Taste these flavorsome products while enjoying live music and entertainment, all of which are set amidst the stunning natural scenery of autumn in Hokkaido. As one of the famous Japan September festivals, the Sapporo Autumn Festival 2026 offers you a perfect chance to discover the unique culinary heritage of northern Japan.
Enjoy the Kishiwada Danjiri Festival: The most Thrilling and Energetic Japan Festival in September Showcasing Incredible Teamwork and Excitement
If you are wondering what to do in Osaka Japan in September, then I will suggest you enjoy the Kishiwada Danjiri Festival, which is also one of the most exciting festivals in Japan in September. It is held in mid-September every year in Kishiwada City, Osaka. The main body of the danjiri is made of large zelkova trees that are over 300 years old, and the sculptures on them are full of stories. Almost all of the danjiri weigh more than 3,000 kilograms and are pulled at a very fast speed by dozens of men who are holding two thick ropes, while the conductor dances on the top of the danjiri. The most attractive part of this festival is the "Yarimawashi" (やりまわし), which is to rush through the street corner at full speed.
Attend the Tokyo Game Show: One of the World's Largest Gaming Events Held in September in Japan
Some fun things to do in Tokyo September 2026 also include joining the Tokyo Game Show, especially if you are interested in playing games. This exhibition runs in late September at Makuhari Messe in Chiba prefecture and provides you with the chance to get hands-on with upcoming video games, console hardware, arcade machines, anime merchandise, and cosplay costumes. And you can meet famous game developers and voice actors, attend panel discussions, and watch esports competitions. It will be an unforgettable experience that combines technology, creativity, and fun for gamers of all ages who travel to Japan in September 2026.
Experience Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine's Reitaisai: Enjoy the Rare Horseback Archery and Traditional Dance Performances of Yabusame
The Tsurugaoka Matsuri is an autumn festival of Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, which has a history of about 800 years and is held in mid-September. The festival includes various traditional events such as Kamakura Kagura (music played when worshiping gods) dedication, tea ceremony, flower dedication, Japanese dances, horse races, sumo wrestling, Tanakura (rice-planting festival dance), and lion dance (dance of praying for a good harvest while wearing a wooden shishimai (lion's head)), etc., and the most exciting among them is the majestic "Yabusame(horseback archery)" that inherits the ancient traditions of the Kamakura period. Be sure not to miss it when you travel Japan in September 2026.
Relax in a Hot Spring: The Best Way to Drive Away Exhaustion during Your Japan Travel in September
Japanese people love to bathe in hot springs, either with friends or families. The Japanese have a tradition of bathing in hot springs for more than 2000 years. For them, soaking in hot springs has some therapeutic effects and can be a relaxing and comforting way to unwind. As the weather in Japan on September gets cooler, it is a good time to enjoy a soothing hot spring bath, especially an outdoor Onsen bath. For the best places to visit Japan September to experience Onsen, I will suggest Hakone, which offers stunning views of Mt. Fuji on clear days. Besides, Beppu is a unique place to visit and soak in hot spring culture in Japan during September 2026.
Try Fresh Seafood: Delve into the Local Fish Market to Indulge in the Seasonal Culinary Delights of Japan in September
As summer draws to a close, many coastal communities hold annual catches, and fishermen will bring their hauls to sell at markets and restaurants. Therefore, when you visit Japan in September, try to savor some of the freshest seafood such as oysters, pickerel, mackerel, and alfonsino available at Tsukiji Outer Market or Toyosu Fish Market before they disappear until next year. Embarking on the Toyosu Fish Market tour and exploring the Outer Market Tsukiji are also the best things to do in Tokyo in September 2026. Just don't miss them!
Explore the Countryside: Discover the Beauty of Rural Japan during Harvest Season in Japan September
The harvest season brings vibrant foliage and crisp air to rural areas of Japan, making September a good month to visit quaint villages and indulge in locally grown produce at farmers' markets. When traveling to Japan in September, you can consider heading to some popular destinations such as Yamanashi Prefecture for peach picking, Nagano for grape picking, and Niigata to admire the best rice paddy in Japan's largest rice-growing region, where you will enjoy a memorable trip to Japan in autumn 2026.
