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Japan Weather & Temperature in Fall (Autumn)
Fall (September–November) is one of Japan's most beloved seasons, and for good reason: the weather is comfortable, skies are clear, and the whole country slowly transforms into a canvas of red, orange, and gold. Still, what you'll actually feel on your trip depends a lot on when you go and where you are in Japan.
Early Fall (September) – Warm with Typhoons
September often feels like an extension of summer. Daytime highs linger between 25–30°C (77–86°F) in Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, though nights are cooler. Hokkaido starts cooling down earlier, with highs around 20–23°C (68–73°F). This month can be rainy, as it's still typhoon season, especially in southern and coastal regions.
What you get: Warm sightseeing days, fewer crowds after the summer rush, and the very first touches of autumn in the north.
Mid Fall (October) – Crisp & Comfortable
By October, the air turns fresh and dry — one of the best times to be outdoors. Cities like Tokyo and Kyoto hover around 18–23°C (64–73°F), while Hokkaido is already much cooler at 12–17°C (54–63°F). The weather is stable, perfect for walking tours, temple visits, and scenic train rides. Autumn foliage also begins in Hokkaido and the Japanese Alps.
What you get: Ideal travel weather, golden ginkgo trees, and the start of leaf season in northern and higher-altitude areas.
Late Fall (November) – Cool & Colorful
November is when autumn truly shines. Average highs drop to 10–17°C (50–63°F) in Tokyo and Kyoto, with chilly evenings around 5–10°C (41–50°F). Hokkaido may already see its first snow, while central Japan peaks with fiery autumn leaves. It's the most photogenic time of the year.
What you get: Peak koyo (autumn foliage) in most regions, cozy evenings with hot sake or ramen, and fewer typhoons or rainy days.
Quick Temperature Guide (°C / °F)
| City / Region | September (Avg) | October (Avg) | November (Avg) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tokyo | 22–30°C / 72–86°F | 15–23°C / 59–73°F | 10–17°C / 50–63°F |
| Kyoto | 21–30°C / 70–86°F | 14–22°C / 57–72°F | 8–16°C / 46–61°F |
| Osaka | 23–31°C / 73–88°F | 16–24°C / 61–75°F | 10–17°C / 50–63°F |
| Hiroshima | 22–29°C / 72–84°F | 15–22°C / 59–72°F | 9–15°C / 48–59°F |
| Fukuoka (Kyushu) | 23–30°C / 73–86°F | 16–23°C / 61–73°F | 11–17°C / 52–63°F |
| Sapporo (Hokkaido) | 16–23°C / 61–73°F | 9–17°C / 48–63°F | 1–10°C / 34–50°F |
| Nagoya | 22–30°C / 72–86°F | 15–23°C / 59–73°F | 9–16°C / 48–61°F |
| Nikko (Tochigi) | 18–26°C / 64–79°F | 10–19°C / 50–66°F | 3–12°C / 37–54°F |
| Takayama (Alps) | 18–26°C / 64–79°F | 9–18°C / 48–64°F | 2–11°C / 36–52°F |
| Nara | 21–29°C / 70–84°F | 14–22°C / 57–72°F | 8–15°C / 46–59°F |
When - Best Time to Visit Japan in Autumn: Forecast by Region
Japan's autumn foliage is like a slow-moving wave of color that starts in the north (Hokkaido) in late September and finishes in the south (Kyushu) by early December. This makes fall one of the longest and most scenic seasons for travel across the country.
To help you plan the perfect trip, here's when and where to catch the autumn colors across Japan in 2025, according to the latest forecast.
See the map below for a visual timeline of Japan's fall foliage by region.
地图
Traveling in October? Head North for Early Foliage!
- Hokkaido (late September – mid October)
As Japan's northernmost island, Hokkaido is the first to burst into color. Visit Daisetsuzan National Park, Sounkyo Gorge, or Noboribetsu for dramatic mountain foliage.
- Tohoku (early – late October)
Regions like Aomori, Akita, and Iwate offer golden forests and peaceful hot springs. Don't miss Lake Towada and Oirase Gorge during peak color around mid to late October.
