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One could say that autumn in Japan is the most beautiful time of the year in the Land of the Rising Sun and also the peak tourist season. Without the scorching heat of summer or the chilly weather of winter, the autumn weather is pleasantly cool, perfect for exploring. So, what makes autumn in Japan so appealing? What festivals are there, what foods to try, what places to discover, and what to keep in mind when traveling? All will be detailed in our article – Autumn Travel Experience in Japan from A to Z.
Should You Travel to Japan in Autumn
What month is autumn in Japan? The answer begins in September and ends at the close of November. During this time, the climate in Japan is relatively mild and comfortable, making it ideal for travel.
Moreover, when it comes to autumn in Japan, one cannot forget the vivid red maple leaves painting the dreamy sky. Autumn in Japan exudes elegance and gentleness, captivating the hearts of travelers with its stunning beauty.
Autumn in Japan is also the season of harvest for many crops and fruits. Here, travelers will have the opportunity to taste various flavors characteristic of the country's culinary culture. Additionally, autumn in Japan is the time for many unique festivals, where travelers can have exciting experiences with the locals. So, why wait any longer? Start planning your trip to Japan this autumn.
Autumn Festivals in Japan
Takayama Matsuri Festival, Gifu
Takayama Matsuri takes place in October every year in Gifu Prefecture. This festival dates back approximately 350 years and has been preserved to this day. Takayama Matsuri is considered one of the three largest and most important festivals in the Land of the Rising Sun.
Visitors to the Takayama festival have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the massive crowd and admire the meticulously crafted floats by skilled artisans.
The festival attracts a large number of participants. According to statistics from previous years, there has never been a year when Takayama Matsuri had fewer than 200,000 attendees, with up to 100,000 people just during the float procession. Imagine being amidst such a crowd, immersed in the lively atmosphere of the festival; it's sure to be a memorable experience if you join in.
Autumn Takayama Matsuri Festival in Japan
Kurama Festival, Kyoto
When choosing autumn in Japan as your travel time, you should not miss the Kurama Festival. This festival is held on October 22nd every year at Yuki-jinja Shrine in Kyoto. Japanese locals parade with blazing torches as dusk falls. You'll surely be amazed by the gigantic torches in the Kurama festival.
The procession begins with small torches carried by children, followed by youths with larger torches, and finally by grown men wielding massive torches weighing up to 80kg and standing over 3m tall. Together, they create a spectacular and captivating Kurama Fire Festival.
Autumn Kurama Festival in Japan
Yabusame Festival, Kanagawa
The Yabusame Festival was first held in the 12th century and has been celebrated for hundreds of years. Yabusame takes place in September every year at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine in Kanagawa prefecture.
At the festival, you'll have the opportunity to witness horseback archers in attire resembling Samurai warriors competing in archery. In the competition, archers use the “Yumi” - a type of Japanese bow dating back to the third century to hit three wooden targets with arrows. This is not an easy task, requiring both the balance on horseback and precise archery skills of the participants.
Therefore, it can be said that the Yabusame horseback archery festival is not just a sport, but also a ritual to honor the Samurai pride of the Japanese people.
Yabusame Autumn Festival, Japan
Warai Matsuri Festival, Kawayama
The Warai Matsuri Festival, also known by a more intimate name as the laughter festival. Even its name leaves a distinctive impression on listeners, unmistakable anywhere else. Warai Matsuri is held annually on October 12th in Kawayama prefecture.
During the festival, you'll immerse yourself in the joyful atmosphere of processions to the shrine and enjoy traditional dances such as Nobori sashi, Shishimai, Mikoshi, Yotsukaido, etc. If you have the chance to explore autumn in Japan, don't miss this fascinating festival. The organizers aim to elevate happiness and the human desire for a life free from pain, filled only with joy and laughter.
