Japan in October 2026: Weather & Fall Foliage in Autumn

October offers the most pleasant weather for your full autumn trip to Japan: typhoon season at its end, with lower humidity and cool temperatures blanketing more places in fall colors. In this article, we provide ideas on weather, activities to try, and some October travel tips. Take advantage of the ideal weather in October to explore Japan's beautiful parks, hiking trails, and fall festivals, which are especially vibrant this time of year.

Japan's Weather in October

October in Japan ushers in mild, comfortable weather. In Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, you can experience true autumn temperatures ranging from pleasant 15 to 24°C (59 to 75℉), with clear, dry days perfect for outdoor sightseeing and activities.

Autumn is in full swing in northern Japan in October, and the slightly chill brings more vibrant shades of gold and red in Hokkaido's mountains and forests for hiking and photography. While in southern Japan, you can still expect warm water temperatures of about 27℃ (81℉) at Okinawa for some marine activities.

October is an excellent time to explore Japan in autumn. Be sure to pack some warm clothing to stay comfortable since there will be cooler mornings and evenings than you expected, especially in late October.

Japan Weather in October

Which is Better, September or October

Simply speaking, if you are used to warmer temperatures, September is better. While looking for a more comfortable long-term outdoor, the cooler October is the ideal option.

	September	October
Season	Late summer to early autumn	Clear autumn
Day temperatures	25+℃ (77+℉)	20+℃ (68+℉)
Night temperatures	20+℃ (68+℉)	15+℃ (59+℉)
Humidity & Rainfall	Moderate	Lower
Typhoon risk	Higher	Lower
Walking comfort	Good, but with midday heat	Excellent for all-day sightseeing

Crowds & Costs

Compared to September, you can catch a slight travel cost, and crowds increase in October, yet still more affordable and manageable than the peak autumn leaves season in November.

Thanks to its ideal weather, October is popular for traveling in Japan, and crowds increase noticeably in the second half of the month with the southward autumn colors. Restaurants, parks, temples, and gardens become bustling hubs, especially on weekends.

It is a busy but enjoyable month for the journey, while if you prefer, catch up early in October (after the National Sports Day holiday on the 2nd Monday of October) for your Japan tour when the weather and crowds are still in balance, and hotels and rooms along those popular hiking trails like Nakasendo are more available for booking.

Fall Foliage in Japan

Is There Fall Foliage to See in Tokyo/Kyoto in October

Sadly, October is not the peak fall foliage season in most of Japan, and there is only a small amount of autumn foliage to see in Tokyo and Kyoto.

We do hear from travelers who hope to catch Japan's autumn colors in October. Yet, in many cases, our recommendations end up being quite different from what they initially envision, with Tokyo and Kyoto rarely topping the list this time.

Autumn leaves in central Japan are mainly seen in the mountains in October, while Hokkaido experiences its peak foliage season. Just head north in Japan if you are looking for those dramatic layers of fall colors in October.

Where to See Autumn Foliage in Japan in October

• Daisetsuzan: The first place to see autumn in Japan, and the peak arrives in early October. It is a Hokkaido national park that offers wilder nature and fewer crowds, perfect for a hike along the colorful trail or for taking the cable car to capture panoramic views of the full autumn mountain valleys and forests. If you like, there are also nearby hot spring towns where you can stay for more impressive experiences.
• Kamikochi: Around mid-October, this highland valley in Nagano becomes another popular hiking destination to capture Japan's splendid autumn scenery, paired with winding rivers and the surrounding alpine snowy peaks. Most importantly, the flat landscape in Kamikochi is also easier for first-time visitors. Simply follow the river for a short walk, and you can experience the most picturesque autumn scenery in Japan.
• Nikko: Apart from the mountain forest in shades of red and orange, the fall colors in Nikko also balance nature with history. And the best part is, Nikko is not very far from Tokyo.You can casually add it as your Tokyo day trip extension to capture Japan's classic autumn colors: against the waterfalls and lakes, dotted with gardens and temples. A scenic drive along the Irohazaka Winding Road is also recommended to witness the changing colors.

What to Do in Japan in October

Savor Autumn's Appetite in Japan

Visiting in October to experience the fascinating autumn harvest in Japan, 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 dishes, 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 Japanese street food stalls.

Do not forget to taste new rice (shinmai) and matsutake mushrooms when you plan to visit 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.

Soak in Soothing Hot Springs

The cooler temperatures in Japan in October make the onsen hot bath more comfortable and relaxing after a day's sightseeing.

You can prepare more socks or a towel for those ashiyu (foot hot springs) you may pass by, or stay at a local hot spring town, wander the wooden buildings with yukata, and try different types of onsen water from toes to shoulder for your full relaxation.

If possible, the open-air hot spring bath is more recommended, especially during your mountain or northern Japan journey, as it is also one of the best ways to admire the swaying autumn foliage with mist and moonlight.

Join a Hiking, Walking, or Cycling Tour

Hiking at Japan's diverse sites in such cool October weather is one of the best things to do. If you like, October is a good time for a long-distance walking through the famous trails of Nakasendo and Kumano Kodo. While expecting the autumn foliage as your bonus, a hike in Nagano and Nikko is more recommended.

As for a more relaxing way, a cycling tour with the crisp autumn air is also possible. Let your private guide lead the way, it is easy to rent a bike to explore the city at your leisure. Or join the popular coastline of the Shimanami Kaido linking those separate islands of the Seto Inland Sea.

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.

Events & Festivals in Japan in October

Takayama Autumn Festival, Gifu

The Takayama Festival in autumn (October 9 to 10, 2026) is one of the most famous harvest festivals in Japan. It takes place annually in Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine, and you can experience its elaborate float, karakuri performances on its preserved Edo-period streets, paired with traditional music for lively processions.

Ibaraki Kochia Festival, Ibaraki

From late September to October (to be determined) in Mirahashi Hill of Hitachi Seaside Park, thousands of kochia (summer cypress) bushes turn 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.

Kawagoe Matsuri, Saitama

This vibrant event takes place in the historic town of Kawagoe, known as "Little Edo." It is celebrated annually on the 3rd Saturday and Sunday of October (October 17 to 18, 2026).

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 cultural exhibitions and Edo-period architecture.

Tokyo Ramen Festival, Tokyo

The Tokyo Ramen Festival from late October to early November (to be determined) 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.

Travel Tips For Visiting Japan 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 availability 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.

Viewing Fall Leaves in Weekdays

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