Traveling in November? It's Peak Season in Central Japan!
- Kanto (Tokyo area, early to mid-November)
Parks and temple gardens like Rikugien, Showa Kinen Park, and Nikko show their fiery best in early to mid-November.
- Chubu (Nagano, Takayama, Fuji area)
Mountain towns and lakes like Kamikochi, Hakone, and Lake Kawaguchi boast stunning maple and ginkgo scenery through November.
- Kansai (Kyoto, Osaka, Nara – mid to late November)
This is the classic postcard version of Japan in fall. Temples like Kiyomizudera, Eikando, and Tofukuji in Kyoto are painted in vivid red hues — a must-see.
Traveling in December? Head South for the Final Foliage!
- Chugoku (Hiroshima)
Late autumn colors linger in places like Miyajima Island and Shukkeien Garden.
- Kyushu (Fukuoka, Kumamoto, Nagasaki)
Warm southern weather gives Kyushu a late leaf season. Try Kirishima, Kurokawa Onsen, or Mount Aso for scenic views.
Japan Autumn Leaves Forecast 2025 (Updated Info!)
Planning a 2025 fall trip? Here's the latest projected peak timing for popular foliage spots across Japan. While weather can cause slight variations, these are the best windows to catch peak colors:
| Region | Location | Forecast Peak 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| Hokkaido | Daisetsuzan | Sep 23 – Oct 10 |
| Tohoku | Oirase Gorge | Oct 10 – Oct 25 |
| Kanto | Nikko | Nov 5 – Nov 15 |
| Chubu | Lake Kawaguchi | Nov 10 – Nov 20 |
| Kansai | Kyoto (Eikando, etc.) | Nov 15 – Nov 30 |
| Chugoku | Hiroshima | Nov 25 – Dec 5 |
| Kyushu | Kumamoto, Aso | Dec 1 – Dec 10 |
Where - Best Places to Visit in Japan in Autumn: Top Destinations for Fall Foliage
From the mountains of Hokkaido to the gardens of Kyoto, here are the best places in Japan to catch the blazing colors of autumn — broken down by specific viewing spots and peak times.
1. Kyoto - King of Japan's Autumn Foliage
Kyoto is the undisputed champion of autumn in Japan. With its elegant mix of maple-filled temple gardens, peaceful pathways, and traditional wooden architecture, it offers a depth of color and cultural beauty that's hard to beat.
In just 1–2 days, you can fully immerse yourself in the ancient capital's seasonal charm.
| Kyoto Spots | Autumn Highlights | Best Time |
|---|---|---|
| Kiyomizu-dera | Hilltop UNESCO temple with sweeping forest views; magical evening light-ups | Mid to late November |
| Eikando Temple | Iconic hillside garden glowing with thousands of maples; famous for night illuminations | |
| Tofukuji Temple | Massive wooden bridge over a valley of red maples; classic photo spot | |
| Arashiyama | Scenic train ride, bamboo groves, riverside views; Tenryuji Temple garden glows |
Kyoto's autumn leaves are more than just a spectacle, check more popular foliage spots in Kyoto Autumn Guide>>
2. Nikko - Sacred Shrines in a Sea of Color
Just two hours from Tokyo, Nikko is a historic mountain town known for its ornate UNESCO shrines nestled in dense forests. Come autumn, the entire area glows with deep reds and yellows, creating a stunning contrast with the ancient temple architecture.
With easy access and plenty of trails, Nikko is perfect for a 1–2 day autumn getaway, especially for first-time visitors.
| Nikko Spots | Autumn Highlights | Best Time |
|---|---|---|
| Toshogu Shrine | Lavish, gold-decorated shrine framed by colorful maple and cedar trees | Early to mid-November |
| Shinkyō Bridge | Bright red sacred bridge contrasting beautifully with surrounding foliage | |
| Lake Chuzenji | Mountain lake with panoramic autumn reflections; perfect for lakeside walks or cruises | Late October to early November |
| Kegon Falls | Dramatic 97-meter waterfall surrounded by fiery forested cliffs |
3. Hakone – Hot Springs & Autumn Views
Hakone is autumn relaxation at its finest. Imagine soaking in a hot spring while surrounded by colorful hills, or cruising across Lake Ashi with Mt. Fuji in the distance.
