Japan Weather in October 2025: Fall Foliage Trip with Less Crowds

October is a perfect time to visit Japan, with the daily highs around 22℃ (72℉). The weather is comfortable and mostly sunny, so you can explore the country without experiencing heat or cold.

October is when Japan's fall foliage season begins. Hokkaido in northern Japan is the first region to see the autumn color. But in major cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, the leaves usually start turning red in late October.

In this article, you'll find everything you want to know based on our experiences. It includes weather, where to see fall foliage, how to enjoy festivals like a local, what to wear, and crowds.

Weather and Climate in Japan in October

You'll enjoy cool and more sunny days in Japan in October.

During this month, most of Japan enjoys warm weather, with average temperatures ranging from 15-22°C (59-72°F). The summer heat has gone away, and it's excellent for outdoor exploration. However, if it rains, you might feel cooler, so it's a good idea to bring a jacket.

If you visit Hokkaido in the north, you'll experience cooler temperatures. It usually ranges from 5-16°C (41-60°F). The cooler weather also makes it the first place in Japan to see autumn foliage.

Meanwhile, October is getting drier. As the typhoon season ends, rainfall decreases, and the humidity becomes more moderate. Clear days are now more frequent.

Is There Autumn Foliage in Japan in October?

Yes, Japan's fall foliage season usually begins in October.

However, not all parts of Japan have red leaves in October. The best places to see fall colors this month are the Japanese Alps (like Kamikōchi), Nikko, Hokkaido, and northeastern Japan. These hidden gems are less crowded, offering a quieter atmosphere to enjoy the scenery.

In central Japan cities like Kyoto and Takayama, the highlight is the unique autumn festivals. These events can make your trip more than just the scenery. For example, you can witness Kyoto's Jidai Matsuri (Oct 22nd) or Takayama Autumn Festival (October 9-10).

Want your autumn trip to be more enriching and memorable? We can arrange for you to explore small cities with fall foliage and join seasonal festivals in popular destinations.

Tokyo and Central Japan in October: Mild Weather

You can enjoy pleasantly cool weather in central Japan cities such as Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka.

The average temperature typically hovers between 15-22℃ (59-72℉). By mid-October, you might find mornings, evenings, or rainy days feeling cooler. It's a good idea to pack sweaters or light jackets.

However, Tokyo will have more rainy days compared to other places. Light showers are more common, usually coming to an end by late October.

Though the fall foliage season in this region doesn't arrive until late October, it is filled with autumn festivals! You can enjoy various traditional parades and immerse yourself in the true Japanese vibe, such as Kyoto's Jidai Matsuri or Takayama Autumn Festival.

Hokkaido and Northern Japan: Best Autumn Scenery

In Hokkaido during October, you can expect cool and dry daytime weather. It's the coolest region in Japan, with temperatures ranging from 7-16℃ (45-61℉).

Plus, Hokkaido is the first place to see autumn colors in Japan. The fall foliage reaches its peak during October. Hiking is one of the best ways to enjoy the colorful landscapes at national parks or other scenic spots.

Okinawa and Southern Japan: Tail End of the Beach Season

In October, Okinawa remains warm temperatures and sunny days, perfect for outdoor activities. While the typhoon season is past its peak during this month, typhoons can still occur occasionally in Okinawa.

It's the last of the best weather of the year to enjoy water activities on the islands. The average water temperature is around 27℃ (81℉) this month, so you can still have fun snorkeling, diving, and swimming. But the water will get cooler as the month goes on.

6 Best Places to Visit in Japan in October

You shouldn't miss enjoying the autumn foliage or autumn festivals in Japan in October! Below, we've handpicked the top 6 places to explore for unique seasonal experiences, enriching your autumn trip.

1) Kyoto: Witness a Centuries-Old Festival of Jidai Matsuri

A big highlight of October in Kyoto is the Jidai Matsuri, held on October 22nd. It's one of Kyoto's top three festivals and the most significant autumn celebration in this city.

During the 2-hour parade, you can see people in traditional Japanese clothing from different historical periods. As the parade passes by some shrines, you'll feel like you've traveled back in time.

For the best experience, we'll arrange for you to book paid seats at Heian Shrine. It is less crowded, offers a close-up view of the parade, and is perfect for taking photos.

2) Nikko: Admire Autumn Foliage Near Tokyo

Nikko, located near Tokyo, is renowned for its rich history and natural beauty. You can explore World Heritage Sites, learn about the stories of Japanese Shinto, and hike through picturesque landscapes.

Although Tokyo's leaves stay green in October, you can enjoy the autumn colors in Nikko while still being close to Tokyo. By mid-October, the maple leaves in Nikko will have turned red.

If you prefer to enjoy an easy hike to see the autumn leaves, visit Lake Chūzenji. Walking around the lake offers you various angles to admire the colorful foliage in the mountains.