In Japan September during the autumn season, the natural landscape is beautifully awesome, and there are so many stunning sights and special events to explore and experience. Tell us your preference on what to do in Japan in September to cater to a personalized Japan autumn itinerary for you!
Related Posts You May Like To Read Before Planning A Private Guided Japan Tours 2026:
2. Japan Tour September 2026: Best 10-Day Itinerary
-Days: 10
-Cater for: Food lovers, nature enthusiasts, culture seekers, first-time Japan travelers, photography fans
-Quick Access>>>10 Days Tokyo - Nikko - Hakone - Mt.Fuji - Kyoto - Nara Tour
-Book Today>>>Let us help you tailor the itinerary that meets your needs!
Get ready for an unforgettable 10-day journey through Japan in September! From the bustling streets and vibrant flavors of Tokyo to the serene temples, majestic Mt. Fuji vistas, and charming streets of Kyoto and Nara, this tour blends culture, nature, and culinary delights. Perfectly paced and packed with experiences, it’s your chance to see, taste, and feel the best of Japan without the stress.
Overview of the 10-Day Japan Tour in September 2026
Days 1-3: Tokyo (Shibuya Hachiko, Shibuya Sky Observation Deck, Harajuku, Meiji Jingu Shrine, Senso-ji Temple, Asakusa food tour, Water bus, Odaiba Marine Park & Tokyo's Rainbow Bridge, Yurikamome)
Day 4: Nikko (Tosho-gu Shrine, Rinnoji Temple, Kegon Falls, and Lake Chuzenji)
Day 5: Mount Fuji (West Lake Village, Oshino Hakkai, Narusawa Hyoketsu Ice Cave, and Arakurayama Sengen Shrine)
Day 6: Hakone (Tozan Cable Car, Owaku-dani Valley, Lake Ashi, Hakone Sightseeing Cruise, and Hakone Shrine)
Day 7: Kyoto (Kiyomizu Temple, Kinkakuji Temple, Nijo Castle)
Day 8: Nara (Fushimi Inari Shrine, Nara Park, Todaiji, Kasuga Taisha)
Days 9-10: Osaka (Osaka Castle Park, Ninja Experience, Donki Ferris Wheel, Dotonbori, and Japanese Street Food Adventure)
Detailed Itinerary of the Japan September Tour 10 Days
Day 1 – Hello Tokyo!
You've landed—welcome to Japan! We’ll be right there at the airport to pick you up, so you don’t have to stress about a thing. Settle into your hotel, stretch your legs, and let the excitement sink in… tomorrow, the adventure begins.
Day 2 – Tokyo Energy & Ramen Nights
Let’s jump into Tokyo life—cross the world’s busiest crossing at Shibuya, wave hi to Hachiko, and look out over the city from the Sky Deck. Then it’s Harajuku’s quirky fashion scene and the calm of Meiji Shrine. Hungry? Nothing hits the spot like a hot bowl of ramen on a September evening.
Day 3 – Old Tokyo & Bay Breezes
Today’s all about contrasts. Wander Asakusa’s temple streets, taste crispy taiyaki and sizzling yakisoba, then hop on a river cruise for breezy skyline views. By evening, Odaiba sparkles across the bay—it’s one of those views that just sticks with you.
Day 4 – Nature & Spirit in Nikko
We’ll escape the city and head into the mountains. Picture ornate shrines surrounded by towering cedars, the thunder of Kegon Falls, and the glassy calm of Lake Chuzenji. September air up here is crisp and refreshing—perfect for a day outdoors.
Day 5 – Mt. Fuji's Perfect Frame
This is the Fuji day. We’ll wander through thatched-roof cottages, sip icy spring water at Oshino Hakkai, step into the cool darkness of an ancient ice cave, and finally… that postcard view: Mount Fuji rising behind a red pagoda, maybe with a few cherry blossoms left or the first hints of autumn color. Pure magic.
