Hakodate Weather in September

 Season: Autumn
 In short:

1. The Hakodate weather in September is generally cool. At noon in the first half of the month, it may be a little hot.
2. It sees 18 days with some rain.
3. September is not the time to admire autumn foliage, but the time for a cost-effective trip.

Declining Temperature

Average Temperature: 15 - 22℃ (59 - 72℃)

September marks the beginning of autumn in Hakodate when the temperatures slowly go down, and the weather is getting cooler and cooler.

In the first half of the month, the temperature does not drop much, most days with the highs of over 24 degrees Celsius (75 degrees Fahrenheit) and the lows of 16℃ (61℉) or above, so you still feel the lingering of summer. However, the second half of the month experiences a distinct temperature drop: the day temperatures often range from 19℃ (66℉) to 24℃ (75℉) while the night ones are often down to 13 - 17℃ (55 - 63℉); you obviously feel a bit chilly in the early morning and at night. 

Frequent Rainfall

Hakodate Rainy Day

In September, Hakodate has 18 days with some rain, and the average monthly rainfall is 150mm (5.9 in). This month is most likely to be affected by typhoons, so it may see extremely heavy rain. It’s better to check local weather forecast as the time of your trip approaches. 

Due to the frequent rainfall, the relative humidity is 75%, a quite high level compared with other months.

Daylight Hours/ Sunshine Hours

The duration of daylight averages 12 - 13 hours per day, from the sunrise at 5:04 - 5:34 to the sunset at 17:22 - 18:13. If you would like to admire the sunset at Mt. Hakodate, please check the specific sunset time on that day and arrive here 0.5 - 1 hour earlier to secure a good viewing place.

The sunshine hours average only 5 hours each day, which is influenced by lots of rainfall and cloudy days. The UV Index goes down to 6, but it’s still advised to value UV protection.

What should I wear in Hakodate in September?

 Clothes:  In the first half of the month, short-sleeved T-shirts and shorts are suitable during the day, but you need to add a thin jacket against coolness in the early morning and at night. As for the second half of the month, long-sleeved shirts, jeans and cardigans are highly recommended clothes.

 Shoes: Anti-slip, waterproof and comfy sneakers or casual shoes are your best choices given the rainy climate of Hakodate in September. Alternatively, bring along lightweight plastic shoe covers.

 Others: Pack sun-protective things including sunscreen and sun hats. Plus, take rain gear so that you cannot get wet in rain.

Travel Recommendations for Hakodate in September

Travel Recommendation Rate:

Have a city walk

The cool temperatures are favorable for a city walk, and the following places are most recommended: Goryokaku Park, Hachiman-zaka Slope and the Motomachi area with a complex of churches.

Savor delicious cuisines 

The open-air historical plays take place at Goryokaku Park on weekends in July, which is a good way to easily understand important historical events of Hakodate.Hakodate World Music and Dance Festival is usually held in the early August at Motomachi Park, lasting for 3 days. Except for the musical and dance performances by worldwide artists, there are also food stalls where you have the chance to savor international cuisines. This month is a good time to taste a wide diversity of cuisines because there are two premier gourmet feasts. One is BAR-GAI Festival in early September, when you can savor Japanese traditional dishes, various global cuisines and even innovative ones. Another one is Hakodate Gourmet Paradise lasts for 2 days at the Hakodate Green Plaza at the end of the month.

Hachiman-Zaka Slope

Motomachi Area‘s Church

Are there fall leaves in Hakodate in September?

NO, it’s not the right time yet. As September approaches, the foliage in the city just begins to change color. If you would like to enjoy fall leaves in Hakodate in 2025, it’s better to go here during late October to early November.

Travel Tips for Hakodate in September

1. After summer vacation, September is the low season in Hakodate, where tourists rapidly decrease, allowing you to spend less time on queuing up and providing quiet and uncrowded environment. Plus, the prices of hotels and airline tickets are cheaper, for which you enjoy a budget-friendly trip. 
2. Japanese have two public holidays in September: Respect for the Aged Day on the third Monday of the month, as well as Autumnal Equinox Day on Sep. 22 or 23. During these two periods, locals might take 3 consecutive days off from work and go on a trip, leading to a short peak season, so you had better go here during the rest of days to avoid the possible crowds.

Hakodate Weather by Month