Typhoon season ends in late September, so October brings some of the most pleasant weather of the year to Japan. As autumn settles in, the air turns crisp, the skies clear, and vibrant reds and golds burst across the landscape. It's the perfect time to stroll through gardens, take a scenic train ride, or chase fall foliage in the northern mountains.
October in Japan is a time of natural beauty. It's also known as the season of art. With major exhibitions in museums and galleries nationwide, it's the perfect time to take a break from sightseeing and immerse yourself in culture.
This handy guide will help you quickly understand what to expect when traveling to Japan in October. It covers everything from the weather and what to pack to the best places to visit, as well as answers to common travel questions.
Table of contents
1. Japan Weather in October - Regional Weather Overview
2. Best Places to Visit in Japan in October
3. October Events in Japan: Culture, Colors & Celebration
4. What to Pack for Japan in October 2025
5. October Travel Tips & FAQs (2025 Edition)
1. Japan Weather in October - Regional Weather Overview
Northern Japan: Get Cool in Japan Earlier than the Other Regions
Major cities: Sapporo·Hakodate·Aomori·Sendai
The main cities of Hokkaido, such as Sapporo and Hakodate, are situated at the northernmost tip of Japan. Further south are Aomori and Sendai, which are located in Japan's Tohoku region. Compared to other parts of the country, this area experiences deep autumn weather as early as October.
Daytime temperatures in Hokkaido are cool and crisp, with an average high of around 61°F (16°C). Nighttime lows often drop below 50°F (10°C), particularly in mountainous areas or during the early morning hours.
In contrast, regions like Aomori and Sendai experience slightly milder weather in October, with average daytime highs ranging from 50°F to 64°F (10°C to 18°C) and nighttime lows dropping below 50°F as the month progresses.
Rainfall: October in northern Japan brings crisp, primarily clear days, but there is still a chance of rain. In Sapporo, there is a 37% to 44% chance of rain, while in Aomori, the chance ranges from 39% to 42%. Overall, the Tohoku region receives slightly more rainfall than Hokkaido.
October Weather Highlights in Northern Japan
Peak Fall Foliage Arrives in the North
October marks the true beginning of autumn in northern Japan. From the start of the month, brilliant reds, oranges, and golds color the landscape.
Hokkaido Turns First
As Japan's northernmost region, Hokkaido experiences the earliest foliage. Daisetsuzan National Park typically peaks in early October, followed by vibrant displays around Jozankei Onsen, Noboribetsu, and Sapporo's city parks. The views are especially stunning against the backdrop of cool mountain air.
Tohoku follows mid-to-late October
Slightly warmer than Hokkaido, the October weather in the Tohoku region, especially in Aomori, brings crisp air and gradually turning leaves from mid-to-late October. It's perfect for riverside walks and scenic countryside drives, especially in places like Oirase Keiryu and Lake Towada, where waterfalls, forest trails, and vivid autumn colors combine beautifully with the refreshing autumn weather.
Central Japan: Days may be hot, while the nights will be cool
Major cities: Tokyo· Yokohama· Kyoto· Osaka· Nara· Nagoya
Average temperature: 55°F – 73°F (13°C – 23°C)
Rainfall: Below average in Northern Japan
Compared to northern regions like Tohoku and Hokkaido, Central Japan sees slightly lower rainfall. October is expected to bring mostly clear, dry days with a relatively low chance of rain, making it ideal for sightseeing.
Weather Highlights:
Mild and refreshing weather & crisp air
Daytime sunshine is often accompanied by cooler, comfortable nights
In Tokyo and nearby Nikko, early autumn foliage typically appears by mid-to-late October, making it an excellent time for leaf viewing in the mountains.
In contrast, Kyoto(Arashiyama), Osaka, and the surrounding Kansai areas remain mostly green through October, with the best foliage typically appearing in early to mid-November.
Southern Japan: Comfortable, hot, and the air is crisp
Major cities: Fukuoka· Nagasaki· Hiroshima· Naha· Ishigaki
Average temperature:
Rainfall:
Weather Highlights:
Warm and Comfortable Climate:
Southern Japan retains more warmth in October, offering pleasant weather for relaxed travel.
Kyushu & Hiroshima:
Ideal for onsen retreats, scenic train rides, and exploring nature without the crowds.
Autumn foliage typically begins in early November here, so October remains a quieter pre-peak season.
Okinawa:
Still feels like summer, with sunny skies, clear blue waters, and sea temperatures around 26°C—great for beach lovers.
Be aware that early October may still carry residual typhoon effects, especially in the first week. You can find the related official information on the Japan Meteorological Agency website.
