Japan Travel Tips in October: Journey to Enjoy Autumn Leaves and Brilliant Festivals

In the fall, traveling to Japan in October will definitely be a choice that you will never regret. October is when the land of the rising sun enters the most beautiful time of the year: clear blue skies, cool, pleasant air and especially the scene of red leaves starting to dye the hills, parks, temples. Not only the scenery, October is also the season of traditional festivals and typical cuisine, making your journey both romantic and cultural.

I. Ideal weather in Japan in October

Japan's weather in October is cool and dry, extremely favorable for exploring nature, festivals and cuisine . (Photo: Collected)

October is considered the best time to travel to Japan. The average temperature ranges from 12–22°C, not too cold or too hot, bringing a pleasant feeling for the whole journey. The sky is clear, there is little rain, convenient for walking to see the red leaves, climbing mountains, or exploring ancient cities. This is also the time when autumn enters its brilliance, when the rows of maple and ginkgo trees put on a beautiful red and yellow coat.

• North (Hokkaido): Temperature from 8–15°C, cool weather, the earliest place to be covered in red leaves.
• Central region (Tokyo, Nagoya): 15–22°C, cool, suitable for city sightseeing.
• South (Kyushu, Okinawa): 18–25°C, still warm, ideal for combining beach tourism and nature exploration .

In general, when traveling to Japan in October, you only need to prepare a thin coat, comfortable shoes and a small umbrella to guard against sudden autumn rains.

When traveling to Japan in October, you will see the natural scenery change dramatically. Maple leaves (momiji) and ginkgo leaves (icho) begin to turn yellow and red. The highlands such as Hokkaido, Nikko, or Tateyama Kurobe are the first places to welcome the "wave" of red leaves, creating a stunningly beautiful natural picture. And it is also the time of many famous festivals: Takayama Festival, Jidai Matsuri Festival in Kyoto, or Kawagoe Festival in Saitama, giving visitors the opportunity to both enjoy the scenery and immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere imbued with traditional Japanese identity.

>> See Japan autumn tour:
1. Japan: Tokyo - Mount Fuji - Oshino Hakkai - Kyoto - Osaka (Helicopter Experience, Tokyo Bay Dinner Cruise, Kobe Beef Experience)
2. Japan: Tokyo - Disneyland - Mount Fuji - Oshino Hakkai - Fujiten Park - Nagoya - Kyoto - Kobe - Osaka (4 nights hotel, Enjoy Kobe beef & tea ceremony experience - wear Yukata, Fruit picking)

II. Top 8 ideal destinations when traveling to Japan in October

If you are ready to immerse yourself in the colors of autumn, here are the top 8 ideal destinations when traveling to Japan in October that you cannot miss.

1. Hokkaido – The earliest red leaf paradise

Daisetsuzan – The place with the most brilliant red leaves in Japan in October. (Photo: Collected)

Hokkaido is the first place in Japan to welcome the autumn leaves season , which usually starts from the end of September and lasts until the end of October. The scenery at Daisetsuzan National Park or Lake Akan makes visitors feel like they are lost in a giant ink painting. The cool air, the mountains covered in red and yellow, and the onsen hot springs make Hokkaido a true paradise for relaxation. In particular, you can also enjoy fresh seafood - an indispensable "specialty" when coming to Northern Japan.

2. Nikko – Cultural heritage in harmony with nature

Toshogu Shrine in Nikko is brilliant in autumn. (Photo: Collected)

Nikko (about 2 hours by train from Tokyo) is famous for Toshogu Shrine - a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In October, the scenery around the shrine is covered in red and yellow leaves, blending with the ancient architecture to create a beautiful picture. In addition, the 97m high Kegon Falls pouring down in the middle of a bright red maple forest is also a check-in spot that attracts tourists.

