Visiting Tokyo in Autumn: Travel, Clothing & Weather Guide for September-November (+Foliage Recommendations)
- Written by: Tiffany YU
- Contributor: Mentaiko-san
Autumn is one of the most beautiful times to visit Tokyo. Since the weather for Tokyo in autumn is generally pleasant and cooler, it's also an excellent season for walking around and exploring to your heart's content. Still, it can get a bit chilly at times just before winter sets in!
We've enlisted the help of Ms. Mentaiko, a Taiwanese resident of Tokyo for about 10 years. She's here to guide us through the fashion essentials you might overlook when preparing for a Tokyo adventure in September, October, and November.
From tackling the significant temperature differences to revealing personal favorite hidden sightseeing gems, she's generously sharing all her insider tips for a stylish and enjoyable autumn journey in Tokyo!
(Photo: Ms. Mentaiko's Life and Travel Diary Facebook page)
- Table of Contents
-
- Tokyo Weather Overview for September, October, and November
- Fall Fashion Essentials in Tokyo: Layering & Earthy Tones
- Tokyo Weather & Fashion Tips, Plus Sightseeing Recommendations for September
- Tokyo Weather & Fashion Tips, Plus Sightseeing Recommendations for October
- Tokyo Weather & Fashion Tips, Plus Sightseeing Recommendations for November
- Insider Tips from Ms. Mentaiko! Common Q&A for Your Tokyo Visit
- Dress Right for a Comfortable Enjoyment of Tokyo's Fall – What to wear
Tokyo Weather Overview for September, October, and November
Fall Fashion Essentials in Tokyo: Layering & Earthy Tones
To prepare your wardrobe for an autumn adventure in Tokyo, Ms. Mentaiko recommends paying attention to two important factors: the temperature differences and strong winds.
Select functional materials like wind-resistant fabrics or lightweight down jackets to stay warm and protected.
Layering is also a great way to stay comfortable in the cold. Wear multiple layers of lightweight clothing instead of relying on a thick outer coat.
During early autumn, noon temperatures might still be relatively warm, and if you step indoors with heating, the last thing you'll want is a bulky coat to deal with.
Ms. Mentaiko suggests, "I recommend bringing a wind-resistant jacket or a light down jacket that can be easily folded and stored. Brands like MUJI and UNIQLO in Japan offer such options.
"They are compact to store, lightweight, windproof, and provide warmth. If you still feel chilly, layering with another jacket won't make you feel too heavy. It's perfect for those visiting Tokyo during this time!"
Additionally, the choice of colors in your outfit is an art in itself. In Japanese fall, natural earthy tones like green, white, yellow, and brown are often in vogue. To create a harmonious look with the background in photos, experimenting with these colors is worth a try.
Ms. Mentaiko suggests, "When visiting Tokyo in the fall, especially to see the ginkgo trees, I've found that deep green and off-white natural tones look stunning when captured alongside the golden hues of the ginkgo leaves. The clothing and the golden leaves complement each other beautifully, resulting in gorgeous photos!"
Whether it's dressing in layers or the coordination of earth tones, these fashion choices may not be a part of your typical wardrobe. When in Tokyo, you can take the opportunity to try out these styles and capture the essence of the season!
Tokyo Weather & Fashion Tips, Plus Sightseeing Recommendations for September
In Tokyo, the average temperature in September may not seem high, but in recent years, the weather can still be quite warm.
If you visit Tokyo early in the month, you might not feel the autumn chill too prominently. Typically, it's towards the end of September that the weather gradually starts to cool down, and the temperature difference between day and night becomes more noticeable.
- Average temperature:
- 24.4℃
- Average high:
- 28.8℃
- Average low:
- 21.1℃
- Precipitation:
- 310.0 mm
- Average humidity:
- 81%
- Average temperature:
- 23.3℃
- Average high:
- 27.5℃
- Average low:
- 20.3℃
- Precipitation:
- 224.9 mm
- Average humidity:
- 75%
While Tokyo's September temperatures are not particularly high, the daytime sun can still be quite intense. Outdoor activities might bring about some warmth, so it's advisable to have sunscreen on hand.
