Experiencing Autumn: Scenery and Activities to do in Japan in October 2025

Japan in October offers a captivating experience with its pleasant weather, stunning autumn foliage, and a variety of cultural activities and festivals. It is widely considered one of the best times to visit the country due to the comfortable temperatures and generally lower humidity, though popular attractions can still be crowded.

Ideal Weather Conditions

October in Japan brings crisp, pleasant temperatures across much of the country. The humidity is significantly lower, and the typhoon season is largely over, resulting in more sunny days and reduced rainfall compared to September.

Temperatures:

• Tokyo: Average daytime highs are around 22°C (72°F), with early October seeing 23-28°C (77-86°F), and late October nights dropping to 10°C (50°F). The average for the month is 24°C (75°F).
• Kyoto: Average daily highs decrease from 24°C to 19°C (76-66°F); lows decrease from 17°C to 11°C (63-51°F). The overall average is 18°C (64°F).
• Hokkaido: Being further north, experiences cooler temperatures, with average daytime temperatures of 12-16°C (54-61°F) and nighttime temperatures of 2-7°C (36-45°F). Sapporo’s maximum is 16°C (61°F) and minimum is 7°C (45°F). Early October averages 19°C (66°F), while late October averages 12°C (54°F). Early signs of winter with the first snow are possible towards the end of the month.
• Okinawa: In the south, remains warmer, with average daytime temperatures of 26-27°C (79-81°F). Highs range from 27-31°C (80-88°F), and lows from 23-25°C (73-78°F). Water temperature is around 27°C (81°F).

Humidity:

• Tokyo: Moderately humid (71-77% relative humidity), with muggy conditions decreasing from 20% to 1%.
• Kyoto: Moderately humid (80% average, or 67-85%), described as humid but cool.
• Hokkaido: Moderate (72-77% relative humidity), humid but cool, and one of the least humid months.
• Okinawa: Relatively humid (71-76% average), with mugginess decreasing from 85% to 50%.

Typhoons:

In Tokyo and Kyoto, the small chance of typhoons in early October is much lower than in previous months, with rains receding. Hokkaido is least affected by typhoons, considerably lower risk than southern regions. In Okinawa, the typhoon season is winding down, but still possible in October, so checking forecasts is advisable.

Sunny Days:

• Tokyo: A good number of sunny days, averaging 15 sunny days, with clear/sunny conditions 51% of the day. Cloud cover decreases from 49% to 36%.
• Kyoto: Around 18 sunny days, with an average of 7 hours 27 minutes of sunshine and a 51% probability of sunny days. Cloud cover decreases from 46% to 34%.
• Hokkaido: Offers a good balance of sun and clouds, with Sapporo receiving 153 hours of sunlight. Generally 5-5.7 hours of sunshine per day, and clear/sunny conditions 57% of the day.
• Okinawa: Good amount of sunshine, with cloud cover decreasing from 45% to 35%. Average 4-5.5 hours of sunshine per day, and Naha has over 60% clear skies. Around 11 rainy days, with rainfall decreasing.

Breathtaking Autumn Foliage (Momijigari)

October marks the beginning of the “koyo” (autumn leaves) season, a Japanese tradition of autumn leaf hunting known as momijigari. The leaves start turning from north to south, and from higher altitudes downwards.

Hokkaido (Northern Japan):

As the first place in Japan to see autumn colors, Hokkaido experiences peak foliage generally from mid-September to early November.

• Daisetsuzan National Park: Earliest in Japan, starting end of August, peaking early September to early October. Mount Asahidake peaks mid-September, while Sounkyo Gorge sees colors until mid-October.
• Shiretoko Peninsula: Colors from late September to mid-October, with Shiretoko Goko Lakes peaking mid-October.
• Shikotsu-Toya National Park (Lakes Shikotsu and Toya): Mid to late October.

Tohoku Region (Northern Honshu):

This region boasts spectacular autumn colors throughout October.

• Hachimantai mountains: Starting mid-September, peaking late September to mid-October (Appi Kogen/Matsukawa Ohashi early to mid-October).
• Lake Towada and Oirase Stream: Upstream Lake Towada peaks early October, with overall peak late October to early November. Oirase Stream peaks mid-October to early November.
• Naruko Gorge: Mid-October through early November.
• Urabandai: Late September to early November (due to elevation), with Goshikinuma Lakes peaking mid-October to early November.
• Shirakami Sanchi National Park: Late September to early November, with beech trees peaking late October.

