October is one of Japan's autumn months. Without scorching heat or freezing cold, you could enjoy outdoor activities with mild and mostly sunny weather.
Autumn colors make Japan more appealing in October. Northern Japan sees the earliest autumn foliage, followed by central and southern Japan.
Read on to find out the average temperatures and rainfall figures for Japan's top destinations, plus tips on where to go and what to wear.
Japan Weather in October: Overview
- Average temperature: 15°C (59°F) – 22°C (72°F)
- Average rainfall: 128 mm (5 in)
- Average rainy days: 9
- Average sunny days: 22
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We did a two week trip with Asia Highlights to Tokyo, Nikko, Hakone, Takayama, Kanazawa, Kyoto, Osaka and a private side trip to Koyasan. There is no way I can summarize all the good things we experienced in Japan from the food, the cultural shows, the nation's natural beauty, the sense of service by Japanese and more. For those considering a tour with Asia Highlights I cannot recommend them enough. The two words I'd use to describe them are "flexibility" and "service". More
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Average October Weather in Japan's Popular Cities
| Japan City | Min. Temp | Max. Temp | Rainfall |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sapporo | 8°C (46°F) | 16°C (62°F) | 110 mm (4 in) |
| Tokyo | 15°C (59°F) | 22°C (72°F) | 235 mm (9 in) |
| Kyoto | 14°C (58°F) | 23°C (74°F) | 143 mm (5 in) |
| Osaka | 16°C (61°F) | 24°C (75°F) | 136 mm (5 in) |
| Hakone | 15°C (59°F) | 21°C (70°F) | 152 mm (6 in) |
| Nara | 13°C (55°F) | 23°C (74°F) | 135 mm (5 in) |
| Hiroshima | 15°C (59°F) | 24°C (75°F) | 109 mm (4 in) |
| Okinawa | 24°C (75°F) | 28°C (83°F) | 179 mm (7 in) |
Tokyo and Central Japan: More Rainfall Than Other Areas
You can enjoy pleasantly cool weather in Central Japan. But you might encounter rainy days during your visit, for which the rain is usually lighter than in September. Late October is more advisable for drier weather.
During this month, a private tour with a flexible itinerary (which we offer) is necessary to allow possible changes because of the rainfall.
Okinawa and Southern Japan: Tail End of the Beach Season
In October, warm temperatures and sunny days are still around for outdoor activities in southern Japan. What's more, it is the last of the best weather of the year to enjoy water activities on the islands.
Sapporo and Northern Japan: Best Autumn Scenery
In October, you can expect cool and dry weather during the daytime. Hiking is one of the best choices for appreciating the colorful natural landscape.
Autumn foliage is in full swing in northern Japan. It lights up the cities and makes outdoor activities more attractive.
Read more about How to Plan Your Trip to Japan >>>
5 Best Places to Visit in Japan in October
1. Kyoto: Soak in Cultural Experiences
Averaging 23°C (74°F) in October, Kyoto is dry and mostly sunny.
Known as a traditional culture hub of Japan, you can explore ancient temples, colorful shrines, and ingenious gardens.
If you're visiting in late October, you'll have chances to appreciate colorful fall leaves, and celebrate the Festival of the Ages (October 22, 2025) — an amazingly authentic historical procession.
2. Osaka: Taste the Real Japanese Food
Osaka in October has a mild temperature getting up to around 24°C (75°F). The comfortable weather offers excellent conditions for outdoor activities.
To best explore this foodie paradise, take a heritage walking tour, discover the hidden historical gems, and hunt for authentic Japanese food...
With smaller crowds than in peak season, you could more fully and peacefully indulge in Osaka's theme parks, like Universal Studios.
3. Hokkaido: Go for Dazzling Autumn Colors
Hokkaido enjoys cooler weather than other areas. You can expect cool daytimes but chilly nights.
The mesmerizing autumn foliage is not to be missed in October. On a sunny day, trek some out-of-the-way paths and catch the best scenery of autumn.
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.
4. Takayama: Get the Real Festival Experience
In October, you'll encounter cool/mild and often sunny days in Takayama. The temperature reaches 20°C (70°F) on average in the daytime.
Takayama features an atmospheric townscape, autumn foliage and traditional festivals. The Takayama Autumn Festival is usually held on October 9th and 10th.
During the festival, stay in a Meiji-era inn, taste the yummy snacks, and see traditional festival floats.
5. Hiroshima: Recall Reflective Memories
The warm and dry weather makes October a brilliant time to visit Hiroshima.
Known for the world's first atomic-bomb strike, visiting Hiroshima could be something educational for families with kids.
Aside from its devastating history, the city is always blessed with lovely autumn hues. If you are a sake lover, don't miss Hiroshima's Sake Festival in early October. Live music, parades, and sake samplings could light up your trip!
Further reading: How to Plan an Incredible Family Trip to Japan >>>
Costs and Crowding
October sees more travelers in Japan compared with September due to the favorable dry weather and cool-to-warm temperatures.
In late October, the leaf-viewing spots usually become crowded during the weekends. Instead, visiting them on weekdays is helpful for a better experience.
Likewise, prices go up slightly, but they are still lower than in cherry blossom season (March to May).
What to Pack
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 modest, long-sleeve dresses. Meanwhile, taking a warm jacket, sweaters, and other heat-trapping layers is suggested for the colder times.
Monthly Weather and Travel Information for Japan
Learn about the weather in Japan for 12 months and find out the best places to visit each month.
Get Inspired with Some Popular Itineraries
At Asia Highlights, we create your kind of journey — your dates, your destinations, at your pace. You can have any trip tailor made for your travel.
