Japan in autumn is a season that blends natural beauty with cultural depth. As summer’s humidity fades, the country enjoys clear skies, vibrant foliage, and festivals that have been observed for centuries. Travelers often find this the most enchanting time to visit, thanks to the colorful landscapes and seasonal traditions that shape daily life.
When is Autumn in Japan
Autumn in Japan typically spans from September to November, although the timing of seasonal changes varies by region. Northern areas like Hokkaido start cooling down as early as late September, while southern prefectures such as Kyushu and Okinawa retain warmth until November. This period is defined by crisp mornings, comfortable afternoons, and the gradual transformation of green forests into a tapestry of red, orange, and yellow.
Autumn Weather in Japan
The weather during autumn is often regarded as the most pleasant of the year. September may still bring lingering typhoon activity, but by October, clear skies dominate much of the country. Average daytime temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C, with cooler evenings in the mountains and northern areas. This climate makes it ideal for outdoor sightseeing, hiking, and enjoying the cultural festivals that mark the season.
When and Where to See Autumn Leaves in Japan
The Japan Meteorological Corporation (JMC) has still not published its official forecast, so the above map is based on historical estimations. Once the JMC releases its official forecast, JoynTokyo will update accordingly.
The highlight of autumn in Japan is the brilliant foliage, known locally as koyo. The turning leaves follow a wave-like pattern from north to south, beginning in Hokkaido in late September and gradually reaching Kyoto, Tokyo, and Kyushu through late November. Travelers can plan their journeys according to this schedule to witness peak colors across different regions, and resources like the Japan Meteorological Corporation’s autumn forecast provide helpful updates on when the colors are expected to peak.
For an in-depth guide, see our article on Momijigari in Japan — the traditional pastime of autumn leaf viewing.
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Autumn Events and Festivals in Japan
Japan’s autumn calendar is filled with events that blend history, spirituality, and celebration. From quiet evenings of moon-viewing to lively parades and food festivals, these gatherings highlight the season’s cultural richness.
Tsukimi
Tsukimi, the traditional moon-viewing festival, takes place in September or October depending on the lunar calendar. Families and friends gather to admire the harvest moon while offering pampas grass and rice dumplings called tsukimi dango. Temples and shrines across Japan often host special events with poetry recitals, tea ceremonies, and musical performances. For details, see our Tsukimi Guide.
Halloween in Japan
Halloween has become a modern autumn highlight, especially in major cities like Tokyo and Osaka. Locals and visitors dress up in elaborate costumes, and entire districts such as Shibuya transform into outdoor street parties. Theme parks including Universal Studios Japan and Tokyo Disneyland host Halloween-themed parades and attractions. Discover more in our full Halloween in Japan article.
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Autumn Equinox in Japan
The autumn equinox, or Shubun no Hi, is a national holiday that usually falls around September 23. On this day, families visit ancestral graves, tidy the grounds, and leave offerings of flowers and food. It is also a time to reflect on balance in nature and in life, marking the midpoint between summer and winter. Temples often hold special ceremonies, giving the day a solemn and spiritual atmosphere.
Sapporo Autumn Fest
Held throughout September in Sapporo’s Odori Park, this festival is one of the largest food events in Japan. Local restaurants and breweries set up stalls, offering everything from Hokkaido seafood and cheese to craft beer and regional specialties. It is a celebration of harvest season and a chance to enjoy the flavors that make Hokkaido famous. The event attracts both domestic and international visitors eager to experience the island’s culinary culture.
Takayama Autumn Festival
The Takayama Autumn Festival, held in Gifu Prefecture, is regarded as one of Japan’s three most beautiful festivals. Ornate floats decorated with intricate carvings and traditional dolls are paraded through the historic streets of Takayama’s old town. In the evening, the floats are illuminated with hundreds of lanterns, creating a magical atmosphere. The festival honors the harvest and local deities, showcasing craftsmanship and cultural pride.
For more Autumn Festivals in Japan, check out this article!
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Autumn Flowers in Japan
While the fiery colors of autumn leaves capture most of the attention, flowers also play an important role in Japan’s seasonal scenery. Gardens, temples, and parks across the country bloom with blossoms that symbolize resilience, beauty, and the passage of time. Many of these flowers are tied to cultural traditions and appear in festivals, poetry, and even family crests.
Chrysanthemums
Known as kiku in Japanese, chrysanthemums are the national flower and a symbol of longevity and the imperial family. They bloom in October and November, and chrysanthemum exhibitions are held at major shrines and temples such as Tokyo’s Yasukuni Shrine and Kyoto’s Heian Shrine. The flowers are carefully cultivated in elaborate shapes and sizes, reflecting centuries of horticultural artistry.
Red Spider Lilies
Called higanbana, these striking crimson flowers appear around the autumn equinox in September. They are often planted along rice paddies and temple paths, creating vivid carpets of red against the green countryside. While beautiful, the flowers also carry associations with parting and the afterlife, which is why they are commonly seen during equinox ceremonies.
Cosmos
Cosmos flowers bloom widely in October, painting fields and gardens with soft shades of pink, purple, and white. These cheerful blossoms are associated with harmony and modesty, and they thrive in sunny, open landscapes. Popular viewing spots include Showa Memorial Park in Tokyo and Hananomiyako Park near Mount Fuji, where vast flower fields stretch toward the horizon.
Autumn in Kyoto Japan
Kyoto is one of the most celebrated destinations for autumn foliage. Temple gardens, riversides, and historic districts become illuminated with vibrant colors that reflect on ponds and traditional architecture. Peak viewing usually arrives in mid to late November, when iconic spots like Kiyomizu-dera, Tofuku-ji, and Arashiyama present breathtaking landscapes. Evening light-up events at temples further enhance the atmosphere, creating an unforgettable seasonal experience.
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Autumn in Hokkaido Japan
Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island, ushers in autumn earlier than the rest of the country. Starting from late September, its national parks such as Daisetsuzan and Shiretoko burst into color. The cooler temperatures and wide open landscapes provide dramatic views of mountains, lakes, and forests framed in vivid autumn hues. For those seeking to escape the crowds of Kyoto and Tokyo, Hokkaido offers a quieter yet equally stunning alternative.
Autumn Fashion in Japan
Fashion also shifts dramatically during autumn. Locals move from summer’s light clothing to stylish layers, incorporating jackets, scarves, and boots into their wardrobes. Japanese fashion houses and street styles showcase seasonal colors that mirror the foliage, with earthy tones and cozy fabrics becoming prominent. For travelers, this season offers the perfect excuse to shop in Tokyo, Osaka, or Kyoto’s fashionable districts.