Just an hour from Tokyo, it's ideal for a laid-back, leaf-filled escape with ropeways, scenic spots, and cozy ryokan stays.
| Hakone Spots | Autumn Highlights | Best Time |
|---|---|---|
| Lake Ashi & Hakone Shrine | Tranquil lake with torii gate views, Mt. Fuji backdrop, and maple-lined shores | Early to mid-November |
| Hakone Ropeway & Owakudani | Aerial views of colorful mountain slopes and volcanic valleys |
4. Mount Fuji Area – Reflections of Red and Gold
The area around Mt. Fuji becomes especially beautiful in fall, with clear skies and colorful trees surrounding lakes and shrines. Few things beat a photo of Fuji framed in fiery foliage. Ideal for a day trip or a slow-paced overnight stay.
| Mt. Fuji Spots | Autumn Highlights | Best Time |
|---|---|---|
| Momiji Corridor | Famous Fuji reflections with vibrant maple tunnel; top photo spot | Early to mid-November |
| Arakurayama Sengen Park | Iconic 5-story pagoda framed by Mt. Fuji and fiery foliage |
5. Nara – Ancient Temples Among Golden Leaves
If Kyoto is the star, Nara is its peaceful little sister — full of charm, fewer crowds, and just as much beauty. Nara combines peaceful deer parks, ancient wooden temples, and gentle hills glowing with fall colors.
It's a perfect autumn side trip from Kyoto or Osaka.
| Spot | Autumn Highlights | Best Time |
|---|---|---|
| Nara Park | Roaming deer under golden ginkgo and red maples | Mid to late November |
| Kasuga Taisha Shrine | Lantern-lined forest paths glowing with seasonal color | |
| Mount Wakakusa | Gentle hike with panoramic city views and colorful hillside foliage |
6. Tokyo – Urban Autumn Escapes
You don't have to leave the city to enjoy Japan's fall foliage. Tokyo bursts with color in its parks and gardens. The best part? It's all easily accessible by train, making it perfect for those with limited time.
| Spot | Autumn Highlights | Best Time |
|---|---|---|
| Shinjuku Gyoen | Peaceful garden with diverse tree species and a burst of fall colors | Mid to late November |
| Meiji Jingu Gaien (Icho Namiki) | Golden ginkgo-lined avenue; Tokyo's most iconic fall walkway | |
| Rikugien Garden | Edo-style landscape garden with maple tunnels and night illuminations | Late November to early December |
7. Nagano & Kamikochi – Alpine Autumn Adventures
For highland drama and crisp mountain air, head to Nagano and Kamikochi. Here, autumn comes early and bold — rivers sparkle, larch trees turn golden, and hiking trails lead you through postcard-worthy scenery.
It's an outdoor lover's paradise in October, with fewer crowds and endless views.
| Spot | Autumn Highlights | Best Time |
|---|---|---|
| Kamikochi Valley | Alpine rivers and peaks wrapped in golden larch trees | Early to mid-October |
| Togakushi Shrine Trail | Sacred forest path with vibrant foliage and mountain serenity | Mid to late October |
| Shiga Kogen | Highland resort with panoramic trails and crisp mountain air | Mid-October |
8. Kamakura – Coastal Colors & Zen Temples
Just an hour from Tokyo, northern Kamakura offers a peaceful mix of coastal views, bamboo groves, and atmospheric temples dressed in fall colors. Add in ocean views and bamboo groves, and you've got a perfect day trip with fall color and tradition.
| Spot | Autumn Highlights | Best Time |
|---|---|---|
| Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine | Kamakura's main shrine framed by autumn foliage and a grand approach | Late November to early December |
| Hasedera Temple | Hillside temple with coastal views and colorful gardens | Late November |
| Kenchoji Temple | Japan's oldest Zen training monastery, serene with fiery autumn colors | |
| Engaku-ji | Zen temple with peaceful pathways and vivid maple trees |
9. Hokkaido - Early Foliage in September
Hokkaido kicks off Japan's fall season in late September with wide-open national parks, crisp air, and rugged beauty. From the dramatic cliffs of Shiretoko to the alpine valleys of Daisetsuzan, this is where autumn begins — wild, vivid, and unforgettable.