Central Japan (Mountainous Areas):

Mid-October to mid-November is ideal for witnessing the autumn transformation.

• Japanese Alps (Northern Alps): Highest elevations (Mount Tateyama, Murodo) peak mid-September, while Kurobedaira, Kurobeko Lake, and Kurobe Dam peak mid to late October.
• Kamikochi (Nagano Prefecture): Earliest peak around mid-October.
• Shirakawa-go (Gifu): Mid to late October.
• Lake Kawaguchi Area (near Mount Fuji): Late November to early December.

Nikko (Tochigi Prefecture):

The Okunikko region is particularly beautiful throughout most of October, with colors descending into Nikko town by mid-November.

• Yumoto Onsen, Ryuzu Waterfall, Senjogahara Marshland: Early to mid-October.
• Lake Chuzenji: Mid to late October.
• Overall Peak: Mid-October to early November.

Nagano Prefecture:

• Karasawa Cirque (within Kamikochi): Popular for fall colors in late September to early October.
• Kamikochi: An unspoiled landscape flanked by the Hotaka Mountain Range, transforms into a kaleidoscope of colors from mid-October to late October (lower elevations), with larch trees turning golden until the first week of November. Higher slopes show colors from early October. Perfect for leisurely hikes along the Azusa River.

Around Tokyo:

While Tokyo’s main parks like Rikugien and Koishikawa Korakuen peak later in November, some mountainous areas closer to the city offer earlier autumn views.

• Mount Mitake (Okutama): Provides vibrant hues against the Tamagawa River and reflections on Lake Okutama from late October to mid-November.
• Showa Memorial Park (Tachikawa): Good for ginkgo trees from early November to the end of November, peaking around mid-November.
• Rikugien Gardens & Koishikawa Korakuen Gardens (Bunkyo): Mid-November to early December.

Kyushu (Southern Japan):

While not as renowned for autumn colors as northern regions, the Kuju Mountains in Oita Prefecture are among the best spots, offering spectacular hiking in volcanic landscapes, with peak colors from late October to mid-November.

• Mt. Taisen: Peaks around mid-October.
• Danbaru, Mt. Mimata, Mt. Kuro-dake: Mid-to-late October.
• Chojabaru, Oike areas: Early November.
• Kyusuikei Valley: Late October to mid-November.

Crowd Levels

October is a popular tourism month due to pleasant weather and early autumn foliage, meaning popular attractions can still experience significant crowds, especially towards the end of the month and on weekends/holidays.

• Fushimi Inari Shrine: Often extremely crowded in October, especially the lower parts. Visiting very early (around 7:00 AM) or late afternoon/early evening is recommended.
• Osaka Castle: Sees peak tourist season in late October/early November. Visit weekdays or early morning.
• Arashiyama Bamboo Forest: Almost always crowded. Visit very early (before 8:00 AM) or late afternoon/early evening.
• Kyoto: Crowd levels are generally low to moderate in the first two weeks of October, increasing towards the end of the month, but generally less crowded than the mid-to-late November peak.

Delightful Seasonal Cuisine

Autumn is a fantastic time for food lovers in Japan, with a variety of seasonal delights. Look for roasted chestnuts, warm sweet potato snacks, apples, and persimmons (kaki), known as the “fruits of autumn.” Hearty dishes like ramen, pine mushroom broth, pumpkin soup, and Pacific mackerel (Saba fish) are also prominent. Harvest festivals often feature freshly harvested rice, soba noodles, and seasonal sake.

Vibrant Autumn Festivals (Matsuri)

Numerous traditional festivals and events take place across Japan in October, offering a deep dive into local culture.

