Japan in Autumn: Where to Go, What to Do, the Weather, & More

Autumn is an excellent time to visit Japan, offering natural beauty, cultural experiences, and comfortable travel conditions. The country comes alive with spectacular fall colors, providing stunning backdrops for sightseeing and photography. The season also brings numerous festivals and events, from traditional harvest celebrations to modern art exhibitions. Additionally, autumn in Japan presents unique culinary opportunities, with seasonal ingredients featured in traditional and contemporary cuisine.

Autumn in Japan generally brings mild and pleasant weather, with temperatures gradually cooling from September through November. Daytime highs typically range from 82°F in September, dropping to 64°F in November, depending on the region, while nights can be even cooler. The country sees less rainfall compared to summer, offering clearer skies and better visibility for sightseeing. However, occasional typhoons can occur, particularly in September and October, so it's wise to check weather forecasts when planning your trip.

Kyoto • Best Place for Sightseeing

Kyoto stands out as the best place for sightseeing in Japan during autumn, offering a breathtaking blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. The city's numerous temples and gardens, such as Kiyomizu-dera and Arashiyama, transform into vibrant canvases of red, orange, and gold foliage. Kyoto's traditional architecture and serene landscapes provide perfect backdrops for experiencing momijigari, the Japanese custom of autumn leaf viewing. The city also hosts various seasonal events and light shows, among them harvest moon viewing and Jidai Matsuri, Festival of the Ages, featuring people dressed in costumes from historical Japanese periods.

Kanazawa • Best Place for Great Weather

Kanazawa, on the Sea of Japan coast, offers mild autumn weather, with average daytime temperatures ranging from 79°F in September to 61°F in November, and less rainfall than many other parts of the country. The city's proximity to the sea moderates temperature extremes, creating comfortable conditions for exploring historic districts like Nishi Chaya and beautiful gardens such as Kenroku-en. Visitors can enjoy the vibrant fall foliage in Kenroku-en or along the Asano River without the crowds often found in more popular autumn destinations. This makes it a perfect place to experience Japan's autumn splendor.

Tokyo • Best Place for Families with Children

Tokyo is an excellent place for families with children visiting Japan during autumn. The city offers a blend of entertainment, education, and seasonal charm. Enjoy the autumn colors in spacious parks like Ueno or Yoyogi and visit child-friendly museums such as the Ghibli or National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation. The comfortable weather makes it ideal for outdoor activities, while the city's efficient transportation system and family-oriented amenities ensure a stress-free vacation for parents and children.

Tohoku Region • Best Place to Escape the Crowds

The Tohoku region, particularly its rural areas, offers an excellent escape from crowds during Japan's autumn season. This part of Honshu Island bursts with spectacular fall foliage without the bustling crowds found in more popular destinations. Explore serene landscapes, soak in secluded hot springs, and experience harvest festivals in relative tranquility. Areas like Towada-Hachimantai National Park or the samurai town of Kakunodate provide stunning autumn views and rich cultural experiences, allowing you to immerse yourself in Japan's fall beauty at a more relaxed pace.

Hakone • Best Place for Couples or Honeymooners

Hakone is a fabulous destination for couples or honeymooners in Japan in autumn. The romantic hot-spring town provides stunning views of Mount Fuji framed by vibrant fall foliage, creating picture-perfect moments for couples. Enjoy intimate ryokan stays with private onsen baths, take scenic rides on the Hakone Ropeway for panoramic autumn vistas, or stroll hand in hand through the outdoor sculpture garden at the Hakone Open-Air Museum. The area's peaceful atmosphere and proximity to Tokyo make it an ideal retreat for couples seeking relaxation, natural beauty, and cultural experiences.

Chase Autumn Colors

The autumn leaf-viewing tradition of Momijigari remains a beloved Japanese pastime during the changing season. Join locals in admiring the vibrant fall foliage at iconic spots like Kyoto's Arashiyama district or Tokyo's Rikugien Gardens. Many parks and temples offer special illuminations in the evening, creating a magical atmosphere as the colorful leaves glow against the night sky.

Soak in Outdoor Onsen Amidst Fall Foliage

Experience the ultimate relaxation by bathing in outdoor hot springs surrounded by autumn colors. Regions like Tohoku, with its Zao onsen, and Nagano, with its Shirahone onsen, offer numerous ryokans with rotenburo, or outdoor baths, that provide stunning views of the fall foliage. The contrast of warm, soothing waters and cool, crisp air creates a uniquely Japanese autumn experience.

Savor Seasonal Autumn Delicacies

Autumn in Japan brings a variety of seasonal ingredients and dishes. Visit Nagano for the Matsumoto Soba Festival, which highlights the famous noodles, or Gifu for its Hida Takayama Autumn Festival, an event that combines traditional events with local foods. Don't miss out on autumn-limited flavors in popular snacks and drinks, such as chestnut or sweet potato chocolates and pumpkin spice lattes with a Japanese twist. Autumn is also matsutake mushroom season in Japan and you will find the delicacies all over the country.

Attend Traditional Harvest Festivals

Immerse yourself in Japanese culture by participating in autumn harvest festivals. The Takayama Autumn Festival in Gifu Prefecture features elaborate floats and traditional performances, while the Kanto Festival in Akita showcases lanterns balanced on poles, dance, and music. These events offer insights into rural traditions and often include food stalls and craft markets.

Experience a Koyo Cruise on Lake Towada

Embark on a koyo, or autumn foliage, cruise on Lake Towada. These boat tours offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains ablaze with autumn colors, reflected perfectly in the calm lake waters. The serene atmosphere and stunning scenery make this a truly memorable way to experience Japan's fall beauty.

Autumn in Japan offers a blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and comfortable weather, making it an ideal time to explore this fascinating country. From stunning fall foliage and seasonal festivals to unique culinary delights and outdoor activities, Japan in autumn provides unforgettable memories for visitors of all interests and ages.

For more inspiration and detailed information on planning your autumn trip to Japan, see our Japan travel guide or our Japan tours.