Best for nature lovers and early-season travelers.
| Spot | Autumn Highlights | Best Time |
|---|---|---|
| Daisetsuzan National Park | Japan's first fall foliage of the year; dramatic peaks and valleys | Late September to early October |
| Sapporo (Maruyama Park, etc.) | City parks burst into autumn color with easy access from downtown | Early to mid-October |
| Shiretoko National Park | Untamed wilderness with coastal cliffs and colorful mountain slopes | Early to mid-October |
How - Travel Length & Best Autumn Itinerary Ideas
With Japan's fast and efficient train network, you can easily design a route that hits multiple highlights within 1–2 weeks.
Short Trips (5–7 days) – Focus on a region. Try Tokyo + Nikko + Hakone, or go cultural with Kyoto + Nara. Foliage will be rich, varied, and easy to access.
Longer Trips (8–10 days) – Want more colors and fewer crowds? Start in Hokkaido or Nagano in early October, then head south to Tokyo, Kamakura, and Kyoto by mid to late November.
Not sure how to plan your trip? Here are three easy-to-follow Japan autumn itineraries that balance foliage, culture, and convenience.
1. For First-Timers (8 Days): Osaka – Nara – Kyoto – Tokyo – Mt. Fuji
This classic route is perfect for first-time visitors. Start in Osaka, then take a short hop to the peaceful temples and deer parks of Nara. Dive into autumn culture in Kyoto, where fiery maple leaves surround golden temples. Then ride the shinkansen to Tokyo for a taste of modern Japan before finishing with a day trip to Mt. Fuji's lakeside foliage at Kawaguchiko or Hakone.
Highlights: Kyoto's gardens, Tokyo's parks, and iconic Mt. Fuji views with fall colors.
2. For Nature Lovers (7 Days): Tokyo – Nikko – Hakone – Mt. Fuji
Based in Tokyo and want to escape the city? This foliage-packed loop includes the UNESCO temples and mountain trails of Nikko, the volcanic valley and lake views of Hakone, and the Fuji Five Lakes region around Lake Kawaguchiko. You'll be soaking in hot springs, riding cable cars, and chasing maples all week long.
Highlights: Nikko's waterfalls, Owakudani's steam vents, and the golden Momiji Corridor by Lake Kawaguchiko.
3. For Outdoor Adventurers (5 Days): Nagoya – Nakasendo – Matsumoto – Kamikochi – Takayama – Nagoya
Love hiking and quiet mountain towns? Start in Nagoya, then walk a scenic stretch of the Nakasendo Trail (like Magome to Tsumago). Continue to castle-town Matsumoto, then explore the alpine wonderland of Kamikochi, glowing with larch trees and crisp mountain air. End with a relaxing stay in Takayama, before returning to Nagoya.
Highlights: Nakasendo's forest trails, Kamikochi's golden alpine valleys, and rustic ryokans in Takayama.
4. For Families with Kids (5 Days): Osaka - Kyoto - Nara - Osaka
Looking for a relaxed, fun-filled autumn escape that kids and adults will both enjoy? Start in Osaka, where street food and skyline views will wow everyone. Explore Kyoto's vivid temples and gardens—kids will love the colorful leaves and charming streets. Make a half-day hop to Nara for a deer-filled adventure at Nara Park. Then, end your trip with a full day of thrills at Universal Studios Japan.
Highlights: Kyoto's gardens, Nara's deer park, and Universal Studios in Osaka.
