The week begins with mostly sunny to cloudy skies across Japan, accompanied by a gradually increasing chance of rain as the weekend approaches.

A shifting weather front is expected to bring unsettled conditions midweek, particularly around September 10–11, when warm, moist air may trigger heavy rain, especially along the Sea of Japan side of western Japan. In some areas, the rainfall might be strong enough to cause travel delays or weather warnings, so it’s a good idea to stay updated.

Conditions may settle briefly around the 12th, but by the weekend, another weather system could sweep through northern Japan, bringing rain back to parts of the country — particularly on the Sea of Japan side from east to west.

Temperatures will be comfortable in the north (like Sapporo), and warm and humid in the middle and south (like Tokyo and Naha), with highs still reaching the low to mid-30s Celsius.

As of September 8, forecasts indicate that no typhoons are approaching mainland Japan.

Japan's typhoon season runs from May through October, with most activity from July to September. During a typhoon, transit delays and cancellations can be expected. Be sure to stay updated on the latest weather and flight information. For real-time updates on railways and airports, visit LIVE JAPAN's transport information page.

September marks the transition from summer's peak to the gentle embrace of autumn. While the intense heat begins to fade, a new season of cultural and natural beauty emerges. This is an ideal time to experience Japan's shift, from the last of the summer festivals to the beginning of the harvest season.

Across Japan, the arrival of autumn is celebrated with various festivals. The Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri in Osaka Prefecture is one of the most thrilling, where teams pull giant, elaborately carved floats through the streets at high speed.

For nature lovers, September is the perfect time to visit Hokkaido, where the first signs of autumn foliage appear on the mountains. At Daisetsuzan National Park, you can witness the leaves turning fiery shades of red and gold, a precursor to the nationwide fall colors that will follow in the coming months.

As the days cool, the focus shifts to Japan's culinary traditions. This is the harvest season, and markets and restaurants begin to feature seasonal delights. You can enjoy freshly harvested rice, sweet potatoes, and chestnuts. It’s a great time to explore local food festivals and try seasonal Japanese foods and delicacies.

Expect a warm week in Tokyo, with highs around 30–35°C (86–95°F) and overnight lows around 22–25°C (72–77°F). Skies will be mostly cloudy, with some sunshine peeking through. Rain chances increase mid-week, then taper off toward the weekend.

Sapporo will enjoy mild, comfortable temperatures in the mid-to-high 20s°C (77–82°F), with a good mix of sunshine and clouds. Rain chances increase later in the week.

Expect a mix of clouds and sun, with light rain possible early in the week. Temperatures will hover in the mid-20s°C (77–79°F), making for a comfortable stay.

Osaka stays hot this week, with highs of 32–35°C (90–95°F) and sticky nights in the high 20s°C (79–82°F). Cloudy skies dominate, with rain likely mid-to-late week.

Expect mostly cloudy skies and frequent chances of rain in Fukuoka. Temperatures will range from the mid-to-high 20s°C (77–86°F), with humidity staying high.

A warm, tropical week ahead in Naha, with highs in the upper 20s to low 30s°C (82–90°F). Expect humid conditions, cloudy skies, and daily rain chances hovering around 20–40%.

The forecast was AI-generated and then human-edited. Source for forecast and images: Japan Meteorological Agency website (www.jma.go.jp)

Whether you're planning to be in Japan this week or later this year, check out these fun things you can add to your itinerary!