Must-Visit Spots in Japan during Autumn
Oshino Hakkai Ancient Village
Situated in Kanagawa prefecture and nestled at the foot of Mount Fuji, Oshino Hakkai Ancient Village lies. For those unaware, the area surrounding Mount Fuji was once surrounded by a system of lakes including Kawaguchi, Yamanaka, Sai, Motosu, Shoji. Oshino Hakkai Village is the 6th lake, however, it dried up hundreds of years ago and formed a small village for residents. Presently, Oshino Hakkai Ancient Village still preserves 8 small ponds within the village for visitors to admire.
Here, you'll encounter numerous ponds with refreshing greenery, and in the distance, you'll spot houses topped with unique grass roofs. Over the large ponds at Oshino Hakkai, there are beautiful bridges spanning across. This is also an ideal spot to take in the panoramic view of the village. Simply magnificent, isn't it?
Experience the Beauty of Autumn in Oshino Hakkai Ancient Village
Nyuto-onsenkyo Hot Springs
Nyuto-onsenkyo is a collection of multiple hot spring baths located in the mountainous region of eastern Akita Prefecture, Japan. This destination is well-known among tourists for its numerous hot spring facilities housed within 8 traditional ryokan (inns), featuring many rustic and traditional bathing rooms. With a history spanning over 300 years, Tsurunoyu is the oldest and most renowned hot spring inn in Nyuto.
There's nothing quite like immersing yourself in the hot springs of Nyuto-onsenkyo at the foot of Mount Nyuto while admiring the stunning scenery of nature in autumn. During this time, the mountains here are adorned with vibrant red and golden hues, creating an experience that will leave a lasting impression for a lifetime.
Experience the Relaxation of Onsen Bathing at Nyuto-onsenkyo
Rikugi-en Park
If you're looking to immerse yourself in a picturesque and romantic setting reminiscent of romantic films, then this destination is a must-visit. Rikugi-en Park was constructed around 1700 for the 5th Tokugawa Shogun. It takes over an hour to stroll along the path encircling the park to fully appreciate its beauty.
Rikugi-en Park captivates visitors not only with its lush greenery and beautiful bridges but also thanks to its tranquil pond that brings a sense of serenity to the soul. Another special feature is that this is the 'home' of 400 ancient maple trees. Adorned with twinkling lights, Rikugi-en is a breathtaking sight at night, leaving visitors in awe of this magnificent creation.
Immerse Yourself in the Tranquil Autumn Beauty of Rikugien Park
Boating on the Hozu River
The Hozu River is a beautiful waterway located in western Kyoto. During the autumn foliage season, it's truly delightful to paddle along the river while admiring the picturesque scenery of autumn leaves. Additionally, running parallel to the Hozu River is the Sagano Torokko scenic railway, also known as the 'romantic train.' Riding on the vintage train slowly chugging through the majestic natural landscape evokes a nostalgic feeling within you.
Experience Serene River Cruising on the Gentle Hozu River
What to Enjoy in Japan During Autumn
Pacific Saury (Sanma)
Pacific saury is primarily caught during the autumn season in the offshore waters of Hokkaido, Japan. The period from September to October is when Pacific saury matures and contains the most nutrients of the year.
This fish has a shiny green skin, and its flesh contains many beneficial oils for health. In Japan, Pacific saury is used in many traditional dishes and is reasonably priced. Some enticing dishes made from Pacific saury include sashimi, sushi, and grilled Pacific saury. Particularly, grilled Pacific saury with salt is one of Japan's specialties favored by many tourists for its delicious, fatty meat. What could be better than enjoying a serving of hot grilled Pacific saury with soy sauce, pickled radish, and a squeeze of lemon?
Savor Delicious Fresh Pacific Saury in Japan
Matsutake Mushrooms
Matsutake mushrooms are nutrient-rich and rare, thriving only in specific environments. The autumn weather in Japan is the only time of year when Matsutake mushrooms sprout. It would be a missed opportunity not to taste the flavor of this mushroom during a trip to Japan in autumn.
Matsutake mushrooms have a pine-like aroma but a meaty flavor when cooked. Isn't that special? They are used in many Japanese dishes such as grilled Matsutake mushrooms over charcoal, Matsutake soup, and grilled Sugi fish with Matsutake mushrooms.
