Japan is a truly year-round country with beautiful natural landscapes in all seasons. October in Japan is a wonderful time in the fall, a month when the weather gradually turns cooler and temperatures are moderate, making it an excellent time to travel and experience Japan's natural beauty and traditional culture. Here is our ultimate guide to things to do in Japan in October 2024. Feel free to tell us your preferences and interests if you hope to get a customized Japan in October itinerary!
Table of Contents
1. Things to do in Japan October 2024
2. Best Foliage in October in Japan
3. Japan Weather in October 2024
4. What to Wear in Japan in October
1. What to Do in Japan in October 2024
Is it good to travel to Japan in October? Yes! October is one of the most comfortable and pleasant months in Japan. It is a harvest season with various festivals, a good time to enjoy natural scenery and indulge in Japanese literature and art. Check out the best Japan things to do in October before embarking on an autumn trip in the following:
Admire the Fall Foliage: Top 1 Thing to Do in Japan in October to Enjoy Autumn Season 2024
Are you wondering what to see in Japan in October? Autumn foliage in Japan is one of its greatest natural wonders and a must-see. From late September to mid-December, Japan becomes awash in rich reds, yellows, and oranges, showing its stunning autumn colors. There are many of the best places to see in Japan in October to enjoy this breathtaking spectacle, including Lake Chuzenji in Nikko, Maruyama Park in Hokkaido, and Lake Kawaguchiko in the Mt. Fuji Five Lakes area. You can already enjoy the peak fall foliage of northern Japan in October, which is warm, romantic, and beautiful enough to leave you with a memorable tour.
Attend Takayama Autumn Festival 2024: One of the Festivals in Japan October to Express Gratitude, Love, and the Joy of Harvest
Every year in early October, Takayama City welcomes the grand Takayama Autumn Festival. The Autumn Festival Takayama, originated in the 16th century and is held on October 9 and 10 every year to express gratitude to the gods for the harvest of the year. The Takayama Autumn Festival is also known as one of the three most beautiful festivals in Japan and is as famous as the Gion Matsuri in Kyoto and the Chichibu Night Festival in Saitama. The biggest attraction of the Takayama Festival is the magnificent Yatai (referring to the sedan chair). Each one is a carefully crafted work of the craftsmen of Takayama City and has a history of more than a hundred years. As one of the best things to see in Japan in October, it is particularly spectacular and beautiful, and it will definitely be a visual feast. In addition, the traditional activities held during the Takayama Autumn Festival in Japan October are also worth seeing.
Jidai Matsuri 2024: One of the Best Japan Festivals in October to Explore the Splendor of History in Kyoto
Are there best things to do in Kyoto Japan in October? Of course yes. Even though October is not the best time to enjoy the Kyoto fall foliage, it is still a great chance to experience some Kyoto Matsuri. The Jidai Matsuri is one of the three major festivals in Kyoto. In 1895, it was originally held to celebrate the founding of the Heian-jingū Shrine and the 1,100th anniversary of the relocation of the capital to the Heian region, but now it is mainly a "Jidai Parade" to revive the memories of the past as a capital city and to pray for the prosperity of Kyoto, and to reenact the life of the Kyoto of the old days. Therefore, in the parade, you can see people and clothes of eight eras, including the Meiji Restoration era, the Edo period, the Azuchi-Momoyama period, and the Muromachi period, which is very special. Experiencing the Jidai Matsuri festival is an essential and meaningful Japan itinerary for seniors. Don't miss the Kyoto Jidai Matsuri 2024 held on Oct 21, 2024 – Oct 22, 2024, if you are interested in this Japan event in October.
Kurama Fire Festival: One of the Most Visually Striking Festivals in Kyoto in October Not to Miss
As the name of the festival suggests, residents of the Kurama area light up the streets of Kurama on the night of October 22 every year. During the parade on this day, men with naked upper bodies hold huge torches and chant "サイレイヤ、サイリョウ" (meaning "ritual") while parading through the streets of Kurama. There are more than 300 torches of all sizes along the street, marching towards the gate of Kurama-dera to worship Yuki Shrine together. The event lasts until the early morning. And try to experience this festival in late October in Japan if you hope to explore more local culture in Kyoto.
