Shirakawa-go Weather in October

Season: Autumn

What is the weather like in Shirakawa-go in October?
1. The weather changes from warm in early October to mild by the end of the month.
2. Rainfall is relatively low, and 12 rainy days often see light rain.
3. Late October is fall foliage season and a peak time of travelling.

Comfortable Weather

Average Temperature: 9 - 19℃ (48.2 - 66.2℉)

October brings fresh and cool air to Shirakawa-go, making it one of the most pleasant periods for travel. In the beginning of the month, you feel comfortably warm as day temperatures usually stay around 20 - 25 degrees Celsius (68 - 77 degrees Fahrenheit). Then, it gets mild with ones slowly going down to 15 - 20℃ (59 - 68℉) at the end of the month. Meanwhile, night temperature also has a downward trend, ranging from 10 - 15℃ (50 - 59℉) to under 10℃ (50℉), but in some colder years, it can reach as low as 0℃ (32℉).

With the temperature dropping, the leaves gradually change their color. Around the late October, Shirakawa-go steps into the best time to admire autumn foliage.

Rainfall

October’s rainfall in Shirakawa-go sharply decreases to 239mm (9.4 in), but it’s still higher than other plain cities in Japan, such as Tokyo and Nagoya. There would be around 12 days with frequent light rain. Besides, most rainfall lasts a bit long, more than 6 hours, so be sure to bring along raingear, if you plan to come here during this period of 2026. The first half of the month is prone to receive heavy rain, but don’t worry too much as it only happens occasionally.

The relative humidity in the village also falls to the low level of 83%, that you feel pleasant when going outside.

Daylight Hours/ Sunshine Hours

As sunrise is delayed from 5:25 to 5:48 and sunset is advanced from 18:23 to 17:38, the daily length of daytime varies from 12 to 13 hours on average, meaning that you need to speed up your travel pace a little bit. Though clear days are on the rise, overcast weather in Shirakawa-go still predominates October. Thus, the daily average of sunshine is roughly 5.6 hours.

During this month, UV rays weaken a lot, but its index still reaches up to 7. Thus, some moderate sun-protective measures are required. For example, wear a sunbonnet or sunglasses, and apply SPF 30+ sunblock.

Outfit Ideas for Shirakawa-go in October

Clothes & Pants: For Shirakawa-go climate in early October, short-sleeve shirts and thin sweatpants are highly recommended. As the temperature becomes cooler and cooler, you need to wear thicker clothes. For instance, you can wear a long-sleeve shirt or hoodie and jeans. It’s better to take a warmer outwear such as a windbreaker or trench coat, especially when it is raining or the sun goes down.

Footwear: Walking is the primary way to visit Shirakawa-go, so lightweight sports shoes with good-supportive cushions are optimal. Rainwater makes stone-paved paths more slippery, their soles should be deeply-grooved to improve friction.

Top Things to Do in Shirakawa-go in October

Colorful Autumn Leaves

At the end of the month, the leaves on distant mountains turn yellow and orange, but those within the village need a longer time to change. In this period, the view from the Deai Bridge is as breathtaking as a postcard: in early mornings, when a mist floats above the river, rural houses and colorful foliage make people stop and admire the scene quietly; at dusk, the setting sun casts a warm glow upon the river lined with vivid trees, showing amazing natural charm.

Doburoku Festival

As the grandest celebration in Shirakawa-go, Doburoku Festival is an absolute must-see. It makes up a series of ceremonies held from October 14 to 19 at local shrines successively. Apart from enjoying lion performances, you have a chance to see distinctive possession with an ornate portable shrine and taste unstrained sake brewed by the shrines. You’re advised to head for Shirakawa Hachiman Shrine to experience the festive atmosphere during the first two days.

Travel Advice

1. As autumn foliage season is coming, a peak time of travelling also arrives. Therefore, booking accommodations and confirming transportation options ahead of time are wise ideas. And if you prefer a peaceful and less crowded environment, it’s better to start your journey before 10:00 to avoid the main crowds of tour groups.
2. In autumn, bears are more likely to appear in the village, causing the closure of the hiking trail to Shiroyama Tenshukaku Observation Deck, and visitors only take a shuttle bus to reach here. So, there are many people waiting in long lines, and it’s advisable to go there in the early morning. In more severe cases, shuttle service also possibly suspends, so keep an eye on its notice and make your itinerary more flexible.

Shirakawa-go Weather by Month

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