As Japan moves past the lingering humidity and typhoon threats of September, October arrives with crisp air, clear skies, and stunning autumn foliage, ushering in one of the most pleasant and picturesque times of the year. Fiery red maples blaze across the northern mountains, and museums and galleries nationwide come alive with major seasonal exhibitions.
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 See Fall Foliage in Japan in October
3. Japan October Events 2025: Culture, Colors & Celebrations
4. What to Pack for Japan in October 2025
5. October Travel Tips & FAQs in Japan (2025 Edition)
1. Japan Weather in October - Regional Weather Overview
Northern Japan: Get Cool in Japan Earlier than the Other Regions
Sapporo·Hakodate·Aomori·Sendai
Weather features: Crisp air, early fall foliage, and cooler than the rest of Japan.
| City/Region | Avg. High | Avg. Low | Rain Chance |
| Sapporo (Hokkaido) | 16°C (61°F) | <10°C (50°F) | 37% – 44% |
| Aomori (Tohoku) | 10–18°C (50–64°F) | <10°C (50°F) | 39% – 42% |
Cooler than other regions: Japan's northernmost areas, Hokkaido and Tohoku, feel the shift into deep autumn earlier than the rest of the country. Expect crisp days and chilly nights, especially in the mountains.
Sapporo & Hakodate: Located in Hokkaido, these cities enjoy refreshing daytime temperatures and brisk evenings. Mountainous areas can feel especially cold in the early mornings.
Aomori & Sendai: Slightly milder than Hokkaido, these Tohoku cities still experience significant cooling by mid-to-late October.
Rainfall Overview: October typically has clear skies, though light rain is possible. Overall, Tohoku sees slightly more rain than Hokkaido. October in northern Japan brings primarily clear, crisp days, but there is still a chance of rain. In Sapporo, the chance of rain ranges from 37% to 44%, while in Aomori, it ranges from 39% to 42%. Overall, the Tohoku region receives slightly more rainfall than Hokkaido.
Central Japan: Warm Days, Cool Nights—Perfect for Sightseeing
Tokyo· Yokohama· Kyoto· Osaka· Nara· Nagoya
Weather features: Comfortable warmth during the day, cooler evenings, low rainfall
| City | Avg. High | Avg. Low | Rain Chance |
| Tokyo | 22°C (72°F) | 15°C (59°F) | 27% – 32% |
Osaka
| 23°C (73°F) | 15°C (59°F) | 25% – 31% |
| Kyoto | 22°C (72°F) | 13°C (55°F) | 28% – 34% |
| Nagoya | 23°C (73°F) | 14°C (57°F) | 26% – 33% |
Comfortable climate: Central Japan enjoys some of the most pleasant weather in October. Days remain mild to warm, especially early in the month, while evenings turn cool and refreshing.
Ideal for outdoor activities: With plenty of sunshine and comfortable temperatures, it's an excellent time for temple visits, city walks, and seasonal food tours.
Lower rainfall than the north: Rain chances are modest, generally lower than in Hokkaido and Tohoku. Expect clear skies and excellent sightseeing conditions across most days.
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.
Southern Japan: Warm Breezes, Tropical Light, and Lingering Summer Vibes
Fukuoka· Nagasaki· Hiroshima· Naha· Ishigaki
Weather features: Warm to hot temperatures, humid air in the south, crisp mornings in Kyushu
| City | Avg. High | Avg. Low | Rain Chance |
| Fukuoka | 24°C (75°F) | 16°C (61°F) | 33% – 39% (moderate) |
| Hiroshima | 23°C (73°F) | 15°C (59°F) | 30% – 36% (moderate) |
| Naha | 28°C (82°F) | 23°C (73°F) | 38% – 44% (moderate–high) |
| Ishigaki | 29°C (84°F) | 25°C (77°F) | 40% – 47% (moderate–high) |
Kyushu & Hiroshima: Expect warm daytime weather with fresh mornings and evenings—ideal for exploring historical sites and coastal towns. Rainfall is moderate but manageable.
Okinawa & southern islands: Still holding onto summer, Okinawa offers warm sea breezes, beach-friendly weather, and lush green landscapes. However, early October may still see the tail end of the typhoon season.
Tropical-meets-autumn: This region is where fall foliage and tropical sunshine may overlap—making it a unique destination for those seeking warmth with seasonal charm.
2. Best Places to See Fall Foliage in Japan in October
Before we share our predictions for the best time to see fall foliage in Japan, let's take a look at the Japan Koyo Prediction Map. This will help you quickly identify the best time to see fall foliage in Japan in October.
Northern Japan: Early Autumn Splendor Under Crisp Skies
Peak foliage season: Early to mid-October
October marks the actual arrival of autumn in Northern Japan, bringing cooler temperatures and vivid seasonal colors. Expect daytime highs around 16°C (61°F) and chilly nights that drop below 10°C (50°F), creating the perfect atmosphere for leaf viewing.
Hokkaido Turns First
As Japan's northernmost island, Hokkaido is the first to transform. Daisetsuzan National Park typically reaches peak color in early October, followed by stunning displays around Jozankei Onsen, Noboribetsu, and Sapporo's urban parks. The crisp mountain air makes the views even more invigorating.
Tohoku Region: Mid-to-Late October Color
Slightly warmer than Hokkaido, the Tohoku region—especially Aomori and the Oirase Keiryu area—offers breathtaking scenes from mid to late October. Expect cool, fresh air and clear skies ideal for countryside drives, riverside strolls, and viewing reflections of golden foliage around Lake Towada and cascading waterfalls.
Central Japan: Refreshing Weather Meets Mountain Foliage
Best foliage timing: Mid-to-late October (mountains)
In October, Central Japan enjoys mild daytime temperatures around 18–23°C (64–73°F) and comfortably cool nights. While most urban areas like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto stay relatively green, the surrounding mountain regions begin to shift color.
Tokyo & Nikko
Tokyo's city parks begin to hint at autumn by late October, but for full fall foliage, head to nearby Nikko. The mountains here start turning earlier, offering excellent leaf-viewing opportunities paired with brisk, pleasant air.
Kyoto, Osaka, Nara
These Kansai cities are still in pre-peak season. While daytime weather is perfect for exploring temples and gardens, most foliage arrives in early to mid-November, so October is a good time for crowd-free visits and cultural walks.
Southern Japan: Warm Weather and a Hint of Autumn
Foliage timing: Begins in early November
Southern Japan remains warm and comfortable through October, with average highs around 23–25°C (73–77°F). While it's not yet peak foliage season, the weather is ideal for relaxed travel and early-autumn outdoor experiences.
Kyushu & Hiroshima
October in Fukuoka, Nagasaki, and Hiroshima offers a quieter, pre-foliage charm. It's an excellent time for onsen retreats, coastal train rides, and nature walks under crisp skies. Foliage typically begins in early November, making October a peaceful warm-up to the autumn spectacle.
Okinawa & Southern Islands
Okinawa still feels like summer in October, with temperatures between 23–28°C (73–82°F) and sea temperatures around 26°C. While it's not a destination for fall colors, it's perfect for beach lovers.
Just note that early October may still see residual typhoon effects, especially in the first week—check the Japan Meteorological Agency for up-to-date forecasts.
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 the famous Toshogu Shrine highlights. 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.
Events 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 given way to 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.
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. Japan October Events 2025: Culture, Colors & Celebrations
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 of which 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 in Japan (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 the weather in Japan is generally stable in October, there's a slight chance of typhoon effects in early October, mainly in southern regions such as 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.