Ms. Mentaiko suggests, "I think wearing short sleeves with an additional jacket for the morning and evening temperature differences works well. This way, you can easily adjust to both warmer and cooler moments.
"For kids, it's pretty much the same principle as for adults—pay attention to drying off after sweating, and having a breathable jacket on hand to avoid catching a chill."
It's worth noting that September in Tokyo tends to have higher rainfall, with occasional short but intense showers and the possibility of typhoons. It's advisable to choose outerwear made of lightweight, windproof, and waterproof materials and having a versatile umbrella for both rain and shine is a good idea. Keep an eye on the weather forecast and consider backup plans for rainy or typhoon days.
- Adults
- Opt for short sleeves, adding an outer jacket for easy adjustment to morning and evening temperature differences.
Given the potential daytime warmth and strong sun, it's advisable to have sunscreen and other sun protection products on hand.
Be prepared for possible rain or typhoons with a versatile umbrella.
- Children
- Essentially similar to adults, but pay attention to drying off after sweating.
It's a good idea for kids to have a breathable jacket to avoid catching a chill.
Recommended Tokyo Attractions in September
In the transitional period from summer to fall, September in Tokyo retains a summery atmosphere, but there's also a chance of rain.
The good news is that Tokyo has numerous indoor attractions and facilities to explore even in unpredictable weather.
Places like the underground shopping street at Tokyo Station, the recently opened Yaesu Midtown, museums in Ueno Park, and the diverse shopping malls in Odaiba provide enjoyable experiences without worrying about sun or rain. Many facilities host summer beer gardens that extend into September, offering a chance to savor the tail end of summer while partaking in unique Japanese activities.
Tokyo Weather & Fashion Tips, Plus Sightseeing Recommendations for October
Starting from October, Tokyo's weather becomes noticeably cooler, marking the official arrival of early fall. Daytime temperatures generally range from 20 to 25°C, while nighttime temperatures drop within the 15 to 18°C range. The clear, crisp autumn weather makes outdoor activities comfortable day or night and October is considered the ideal time for sightseeing in Tokyo.
- Average temperature:
- 17.2℃
- Average high:
- 21.5℃
- Average low:
- 13.8℃
- Precipitation:
- 118.0 mm
- Average humidity:
- 75%
- Average temperature:
- 18℃
- Average high:
- 22℃
- Average low:
- 14.8℃
- Precipitation:
- 234.8 mm
- Average humidity:
- 71%
As Tokyo enters fall, there's a noticeable temperature difference between morning, afternoon, and evening. For dressing, you can opt for short sleeves with an open-front jacket, making it easy to adjust without much hassle.
Ms. Mentaiko suggests, "Tokyo's autumn can be quite windy. It's recommended to choose outer jackets that can resist the wind for the outermost layer."
As for kids during this period, their clothing can follow a similar pattern to adults—avoid wearing too many inner layers, add an open-front jacket in the middle layer, and for those sensitive to the cold, an outer layer with a wind-resistant, lightweight down jacket works perfectly.
In early fall, the weather can be somewhat unpredictable. When visiting Tokyo in October, besides choosing lightweight, rain-resistant, and windproof outerwear, it's also essential to have rain gear on hand.
- Adults
- Given the notable temperature differences throughout the day, consider wearing short sleeves with an open-front small jacket for easy adjustment.
Tokyo can be quite windy, so it's advisable to choose outer jackets with wind-resistant features.
With unpredictable weather, having rain gear on hand is a good idea.
- Children
- Follow a similar pattern to adults.
Avoid wearing too many layers on the innermost level. Go with an open-front jacket in the middle layer, and add an outer layer with wind-resistant and lightweight down jacket if it gets chilly.