Day 6 – Hakone Adventures & Hot Springs
Hakone is playful and a little surreal. Ride the ropeway over steaming volcanic valleys, taste the famous black eggs, and cruise across Lake Ashi on a pirate ship with Fuji as your backdrop. September evenings here are just cool enough to make a hot spring soak sound irresistible. Tonight, we zip to Kyoto on the bullet train.
Day 7 – Kyoto's Golden Glow
This city feels timeless. We’ll stroll through Kiyomizu-dera with its sweeping hillside views, marvel at the Golden Pavilion glittering in its pond, and explore Nijo Castle’s shogun halls. As the sun sets, why not warm up with Kyoto’s signature yudofu tofu hot pot? It’s comfort food at its finest.
Day 8 – Friendly Deer & Torii Trails
It’s a day for stories. Walk beneath thousands of red gates at Fushimi Inari, then head to Nara to meet the deer that bow for treats (yes, really!). Stand in awe at the Great Buddha in Todaiji Temple before we make our way to Osaka for the night.
Day 9 – Osaka Nights & Street Food Dreams
Osaka is pure fun. We’ll start at Osaka Castle, then try a ninja experience for laughs, and ride the quirky Donki Ferris Wheel. But the highlight? Dotonbori after dark—neon lights, buzzing crowds, and mouthwatering street food everywhere you turn. Takoyaki, okonomiyaki, Kobe beef… you’ll want to try it all.
Day 10 – Until Next Time, Japan
One last stroll, one last matcha latte, maybe a seasonal chestnut dessert before your private transfer takes you to the airport. You’ll be heading home with a full heart, a happy stomach, and a camera roll bursting with memories.
What to Expect from This 10-Day Japan September Tour
A stress-free journey: Private airport pick-up, smooth transfers, and an English-speaking guide make the whole trip easy and comfortable.
The best of both worlds: Big-city energy in Tokyo, balanced with peaceful shrines, nature escapes, and small-town charm.
Seasonal magic: September brings warm days, cooler evenings, fewer tourists, and early hints of autumn in the mountains.
Foodie heaven: From sizzling street food to traditional tofu dining, every stop gives you a new taste of Japan.
Nature meets culture: Majestic waterfalls, steaming valleys, and Mt. Fuji views paired with centuries-old temples and castles.
Plenty of variety: A mix of walking tours, scenic rides (ropeways, bullet trains, water buses), and relaxed downtime.
Authentic encounters: Feed bowing deer in Nara, wander lantern-lit streets, and soak up everyday Japanese life.
Memorable photo ops: Panoramic skylines, vermilion torii gates, golden temples, and neon cityscapes.
A well-balanced pace: Enough adventure to keep things exciting, but with space to breathe and enjoy each moment.
A true "taste of Japan": Not just food, but a blend of culture, landscapes, traditions, and modern fun—all in one trip.
Who This Tour Is Perfect For
Food lovers: If you can’t resist tasting Japan’s street food, ramen, tofu specialties, and seasonal delights, this trip will be a feast for your senses.
Nature enthusiasts: From waterfalls and serene lakes to Mt. Fuji vistas and lush forests, you’ll get plenty of fresh-air adventures.
Culture seekers: Temples, shrines, castles, and traditional towns give you a deep dive into Japan’s history and traditions.
First-time Japan travelers: The itinerary is perfectly balanced, giving you a mix of cities, nature, and cultural highlights without feeling rushed.
Photography fans: Countless picture-perfect spots await, from neon cityscapes and iconic torii gates to scenic lakes and mountain panoramas.
Relaxed explorers: With private guides and smooth transfers, you can enjoy everything at your own pace—no stress, just fun.
By the end of this 10-day adventure, you’ll have savored unforgettable flavors, wandered through ancient temples, captured stunning landscapes, and experienced Japan in a way that feels personal and immersive. Whether it’s the quiet moments by a lakeside, the excitement of a bustling city street, or the warm smiles of locals, this trip will leave you with memories to treasure, and maybe even a little craving to come back for more! Customize your 10-day Japan tour in September now to experience the best of Japan with our private car and guide!