• Takayama Autumn Matsuri (Gifu Prefecture): Annually on October 9th and 10th, featuring elaborate floats, centered around Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine.
• Jidai Matsuri (Festival of Ages) in Kyoto: Annually on October 22nd (postponed to the next sunny day if it rains). It begins at Kyoto Imperial Palace (around midday) and concludes at Heian Jingu Shrine (around 2:30 PM), with a parade route of 4.5-5 km.
• Kanuma Buttsuke Autumn Festival (Tochigi Prefecture): Typically held on the second Saturday and Sunday of October each year. For 2025, it’s scheduled for October 11th and 12th, with competitive float performances in Imamiyacho, Kanuma City, centered around Imamiya Shrine.
• Nihonmatsu Lantern Festival (Fukushima): Annually on the first Saturday, Sunday, and Monday of October. For 2025, scheduled for October 4th to 6th, known for its thousands of lanterns and centered around Nihonmatsu Shrine and the city center.
• Seki Cutlery Festival (Gifu Prefecture): Held annually on the second weekend of October (2024: October 12th-13th; 2025 anticipated second weekend of October). Takes place in Honmachi-doori, Seki Traditional Swordsmith Museum, and Apise Seki in Seki City.
• Kawagoe Festival (Saitama Prefecture): Consistently held on the third Saturday and Sunday of October each year. For 2025, it will be October 18th-19th, with traditional floats, music, and dance in the central area of Kawagoe City. Specific food offerings include sweet potato treats (e.g., “osatsu-chips”), oversized karinto, puffed senbei rice crackers, long, thin pressed dried squid, local Coedo Craft Beer, special unbottled Kagamiyama Sake barrels, and common festival foods like takoyaki, okonomiyaki, yakisoba, and yakitori.
• Kurama Fire Festival (Kyoto): Held annually on October 22nd (Wednesday, October 22, 2025), a dramatic fire spectacle in the mountainous village of Kurama, primarily centered around Yuki Shrine. Main torch processions begin at 6:00 PM.
• Nagasaki Kunchi Festival (Nagasaki): Held annually for three days from October 7 to October 9 (consistent for 2025), with unique cultural dances primarily centered around Suwa Shrine, with performances at Otabijo, Yasaka Shrine, and Chuo Koen (Central Park).
• Bakeneko Festival (Tokyo): An annual cat-themed Halloween parade in Kagurazaka, Shinjuku. In 2025, it is scheduled for Sunday, October 12 (in 2024, it was October 13).
• Otsukimi (Moon Viewing Festivals): Celebrated across Japan, with Jugoya (Harvest Moon) falling on Monday, October 6, 2025.

