VISITING JAPAN IN OCTOBER / NOVEMBER: WHAT TO PACK, WHAT TO EAT AND WHERE TO GO

October and November are some of the best months to visit Japan. The humid heat of summer has mostly passed, typhoon season is winding down, and the landscapes transform with the arrival of autumn colors. Whether you’re drawn to bustling city festivals, peaceful temple walks framed by fiery leaves, or hearty seasonal food, Autumn offers a perfect balance of cultural richness, natural beauty, and manageable climates. Below is a guide on what to bring, what to eat, and where to go to make the most of the season.

Travel Essentials

Layered Clothing: Weather and temperature can vary depending on where in Japan you are visiting, but mornings and evenings in October and November can be brisk, especially in northern Japan or higher altitudes. Midday, however, often warms up nicely. We recommend packing long-sleeved shirts, light sweaters or cardigans, and a mid-weight jacket. Layering allows you to adapt to changing conditions. Don’t worry about bringing too much clothing, Japan has plenty of convenient coin-operated laundries!

Proper Shoes: From temple grounds with stone paths to forest trails in national parks, you’ll likely do a lot of walking. Comfortable footwear is essential. Shoes that are easy to slip on and off are also ideal, since many places (ryokan, temples) require them.

Deodorant: As you may already know, the vast majority of East Asians carry a mutation of the ABCC11 gene, which means that many of them do not need to use deodorant. That said, deodorants are available in Japan, but many local products are alcohol-based and tend to be far less effective for Western users. For this reason, it is practical to bring your preferred deodorant with you in your suitcase. Still, if you happen to forget, there is no need to worry: at pharmacies or at Don Quijote stores, you can purchase Deonatulle stick deodorant, which has been Japan’s number one deodorant for seven consecutive years.

Rain Gear: Occasional rain is still possible. A compact umbrella or a rain jacket will help. Waterproof shoes are also helpful if you’re walking in gardens or near rivers.

Plug Adapter and Power Bank: In Japan, outlets are Type A (like in the U.S.) with 100V, so American chargers usually work, though charging may be slower. Europeans will need a plug adapter and possibly a converter if devices aren’t dual-voltage. Since sightseeing days are long and charging spots are limited, a power bank is essential to keep phones and cameras running.

Cash: Even though credit cards are increasingly accepted, it is still recommended to carry some cash for small shops, temples, and emergencies.

Medicines: With the changing temperatures, it’s easy to catch a cold. Don’t forget to bring basic medicines with you, especially if you prefer familiar brands.

What To Eat

October brings a rich array of seasonal flavors that celebrate the harvest. Since you are in Japan, you should try one of the most typical dishes: sushi and sashimi. We especially recommend tasting sanma (Pacific saury) sushi or sashimi, or enjoying the fish simply on its own. This humble yet beloved dish is often grilled with salt and served with a squeeze of citrus.

Matsutake mushrooms, with their distinct earthy fragrance, appear in soups and rice dishes and are prized as a true delicacy of autumn. Unlike ordinary mushrooms, they have a firm texture and a spicy, woodsy aroma with hints of cinnamon. Their subtle flavor is best enjoyed in simple dishes, grilled, steamed with rice, or simmered in a clear broth, allowing their natural fragrance to stand out. Rare and difficult to harvest, matsutake are among Japan’s most luxurious seasonal ingredients.

Kuri (chestnuts) are everywhere this season, not only in kuri-gohan (chestnut rice) and roasted street snacks, but also in sweets like mont blanc cakes, soft-serve ice creams, parfaits, and even limited-edition frozen treats. My personal recommendation is Meiji’s ice cream called エッセルスーパーカップ マロン. This flavor was so delicious that even on the coldest days, I couldn’t stop eating it. 10 out of 10!

Another must-try food is nashi (Japanese pear), which differs greatly from the soft, teardrop-shaped pears most people know in the West. Unlike European varieties that ripen to a buttery, melting texture, Japanese pears are round, almost like an apple, and have a firm, crisp bite. Their skin ranges from golden-brown to yellow-green, and the flesh is exceptionally juicy, with a refreshing sweetness that is lighter and cleaner than that of Western pears.

Where to Go

Momiji at Hokkaido

In Japan, momiji (the autumn foliage season) usually begins first in Hokkaido. If you’re visiting in fall and want to see the leaves at their peak, Hokkaido is the place to be especially in October. The vast landscapes of Daisetsuzan National Park offer some of the earliest and most dramatic displays of crimson maples and golden larches. You can hike mountain trails, relax in hot springs, and taste Hokkaido’s seasonal specialties, from fresh seafood to creamy pumpkin dishes, all while surrounded by breathtaking autumn colors.

For a full list of all the autumn foliage dates in 2025, make sure to check out our Autumn Leaves Forecast!

Nihonmatsu Kiku Ningyo

Every autumn, Nihonmatsu in Fukushima Prefecture hosts the Nihonmatsu Kiku Ningyo (Chrysanthemum Doll Festival), one of Japan’s most famous floral celebrations. Held from early October to mid-November in Kasumigajo Park, the historic ruins of Nihonmatsu Castle, the event features thousands of chrysanthemums arranged in vibrant displays and life-sized dolls dressed in elaborate costumes made from the blossoms. Each year’s theme changes, often depicting historical or cultural figures, creating a unique blend of artistry and tradition. Visitors can stroll through the castle grounds, admire the floral sculptures, and enjoy the crisp autumn atmosphere that makes this festival a highlight of the season.

Jidai Matsuri

Every October 22, Kyoto comes alive with the Jidai Matsuri (Festival of the Ages), one of the city’s three great festivals alongside Aoi Matsuri and Gion Matsuri. This grand historical parade was first held in 1895 to commemorate the founding of Heian-jingu Shrine and celebrate Kyoto’s long history as Japan’s imperial capital. The procession features over 2,000 participants dressed in meticulously crafted costumes that span more than a thousand years of history, from ancient court nobles and samurai warriors to women of the Heian aristocracy and figures from the Meiji Restoration. Watching the parade wind its way through the city is like seeing the pages of Japan’s past brought vividly to life, offering visitors a unique chance to experience the elegance and cultural heritage of old Kyoto.

Hachiman Festival

In October, the mountain town of Takayama in Gifu Prefecture hosts one of Japan’s most spectacular seasonal events: the Takayama Autumn Festival (Hachiman Matsuri). Centered around Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine, the festival is famous for its beautifully crafted yatai (festival floats), some of which are centuries old and decorated with fine craftsmanship, glossy lacquer finishes, and elegant touches of gold.

During the day, visitors can admire these floats as they line the streets, and at night they are illuminated with glowing lanterns, creating a magical atmosphere in Takayama’s preserved Edo-period old town. Puppet performances, traditional music, and lively processions add to the charm, making this festival not only a showcase of craftsmanship but also a vibrant community celebration. Recognized as part of UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage, the Takayama Autumn Festival is a must-see for travelers seeking an authentic experience of Japan’s mountain traditions.

October and November have to be, by far, some of the best times to experience Japan, when momiji, autumn festivals, and seasonal flavors create unforgettable memories. Beyond the typical tourist spots, take time to explore local towns, hidden temples, and regional celebrations. You’ll discover that the true beauty of Japan lies in both its famous sights and its quieter, lesser-known corners. 

Featured Photo Credit: Nuttawut Uttamaharad

If you want to discover more Autumn experiences in October and beyond, make sure to check out our recommended Autumn Tours to find the perfect experience for you!