Nikko Weather in September

 Season: Autumn 
 Overview: 
1. Nikko’s weather in September can be described as balmy or cool. 
2. Nikko receives ample rainfalls this month, but mostly light showers, which rarely affect your outdoor travel plans. 
3. September is one of the best times to visit Nikko, with lovely early autumn foliage views, relatively fewer tourists, and lower costs, apart from favorable weather. 

Temperatures Cooling Down

 Average Temperature: 14-22°C (57-72°F)

September in Nikko marks the transition from summer to autumn with gradually dropping temperature. 

Early September still carries a hint of summer, with average temperatures hovering between 15-25°C (59-77°F). During mid-day, especially on a sunny day, the highest temperature can reach about 27 degrees Celsius (81 degrees Fahrenheit), making you feel a bit hot. 

By late September, Nikko usually enters the autumn season. Its daytime highest temperature plunges to around 11-19°C (52-66°F). On cloudy or rainy days, it can be colder, making an extra layer necessary. 

Rinnoji Temple

Abundant Rainfall 

 Precipitation: 285 mm
 Rainy days: 22 days

September is one of Nikko’s wettest months, and sometimes typhoon hit. While this might sound daunting, most rainfall comes as light showers rather than day-long downpours. Therefore, with a compact rain jacket, you’ll still be able to enjoy outdoor activities. Apart from making waterfalls more spectacular, plenty of rainfall also makes it perfect for white-water rafting in the Kinugawa area. 

Boating on Lake Chuzenji

Quite Humid Environment

High rainfall keeps humidity level high throughout the month: about 86 %. However, thanks to the cooling temperatures, one won’t feel uncomfortably sticky. Instead, you’ll experience a refreshing clarity in the air after each shower, especially in Nikko’s forested and mountainous areas.

Sunshine Hours & Daytime Hours 

Sunshine Hours: about 4 hours
Sunrise: 5:12-5:35
Sunset: 17:26-18:10
Daytime Hours: 11 hours 51 minutes - 12 hours 58 minutes

Due to frequent rainy days, Nikko in September has short sunshine hours, but never underestimate the ultraviolet rays on sunny days. The maximum UV index can reach 8, so it’s best to apply sunscreen in advance. 

Daylight hours gradually decrease, but it’s still enough for a loose schedule. If you intend to catch a sunrise or sunset view, check the exact time and try to arrive at the destination early. The best viewing site is Lake Chuzenji.  

Nikko Sunset View

Is Nikko Worth Visiting in September? 

Of course! September is actually one of the best times to visit Nikko. 

Nikko’s climate in September is variable but acceptable, without being too hot or too cold. Light showers won’t discourage sightseeing, but add some fairy foggy atmosphere. Plus, September in Nikko sees fewer tourists than in July and August, as most Japanese schools start their new term. So you are about to have a relatively peaceful and budget-friendly travel experience. More noticeably, September marks the beginning of the well-known fall foliage viewing season, offering an excellent opportunity to be the first group to catch the stunning scene. 

Torii in Toshogu Shrine

What to Wear in September 

 Upper Clothing: In early September, it’s ok to wear a thin long-sleeved shirt paired with a jacket. By the second half of the month, a warm sweater coupled with a windbreaker is more suitable for cooler weather. 

 Bottom Clothing: Comfortable jeans or sweatpants are ideal for your daily visit. It’s wise to pack thermal underwear to keep warm on rainy days. 

 Footwear: Comfortable sneakers or non-slip boots are your best buddies during the journey. 

 Accessories: 
It’s essential to pack an umbrella or a raincoat. 
Insect repellent adds comfort when you go hiking in the mountain area. 
Don’t forget to take sun-protective measures: wear sunglasses, a sun hat and apply sunscreen. 

Recommended Sites for Fall Foliage View in Nikko: 

1. Odashirogahara and Senjogahara Marshland: By late September, the vast grasslands shift to shades of brown and red, a rare and fascinating sight that makes you feel like walking across a crimson carpet.
2. Yuno Lake: The surrounding mountains begin to change color in mid-September, and by a boat ride, you can admire a vivid blend of green, yellow, and red leaves reflecting on the water.
3. Kinugawa Area: This hot spring area is another excellent spot to catch the early autumn foliage. Visiting in late September offers the best experience: you can soak in the hot spring while appreciating the fresh autumn colors during the day; after sunset, a spectacular evening fireworks show, featuring nearly 20,000 bursts, is waiting for you.

Autumn Lake View

Firework Show

Travel Tips: 

1. There is a public holiday in Japan from the 19th to the 23rd of September, 2026, which is called Silver Week. During this period, you’ll see crowded tourists and a surge in hotel prices. 
2. You are advised to confirm the weather forecast before heading outdoors, so as to protect yourself from sudden changes in temperature or rain. 

Nikko Weather by Month