3. Kyoto – The ancient capital with brilliant autumn colors

The philosophical path in Kyoto, red leaves begin to bloom in October. (Photo: Collected)

Kyoto is beautiful all year round, but October is especially special. Famous temples such as Kiyomizu-dera, Eikando, or Arashiyama appear magically among the carpet of red and yellow leaves. Walking along the stone-paved roads, admiring the red maple trees mixed with ancient tiled roofs, you will clearly feel the nostalgic and romantic "autumn" of Japan.

4. Tokyo – Autumn colors in the heart of a bustling city

Icho Namiki Avenue is bright yellow in Tokyo in October. (Photo: Collected)

Not only modern, Tokyo in October is also brilliant with autumn colors at famous parks such as Shinjuku Gyoen, Yoyogi, or Rikugien Garden. Strolling around the bustling capital, admiring the red leaves in the park and stopping by small cafes along the road, you will see that Tokyo has a "soft side" very different from usual. In the evening, you can experience more vibrant neighborhoods such as Shibuya, Shinjuku to clearly see the interesting contrast between modernity and nature.

5. Nara – Meet deer in the autumn leaves

Kurobe Dam among the red leaves of October. (Photo: Collected)

Nara is famous for the deer that roam freely in Nara Park. In October, the park turns into a carpet of red and yellow leaves, creating a poetic and unique scene. Visit Todai-ji Temple with its giant Buddha statue, or stroll around the ancient streets, you will feel a rare sense of peace. The experience of feeding senbei crackers to deer in the middle of autumn will definitely leave many unforgettable memories.

6. Osaka – Autumn colors and street food

Takayama old town is sparkling in autumn and festivals. (Photo: Collected)

Osaka is not only a culinary paradise, but also very beautiful in autumn. Osaka Castle amidst the red and yellow leaves is majestic and romantic. Visiting Minoo Park to see Minoo Waterfall amidst the brilliant maple leaves is also an extremely memorable experience. Don't forget to stroll around Dotonbori at night, enjoy takoyaki, okonomiyaki in the chilly air, the standard taste of Japanese autumn.

7. Kanazawa – Traditional beauty in the red leaf season

Mount Fuji reflected on Lake Kawaguchiko in autumn. (Photo: Collected)

Kanazawa still retains many traditional Japanese features. Kenrokuen Garden is one of Japan’s “Three Great Gardens.” In October, it is picturesque, with red and yellow leaves reflecting on the lake. Strolling around the old Higashi Chaya neighborhood, you can admire traditional wooden houses while sipping matcha tea in the peaceful autumn air.

8. Fuji Five Lakes – Admire the symbol of Japan in autumn colors

Osaka Castle stands out among the red leaves in October. (Photo: Collected)

There is nothing more wonderful than admiring the majestic Mount Fuji amidst the red and yellow leaves in the Fuji Five Lakes area. Among them, Lake Kawaguchi is the most famous red leaf viewing spot, especially in October when the trees change color. Admiring the symbol of Japan, enjoying the fresh air and taking top-notch "virtual life" photos will definitely be an unforgettable memory of the trip.

>> See Japan tour fall 2025:
1. Japan: Tokyo – Mount Fuji – Oshino Hakkai – Kyoto – Osaka (4 nights hotel) | Experience the shinkansen & watch the Geisha show (6 days 5 nights)
2. Japan: Tokyo – Mount Fuji – Oshino Hakkai – Kyoto – Osaka (4 nights hotel) | Experience the shinkansen & watch Geisha performance | Experience tea ceremony and wear Yukata to walk around town (6 days 5 nights)
3. Japan: Tokyo - Mount Fuji - Oshino Hakkai - Kyoto - Kobe - Osaka (4 nights hotel) | Experience the shinkansen & enjoy Kobe beef | Visit Shibuya Avenue | Free gold-plated ice cream (6N5D)

III. Special Japanese festivals in October

Jidai Matsuri Festival in October – Recreating the history of the ancient capital of Kyoto. (Photo: Collected)