Recommended Tokyo Attractions and Activities in October
Many visitors hope to catch the autumn foliage in Tokyo in October. However, the city's red leaves usually start to appear more towards November.
For those eager to enjoy the fall colors, it's best to plan a visit to the outskirts, such as Karuizawa or Lake Kawaguchi, where there's a higher chance of seeing the vibrant autumn hues.
Ms. Mentaiko suggests, "By this time, the weather has already cooled down a bit, making it a great time to indulge in hot springs! Places like the Sentos (public baths) in the Musashi-Koyama Shopping Street and the Manyo Club in Yokohama are personal favorites of mine and highly recommended!"
She also adds, "Around the end of October, Halloween events are in full swing. Department stores and amusement parks often host Halloween-themed activities. If you want to join in the fun, you can buy some headbands and accessories at Japanese 100-yen shops for a simple costume. It's a budget-friendly and luggage space-saving way for both kids and adults to enjoy the festive spirit!"
Tokyo Weather & Fashion Tips, Plus Sightseeing Recommendations for November
In November, Tokyo's slightly colder weather creates a genuine autumn atmosphere, with fewer rainy days and lower humidity, providing a more comfortable experience.
In terms of what to wear, during this period, you can treat the Tokyo streets as your personal runway, and as long as you ensure basic warmth, there's no need to worry about feeling cold.
- Average temperature:
- 14.5℃
- Average high:
- 19.1℃
- Average low:
- 10.7℃
- Precipitation:
- 102.5 mm
- Average humidity:
- 70%
- Average temperature:
- 12.5℃
- Average high:
- 16.7℃
- Average low:
- 8.8℃
- Precipitation:
- 96.3 mm
- Average humidity:
- 64%
Ms. Mentaiko suggests, "In November, you can wear hooded T-shirts or thicker tops. I also recommend having kids wear an extra layer of innerwear. After all, with more clothes, kids might sweat more during activities. If the innerwear gets sweaty, it can be easily changed at any time."
In terms of outerwear, Ms. Mentaiko personally recommends functional lightweight down jackets. They are convenient for tourists as they can be easily worn when it's cooler in the morning or evening and taken off when the weather warms up in the afternoon. These jackets provide effective warmth, are lightweight, and are easy to carry around.
Ms. Mentaiko suggests, "When packing, besides pants, I recommend girls bring along a dress or skirt paired with stockings. Adjusting the thickness of lower-body clothing can be challenging; sometimes, wearing something too thick is inconvenient for movement, while fabric that's too thin might be too cold. Wearing a dress with inner pants or stockings can solve this issue!"
As for men, comfortable lightweight bottoms are sufficient. Heavy materials like denim, which are not particularly insulating or waterproof, are not recommended for autumn and winter wear.
- Adults
- Wear hooded T-shirts or thicker tops.
Outer jackets made of functional lightweight down material for warmth, portability, and convenience are recommended.
Women can consider bringing a dress or skirt, paired with stockings.
For men, choose lightweight, comfortable bottoms. Avoid heavy and less insulating denim, as it's not ideal for autumn and winter.
- Children
- Follow a similar concept to adults.
Layer with thicker clothes and add an inner layer for sweating, making it easy to change if needed.
Recommended Tokyo Sightseeing in November
Starting from November, Tokyo's maple leaf spots gradually transition to vibrant red, with peak viewing usually between late November and early December. However, you can enjoy both golden and brilliant red foliage more or less throughout the month.
Ms. Mentaiko suggests, "Locations like Hibiya Park, Meiji Jingu Outer Garden, and Showa Kinen Park are iconic maple and ginkgo spots in Tokyo. They are not far from the metropolitan area, ensuring that transportation won't take up too much time."
Insider Tips from Ms. Mentaiko! Common Q&A for Your Tokyo Visit
We've gathered some common questions about enjoying Tokyo in the fall, and here are the insights of our resident expert, Ms. Mentaiko.
Q1. What should I keep in mind when visiting Tokyo in autumn, and how should I dress?