3. Japan Places to Visit in September
Is it good to visit Japan in September? As the weather starts to cool down in most parts of Japan during September, it's a good time to go sightseeing as the autumn weather is crisp and clear. You don't have to worry about getting heat stroke on a hot day, you don't have to worry about packing too many clothes for the cold temperature in Japan, you don't have to worry too much about overcrowding of tourists, and there are still many of the best places to visit in Japan September.
Kinchakuda Manjushage Park, Saitama
Inchakuda, Hidaka City, Saitama Prefecture, features a large sea of red flowers and attracts tourists to get a glimpse of them every fall in late September with bewitching gestures in every imaginable way, making it one of the best places to see in Japan in September. Kinchakuda Manjushage Park in Hidaka City, Saitama Prefecture, Japan, has the largest cluster of manjushage in Japan, and it is the largest viewing spot of manjushage in the whole of Japan. The park is surrounded by the waters of the Koma River. During late September in Japan, 5,000,000 manjushage are in full bloom in the park, creating a spectacular scene that resembles the "Path of Fire". The dazzling beauty of these 5 million flowers will make you feel as if you were in a dream when you visit Japan in September.
Address: 125-2 Komahongo, Hidaka, Saitama 350-1251, Japan
Phone: +81 42-982-0268
Access: Take the Seibu Ikebukuro Line from Ikebukuro, Tokyo, and it will take about 60 minutes to get there.
Kouya-ike Pond, Niigata
Kouya-ike Pond is located between Mount Hiuchi and Mount Myōkō in Niigata Prefecture. It is also the habitat of the ptarmigan, a designated special natural monument in Japan. Here you can enjoy the flower fields of alpine plants in July, and marvel at the beauty of the red leaves all over the mountain in Japan September. From the top of the mountain, you can enjoy the spectacular view of the Northern Alps from a distance, which is quite beautiful! You can also stay in a mountain hut or go camping! The "Takayauke Marsh" and "Tengu no Garden" in Mount Hiuchi in Niigata Prefecture offer the best view of the grassy red leaves from late September to early October. The yellow, orange, and red grassy leaves cover the wetlands, making it like a paradise on earth. The reflections in the ponds and marshes are also beautiful and touching. It is the best place in Japan to visit in September for outdoor explorers and nature lovers.
Ginsendai, Hokkaido
If you want to enjoy the earliest fall foliage in Japan, you can choose to visit Daisetsuzan National Park in Hokkaido. Akadake Ginzendai in the Daisetsuzan area is famous for the earliest autumn colors in Japan. In mid-September, the area is blessed with the beauty of Japan's earliest foliage. Red and yellow leaves gradually spread to the mountain slopes, rendering a magnificent view of autumn in Hokkaido. In particular, the remaining snow on the top of the mountain and the red leaves on the hillside complement each other, which is a unique experience of viewing red leaves in Hokkaido. The green coniferous trees and the red and yellow broad-leaved trees interweave into a beautiful panoramic picture, like a painting. As the best place to go in Japan in September, Ginsendai showcases the limited-time natural art that is definitely worth seeing.
Tonegawa Fireworks Festival, Ibaraki
Although the fireworks festival is a summer feature of Japan, early autumn in Japan is also a great time to watch and experience the fireworks festival. Not only is it not as hot as midsummer, but there are relatively few tourists. The fireworks festival worth watching is also impressive, making it a great counter-seasonal travel experience and a must-see in Japan in September. The Tonegawa Fireworks Festival is one of the Japan festivals in September that is jointly organized by four century-old fireworks families in Ibaraki Prefecture. It can be called an all-Japanese top-level event in terms of both quantity and quality, and it is a lavish extravaganza that brings together the top masters of the art of fireworks. In addition to the scale and famous artists, one of the more special aspects of the Tonegawa Fireworks Festival is the combination of music and fireworks, and the festival is a famous musical fireworks display that will bloom in the night sky, accompanied by beautiful music. It is not very convenient to go to this fireworks festival, so you must pay attention to the transportation, or we highly suggest you join our private guided Japan tour to enjoy private car and private guide.