2. Best Places to Visit in Japan in October
(1)2025 Osaka World Expo Closing Ceremony
With the closing ceremony of Expo 2025 in Osaka at the end of October, the city is expected to experience its highest visitor volume. While not every traveler will attend the event, crowd levels will impact hotel availability and overall travel comfort. As of July 2025, most hotels in Osaka for October are already fully booked. We recommend considering nearby autumn destinations for a more relaxed journey.
Yes, I can speak from experience. You'll find yourself surrounded by visitors from all over the world, all of whom are drawn by a shared curiosity about the future. Despite the long lines to enter some of the most popular pavilions, an excitement permeates the air that never fades. By October, the scorching summer heat in Osaka has softened into mild, comfortable autumn weather, which is perfect for spending a full day exploring the expo grounds without worrying about heat exhaustion.
(2) View the early fall foliage in the North of Japan
October is the perfect time to experience the magic of Japan's early autumn, with comfortable temperatures, clear skies, and the first waves of vibrant foliage sweeping across the country.
Some of the best places to enjoy early fall colors include the mountain trails of Kamikochi, the historic temples of Nikko, and the castle towns of Matsumoto and Himeji. Parks like Kenrokuen in Kanazawa or Rikugien in Tokyo also offer breathtaking views as the leaves begin to turn.
Where to See Autumn Leaves in Japan in October
While most of Japan's famous fall foliage peaks in November, October is the perfect time to catch the country's earliest and most atmospheric red leaves, especially in the northern and mountainous regions.
In the Tohoku region, one of the top spots is the Oirase Gorge (Oirase Keiryu) in Aomori. By mid-October, the trails along this crystal-clear stream begin to glow with shades of amber, orange, and scarlet, backed by the vast autumn canvas of Lake Towada and the towering Hakkoda Mountains. While full peak color arrives closer to early November, the expansive landscapes and misty forests offer a dramatic and majestic scene in mid-to-late October.
Heading south to Central Japan, Nikko is a must-visit. Just 2 hours from Tokyo, this UNESCO World Heritage town boasts vibrant fall foliage in mid-to-late October, complemented by its rich cultural heritage, which is highlighted by the famous Toshogu Shrine. Nearby, the Kinugawa Onsen area is wrapped in mountains that slowly turn warm shades of red and gold by late October—ideal for combining leaf-viewing with a hot spring retreat.
In Western Japan, while the cities of Kyoto and Osaka typically see their foliage in November, surrounding mountain areas, such as Mt. Takao, can begin to show early maple colors in late October. The hues here are gentler—soft reds and oranges blending with lingering greens—perfect for those who appreciate a subtler shift into the season.
Recommended itinerary for visiting Japan in October
For first-time travelers, a well-paced itinerary can make all the difference. We recommend these affordable, foliage-focused tours of Japan curated by UME Travel.
11 Days Tokyo - Nikko - Mt.Fuji - Hakone - Kyoto - Nara - Osaka Tour
11 days | From $ 6664
15 Days Tokyo - Nikko - Mt.Fuji - Hakone - Kyoto - Nara - Hiroshima - Osaka Tour
15 days | From $ 7356
7 Days Tokyo - Mt.Fuji - Kyoto - Nara - Osaka Tour
7 days | From $ 3450
14 Days Tokyo - Nikko - Mt. Fuji - Hakone - Kyoto - Hiroshima - Nara - Osaka Tour
14 days | From $ 7355
10 Days Tokyo - Hakone -Kyoto - Nara - Osaka Tour
10 days | From $ 5389
10 Days Tokyo - Mt.Fuji - Hakone - Nagoya - Nakasendo - Kyoto - Osaka Tour
10 days | From $ 6250
Each itinerary is crafted to match the seasonal rhythm, offering both comfort and authentic experiences during one of Japan’s most beautiful months.
If you want to see beautiful red maple leaves in October, you can see the earliest ones in northern Hokkaido at the beginning of October. Then, you can visit attractions in central and northern Japan (the Hokkaido and Tohoku regions) after mid-October. Don't worry about traveling long distances to reach scenic spots, UME Travel's private car and guide service will handle the planning for you. Contact us for your October trip to the fall foliage in Japan right now.
3. October Events in Japan: Culture, Colors & Celebration
As the summer heat fades and typhoon season winds down, October brings some of Japan's most pleasant weather. With cool mornings, mild afternoons, and minimal rainfall, it's the perfect time to explore the country at your own pace. You can admire nature, participate in seasonal traditions, and experience quiet cultural moments.