A. Keep an eye on the temperature differences between day and night and the strong winds. I recommend adopting a layered clothing approach and choosing outerwear made of lightweight, wind-resistant materials.
Q2. Will there be typhoons in Tokyo in September?
A. There's still a possibility of typhoons hitting Japan in September, so it's essential to stay tuned to real-time weather updates.
Q3. Does it snow in Tokyo in October or November?
A. The chances of snowfall in Tokyo during October and November are close to zero. Generally, you'd have to wait until December or January for the winter chill to bring any snow.
Q4. Do I need to wear down jackets or thermal clothing in Tokyo in autumn?
A. As autumn officially sets in from October to November, a light down jacket is a good choice for staying warm and easily adjusting to temperature changes. Thermal clothing might not be necessary during this period, as wearing it as the innermost layer can make it tricky to adjust to temperature variations.
Q5. When is the best time to see autumn leaves in Tokyo, and where should I go?
A. In Tokyo's city center, the leaves typically start turning red around the end of October, with the peak viewing period mostly falling between mid-November and early December. Recommended spots in the city include Hibiya Park, Meiji Shrine Outer Garden, Showa Kinen Park, and Ueno Park.
Q6. Besides enjoying autumn foliage, are there any other recommended places to visit in Tokyo during this season?
A. Consider soaking in the hot springs at facilities like the Manyo Onsen Club in Yokohama. Fall is also an ideal time to explore zoos as the weather is not too hot or too cold.
Q7. Are there any recommended autumn delicacies in Tokyo?
A. Tokyo has many shops selling 'imo' dishes! These treats, made from sweet potatoes, can be found in convenience stores, dessert shops, and restaurants. I highly recommend trying them out. Japan's autumn and winter are also a paradise for seafood lovers, with many places offering special dishes like fried oysters in tonkatsu shops or indulging in all-you-can-eat seafood hot pot. I always make a special effort to indulge in these culinary delights!
Dress Right for a Comfortable Enjoyment of Tokyo's Fall – What to wear
Tokyo's fall weather is incredibly pleasant, making it the perfect time for leisurely strolls through the leaf-filled streets, breathing in the refreshing air. Following the advice of Ms. Mentaiko and adopting a layered fashion approach to handle temperature variations, you can rest assured there won't be significant issues. Before you embark on your journey, be sure to check LIVE JAPAN's weekly updates on Japanese weather to make real-time adjustments to your travel attire!
Important Note:
*Reference data source: Japan Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism Meteorological Agency website.
*The information provided in this article is based on data from October 2023. Actual conditions may vary from the content of this article.
With a background in mass media, Tiffany pursued studied in Japan and achieved JLPT N1 certification. She now writes for different travel platforms, leveraging her communication prowess with her translation abilities to make Japanese content easily understandable. After residing in Japan for three years and gaining experience from Japanese cosmetic shops and departmental help desks, she's profoundly acquainted with the cultural nuances between Taiwan and Japan. Her journeys have spanned areas like Hokkaido, Honshu, Kyushu, and Okinawa. A frequent visitor to Japanese tourist destinations, she enjoys the local cuisine so much that she could eat Japanese ramen for every meal without tiring of it.
Ms. Mentaiko has lived in Japan since 2011. Formerly an editor for a Taiwanese women's magazine, she now works as a freelance writer based in Tokyo. Her work primarily focuses on travel and cultural interviews. She has authored books such as "Ms. Mentaiko's Tokyo Lifestyle Journal," "Tokyo at Second Glance," "Ms. Mentaiko's Hectic Baby Raising Diary," and "Gentle Moments in Tokyo." Currently, while parenting in Tokyo, she provides perspectives on family-oriented travel in Japan and occasionally takes on translation projects for LIVE JAPAN in Chinese, English, and Japanese. She holds a master's degree from the London College of Communication, University of the Arts London. Currently, she balances childcare in Tokyo with providing insights on family-oriented travel in Japan.
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*Prices and options mentioned are subject to change.
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