Momiji Festival 2024: Enjoy the Autumn Leaves Tour Like Locals When You Visit Japan in October
There are so many best things to do in Japan in October, but personally speaking, I would prefer to take part in the Momiji Festival as it is a local way to enjoy autumn in Japan. Japanese people have been enjoying the red leaves since ancient times, and many places in Japan will hold the red leaf festival (Momiji Festival) when the foliage turns the reddest. And each has its own unique characteristics. We recommend you to experience the Lake Shikotsu Momiji Festival. In mid-October, Lake Shikotsu holds the Momiji Festival. At this time, you can enjoy the Japanese-style Taiko performances prepared by the locals, and you can also taste the miso soup made from red trout and mushrooms, which are the specialties of Lake Shikotsu. Only by experiencing the local red leaf festival, your trip to Japan in October to view the autumn leaves will be complete and memorable.
Explore Historic Temples & Shrines: Travel to Japan in October to Quietly Immerse Yourself in the Historical Ambience
In spring, many people flock to Japan's popular sightseeing hotspots because of the cherry blossom festival, but autumn in Japan offers a chance to explore this fantastic country without a large number of crowds, especially in the month of October in Japan. Spare time to visit historical temples and shrines like Todai-ji Temple in Nara, Toshogu Shrine in Nikko, and Enryaku-ji Temple on Mount Hiei, where you may find yourself having peaceful moments reflecting amidst history during your Japan tours in October 2024.
Tour Quiet Towns: Explore the Rural Area While Enjoying the Tranquility When Visiting Japan in October 2024
There are so many best cities to visit in Japan in October, such as Tokyo and Osaka, which are suitable to enjoy bustling lives. And quieter areas like Kanazawa, Takamatsu, Shirakawago, and Kurashiki are also worth visiting, as they will give you a taste of Japan's past. When you travel Japan in October to explore these towns, take a stroll around charming streets where locals go about their daily lives without disturbance. With calm surroundings, you'll have ample opportunity to soak in tranquility and peacefulness.
Indulge in Seasonal Cuisines: Enjoy This Biggest Delight during Your Foodie Tour in October in Japan 2024
Do you still remember those cherry blossom foods such as Sakura Mochi in the spring season? Autumn also brings new flavors to Japanese palates. Don't forget to taste matsutake mushrooms, chestnuts, sweet potatoes, grapes, persimmons, and pumpkins that fill up farmers' markets and menus across Japan. If you hope to enjoy unique experiences during your Japan in October itinerary, I would like to suggest you try harvesting apples or grapes in some countryside farms, such as Hirosaki Apple Park for apple picking in Aomori or grape picking in Nagano, both are also best things to do in Japan October for Japan trip with kids.
Enjoy Halloween: One of the Festivals in October to Experience More Exciting Moments in Japan Autumn 2024
Don't miss out on the Halloween festivities that have been gaining momentum in recent times, especially among the youth population. From costume parties and parades to haunted house experiences and pumpkin carvings, there's plenty to look forward to during this spooky celebration on Oct 31, 2024. Tokyo embraces Halloween with excitement, especially in districts like Shibuya and Roppongi, where people gather in elaborate costumes. Theme parks like Tokyo Disneyland and Universal Studios Japan are also the best places to visit in Japan October to experience Halloween, as they will also host Halloween events with parades, decorations, and themed attractions.
Admire the Autumn Rose: One of the Top Things to Do in Japan in October for Nature Lovers
If you are looking for more things to see in Japan in October apart from the red maples and ginkgoes, then pay attention to the Japan roses, which are blooming enthusiastically in late fall. Take a visit to Jindai Botanical Gardens to view the beautiful roses, which is one of the things to do in Tokyo in October. There are more than 4,200 roses in full bloom from early October until late November, so don't miss it if you want to feel the romance hidden away by autumn in Tokyo Japan. Yokohama English Garden is also one of the best places in Japan in October to enjoy the roses, as its 6,600-square-meter garden has 1,600 autumn roses of 1,200 varieties. It is a veritable sea of flowers that are stunning to photograph and is extensively decorated for Halloween in October. In addition, you can also head to the Shiki-no-kaori (scent of four seasons) Rose Garden when you travel to Japan in October 2024. The entire rose garden at Shiki-no-Kaori Rose Garden has 460 roses of 320 varieties to enjoy, and its autumn show in October features six varieties of roses that are rarely seen in Japan, a limited edition Halloween costume, and pink rose ice cream.
