20 Best Things to do in October in Japan | Attractions | Activities | Tours

Last Updated: 10/08/2023

With autumn settling in and the fall leaves taking over the country, there are many great things to do in October in Japan! From sumo watching and paragliding around Mt Fuji to bathing in colorful rivers and visiting Huis Ten Bosch, there are lots to do when the latter part of the year kicks in.

Halloween is fast becoming a big deal in the country, and you can catch up with some of the festivities in burlesque clubs around Tokyo that put on sizzling performances for the masses. The things to do in October are also defined by World heritage temples and blue cave snorkeling.

For more ideas on incredible things to do in October, our list has got you covered!

1. Up-close Sumo wrestling action and special lunch

Go behind the stables and watch rikishi square up to each other in a circle ring in Ryogoku. Be sure to ask questions later on and have a go at Chankonabe, a traditional sumo wrestler’s meal!

田中企画
Attend Sumo Demonstration by Former Wrestlers & Eat Chanko Nabe Lunch in Tokyo!
Ryogoku, Tokyo

2. Nikko’s beautiful riches at your fingertips

Amassed with natural beauty like the Kegon falls at every turn, Nikko is a mystical mountain haven with a spiritual atmosphere. Explore Lake Chuzenji, the cultural theme Nikko Edo wonderland, Kinugawa hot spring, and more with an all-access, 4-day pass.

アクティビティジャパン(リンクティビティ経由EDO WONDERLAND 日光江戸村)
Admission ticket for EDO WONDERLAND
Nikko, Tochigi
H.I.S. 訪日旅行営業本部
1 Day Round-trip train, Nikko Toshogu Shrine and Edo Wonderland
Taito-ku, Tokyo
Sup!Sup!
8-seater mega SUP plan
Nikko, Tochigi

3. Visit a UNESCO World Heritage temple wearing Kimono

Kiyomizu-dera is an important landmark of Kyoto, and it is the site of a beguiling kimono rental experience. Rent beautiful traditional attire and take to the old Edo streets for strolls around autumn-colored trees!

京都 着物レンタル ミモザ 高台寺店
Relish the Autumn Foliage colours While Strolling Around Kyoto's Attractions Wearing Kimono or Yukata
Higashiyama ward, Kyoto

4. Amazing Mt. Fuji & Hakone Tour from Tokyo

Hakone is a popular destination for those who want to catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji, Japan's tallest and most iconic mountain. Visitors can enjoy stunning panoramic views of the mountain from various vantage points in Hakone, including Lake Ashi and the Hakone Ropeway.

一般社団法人静岡富士山ガイド協会
Hiking on the historical road Hakone Yusakaji (Kamakura Kodo)
Hakone, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa
Hakone Mountain Ripper(箱根マウンテンリッパー)
Trail cruising course【MTB】
Ashigarashimo-gun, Kanagawa
箱根芦ノ湖セグウェイツアー
Hakone Lake Ashinoko Segway Tour
Hakone, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa

5. Visit a lovely Dutch town in Nagasaki

If you fancy a trip to a 17th-century Dutch town, Huis Ten Bosch recreates the setting perfectly in Sasebo, Nagasaki. The presentation is complete with native architecture, encompassing a giant Ferris wheel and colorful tulips that are lit up in entrancing colors at night!

H.I.S. 訪日旅行営業本部
Enjoy a Dutch-Style Theme Park Tour in Japan: Huis Ten Bosch Park Bus Tour
Tenjin, Chuo Ward, Fukuoka

6. Minakami canoeing tour with autumn views

October is always a great time to go canoeing on Lake Okutone in Minakami. The summer shades have been replaced by rich autumn leaves, making for scenic paddling in meditative waters!

ワンドロップ アウトドアガイドサービス
Experience the Great Nature and Autumn Colors of Okutone in a Half-Day Canoeing Tour
Minakami, Gunma

7. Canoeing and bathing in Jozankei’s fall beauty

Fresh from Mt. Oizari, Toyohira river snakes about breathtaking scenery, passing through Jozankei. A canoe trip here means red and orange fall foliage and refreshing forest baths at designated points!