Other Activities and Attractions

• Onsen (Hot Springs) with a View: Enjoy relaxing in natural hot springs surrounded by the beautiful fall foliage. Many ryokan (traditional inns) offer scenic outdoor baths. Notable October scenic onsen include Sounkyo Onsen and Jozankei Onsen in Hokkaido; Zao Onsen and Oirase Keiryu Onsen in Tohoku; Nagano Onsen Areas (Kanbayashi, Yamada, Shibu, Nozawa) and Minakami Onsen, Ikaho Onsen, Kurobe-Unazuki Onsen in Chubu; and Hakone Onsen and Fujisan Onsen in Kanto.
• Hiking and Outdoor Activities: The pleasant weather in October makes it an ideal time for hiking, climbing, and walking.
• Mount Takao (near Tokyo): Weather is pleasant, 10-20°C (50-68°F) at the summit. Autumn foliage peaks mid-November to early December, though higher elevations may start changing colors around early November. It’s very crowded, especially on weekends/holidays, so arrive early (by 6 AM) or visit weekdays. The Takao Momiji Festival runs from late October to early December (e.g., Oct 26-Dec 8 in 2024).
• Arashiyama (Kyoto): Daily highs decrease from 24°C to 18°C (76-65°F), with lows from 17°C to 10°C (62-50°F). Late October can start to show signs of fall foliage (e.g., Jojakkoji Temple, Togetsukyo Bridge), but the peak is generally late November to early December. Hiking opportunities include the Bamboo Grove, Iwatayama Monkey Park, Kameyama-Koen Park, various temples, and the Kiyotaki River Trail.
• Nikko: Mildly cool weather, 18-19°C (64-66°F) daytime; 9-10°C (49-50°F) nighttime. It’s peak season for vibrant autumn colors. Higher Oku-Nikko (Yuno Lake, Yu River) peaks early to mid-October; Lake Chuzenji, Irohazaka Road, Senjogahara Marsh, Ryuzu Falls peak mid to late October; and Nikko town area (Toshogu Shrine, Shinkyo Bridge) peaks late October to early November. Hiking trails include Senjogahara Marshland, Ryuzu Falls, Lake Chuzenji & Kegon Falls, Chankokidaira, and Ryuokyo Gorge.
• Japanese Alps (Kamikochi in Nagano Prefecture): October is the best time to see autumn colors, with the Karasawa Cirque peaking late September to early October and lower elevations (Azusa River) peaking mid-to-late October. Weather sees significant fluctuations, with early October at 23°C day/16°C night, dropping to 19°C day/9°C night by late October, potentially below freezing. Regular precipitation and early snow are possible. Layers, warm clothes, waterproof/windbreaker jackets, comfortable trekking shoes, and rain gear are essential. It’s very crowded, especially on weekends/holidays, so visit weekdays or early mornings. Private cars are prohibited; use public transport/shuttle buses. Hiking spots include Kappa Bridge, Taisho Pond, Myojin Pond, and the Larch Forest.
• Hokkaido: Offers excellent hiking with crisp, cool weather (6-16°C/42.8-60.8°F). Nighttime frost is common, and the first snow is possible at high elevations. Late September to late October is generally the best for foliage. Early to mid-October sees peak colors in Daisetsuzan and Eastern Hokkaido (Shiretoko, Lake Akan), while mid-to-late October is ideal for Noboribetsu, Sapporo area, Jozankei, and Lake Shikotsu. Layering is crucial, including lightweight sweaters, hoodies, windbreaker/thick jacket, and wool overcoat for evenings/mountains.
• Exploring Temples and Shrines: Visit iconic sites like Kiyomizu-dera and Fushimi Inari-taisha in Kyoto. While October marks the beginning of the autumn foliage season, it’s generally too early for peak vibrant colors at Kiyomizu-dera, which are best seen from mid- to late November. Kiyomizu-dera does hold a “Pink Illumination” in early October for breast cancer awareness (e.g., Oct 1-20), but night viewing (temple grounds entry) is generally not available during this period. At Fushimi Inari-taisha, some trees may show hints of yellow towards the end of October, but peak reds and golds usually occur in November. The thousands of vermilion torii gates offer a striking contrast with any changing leaves, and hiking further up Mount Inari may reveal more colors.
• Tea Ceremonies: October is an excellent time to participate in a traditional tea ceremony amidst the tranquil autumn setting. Notable events include the Tokyo Grand Tea Ceremony (2025: October 19-20 at Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum; October 26-27 at Hamarikyu Gardens), and the Matsue Castle Grand Tea Ceremony. The Nagori-no-chaji (Last Remains Tea Ceremony) is also held in October. October 1st is both Japanese Tea Day (commemorating the Grand Kitano Tea Ceremony) and the Ujicha Ceremony (Uji Tea Festival).
• Halloween Celebrations: Japan embraces Halloween with significant events.
• Shibuya: Shibuya Ward has taken measures to “close” Shibuya for Halloween, including a year-round outdoor drinking ban (6 PM to 5 AM) from October 2024, and police/security deployment from Oct 26-31. “NEO SHIBUYA HALLOWEEN 2024” was a ticketed event (20+) on Oct 31, 2024, at SHIBUYA STREAM HOTEL. Harajuku Omotesando Hello Halloween Pumpkin Parade (child-centered) was held on Oct 27, 2024.
• Universal Studios Japan (USJ): Halloween Horror Nights run from early September to early November (2024: Sep 6-Nov 4), with an 18+ Halloween Horror Night: All Night event on Oct 18, 2024. The family-friendly HAHAHA! HALLOWEEN PARTY is scheduled for Sep 4-Nov 3, 2025.
• Tokyo Disneyland/DisneySea: “Disney Halloween” for 2025 is scheduled for September 17-October 31. The Haunted Mansion Holiday Nightmare runs Sep 16, 2025-Jan 12, 2026. Guests can wear full character costumes on specific dates (2025: Sep 16-30 and Oct 16-31), but not Oct 1-15, 2025.
• Modern Attractions: Art galleries and museums are generally quite busy in October due to pleasant weather, early autumn foliage in some regions, holidays like Sports Day (second Monday) and Tokyo Citizen’s Day (Oct 1st, offering some free admissions), and new exhibition launches.
• Pampas Grass Strolling: In Hakone, the Sengokuhara area offers peaceful strolls through fields of tall pampas grass (susuki), with October being the peak viewing season. The fields transform into shimmering silver and gold from late September to early November, showing a green/red transition in early October, peak fiery red in mid-October, and red/brown/golden in late October.
• Kochia Scrubs: Visit Hitachi Seaside Park in Ibaraki Prefecture to see hills of “kochia” plants that turn a reddish-pink in autumn. The Kochia Carnival runs through October (2024: Oct 1-31). Early October shows a green/red gradient, mid-October is peak fiery red (2024 peak expected Oct 18-26), and late October transitions to red/brown/golden. A Kochia light-up event is held late September to early October. Cosmos and Japanese buckwheat flowers are also in bloom.

Overall, October provides comfortable weather for outdoor activities and a chance to experience Japan’s stunning autumn transformation alongside a rich array of cultural and modern festivities, making it an ideal time for a memorable trip.

Photo link by Ehsan Haque