Early September brings a shift in Japan’s summer weather pattern. Expect varied skies across the country: northern Japan will see a mix of sun and showers, central areas like Tokyo and Osaka stay hot with some midweek rain, and southern regions like Naha continue to be warm and humid with scattered rainfall.

According to the latest forecasts, there are no typhoons expected to affect mainland Japan this week.

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 and cloudy week in Tokyo, with highs ranging from 30–37°C (86–99°F) and lows around 25–28°C (77–82°F). Scattered showers are likely from midweek onward, though there may be breaks of sun too.

Sapporo’s weather will be mild and mixed, with some sunny spells early in the week and increased rain chances later. Daytime highs should reach the upper 20s°C (around 77–82°F).

Warm and mostly cloudy conditions will define the week in Sendai, with highs in the high 20s to low 30s°C (82–90°F). Rain chances are relatively low, though a few showers are possible midweek.

Osaka will stay hot and humid this week, with highs between 33–36°C (91–97°F). Expect partly cloudy skies with a higher chance of rain midweek, followed by some clearing toward the weekend.

Expect a mix of clouds, sun, and the occasional shower in Fukuoka. Highs will sit in the upper 20s to mid-30s°C (82–95°F), with a chance of rain scattered throughout the week.

Naha stays warm and humid, with daytime highs in the high 20s to low 30s°C (82–90°F). Sunshine early in the week will give way to more clouds and occasional rain later on.

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!