アミューズスポーツ(AMUSE SPORTS)
Enjoy the Nature of Jozankei Toyohira River Touring on a Canoe Surrounded by Autumn Leaves
Jozankei, Minami Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido

8. Experience Chitose’s impressive October shades

A whole new world awaits in nature-blessed Chitose. The tarmacked trails offer heavenly cycling within banks of orange seasonal trees in October, and you can follow the floral appeal into the water with a boat down an enchanting river!

HORTO札幌
Chitose River Middle Basin Inflatable Kayak Touring
Naganuma, Yubari District, Hokkaido
ネイチャーアクティビティセンター オーシャンデイズ 支笏湖本店
Let's ride a fat wheeled bike and enjoy nature
Chitose, Hokkaido

9. A day in the diverse underwater of Miyakojima island

The underworld of Miyakojima is never a dull affair. Clownfish hide in colorful sea fans, and sea turtles are always wandering about looking for adventure. Go diving with all sorts of sea creatures in Miyakojima!

marine assist DEMI マリンアシストデミ
Beginner-Friendly Diving Experience in Miyakojima, Okinawa!
Miyakojima, Okinawa

10. Let your inner child loose in Yanbaru

Have fun on vine swings above a stream tucked away in a beautiful part of Yanbaru forest, as you climb waterfalls and enjoy treks with your family. Forget your troubles and live life on the blissful lane!

冒険島
Yanbaru Forest Zip-lining, Waterfall Climbing, and Trekking Tour in Okinawa
Ogimi, Okinawa

11. The clay is your oyster in Kyoto

Master the intricate art of using the electric potter's wheel and create beautiful pottery by shaping the clay with the power of your hands. There is no greater satisfaction than crafting your own useful souvenirs. Beginners are welcome to enjoy this soothing activity in Kyoto.

瑞光窯 京都清水店(zuikougama)
Learn the Art of Pottery Using an Electric Wheel in Kyoto
Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto

12. Marvel at the pumpkin limestone cave in Miyakojima

The yellow stalactites and limestone formations that curve into the shape of pumpkins have earned Ryugu Miyagi its nickname. This place is a great geological wonder, with enormous potential for Instagram-worthy selfies!

青色のシーズン
Pumpkin Limestone Cave Exploration in Miyakojima
Miyakojima, Okinawa

13. ATV ride rental around lake Kawaguchiko

ATV rental with friends around lake Kawaguchiko

Renting an ATV to explore the area around Lake Kawaguchiko is an exciting way to take in the natural beauty of the region. Adventurous visitors can enjoy the stunning views of Mt. Fuji while riding an ATV through the rugged terrain around the lake.

カントリーレイクシステムズ
Powerful! 8 wheel buggy ride experience (30 minutes tour) around lake Kawaguchiko
Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi
カントリーレイクシステムズ
Off-road experience course - All-terrain vehicle (ATV)
Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi

14. Paragliding beside the clouds of Mt Fuji

Giving new meaning to the phrase “getting high,” paragliding in Shizuoka promises a potent dose of excitement. With Japan’s tallest mountain looming over the city, the views from up high are spectacular!

今井浜フライングスクール(Imaihama Flying School)
Paragliding experience & tandem flight course (half day course)
Kamo-gun, Shizuoka

15. Beautiful autumn foliage and brewery explorations in Kameoka

Visiting Kameoka in autumn is a wonderful experience for nature lovers. The city's vibrant autumn foliage offers stunning views of the changing colors of the season, making it an ideal destination for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The scenery is painted red by fallen seasonal leaves, setting the tone for relaxing picnics and cultural experiences!

