Japan weather & when to go: September

Hokkaido

Sapporo, Niseko, Furano

Japan’s northernmost island is the first place in the country to experience the famous Autumn colours as, from mid-September, the leaves on the deciduous trees turn red, gold and orange. Although not as frantically popular as cherry blossom time, ‘koyo’ is equally picturesque and Hokkaido’s National Parks, brimming with flora, are the perfect place to witness this scenic attraction, especially Daisetsuzan National Park.   

Whilst temperatures in Sapporo drop in September, daily average temperatures are still fairly high in the first half of the month (avg temp: 20°C), although evenings are noticeably cooler, so it’s worth packing a light jumper. There is a higher chance of rain in September, although Hokkaido escapes the typhoon generated rainfall that the rest of the country is experiencing this month.  

Honshu

Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, Hiroshima

Whilst temperatures in Tokyo, Kyoto and across most of Honshu remain high in September (avg temp: 23-25°C), days can be punctuated with intense periods of rainfall driven by the typhoons that hit the southern islands during the month. Infact, September is the wettest month of the year in Tokyo. Head south-west to Hiroshima and Osaka for sunnier days with less rain.

Shikoku & Kyushu

Matsuyama, Fukuoka, Nagasaki

Summer temperatures continue throughout the islands of Shikoku and Kyushu in September (avg temp: 24°C), although there is still a realistic threat of typhoons during the month. 

Okinawa Islands

Naha, Okinawa, Kerama

Peak typhoon season continues in September meaning days can be wet, with strong winds throughout Okinawa and Kerama. Infact, this month is the wettest of the year for Japan’s southernmost islands. Having said that, temperatures are still pushing 30°C, which means Okinawa is the warmest place in Japan in September.