Japan in October 2024: Weather, Best Places, Fall Foliage & Festivals

October's mild and pleasant weather makes it ideal for travel in Japan. In this article, we provide ideas on weather, best places to visit, seasonal things to try, and some more travel tips. Surrounded by colorful fall leaves, take advantage of the season by exploring Japan's beautiful parks, hiking trails, and fall festivals, which are especially vibrant this time of year.

Japan's Weather in October

In October, Japan moves into a mild and comfortable season, leaving the typhoon season behind. The weather becomes consistently pleasant, providing favorable conditions for outdoor sightseeing and activities. With fewer rainy days, it is an ideal time to explore Japan's natural beauty and cultural attractions.

Japan Weather Map in October

Northern Japan

By October, Northern Japan is fully immersed in autumn. The average temperatures range from 5 °C to 15 °C, providing crisp, cool air perfect for outdoor activities. The national parks and forests in Hokkaido are blazing with vibrant gold and red leaves, creating stunning landscapes ideal for hiking and photography. Remember to bring warm clothing to enjoy the fall scenery comfortably.

Central Japan

In central Japan, including cities like Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto, October temperatures range between 14 °C and 22 °C. The weather is predominantly clear and dry, with significantly lower humidity than in summer. This is a great time to explore historical sites, enjoy outdoor festivals, and participate in seasonal events.

Southern Japan

Southern Japan, experiences mild autumn temperatures around 14 °C to 23 °C. While the heat of summer has dissipated, the weather remains warm enough for beach activities and outdoor exploration. Typhoon season typically ends by October, reducing the likelihood of heavy rains. This makes it an excellent time to visit Okinawa's beaches and enjoy its unique subtropical scenery.

Best Places to Visit in October

Sapporo

In Sapporo, one of the most distinctive experiences in October is enjoying the fall foliage while soaking in an onsen (hot spring). Jozankai Onsen is a famous spot for viewing fall leaves, and the numerous onsen hotels offer the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in this exceptional experience.

If you are traveling with kids, there is an option for picking apples in the countryside, and it is delightful to savor the flavors of the harvest.

Fall Foliage in Japan

Tokyo

October, with its peak autumn charm, is an ideal month to experience Tokyo. The city's calendar is packed with diverse events, from traditional festivals to cultural gatherings and culinary celebrations highlighting the season's abundance. Reveal the fall colors at Ueno Park and Shijuku Gyoen. Join in Halloween fun at Tokyo Disneyland and along the streets in Shibuya. Moreover, you can witness the lively Tokyo Yosakoi festival and enjoy world-class cinema at the Tokyo International Film Festival.

Nagano

Nagano in October is a hiker's paradise, offering cool, dry weather and vibrant autumn foliage. Snow-capped mountains adorned with reddening leaves provide stunning views, while the region's ropeways offer easy access to the golden alpine scenery.

Locals and travelers gather for autumn leaf-viewing (locally called "Momiji-gari"), and to enjoy the feast of harvest season. Fresh apples, grapes, and aromatic soba noodles made from mature buckwheat are culinary highlights not to be missed.

Takayama

Takayama is a historic town with rich cultural heritage, it comes alive this month for its one of the most famous harvest celebrations - Takayama Autumn Festival. The elaborate floats, traditional performances, combined with the stunning fall colors and beautifully preserved Edo-period streets, makes October the perfect time to experience its unique charm. In addition, you can visit its famous morning markets, and experience the unique atmosphere of its traditional sake breweries.

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What to Do in October

Witness the Earliest Fall Leaves in Hokkaido

Hokkaido is the place where you can see the most earlier fall leaves in Japan. October is one of the best months to visit this region, mostly sunny days with comfortable temperatures.

At Ginsendai and Mount Akadake area of Daisetsuzan National Park in Hokkaido, summer quickly gives way to Japan's first stunning red foliage. The contrast between the remaining snow on the mountaintop and the spreading reds and yellows on the slopes offers a unique fall experience exclusive to Hokkaido.

Fully Enjoy Outdoor Activities

October in Japan offers thrilling outdoor adventures with stunning natural beauty. Canoeing on Jozankei Toyohira River in the valley of Sapporo provides serene paddling amidst vibrant fall leaves, while rafting in Chichibu combines exciting waves with colorful foliage.

Hiking in Japan's diverse sites in such cool weather is one of the best things to do. From volcanoes and forests to coastlines and hot springs, choose your preferred trails to explore the scenic landscape. Furthermore, cycling is another way to discover Japan's charm in October. Enjoy the fall foliage and serene paths as you pedal through the country's beautiful routes.

Savor Autumn's Appetite

Visiting in October, you do not want to miss the delightful seasonal delicacies! This month offers true feasts for foodies and brings lively festivals like the Tokyo Ramen Show and the Hokkaido Food Festival.

In addition to typical Japanese food, try pumpkin soup in local restaurants, and oden in Izakayas (Japanese pubs), alongside sweet treats such as persimmons (kaki), Asian pear (nashi), Japanese chestnuts (kuri), and roasted sweet potatoes (yakiimo) in local markets and street food stalls. Do not forget to taste new rice (shinmai) when you plan to high-end kaiseki (multi-course) restaurants, and Pacific saury (sanma) in seafood restaurants. The seasonal sake varieties Hiyaoroshi and Akiagari offered in sake bars also add unique autumn flavors.