Along with beautiful early autumn foliage in the north and mountains, October also marks the beginning of Japan's rich cultural event season. From spirited festivals to world-class exhibitions, this month offers something for every kind of traveler.
Art in the Air: Japan's Autumn Cultural Season
If you’re looking for a slower, more contemplative way to experience Japan, October is the perfect time to visit the country's leading art museums and galleries. Known as the "season of art" (芸術の秋), autumn has long been associated with creativity and introspection in Japanese culture. Many of Japan's largest and most prestigious exhibitions open in October, particularly in cities such as Tokyo, Kyoto, and Kanazawa.
From contemporary art in Roppongi's Mori Art Museum to traditional masterpieces at the Kyoto National Museum or the Adachi Museum of Art, there’s no shortage of places to explore. This makes October an ideal time to combine leaf-peeping day trips with calm, indoor cultural visits—it's enjoyable for couples, seniors, and solo travelers alike.
Setouchi Triennale 2025 (Autumn Season)
From October 3 to November 9, the Setouchi Triennale returns for its autumn season, transforming the islands of Japan's Seto Inland Sea into a one-of-a-kind open-air museum. Spanning islands such as Naoshima, Teshima, and Inujima, this internationally acclaimed art festival seamlessly blends contemporary installations with local culture and the scenic island landscapes. October's mild weather makes it an ideal time to island-hop and enjoy outdoor artworks and peaceful coastal views.
The Takayama Autumn Festival (Oct 9–10, 2025)
One of the highlights of the October event calendar is the Takayama Autumn Festival, held annually in the historic castle town of Takayama, Gifu Prefecture. Renowned for its elegant atmosphere and intricate craftsmanship, the festival features elaborately decorated floats, some are over 300 years old, parading through streets adorned with early autumn foliage.
Against the backdrop of cool mountain air and historic wooden buildings, the festival offers a perfect blend of seasonal beauty and cultural tradition. Travelers looking to experience rural Japan in autumn shouldn't miss this festival.
Want to know more about what to do in October? Check out this article now!
4. What to Pack for Japan in October 2025
By October, the lingering heat of summer has mostly faded, giving way to crisp, dry air and clear autumn weather. The days are often bright and pleasantly warm, while the evenings bring a gentle chill that hints at the approaching change of seasons.
Essentials for Most Regions:
Wear lightweight long-sleeved shirts or breathable sweaters during the day.
A medium-weight jacket or cardigan is ideal for cooler mornings and evenings.
Bring a light scarf or shawl to stay warm during chilly nights or when visiting mountainous areas with larger temperature swings.
Comfortable walking shoes are essential, as many attractions involve stairs, gravel paths, and garden trails.
Bring a compact umbrella or light raincoat, which will be especially useful for early October showers.
5. October Travel Tips & FAQs (2025 Edition)
Where should I go in October for the best foliage?
Early October: Head to Hokkaido, Daisetsuzan, or the Northern Alps
Mid to Late October: Visit Nikko, Kamikochi, Takayama, or Kanazawa
Late October onward: Kyoto, Nara, and Tokyo begin to turn vibrant
Check out this autumn landscape tour for a great time, scenery, and price balance.
Should I worry about typhoons in October?
While October weather in Japan is generally stable, there’s a small chance of typhoon effects in early October, mainly in southern regions like Okinawa or Kyushu. Keep an eye on weather alerts and consider flexible travel insurance if heading to coastal areas.
What about getting around?
October is a popular month for domestic foliage trips, so train and hotel availability may be tight, especially around weekends. Booking through a customized itinerary provider like UME Travel helps secure well-located accommodations and efficient transport, even during busy periods.
Quick Tips for a Smooth October Trip:
Bring layered clothing and a light rain jacket
Reserve trains and hotels early, especially near the end of the month
If visiting Osaka, avoid the Expo 2025 closing week unless it’s part of your plan
Use UME Travel’s 1-on-1 consultant service for tailored trip planning and local insights
Plan Your October Trip with UME Travel
October is one of the most rewarding times to visit Japan. As autumn deepens, the weather turns crisp and comfortable, making it perfect for exploring colorful landscapes, enjoying outdoor festivals, visiting world-class museums, or simply strolling through temple gardens under a canopy of golden leaves.
At UME Travel, we provide fully customized itineraries tailored to your travel pace and the climate. Your itinerary is carefully planned to coincide with early foliage peaks and minimize the risk of weather-related issues, such as typhoons. We offer real-time foliage updates, curated routes, and handpicked accommodations that include breakfast. With 24/7 support, private guides, and seamless logistics, we take care of every detail, allowing you to travel with peace of mind.
Get your Japan October itinerary today and experience autumn in Japan at its finest.