What to Do Besides Leaf-Peeping
Yes, the red and gold leaves are the stars of the show—but autumn in Japan offers so much more. Here's what else you can enjoy while chasing the fall colors:
Soak in an Onsen with a View
Imagine sitting in a steaming outdoor hot spring, surrounded by fiery autumn trees. Places like Hakone, Nikko, and Kinosaki Onsen turn into magical retreats in fall.
Bonus: the crisp air makes the soak feel even better.
Feast on Seasonal Comfort Food
Autumn is Japan's harvest season, so the food gets extra delicious. Warm up with chestnut rice, sweet potatoes, mushroom hot pot (nabe), grilled sanma fish, and seasonal wagashi (Japanese sweets).
Don't miss trying momiji manju (maple-leaf shaped cakes) in places like Hiroshima.
Go for a Scenic Hike
Autumn is hiking season. Trails are cooler, clearer, and bursting with color. Try short nature walks in Arashiyama (Kyoto), Nikko's Lake Chuzenji area, Kumano Kodo, or the trails around Kamikochi and Mt. Takao. Even urban parks like Tokyo's Mt. Mitake offer a dose of nature.
Join a Local Festival
Fall is also festival season. Look out for events like the Jidai Matsuri (Kyoto), Takayama Autumn Festival, and Kurama Fire Festival. These colorful celebrations pair perfectly with the fall foliage, and offer a taste of tradition in a vibrant setting.
Insider Tips for Autumn Travel in Japan
How to Avoid Crowds at Popular Spots
Go early (really early!)—like 7–8am for top temples or parks.
Visit on weekdays whenever possible.
Choose lesser-known gems like the Kiso Valley, Mount Rokko, or the gardens in Kanazawa.
Stay overnight near hotspots like Lake Kawaguchi, Nikko, Hakone, or Kamakura to enjoy quieter mornings and evenings.
What to Pack: Layering Is Key
Autumn weather in Japan is famously changeable. Mornings and evenings can be chilly, while afternoons feel warm and sunny.
Here's your go-to packing list:
- Light jacket or down vest
- Sweaters or long-sleeve shirts
- T-shirts for sunny days
- A scarf or warm hat for the mountains
- Comfortable shoes (especially for park strolls and temple stairs)
Weather Warnings: Typhoons & Cold Snaps
September still sees occasional typhoons, especially in southern Japan—check forecasts if you're visiting early fall.
October to November is generally dry and cool, but cold snaps can arrive suddenly, especially in the mountains (like Daisetsuzan or Hakuba).
Photography Tips for Capturing Autumn Colors
Golden hour (sunrise or sunset) brings out the best warm tones.
Look for reflections—ponds, lakes, and even temple floors (like Eikando in Kyoto) can double the color.
Get low or frame with leaves for dramatic depth and contrast.
Don't forget night shots—many gardens and temples like Kiyomizu-dera and Eikando Temple have evening light-ups in November that are pure magic.
Pro tip: bring a tripod for low-light shots, and clean lenses often—moisture from onsens or morning mist is real!
Explore Autumn in Japan with Asia Odyssey Travel Japan
Want to chase the best fall colors across Japan without the stress of planning? Asia Odyssey Travel Japan offers tailor-made autumn trips that fit your pace and passions — whether you're into temples, onsens, food, or mountain hikes.
What you can expect with us:
✅ Ready-to-go tour packages covering all the top autumn destinations: Kyoto Tours, Nara Tours, Mount Fuji Tours, Hokane Tours
✅ Latest destination guides with top things to do: Kyoto Attractions, Hakone Attractions, Mount Fuji Guide
✅ Comprehensive transportation strategy between hot spots: Tokyo to Nikko, Osaka to Kyoto, Tokyo to Mount Fuji, Tokyo to Hakone
✅ Easy-to-read tourist maps with attractions and routes: Kyoto Maps, Nikko Maps, Hakone Maps, Mount Fuji Maps
Let us help you enjoy the very best of Japan's autumn — at the right place, right time, and with zero guesswork.
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