Matsutake Mushrooms Are Widely Used in Delicious Japanese Dishes
Chestnuts
Autumn in Japan is the season of chestnuts. Visitors can easily spot many carts on the streets or shops selling dishes made from chestnuts when they come here.
If you want to taste the original flavor of chestnuts, you can try roasted chestnuts to experience their naturally sweet and nutty taste. Besides the fragrant roasted chestnuts on the street, you can also enjoy a special pastry called Kuri Manju. The pastry is made from chestnuts, rice, and some other ingredients. The yellow color of chestnuts and the white color of rice perfectly symbolize autumn.
Delicious Kuri Manju Pastry Made from Chestnuts
Dried Persimmons
Persimmons are considered one of the signature foods of autumn in Japan. After harvesting, the persimmons are peeled and dried. When visiting Japan in autumn, we will easily come across strings of persimmons hanging gracefully in the breeze.
Dried persimmons are also loved for their sweet and fragrant chewiness. Eating dried persimmons while drinking tea and admiring the autumn scenery of Japan will surely provide you with an unforgettable experience.
Tips for Traveling to Japan in Autumn
Immigration Procedures and Documentation
It can be said that for any overseas trip, you need to prepare all the necessary documents for immigration such as plane tickets, visas, passports, cash, and international payment cards.
Japan has strict immigration policies. If you meet the requirements as stipulated, applying for a Japanese visa independently is not too complicated. However, if you still lack confidence, you can contact us for assistance.
Additionally, remember to adjust your phone and watch time to avoid confusion. Japan's time zone is GMT+9, which is 2 hours ahead of Vietnam. So, when it's 5:00 in Vietnam, it's 7:00 in Japan.
Weather and Clothing
Preparing the right clothing for your trip is crucial. It needs to suit the weather and the culture of the country while ensuring comfort for traveling and, most importantly, helping you capture the best quality 'Instagrammable' moments.
If you're traveling to Japan in September, the weather is still not very cold, so during the day, you can wear light clothes. However, avoid revealing attire, especially in places like temples and shrines because the Japanese people appreciate modesty and etiquette. Carrying sunglasses or a sun umbrella will help you adapt to the unpredictable weather changes. Remember to bring a thin sweater for evening strolls. It will help you stay healthy and protected.
From October to November, you'll need to bring along thicker sweaters or jackets because the weather is starting to get chilly. Carrying a thin scarf is also essential, not only to block the wind but also for easy outfit coordination and as a highly effective photo prop.
Camera and Internet
Of course, a camera or a smartphone for taking photos is a must-have in your luggage. The breathtaking scenery of autumn in Japan will make you constantly click your camera shutter. If you want to keep your social media followers updated with 'hot' images of your trip, consider renting a pocket wifi device for easy and affordable internet access, as wifi in Japan is somewhat of a rarity.
Shopping
When traveling to Japan, whether it's in autumn or any other time of the year, you shouldn't haggle when shopping. Items here are reasonably priced, so if you feel it's not within your budget, don't hesitate to walk away to maintain respect in the eyes of the Japanese.
Furthermore, you shouldn't sample food in supermarkets, although it's quite common in Vietnam. If you want to buy something as a gift but unsure about its quality, you can ask for advice from the locals. They will gladly offer recommendations, so rest assured. Otherwise, your not-so-great image might end up on the big screen for everyone to see.
And one last thing, remember to take care of your health throughout your autumn tour in Japan. Carry some common medicines like cold, stomachache, and fever reducers to be prepared, as medical expenses in Japan can be quite pricey.
These are the autumn travel experiences in Japan that we want to share with you. Japan is incredibly beautiful, so much so that no words can fully describe its beauty. So why wait? Book a Japan autumn tour with your family now and enjoy the experience!
Posted by: Huynh Si Thuong
Keywords: Ultimate Guide to Autumn Travel in Japan