Seafood Market

Immerse Yourself in the Halloween Vibe

Japan also celebrates Halloween, and while trick-or-treat is not that common, you will find massive Halloween parties, including the Shibuya Scramble Street Party and Ikebukuro Halloween Cosplay Fest. Tokyo Disney Resort and Universal Studios Japan offer spectacular Halloween events for a relatively long period, featuring spooky parades, haunted houses, evening horror-themed attractions and themed food items. If you are in the mood for some Halloween sweet treats, do not miss the autumn dessert buffets at luxury hotels like Hilton Tokyo, Conrad, and Prince Hotel.

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Events & Festivals

Ibaraki Kochia Festival, Ibaraki

From late September to October in Mirahashi Hill of Hitachi Seaside Park, thousands of kochia (summer cypress) bushes turning from lush green to brilliant red. You can enjoy strolling through vibrant fields of red and pink kochia bushes, surrounded by stunning autumn flowers like cosmos and sunflowers. It is convenient to do a day excursion to the park from central Tokyo.

Tokyo Ramen Festival, Tokyo

The Tokyo Ramen Festival (24th October - 4th November, 2024) is set to be a culinary delight. Held in Komazawa Olympic Park, features almost 40 renowned vendors showcasing their unique and flavorful creations. With a diverse range of broths, noodles, and toppings, you can indulge in a variety of unique dishes from top chefs across Japan, each representing regional flavors and innovative recipes.

Kawagoe Matsuri, Saitama

Kawagoe Matsuri is one of the most exciting festivals in the Kanto region, it is celebrated annually on the 3rd Saturday and Sunday of October. This vibrant event takes place in the historic town of Kawagoe, known as "Little Edo." You can experience the spectacle of traditional Japanese festival floats parading through the streets, together with dynamic music and performances. And also, you can explore local food stalls, enjoy the cultural exhibitions and Edo-period architecture.

Takayama Autumn Festival, Gifu

The Takayama Autumn Festival (9th October - 10th October, 2024) is one of the most famous harvest festivals in Japan. It takes place annually in Sakurayama Hachimangu shrine, and you can experience this must-see cultural heritage with beautifully crafted yatai (festival floats), traditional music, and lively processions.

Crowds & Costs

October is the peak season for travel in Japan, with the charm of autumn foliage attracting both international tourists and locals to the country's scenic landscapes. Popular destinations experience increased foot traffic as people seek to immerse themselves in the vibrant seasonal beauty and cultural festivities.

Public spaces like restaurants, parks, temples, and gardens, become bustling hubs, especially on weekends and Sports Day national holiday (2nd Monday of October). Tickets for transportation and attractions will be sold out quickly, and hotel rooms are in high demand, resulting in higher rates and limited availability. Consequently, travel and accommodation costs rise.

Although travel costs may increase, October is the prime time to witness Japan's reddish-gold landscapes and partake in numerous festivals. Visiting Japan during this period offers an unparalleled visual experience and a chance to deeper understand its history and culture.

Japan Travel Tips in October

Book Early

October is peak travel season due to the stunning fall foliage. Reserve your accommodations, transportation, and attraction tickets well in advance to secure the availabilities with the best options and avoid higher prices.

Pack Layers

The weather in October can vary, with lower temperatures around 14°C in the early morning and evening. Bring layers to stay comfortable during the cooler mornings and evenings, and be prepared for occasional rain.

Wear Comfortable Footwear

Whether hiking through autumn leaves or exploring historic sites, comfortable, weather-appropriate footwear is essential for a pleasant experience and to avoid discomfort or injuries.

Avoid Viewing Fall Leaves in Weekend

By late October, places for viewing fall foliage often get busy on weekends. For a more enjoyable experience, it is advisable to visit these locations during weekdays when crowds are lesser.

Traveling to Japan in October? Check Out These Great Itineraries

Hokkaido Nature Tour

Experience the best of Hokkaido with this 8-day itinerary. Strat in Sapporo, exploring Odori Park and Sapporo Beer Museum. Travel to Sounkyo Gorge for stunning views and hot spring baths. You will fully enjoy Daisetsuzan National Park, and Utoro for Shiretoko Pennisula adventures, and discover the beauty of Furano's countryside.

Family Tour with Nakasendo Trail Hiking

The mild October weather makes it perfect for outdoor activities. This 15-day Family Tour explores Japan's cultural and natural highlights. Hike the historic Nakasendo trails through post-towns, visit Kyoto's Fushimi Inari Shrine and Nijo Castle, and enjoy a tea ceremony. End in Osaka with a cooking class and a visit to the Kobe Nunobiki Ropeway.

Luxury Vacation with Taketomi

Discover Japan's diverse charms on this 14-day tour, featuring highlights like a hands-on cooking class in Tokyo and an authentic tea ceremony in Kyoto. Enjoy sake tasting amid the serene beauty of Fushimi Inari Shrine, and unwind on the pristine beaches of Taketomi Island. Moreover, savor the renowned Kobe beef after seeing Himeji Castle's architecture, making this journey unforgettable.