Shizuoka Weather in October

Season: Autumn
Key points: mildly cool; moderate rainfall; fewer tourists

Mildly Cool Overall

Average Temperature: 16-19℃ (61-66℉)

With mildly cool weather in Shizuoka, October is a favorable period to savor the autumn atmosphere. Daytime is mostly quite warm: high temperatures stay around 25℃ (77℉) in early October, but perhaps rise to 29℃ (84℉) for 2-3 days; during the rest of time, ones fall to 20-25℃ (68-77℉). People often feel a chill in the air when the sun is absent: the temperature is around 9 degrees Celsius (48 degrees Fahrenheit) lower than during the day, and it varies from around 20℃ (68℉) at the start of the month to 10℃ (50℉) at the end of the month.

When is the first snowcap formation on Mount Fuji?

Generally speaking, Mount Fuji sees its first snowfall early in the month, after which the top is covered in a thin layer of fresh snow. However, as the climate of Shizuoka in October becomes warmer in recent years, the timing may be postponed for about 20 days, moving to late October. To guarantee you can see the first snowcap of Mount Fuji, keep an eye on relevant information and adjust your travel route in time. You may want to know these practical tips:
1. Recommended viewing locations: Miho no Matsubara and Nihon Daira Yume Terrace.
2. Visit time: early mornings on sunny days - most likely to see the clear panorama of Mount Fuji throughout a day.

Moderate Rainfall

Average Relative Humidity: around 74%

The precipitation of Shizuoka in October averages 170 mm (6.7 in), accumulating from 15 rainy days. Most of the month, rain is drizzly and intermittent, followed by moderate rain. In some rainier years, all-day rain can be expected for 2-3 days with daily rainfall no more than 40 mm (1.6 in). Because of fickle weather conditions in this month, it’s always smart to check the real-time weather forecast and get an umbrella or a raincoat ready before you head out.

During this period, Shizuoka is still possibly affected by typhoons. It’s best not to get close to the coast such as Jogasaki Coast just in case, even if the typhoon is not intense.

Daylight Hours & Sunshine Hours

Sunrise Time: 05:43 - 06:09
Sunset Time: 16:56 - 17:34
Daylight Hours: 10 hours 46 minutes - 11 hours 50 minutes 
Average Sunshine Hours: roughly 5 hours each day

The duration of daytime in October averages no more than 12 hours, which means you should plan your travel schedule wisely to make full use of time. You’re advised to start your day early since this allows you to not only visit more scenic spots, but also catch the sunrise. 

Pros and Cons for Shizuoka Trip in October 

 Pros: 
1. Pleasant temperatures and moderate rainfall make October a suitable time for traveling outside. 
2. With fewer visitors, shop owners have more spare time to chat with you, which is a nice channel to learn more about local cultures and customs.

 Cons: 
1. There are no large-scale events and activities during this period. Though you can attend fireworks shows including Atami Fireworks Festival in mid-October and Dogashima Sunset Fireworks in early October, their scale is far less magnificent and lively than summer’s counterparts.
2. The month is not an optimal window to capture the snowcapped Mount Fuji and admire stunning autumn leaves.

Packing List for Shizuoka in October

 Clothing: Short sleeve T-shirts and thin overalls are suitable outfits for your daily sightseeing in early October; in the middle of the month, it’s advised to change the top to a long sleeve one or add a light jacket outside; towards the end of the month, pack hoodies, lightweight down jackets or fleece coats and jeans.

 Footwear: Well-fitting sneakers or casual shoes are all great options.

 Others: The UV index in this month declines from 6 to 4, so light UV protection is sufficient, like thinly applying SPF30+ sunblock and wearing sunglasses, which is also a good way to add a touch of fashion.

Travel Recommendations & Tips

1. During early October through mid-November, many places in Shuzenji Onsen Town are adorned with colorful potted chrysanthemum flowers. Also, it’s advisable to enjoy a hot spring here in the chilly evening. 
2. If you plan to visit Izu Peninsula in October, its seasonal seafood Ise lobster is worth savoring.  It has been regarded as a top-quality delicacy for a delightful mix of chewy texture and sweet flavor. During the Ise Lobster Festival between early October and November, you can get a feast for your appetite.

Shizuoka Weather by Month