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

As the leaves turn and the days become comfortably cool, September is a wonderful time to visit Japan, with myriad activities and experiences to uncover.

Enjoy outdoor adventures such as scenic trails, including the famous Nakasendo Way and the pilgrim trails of the Kumano Kodō. Experience a thrilling atmosphere when witnessing the Kishiwada Danjiri Festival float parade in Osaka and taste delicious wagyu beef at a food event in Tokyo’s Hibiya Park.

Fewer visitors ensure a more relaxed pace for sightseeing at key destinations, with shorter lines and ample time to fully immerse yourself in Japan’s rich cultural heritage, deep-rooted traditions, and natural beauty that adorns the landscapes throughout the country.

As the autumn leaves start to fall, temperatures begin to drop, with a comfortable average of between 68 and 84 degrees Fahrenheit in the major cities of Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and Fukuoka.

The mild temperatures later in the month provide an ideal setting for leisurely strolls through tranquil gardens, peaceful temples, and vibrant city streets, allowing you to savor the essence of Japan at a more unhurried pace.

September can see some rainfall and the air is humid in the early part of the month, but this presents the perfect opportunity to indulge in wonderful indoor activities. Learn the art of making sushi during a cooking class or take your family to the Pokemon Centre. Consider exploring the Hokkaido region, which experiences less rainfall.

Okinawa • Best Place for Great Weather

With warm days and mild evenings abounding in September, Okinawa offers a warm opportunity to experience its great outdoors. Take advantage of the mild weather to hike scenic trails or embark on exhilarating forest excursions.

Later in the month, as temperatures cool, you can enjoy the fresh breeze as you horseback ride along Okinawa’s pristine beaches, allowing you to soak in the region’s natural beauty from a unique vantage point.

The weather in Okinawa in September is pleasant, and if you happen to be a keen fisherman, you can enjoy an outing to catch and enjoy delectable red sea bream.

Five Fuji Lakes • Best Place for Families with Children

The Five Fuji Lakes region, at the northern foot of the iconic Mount Fuji, is an excellent destination for families visiting Japan in September.

You and your loved ones can enjoy leisurely hikes or bike rides along the scenic trails surrounding the lakes while marveling at the views of Mount Fuji’s majestic peak. The region’s numerous parks and picnic areas provide idyllic settings for family outings and outdoor adventures.

The Five Fuji Lakes region boasts interactive museums, such as the Fuji Visitor Center, where you and your little ones can learn about the area’s rich cultural and geological history through engaging exhibits and hands-on experiences.

Miyajima Island • Best Place for Romantic Scenery

Miyajima, a picturesque island located in Hiroshima Bay, is an enchanting destination for couples seeking a romantic getaway in Japan during September.

With its mild autumn weather and stunning natural beauty, Miyajima offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. You can stroll hand in hand through the island’s ancient shrines and temples, such as the iconic Itsukushima Shrine, which seems to float on water during high tide.

The vibrant foliage that adorns the island’s maple trees in September adds a touch of romantic splendor to the already captivating landscapes. Additionally, Miyajima’s tranquil beaches and secluded hiking trails provide ample opportunities for couples to bask in the breathtaking scenery and create lasting memories together, making it a truly unforgettable romantic destination.

Yakushima Island • Best Place to Avoid the Crowds

Yakushima Island, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site off the southern coast of Kyushu, is an ideal destination if you are seeking to escape the crowds during your visit to Japan in September.

This lush, tropical island is renowned for its ancient cedar forests, pristine hiking trails, and unspoiled natural beauty. September’s comfortable temperatures and lower humidity levels create perfect conditions for exploring Yakushima’s great outdoors, including the iconic Jōmon Sugi, a towering cedar tree estimated to be over 7,000 years old.

Families can embark on scenic hikes through the island’s lush landscapes, encounter diverse flora and fauna, and immerse themselves in the tranquility of nature without the distraction of large tourist crowds for a truly serene and memorable experience.

Witness Tokyo’s Sumo Tournament

The Aki Basho, or Autumn Sumo Tournament, is one of the six grand sumo tournaments held annually in Japan. Taking place in September, this iconic event showcases the country’s national sport at its finest, as the highest-ranked sumo wrestlers (or “rikishi”) compete in an intense display of skill, strength, and tradition. You can witness the wrestlers’ elaborate ceremonial rituals, feel the electrifying atmosphere within the hallowed sumo halls, and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage surrounding this ancient martial art.

Participate In the Harvest Moon Festival

The Tsukimi (Moon Viewing) Festival is a traditional Japanese celebration that takes place in September, when the full moon is at its brightest and most beautiful. Families and friends gather outdoors, often in parks or gardens, to admire the stunning harvest moon and give thanks for the year’s crops. Iconic tsukimi dango (round, sweet dumplings) are enjoyed, along with other seasonal delicacies, while appreciating the moon’s celestial beauty and the arrival of autumn.

Explore Maneki-Neko Day

Each year on September 29, Japan celebrates Maneki Neko Day, a delightful occasion dedicated to the beloved beckoning cat figurines. These iconic feline statues, believed to bring good luck and fortune, can be found in numerous shops, restaurants, and homes across the country. During this day, festivities abound in places like Tokyo’s Imado Shrine, where visitors can admire impressive displays of maneki neko figurines, participate in special ceremonies, and even adopt their own lucky charm to take home as a souvenir of this unique Japanese cultural experience.

From the breathtaking autumn foliage that blankets the landscapes to the vibrant festivals celebrating the harvest season, Japan in September offers a truly enchanting experience. Mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and a plethora of unique cultural events and outdoor activities make this month an ideal time to immerse yourself in the nation’s rich heritage and natural splendor.

For more inspiration on planning the perfect fall trip, explore our Japan tours or find new ideas and insights with our Japan travel guide, invaluable resources to ensure an unforgettable journey.