Enjoy Art Exhibit: Marvel at Excellent Art When Traveling to Japan in October 2024
Autumn has long been a recognized art season in Japan, with many of the largest and most prestigious exhibitions taking place in October. If you're looking for more things to do in Japan October to immerse in Japanese art, consider visiting one of the premier art galleries or museums throughout Japan in this month, such as the Tokyo National Museum. Besides, be sure to enjoy the Inakadate Tanbo Art if you want to appreciate the marvelous rice field art. Inakadate Village in Japan is an ancient village with a 2,000-year history of rice cultivation. Since 1993, the village has held an annual "Rice Field Art Festival", attracting tourists from all over Japan and around the world to the village for a glimpse of the giant rice paddies paintings. In order to achieve the best visual effect, the villagers start discussing the theme of the year's painting in April every year, and through precise calculations and planning, they plant different varieties of rice with different-colored leaves in the rice paddies, thus creating a variety of works of art in the rice paddies, such as the Mona Lisa, Napoleon, and the Japanese samurai, which are amazing to behold! The Tanbo Art in Aomori 2024 lasts from late May to early October in Inakadate. If you happen to travel to Japan in early October, just don't miss it!
These are the best things to do in Japan in October 2024, which one do you want to experience the most? Leave us a message and we will cover it in your personalized Japan in October travel!
20 Days Tokyo - Nikko - Kamakura - Mt.Fuji - Hakone - Takayama - Kanazawa - Osaka - Kyoto - Nara - Kobe - Kumano Tour
20 days | From $ 10786
18 Days Tokyo - Mt.Fuji - Nikko - Nagoya - Takayama - Kanazawa - Kyoto - Nara - Osaka - Miyajima - Hiroshima
18 days | From $ 9457
15 Days Tokyo - Hakone - Takayama - Kanazawa - Kyoto - Sapporo - Asahikawa Tour
15 days | From $ 8562
11Day Tokyo - Mt.Fuji - Hakone - Aomori - Morioka - Sendai Tour
11 days | From $ 6692
●Here Are More Related Articles About What To Do In Japan To Help You Plan A Trip To This Country:
>>>What Are Some Fun Things to Do in Japan
>>>Fun Things to Do in Japan with Kids
>>>What to Do in November in Japan
>>>What to Do in December in Japan
>>>What to Do in January in Japan
>>>What to Do in February in Japan
>>>What to Do in March in Japan
>>>What to Do in April in Japan
>>>What to Do in May in Japan
>>>Things to Visit in Tokyo
2. Best Places to Visit in Japan in October to Enjoy Foliage
As we know that admiring the autumn leaves is one of the important events in Japan October 2024, but do you know where can you enjoy the best foliage in October in Japan? Head to Hokkaido, which is the best place to visit in Japan October to view the stunning autumn foliage in this month. During autumn in Hokkaido 2024, you can admire the best fall foliage while soaking in the therapeutically natural hot springs, or enjoy the red leaves by boat on the lake, or appreciate the autumn colors in a kimono in a Japanese garden. And here we have also listed some top attractions that are worth visiting in Hokkaido in October.
Jozankei Onsen
Best time to experience Hokkaido autumn 2024 at Jozankei Onsen: Late September to Mid-October
Jozankei Onsen is less than an hour's drive from the center of Sapporo. It was once a hot spring resort built by a monk and is now known as a popular hot spring area in Hokkaido and also the best place in Japan to visit in October. There are 56 hot springs with water temperatures ranging from 60 to 80 degrees. On a cool day during autumn in Japan 2024, the moment you soak into the spring water, you can instantly feel the warmth that goes straight to your heart. As you stroll along the streams, you will find that the beautiful red leaves dye the mountain scenery around the hot spring street in a riot of beautiful colors, and this is what to visit in Japan in October that cannot be missed! During the best time to see Hokkaido fall foliage in Jozankei Onsen, it is a great pleasure to enjoy the red leaves while soaking in the hot springs!
Noboribetsu Jigokudani Valley
Best time to view the best foliage in October in Japan at Jigokudani Hell Valley: Mid-October
Noboribetsu from early October to mid-October is the season of red leaves. Jigokudani and the area around Oyunuma Pond are all red, making them the best places to go in Japan in October to enjoy the autumn leaves. Jigokudani is a place that is worth spending 2 or 3 hours of your time to take a good walk and stroll around. The whole area is filled with attractions such as Hiyoriyama, Oyunuma Pond, Okunoyu, River Oyunuma Natural Footbath, and Taisho Jigoku. During October in Japan 2024, you can start your stroll in Jigokudani by paying homage to Yakushi Buddha, seeing the erupting Iron Spring Pond, and then walking to Oyunuma Pond before entering Taisho Jigoku. If you like, you can also take a dip in the River Oyunuma Natural Footbath, and enjoy the wild bath while looking up at the sky full of red leaves.