一般社団法人南丹市美山観光まちづくり協会
Relaxing picnic lunch & electric rental cycle plan
Nantan-shi, Kyoto
かやぶき一棟貸しの宿 美山FUTON&Breakfast
Thatched-roof experience
Miyamachōshima, Nantan, Kyoto

16. Show restaurant Burlesque clubs in Tokyo

Make the most of your Tokyo nights with burlesque club shows in Roppongi. Enjoy a variety of performances, including singing and pole dancing, accompanied by flash displays of LED waltzes!

17. Hot air balloon experience in Kumamoto

hot air balloon ride in Kumamoto

Located in the lush surroundings of Nantan, this paragliding experience in Kyoto offers a perfect blend of nature and tranquility. Watching the landscape merge into a uniform beauty from high up in the clouds is a divine and unforgettable experience.

株式会社KASSE JAPAN
Enjoy the spectacular view of the morning! (Early morning) Hot air balloon experience
Aso City, Kumamoto Prefecture

18. Rafting in Saitama’s fall scenery

Rafting in Chichibu in October promises more than just exciting waves to ride out with friends; it also means colorful canopies that serve as perfect backdrops for picture-perfect memories. There is no greater bonding experience than enjoying the beauty of nature with your friends.

アムスハウス&フレンズ
Thrilling Outdoor Adventure in Chichibu, Saitama: Nagatoro River Rafting Experience
Nagatoro, Saitama

19. Hang-gliding with views of Mt. Fuji

Float like a paper plane in the foreground of Mount Fuji and enjoy the winds and sunshine from high up in the sky. The view of Fujisan from this vantage point is truly breathtaking and magnificent.

忍野スカイスポーツ倶楽部
Exciting Tandem Hang Gliding Adventure in Lake Yamanaka, Yamanashi
Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi

20. Snorkeling with clownfish in Ishigaki

An alluring vivid blue grotto in Ishigaki is home to fascinating fish such as the white and orange patterned anemonefish. Enjoy a range of fun watersports, including snorkeling tours, and be part of this unique marine adventure on the island!

石垣島ツアーガイドAll Blue(オールブルー)
Enjoy a Day Full of Water Activities and Excitement: Blue Cave Snorkeling, Banana Boat, Sup, and Other Fun Marine Sports in Ishigaki Island!
Arakawa, Ishigaki, Okinawa

Summary

    FAQs

      In conclusion, Japan in October offers a multitude of activities and attractions that cater to all interests. From the stunning autumn foliage to exciting outdoor adventures, there is something for everyone. Visitors can view Mount Fuji from Hakone, and rent an ATV to explore the area around Lake Kawaguchiko. Additionally, there are options for paragliding in Kyoto, rafting in Chichibu, and snorkeling in the vivid blue grotto in Ishigaki. Japan's unique cultural experiences, delicious food, and picturesque scenery make it a top destination to visit in October. Plan your trip now to experience the best of Japan!

      Frequently Asked Questions

      QWhat is the weather like in Japan in October?

      AThe weather in Japan in October is generally mild and pleasant, with temperatures averaging around 15 to 20 degrees Celsius. However, it can vary depending on the region.

      QWhat are some outdoor activities to do in Japan in October?

      AHiking, cycling, and visiting local parks and gardens to see the autumn foliage are popular outdoor activities during October. Additionally, some beaches in Okinawa and other southern islands are still warm enough for swimming.

      QAre there any festivals in Japan in October?

      AYes, there are several festivals in October, such as the Takayama Autumn Festival in Gifu, the Kurama Fire Festival in Kyoto, and the Nagasaki Kunchi Festival in Nagasaki.

      QWhat should I pack for a trip to Japan in October?

      APack clothes that are suitable for mild weather, such as long-sleeved shirts, jackets, and light sweaters. Comfortable walking shoes and an umbrella or raincoat are also recommended, as there may be occasional rain.

      QWhat are some popular day trips from Tokyo in October?

      ASome popular day trips from Tokyo in October include visiting Nikko to see the autumn foliage and UNESCO World Heritage sites, taking a day trip to the Fuji Five Lakes region to see Mount Fuji and enjoy outdoor activities, or visiting Kamakura to see the beautiful fall colors and historic temples.

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