Date of Tonegawa Fireworks Festival: Mid-September
Location: Sakai RIVERSIDE PARK, Ibaraki, Japan
Sengokuhara Susuki Grass Fields, Hakone
What to see in Japan in September is not only maple leaves, but mango grass is also one of them. If you want to explore the charm of Hakone in autumn 2026, you can't miss the Sengokuhara Susuki Grass Fields, where you can see the golden-colored pampas grasses shining like waves. Looking closely, you will feel that the pampas grass is as tall as a person, which is very impressive. During the best viewing time of Sengokuhara Susuki Grass Fields from late September to early November, you will surely capture the most unforgettable autumn images of the swaying pampas grasses amidst the setting sun.
Address: Sengokuhara Susuki Grass Fields, Sengokuhara, Hakone, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa 250-0631
These are the best places to go in Japan in September, and submit your travel destination, and we will create a customized Japan trip in September for you!
4. Japan Weather in September 2026
There are so many interesting things to do in Japan September waiting for you to experience, but what is the weather in Japan in September 2026? During the month of September in the autumn season, the climate in Japan is relatively mild, with the average temperature in Japan in September around 20°C in most parts of the country. However, the northern part of Honshu Island and the Hokkaido area are slightly cooler due to their geographical location, with Hokkaido Japan temperatures in September around 15°C. Take a look at the regional September weather in Japan 2026 for more details:
Tokyo and Central Honshu
During September, temperatures average around 25°C (77°F) during the day and drop to around 19°C (66°F) at night. It's still relatively humid with occasional typhoons that bring rainfall.
Hokkaido
The temperature in Hokkaido Japan in September drops significantly compared to the previous months, averaging between 14-18 °C (57–64°F). There's also less rainfall than August but you may still meet some heavy showers due to typhoon activity.
Osaka and Western Honshu
Similar to central Honshu, there are fewer typhoons here in September, making for mostly sunny days. Temperatures in September typically reach highs of about 26°C (79°F), while lows hover nearer to 18°C (64°F).
Okinawa
This southernmost region has a tropical climate which means hot and wet weather persists even into September. Expect daily temperatures averaging around 29°C (84°F) with plenty of humidity and sporadic rain.
Overall, September is a good time to visit Japan if you want to avoid crowds and enjoy the earliest autumn colors that start appearing in certain regions by mid-September.
5. What to Wear in Japan in September
For those of you planning to travel to Japan in September, are you struggling with what to wear in Japan September? Don't worry, as this outfit guide is here to help you!
First of all, it is recommended that you prepare some lightweight and warm clothing because it is already starting to get a little cooler in September in Japan. Consider bringing a thin, long-sleeved shirt or a lightweight knit shirt to keep you warm and stylish in Japan September 2026.
For the bottom, you can choose a comfortable pair of pants or an elegant skirt. Long pants are ideal for outdoor activities, while short skirts are more suitable for indoor or more formal occasions; both are suggested to be covered in your packing list for Japan in September.
Also, don't forget to pack a pair of comfortable shoes when you travel to Japan in September 2026. Most of the streets and sights in Japan are walkable, so a pair of comfortable shoes will make your Japan autumn trip easier and more enjoyable.
Last but not least, accessories are also indispensable. You can choose some simple but sophisticated necklaces, bracelets, or hats to add a touch of style to your outfit when visiting Japan in September.
If you plan to go to Japan in early September, wearing short sleeves and carrying a light jacket should suffice. However, if you tour Japan in mid or late September, then it is recommended to wear a long coat and long pants and pack some thicker jackets for a possible drop in temperature in Japan September. For those planning to travel to colder regions during autumn in Japan, carrying warm clothing, such as an interchange jacket or down jacket, is also necessary.
Overall, clothes to wear in Japan in September should be lightweight, warm, and stylish. And hope this guide to packing for Japan in September is helpful for you to prepare for a wonderful autumn trip in Japan.
What We'd Like to Say
Although September is the off-season for traveling to Japan, it is a good "anti-seasonal" time to visit Japan, as it is cheaper and you can avoid crowds. Would you like to enjoy a quiet trip to Japan? Contact us to craft your private Japan September tour now!