Lake Shikotsu
Best time to enjoy Lake Shikotsu autumn 2024: Mid to late October
Lake Shikotsu features clear and transparent water and is surrounded by beautiful mountains. With cherry blossoms in spring, fresh green in summer, red leaves in autumn, and snow and ice in winter, there is something beautiful to see in all seasons. In autumn Hokkaido 2024, you can take a boat ride to enjoy the red leaves and the scenery of the red leaves reflected in the clear lake water will amaze you. Don't miss the Lake Shikotsu Red Leaf Festival that is held in mid-October, as this is also what to do in Japan in October and also one of the fun festivals in October Japan worthy of experiencing.
Lake Tōya
Best time to see Lake Toya autumn leaves 2024: Mid to late October
When you go to Lake Toya in October, it is highly recommended to take a boat to enjoy the autumn leaves. Standing on the top deck of the cruise ship, blowing the fresh wind on the lake, and admiring the stunning red leaves around the lake are so relaxing things to do in Hokkaido autumn. There are four small islands in Lake Toya, and the cruise ship will stop at one of them, Nakajima, in the middle of the lake and you may as well get off the boat and take a walk. The sparsely populated island is covered with red leaves as if you have entered an uninhabited area. It is worth mentioning that there will be a Lake Toyako Long Run Fireworks Display from April 28 to October 31 every year, when 350 rounds of fireworks are set off over Toyako every night for 20 minutes from 20:45 to 21:05. Why not enjoy the fireworks display together with the autumn leaves when visiting Hokkaido Japan in October 2024? Both are great Japan events in October that will leave you on a mesmerizing trip.
Hakodate Kosetsuen
Best time to appreciate Hokkaido foliage 2024 at Hakodate Kosetsuen: Late October to Early November
In the city of Hakodate, there is Miharashi Park, and the Hakodate Kosetsuen is inside the park, which is a Japanese garden. There are about 510 cherry blossom trees and maple trees in the Hakodate Kosetsuen. The old-fashioned buildings and flowers, especially the autumn foliage, are so beautiful. From late October to early November in Japan, you can enjoy the colorful "Red Leaf Garden" and "Red Leaf Path" in the garden, and you can feel a strong sense of autumn everywhere. Don't forget to wear a kimono to step along the leafy paths, as you can enjoy the beautiful and romantic moments in the park. In addition, this is also the best place to go in Japan in October to enjoy the nighttime maple. At night, the bright lights illuminate the leaves in the Hakodate Kosetsuen, and between the dappled light and shadow, you will see the best foliage in October in Japan.
In Tokyo, Kyoto, and other warmer regions, you have to wait until November to enjoy the colorful fall foliage, but Tohoku, Hokkaido, and other more northerly or higher altitude areas are at their best in October. Join us to plan a customized trip to Hokkaido to explore the best part of Japan to visit in October now!
3. Weather in Japan in October 2024
October is a good time to embark on a trip to Japan, as there are so many things to do in Japan October worthy of trying, and also so many places to see in Japan in this month waiting for you to explore. But what is the weather in Japan in October 2024? Check out the regional October weather in Japan 2024 below.
Hokkaido Weather in Japan October 2024 (Sapporo, Hakodate, Furano)
Temperature: 7°C to 16°C (45°F to 61°F)
Weather: Hokkaido is one of the first regions in Japan to experience true autumn weather. The days of October in Hokkaido are cool, and the nights can be chilly, especially during late October.
Tohoku Weather in Japan October 2024 (Sendai, Aomori, Akita)
Temperature: 9°C to 19°C (48°F to 66°F)
Weather: Tohoku experiences cooler, crisp autumn air, with mild days and cooler nights.
Kanto Weather in Japan October 2024 (Tokyo, Yokohama, Kamakura)
Temperature: 15°C to 23°C (59°F to 73°F)
Weather: October in Tokyo and the Kanto region is comfortable, with warm days and cooler evenings. There is occasional rain, especially in early October, but overall, it's a pleasant time to visit.
