Japan Weather in October 2025: Fall Foliage Begins, Travel Tips

October is a perfect time to visit Japan. Without heat or cold, you could explore the country with comfortable and mostly sunny weather.

You could enjoy Japan's autumn colors in October. Northern Japan sees the earliest autumn foliage, followed by central and southern Japan. In major cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, the leaves usually start turning red in late October.

Read on to find out the average temperatures and rainfall figures for Japan's top destinations in October, plus tips on where to go and what to wear.

Weather and Climate in Japan in October

October in Japan brings more comfortable weather and reduced rainfall.

In October, Japan has warm weather with average temperatures ranging from 15-22°C (59-72°F). By mid-month, the cooler temperatures gradually turn the autumn foliage red, while also providing ideal conditions for outdoor activities.

Meanwhile, October has become drier. As the typhoon season over, rainfall is decreasing, with an average drop of around 120mm (4.7 in), and sunny days are more frequent.

Is There Autumn Foliage in Japan in October?

Yes, the autumn foliage season starts in October. During this month, you can enjoy the red and yellow leaves across most of Hokkaido and the Tohoku region in northeastern Japan. By mid-to-late October, the maple leaves in Nikko, near Tokyo, will turn red.

Japan’s autumn foliage moves from north to south. Hokkaido sees the first autumn foliage, usually starting in early October. In central spots like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, red and yellow leaves appear from late October or early November. Lastly, Fukuoka and Nagasaki in Kyushu enjoy fall colors from mid or late November.

Tokyo and Central Japan in October: Mild Weather

You could enjoy the pleasantly cool weather of central Japan in cities such as Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, with an average daily high temperature of around 20°C (68°F), excellent for outdoor activities.

However, Tokyo will experience more rainy days than other The rain is typically lighter than in September, and late October will be drier.

In central Japan, the autumn foliage begins to turn red and yellow by late October. During this time, a portion of the maple leaves will start to change color, reaching their peak around mid-November.

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℉).

Autumn foliage is at its peak in northern Japan this month. 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.

5 Best Places to Visit in Japan in October

In addition to the must-visit city of Tokyo, we have well-selected five more cities that are worth exploring in October based on our real experience. You can immerse yourself in the unique festive atmosphere or enjoy the autumn foliage.

1) Osaka: Expo 2025 Closes

Osaka is a food paradise in Japan. You can find a wide range of street snacks and Japanese cuisine here, making it the ideal spot for a foodie tour.

Additionally, Expo 2025 Osaka will close on October 13th. It’s your final chance to discover its unique architecture, different cultures, and interact with advanced technologies.

I spent two days there in April (opening day and the following day) and found it very worthwhile.  However, I suggest skipping the closing ceremony day as crowds are expected to be as huge as on the opening day.

2) Nikko: 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 could enjoy the autumn colors in Nikko while still being close to Tokyo. By mid-October, the maple leaves in Nikko will have turned red, making it one of Japan's top places for autumn foliage, loved by locals.

It's highly recommended to stay overnight in Nikko during the autumn foliage season. From our experience, Nikko gets crowded during this time, you might end up spending more time on the road. To make the most of your travel experience, staying for one night is perfect.

3) Kyoto: Experience a Centuries-Old Festival

Kyoto is the medieval capital city of Japan. It's one of the most popular cities for travelers because of its ancient buildings and culturally rich vibe.

Every year on October 22nd, Kyoto hosts the Festival of the Ages, one of its top three festivals. With over 100 years of history, this grand event features eight processions where locals wear traditional clothing from different eras of Japanese history. The spectacular parade lasts about two hours.

If you book your Japan tour with us, our private guide would help you gain insight into Japanese history while enjoying the parade. Otherwise, you might only admire the various clothing, but don't know the stories behind the festival.

4) Takayama: 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.

The biggest highlight in Takayama in October is its Autumn Festival (Hachiman Matsuri). Held annually on October 9-10, it's one of Japan's three major festivals. You could enjoy parades of 11 beautifully decorated floats and traditional Japanese performances.

We suggest visiting the Autumn Festival on the evening of October 9th. The evening is more charming than the morning, as lanterns on the float lighting up at 5:30 p.m., followed by the start of the parade. This will enhance your experience of the festive atmosphere.

5) Hokkaido: Go for Autumn Colors

Hokkaido is the northernmost part of Japan, where you can expect the peak of autumn foliage in October. On a sunny day, explore some off-the-beaten-path trails to capture the best autumn scenery.

If you're travelling with kids, picking fresh fruits is great for family bonding. Journey through the farms for a hands-on experience with your kids: pick apples or grapes together and taste them.

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.

Cost and Crowds in 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.

However, October sees more travelers in Japan compared with September due to the favorable dry weather and cool-to-warm temperatures.

Travelers will start to increase in late October as the leaves change colors, but crowds won't be a big issue. While some popular spots might get busier, most areas remain uncrowded.

Likewise, 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.

Customize Your October Trip to Japan

Our Japan travel advisors are happy to create your Japan trip according to your preferences. 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:

• 9-Day Japan Highlights Tour Including Hakone Leisure
• 13-Day Japan Family Vacation with Theme Parks