Looking for a full scenery of autumn leaves? Try Kegon Waterfall. Take the cable car to the viewing platform, and you can enjoy the complete view of the waterfall surrounded by colorful foliage.

However, Nikko can get very crowded during the fall foliage season, especially on weekends. Sometimes, the traffic jams can even last for up to 6 hours. Therefore, I strongly suggest staying overnight in Nikko. This helps you have more time to enjoy the scenery rather than being stuck on the road.

3) Takayama: Enjoy the Most Popular Autumn Festival

Takayama, a small city in Japan, is renowned for its well-preserved Edo-period buildings and streets, traditional Japanese farmhouses, and Hida beef.

If you can only enjoy one autumn festival in Japan, the Takayama Autumn Festival is our top pick. Held on October 9-10, it's the major highlight in Takayama in the fall. You can admire parades of 11 beautifully decorated floats and traditional Japanese performances.

We recommend arriving at the venue around 4 pm on October 9th. This way, you can enjoy both the daytime and evening parade.

The evening offers a different charm than the morning. With the evening float parade lit up by lanterns, you can soak in an authentic festive atmosphere.

4) Kamikōchi: Hiking to See the Autumn Leaves

October is your last chance to hike in Kamikochi, and it's when the mountain looks most beautiful. You can escape the crowds and get closer to nature.

You can witness the classic beauty of fall foliage and snow-capped mountains this month. In Kamikochi, the autumn leaves usually reach their peak around mid-October.

However, if the weather is warmer than usual, the autumn leaves in Kamikochi may not peak until late October. Even if the colors aren't at their brightest, the scenery here is still worth exploring.

Kamikochi offers hiking trails for everyone, whether you're a beginner or an experienced hiker. We'll help you choose the most suitable route based on your preferences.

5) Hokkaido: Go for Autumn Colors

If you want to catch the peak autumn foliage in Japan during October, it must be Hokkaido.

The best time to see vibrant autumn colors in Hokkaido is from early to mid-October. If you're visiting in late October and still wish to see autumn leaves, Sapporo is a better choice.

Sounkyo Gorge is one of the most popular places to see fall foliage. You can hop on the cable car to enjoy the colorful maple leaves. It feels like a red and yellow blanket covers the gorge.

To experience something local and special, head to Jozankei. It is a hot spring town near Sapporo. You can enjoy the highlight of relaxing in hot springs surrounded by charming autumn leaves.

Moreover, you can expect fewer crowds when enjoying the autumn leaves in Hokkaido. It offers a more peaceful travel experience than popular cities such as Tokyo and Kyoto.

6) Aomori: See Fall Foliage with Less Crowds

Aomori in northeastern Japan is a hidden gem, famous for its natural scenery and the Nebuta Festival. It's a perfect destination for diverse outdoor adventures.

In October, the autumn leaves in Aomori turn red and yellow. Just a 3-hour Shinkansen ride from Tokyo, you can enjoy the peak foliage with fewer travelers.

If you visit Aomori in early to mid-October, Mount Hakkōda is the best spot to view fall foliage. Thanks to its high elevation, the leaves change color here earlier than in other places. Taking the cable car is a major way to admire the scenery.

When you visit in late October, don't miss the Oirase Stream. It's a must-do to take a leisurely hike through the forest alongside the stream, while you can enjoy the vibrant autumn foliage along the way.

What to Wear in Japan in October?

In general, Japan stays warm and sunny during the day, but gets cool or cold in the early morning and evening.

Thus, light autumn clothes are fine for the day, such as thin pullovers, light trousers, and long-sleeve dresses. Meanwhile, taking a warm jacket, sweaters, and other heat-trapping layers is suggested for the colder times.

If you're planning to visit the cooler Hokkaido, be sure to pack 1-2 winter clothes in case the temperature suddenly drops. For example, consider bringing a heavy coat or a light down jacket.

How Crowded and Expensive is Japan in October？

October is the shoulder season in Japan. Since the peak autumn foliage season hasn't arrived yet, crowds and costs stay around average.

Travelers will start to increase from late October as the leaves change color. However, the crowds are lighter than in November when the fall foliage is at its best.

Similarly, prices go up slightly by late October. During this time, the cost of a standard hotel room may increase by around $20-30 per night compared to the usual rates. But it's still cheaper than November.

Customize Your October Trip to Japan

You don't need to worry about transportation and hotels, as we'll handle everything for you. Plus, with our private English-speaking Japanese guide accompanying you, you can gain a deeper insight into Japan. Contact us now to start planning your trip!

Here are our two popular Japan tours for your inspiration:

• 11-Day Traditional Japan Tour with Historical Hiroshima
• 13-Day Japan Family Vacation with Theme Parks