Chubu Weather in Japan October 2024 (Nagoya, Kanazawa, Takayama)
Temperature: 12°C to 21°C (54°F to 70°F)
Weather: The October weather in the Chubu region varies depending on altitude. Cities like Nagoya experience mild autumn weather, while mountainous regions like the Japanese Alps can get quite cool.
Kansai Weather in Japan October 2024 (Kyoto, Osaka, Nara)
Temperature: 15°C to 24°C (59°F to 75°F)
Weather: October in Kansai is characterized by pleasant autumn days with cool, crisp mornings and evenings. And there is generally low rainfall in Kansai during this month.
Chugoku Weather in Japan October 2024 (Hiroshima, Okayama, Matsue)
Temperature: 13°C to 22°C (55°F to 72°F)
Weather: The weather in Chugoku in October is generally mild with warm days and cool nights. Rain is infrequent, and the autumn season in this region starts to become noticeable by mid-October.
Shikoku Weather in Japan October 2024 (Takamatsu, Matsuyama, Kochi)
Temperature: 14°C to 23°C (57°F to 73°F)
Weather: Shikoku experiences mild autumn weather in October, with pleasant temperatures and clear skies.
Kyushu Weather in Japan October 2024 (Fukuoka, Nagasaki, Kagoshima)
Temperature: 16°C to 25°C (61°F to 77°F)
Weather: Kyushu remains relatively warm in October, though the humidity and summer heat start to subside. It's a good time to explore the region in this month; however, it would be better for you to go there in November if you hope to view the autumn foliage Kyushu 2024.
Okinawa Weather in Japan October 2024 (Naha, Ishigaki, Miyako)
Temperature: 22°C to 28°C (72°F to 82°F)
Weather: October weather in Okinawa Japan is still warm, with temperatures similar to late summer. While it's past the peak of the typhoon season, there may still be occasional storms. The ocean temperatures of Okinawa during October are warm enough for swimming and water activities.
Weather in Japan on October 2024 varies significantly by region due to its geographical diversity. In general, October marks the autumn season in Japan, with cooler temperatures, lower humidity, and less rainfall compared to earlier months. Contact us to plan your personalized Japan tours in October now, enjoying a private guide and private car.
4. What to Wear in Japan in October 2024
Do you know what to wear in Japan during October? The average temperature in Japan October is 15℃~22℃, and here is our guide on the packing for Japan in October.
Lightweight long-sleeved shirts or blouses that are made from breathable fabrics such as cotton, linen, or silk will provide coverage without being too heavy or warm. Layering is also a good idea so that you can add or remove layers depending on how chilly it gets in your places to go in Japan in October.
A sweater, cardigan, or pullover will come in handy to keep you cozy in colder weather in Hokkaido in October. Choose those clothes that are not too bulky since you may still want to wear a jacket over them at times.
Jackets or coats are essential for your Japan in October travel. Look for lightweight options like windbreakers, trench coats, or puffer jackets that offer warmth and protection against the elements. If you prefer wool, try a peacoat or car coat for a classic Japanese style.
Pants should be comfortable and practical when visiting Japan in October. Jeans, corduroys, or khakis work well in autumn in Japan. You could opt for high-waisted pants if you are to wear cropped sweaters or tops.
Comfortable shoes are important for navigating urban areas and walking around in comfort. Ankle boots, sneakers, loafers, or flats are all great choices for your trip to Japan on October. Make sure they're easy to slip on and off as many buildings require removing your shoes before entering.
Accessories help complete any outfit. Scarves, hats, gloves, and umbrellas are must-haves for staying warm and dry when needed. Don't forget sunglasses for bright days in October in Japan.
For females who are traveling to Japan in October, you can choose a lightweight long skirt or trousers that are paired with a thin coat to keep you warm and show off your elegant temperament. And you can choose soft knitwear or T-shirts as the inner layer that is comfortable and stylish. For men to visit Japan in October, try a casual suit or jacket with jeans or slacks to keep warm and look stylish.
Get your suitcase ready and choose the right clothes to wear in Japan in October according to your destination!
Conclusion
Japan, the most fashionable and charming modern country in Asia, has diversified human and natural landscapes including cherry blossoms, hot springs, snow-covered mountains, shrines, islands, and otaku culture for you to experience the unparalleled charm of the East. And during October in Japan, there are also red maples, festivals, and other activities exclusive to this month waiting for you to enjoy. Let us know your ideas on what to do in Japan October and we will make your trip to Japan more enjoyable and comfortable!