Autumn is also a golden opportunity to both admire nature and immerse yourself in culture when traveling to Japan in October:

• Jidai Matsuri (Kyoto, October 22): Reenact the 1,100-year history of the ancient capital of Kyoto with a procession of thousands of people dressed in traditional costumes.
• Takayama Autumn Festival (Gifu, early October): One of Japan's three largest festivals with magnificent floats.
• Kawagoe Festival (Saitama, mid-October): Bustling street festival with floats and traditional music.
• Halloween in Tokyo and Osaka: Vibrant atmosphere, unique costumes, especially in Shibuya (Tokyo).

IV. Japanese cuisine in October – The season of unforgettable sweet and savory flavors

Matsutake mushrooms – A rare specialty only available in autumn in Japan. (Photo: Collected)

• Matsutake Mushroom: A rare, aromatic mushroom, often cooked with rice or soup.
• Hokkaido snow crab: Fatty, sweet meat, a specialty of autumn in Northern Japan.
• Baked sweet potatoes: Popular street food, sweet, fragrant.
• Roasted chestnuts: A signature autumn flavor, sold in abundance at festivals.
• Persimmon (kaki): Sweet, crunchy or soft, often used as a gift.
• Grilled Mackerel (Saba Shioyaki): A rustic dish with a strong Japanese autumn flavor.

V. Experience of traveling to Japan in October

Experience a complete and economical trip to Japan in October. (Photo: Collected)

To make your October trip to Japan as complete and comfortable as possible, you should keep in mind a few small tips below:

• Clothing: The weather in October is generally quite pleasant, just bring a light jacket or a thin scarf. However, if your trip includes a stop in Hokkaido or the highlands, you should prepare extra warm clothes to avoid catching a cold when the temperature drops at night.
• Transportation: Japan is famous for its modern transportation system. To save money when traveling to many cities, you can buy a JR Pass (a convenient train pass) for tourists. If you want to shorten the time, domestic flights are a suitable choice for long routes such as Hokkaido - Tokyo - Osaka. In addition, for those who want to optimize costs, night buses are also very popular and safe.
• Small note: Since October is the peak season, you should book hotels, train tickets or plane tickets in advance to avoid the situation of "sold out tickets". Bringing cash is necessary because many small stores in Japan still do not accept international cards. Don't forget to prepare a 4G sim or pocket wifi to conveniently look up information and directions during the trip.

VI. Suggested 7-day itinerary when traveling to Japan in October

7-day itinerary for traveling to Japan in October, exploring from Tokyo to Hokkaido. (Photo: Collected)

If this is your first time in Japan, check out this itinerary to make the most of your fall trip:

• Day 1–2: Tokyo – visit Asakusa, Ueno Park, Icho Namiki Avenue.
• Day 3: Nikko – Kegon Falls, Toshogu Shrine.
• Day 4: Kawaguchiko – see Mount Fuji and Lake Kawaguchiko.
• Day 5: Kyoto – Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Philosopher's Path.
• Day 6: Osaka – Osaka Castle, Dotonbori Food Street.
• Day 7: Hokkaido – Daisetsuzan Park or Sapporo.

October is the golden time to experience the land of the rising sun. From the brilliant red leaves, cool air, to unique cultural festivals and delicious cuisine... all make a trip to Japan in October an unforgettable journey. Make plans today so you don't miss out on this beautiful autumn!
-
For more information about the program, please contact:
VIETRAVEL
190 Pasteur, Xuan Hoa Ward, HCMC
Tel: (028) 3822 8898 - Hotline: 1800 646 888
Fanpage: https://www.facebook.com/ vietravel
Website: www.travel.com.vn

Source of article: Collected and compiled
@traveltips #traveltips

_CN_

Source: https://www.vietravel.com/vn/am-thuc-kham-pha/du-lich-nhat-ban-thang-10-hanh-trinh-mua-thu-la-do-v17927.aspx