Japan Weather in September

In September, the peak typhoon season, Japan weather is unstable with high precipitation, and you are highly likely to encounter rainy days during your stay. In terms of temperatures, northern regions like Hokkaido are comfortably mild throughout the month, while southern areas such as Okinawa stay hot all month long. Central regions, including Tokyo, experience weather that transitions from hot to relatively cool.

Still A Little High Temperature

September marks the onset of autumn in Japan. However, temperature-wise, most regions still retain the lingering heat of summer.

Overall, areas like Okinawa in the southernmost part of Japan show no significant cooling trend and remain scorching. Daily highs typically range from 28-31 degrees Celsius (82-88 degrees Fahrenheit), while lows generally hover between 25 and 27°C (77-81°F). The temperature gap between day and night is only about 3-5 °C (5-9°F), and you will feel hot throughout the day.

A Bit Hot Nara in September

Moving northward to central Japan cities like Tokyo and Kyoto, temperatures begin to show a slight downward trend this month. The beginning and middle parts of the month often remain somewhat hot, with daytime temperatures around 25-30°C (77-86°F). Occasionally, the peaks may still reach around 35°C (95°F). By the last few days of the month, temperatures typically drop to around 20-25°C (68-77°F), making the weather more comfortable.

Further north, the temperatures grow increasingly lower. Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost region, experiences notably cozy and cool conditions this month. Taking Sapporo as an example, temperatures in the first half of the month typically range from 20-25°C (68-77°F), dropping to around 15-20°C (59-68°F) in the latter half. Occasionally, nighttime temperatures may fall to around 10°C (50°F), a bit cold levels.

Peak Typhoon Season with Much Rain

September in Japan typically sees quite high precipitation, making it one of the wettest months of the year. Most cities experience 10-15 rainy days on average during this period. In addition to the convergence of cold and warm air masses, another major factor leading to the high precipitation during this time is typhoons - September ranks among Japan’s most active months for typhoons.

Typically, the region most affected by typhoons is southern Japan, including Okinawa and Kyushu. Consequently, cities here experience higher precipitation than others, which often exceeds 200 mm on average. Moreover, they will see more extreme downpours this month, which may even stop you from going out. If you are planning a visit to these areas in September, be sure to monitor typhoon warnings in advance.

Itsukushima Shrine after a Typhoon

Central Japan may also experience typhoons this month, but the likelihood is lower than in the south. So, precipitation is slightly less, typically around 150-200 mm on average, and the chance of heavy rain is also smaller. However, the average number of rainy days in these areas still exceeds 10, making it crucial to monitor weather forecasts during your trips.

The northernmost region of Hokkaido is rarely affected by typhoons but remains relatively rainy this month. On average, rainy days still reach around 10 this month. On the bright side, however, unlike the regions mentioned above, precipitation here is typically in the form of light rain, with heavy or torrential downpours being uncommon.

Daylight Hours/Sunshine Hours

In September, the daylight hours in Japan shorten from nearly 13 hours to around only 12 hours. Towards the end of the month, the sun rises at around 05:30-06:30, while the day gets dark as early as around 17:30-18:00. So, to get enough time to travel around, you may need to get up a little early.

Due to the rainy weather, most cities experienced an average of 4-5 sunshine hours per day this month. Of course, if you plan to travel to cities in Hokkaido, you can expect an average of about 6 hours of sunshine per day.

Crowds and Costs of Japan Trips in September

For most of September, Japan sees relatively fewer tourists, and you won’t feel crowded during your trips. Hotel and flight prices are also more affordable. However, September 19th to 23rd, 2026, marks Japan’s “Silver Week”. During this time, the Japanese enjoy a long holiday comprising a weekend, Respect for the Aged Day, and the Autumn Equinox. They usually take advantage of this extended break to travel, resulting in large crowds across Japan. Accommodations and air tickets become difficult and expensive to book due to the surge in demand.

Quiet Normal Days in September

Crowded Silver Week

Is September A Recommended Month to Visit Japan?

Specifically, early to mid-September is not highly recommended for traveling to Japan. In early September, most cities are still quite hot, making outdoor activities less comfortable. Mid-September sees no significant drop in temperatures and coincides with the crowded Silver Week holiday period, leading to unpleasant travel experience. If this is your only available time, Hokkaido offers a more pleasant climate and is a better choice.

Late September, by contrast, offers more favorable conditions for sightseeing: Except for destinations like Okinawa in the far south, you will not feel hot in most cities. Moreover, tourist numbers are lower, allowing for a quiet and relaxed journey.

Warm but Not Hot Late September

However, it’s crucial to note that September is peak typhoon season. If you plan to visit Japan this month, monitor weather forecasts closely so that you can adjust your itinerary promptly if necessary.

Can I See Fall Foliage in Japan in September?

Yes, you can. However, only a few locations offer views of colorful leaves at this time. Specifically, you need to visit higher-elevation areas in Hokkaido with lower temperatures, like Asahidake, the mountains within Daisetsuzan National Park, to see them. If you wish to witness large-scale fall foliage in Japan, mid-October to early-December is a more recommended time.

See Also: Japan Fall Foliage Forecast

Fall Foliage in Hokkaido

Activities You Should Not Miss in Japan in September

1. See Japan’s earliest autumn foliage in Hokkaido.
2. Before around September 10th, you can still climb Mount Fuji.
3. Visit local festivals and experience unique cultures. For example, at Osaka’s Kishiwada Danjiri Festival held in mid-September, you will witness men in traditional attire pulling massive Japanese-style floats and sprinting around corners at full speed.
4. Some regions still host large-scale fireworks festivals this month.
5. During September 13th - 27th in 2026, you can see Sumo Wrestling Matches in Tokyo.

Sumo Ring

Mount Fuji in September

What to Bring When Visiting Japan in September

 Clothes and Shoes:
1. For southern places like Okinawa: In still hot September, you are recommended to pack light-colored and breathable summer clothes like T-shirts, shorts, and dresses. You can also prepare thin jackets for occasional cool moments or for the intense sunlight. As for shoes, sandals are both cool and convenient for water activities.
2. For central places like Tokyo and Kyoto: During the first half month, the clothes mentioned above for southern places are also suitable. During the second half month, it’s still OK to wear T-shirts plus shorts or skirts during the daytime, but when nights fall, you need to put on thin long pants and knitwear. Thin and comfortable casual shoes are advised to pack.
3. For northern places like Hokkaido: During the first half month, short or long-sleeved shirts plus jeans are suitable outfits during the daytime, but remember to add thin jackets or knitwear during the nighttime. If you plan to visit these places in the second half month, you even need to pack trench coats for the cool nights. As for shoes, choose comfortable sneakers.

 Others: Since the climate of Japan in September is rainy, raincoats, umbrellas, and waterproof and non-slip shoe covers should be prepared.

Tips for Visiting Japan in September 

1. During typhoon season in September, in addition to monitoring typhoon warnings daily as mentioned above, it’s also advisable to schedule one extra day of flexibility in your itinerary to avoid disruptions to your plan caused by flight delays or cancellations.
2. If possible, avoid traveling to Japan between September 19th and 23rd in 2026, the 5-day public holiday. If you fail to do so, you need to book your hotel and flights as early as possible before departure to spend less and gain more available choices, and start your trip early per day for a quieter travel experience.
3. If you can’t tolerate the heat, avoid traveling to the country in early September. If it cannot be avoided, stay indoors between 12:00 and 14:00 to prevent an uncomfortable experience.

September Weather of Major Cities in Japan