Is Japan crowded in October?

Crowds and Costs While foreign tourist numbers begin to pick up in October, this is not such a busy time for Japanese tourists, so many popular places won't be incredibly busy in October.



October is widely considered one of the busiest and most popular times to visit Japan, second only to the spring cherry blossom season. The "shoulder season" appeal of October stems from its nearly perfect weather—mild temperatures, low humidity, and the clear skies that followed the autumn typhoon season of September. While the "Koyo" (autumn foliage) typically peaks in late October for northern regions like Hokkaido, popular tourist cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka see high volumes of international visitors and domestic travelers throughout the month. In 2026, the crowds are particularly dense at major landmarks like Kyoto’s Kinkaku-ji or Tokyo’s Shibuya Crossing. Because October is a prime month for school trips and corporate retreats in Japan, hotels often book up months in advance and prices for accommodations can be significantly higher than in the winter or mid-summer. To manage the crowds, travelers are advised to visit popular shrines at sunrise or explore "secondary" cities like Fukuoka or Kanazawa, which offer a more relaxed pace while still showcasing Japan's stunning autumn beauty.

People Also Ask

October is probably one of the most recommended and popular times to visit Japan. There is a noticeable drop in temperature, with an average temperature in the 60s (?F). October has mild weather patterns in comparison to the recent months and brings drier and crisper air.

MORE DETAILS

The weather is warm but not too hot in most parts of Japan in October. In the major cities of Honshu and Kyushu (Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, Fukuoka), average October highs remain in the low 70s F (low 20s C), but overnight lows drop to the high 50s (around 15° C), so you'll need a sweater.

MORE DETAILS

In summer, many people choose to wear longer skirts or slacks instead of shorts, and few wear tank tops. Pack clothes that aren't too flashy and make sure they're appropriate for the activities and the season you have planned. Bring a dressier outfit if you plan on eating somewhere nice.

MORE DETAILS

In October, long-sleeved shirts or lightweight sweaters are ideal for sunny afternoons. For chillier days a light coat will keep you cozy and comfortable.

MORE DETAILS

April. Besides autumn, April is often considered the best time to visit Japan because the cherry blossom are in bloom and the weather is pleasantly mild.

MORE DETAILS

The best time to visit Japan is between March and May and between September and November as it's both warm and dry between these periods. However, the joys of springtime and the iconic blooming of the cherry blossoms in Japan are no secret, which means you'll be sharing the space with plenty of other travelers.

MORE DETAILS

The typhoon season in Japan runs from May through October, with most activity from July to September. Typhoons that hit Japan are often accompanied by damaging high tides. Persons living in areas close to the ocean are especially at risk. Landslides are also a serious concern during periods of heavy rain.

MORE DETAILS

Shorts, jeans, and camisoles are perfectly fine to wear as long as you don't plan on attending religious sites. While denim isn't a popular fashion choice for those beyond their teen years, black jeans are more acceptable due to their versatile nature.

MORE DETAILS

Try to be mindful of the type of shoes you're wearing, as certain shoes, such as sandals, might not be allowed in some indoor spaces. If you're given slippers at the entrance to a building remember to wear them inside only! We know they're comfy but these aren't meant for sightseeing or as a souvenir!

MORE DETAILS

In July, August, September, and October you have less than a 50% chance of catching sight of any part of Mount Fuji!

MORE DETAILS

There are around 10,000 cherry blossom trees throughout Sakurayama Park (Gunma Prefecture), 3,000 of which are Yoshinos that bloom in spring. However, the majority of them are Fuyu Zakura, which you can see in mid-October and November. That's right, April isn't your only chance to see cherry blossoms!

MORE DETAILS

The weather is warm but not too hot in most parts of Japan in October. In the major cities of Honshu and Kyushu (Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, Fukuoka), average October highs remain in the low 70s F (low 20s C), but overnight lows drop to the high 50s (around 15° C), so you'll need a sweater.

MORE DETAILS