Japan in October: must-see cities and hidden gems
- July 25, 2024
- 7 min
If you are planning to visit Japan, I can tell you, having traveled there myself in October last year, that this month is one of the best for exploring the country. You can find an account of my personal experience here, but in the meantime I offer a guide to what to see in autumn. October offers temperate weather that is ideal for getting around, and the tourist crowds are still not as large as in November, when they arrive in droves to admire the foliage; you can read the dedicated article here . In addition, this is the time when many festivals dedicated to autumn are held in Japan, I wrote about them here.
I also recommend that you consider purchasing a Japan Rail Pass by checking on one of the many sites available to you to see if it suits your commute. In any case, the Shinkansen allows you to move easily between major cities, but don’t underestimate the importance of good planning, especially if you want to include less touristy destinations.
Even with “short” trips (7-10 days) you can enjoy the wonders of cities such as Tokyo, Kyoto, Nara, Osaka and Hiroshima, as well as discover destinations less traveled by tourists, but equally fascinating. Here is an overview of some of the cities you absolutely cannot miss.
Tokyo dynamic capital
Tokyo is a vibrant and diverse metropolis, combining tradition and modernity. During my trip, I enjoyed the tranquility of parks such as Ueno Park and the Imperial Garden, which in October turn spectacular autumn hues. With the mild weather this month, you can walk unhurriedly through iconic neighborhoods like Shibuya or visit historic temples like Senso-ji. In addition, October is full of festivals, such as the Oeshiki Festival at Honmonji Temple, which allows you to immerse yourself in local culture.
Kyoto cradle of Japanese tradition
Kyoto is a city that made a deep impression on me. Famous for its temples and Zen gardens, it is the perfect place for those seeking tranquility and historical beauty. I visited Kiyomizu-dera Temple, from which there is a panoramic view of the city, and Fushimi Inari Taisha, with its thousands of red torii. October is a great month to discover Kyoto, with its ancient streets of Gion and warm autumn colors framing every corner of the city.
Nara city of sacred deer
Nara, only an hour by train from Kyoto, was one of the most serene stops on my trip. Nara Park, with its sacred deer, is a unique experience. I spent hours walking among the deer and visiting Todai-ji Temple, which houses the Great Buddha. October is perfect for Nara: the cool weather makes outdoor exploration enjoyable, and the scenery is lovely with autumn leaves.
Osaka gastronomic heart of Japan
Hiroshima history and rebirth
Hiroshima is a city that represents resilience and rebirth. The Peace Park and the Peace Museum are poignant places that invite reflection. I found Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island a memorable experience, especially in October, when the tide and autumn colors create a unique setting.
Lesser-known gems: Nikko and Kurashiki
Nikko: Nature and Spirituality
About a two-hour train ride from Tokyo, Nikko is a town that I found fascinating because of its combination of nature and history. Toshogu Shrine is one of the most striking places, bathed in autumn colors. Nikko is surrounded by mountains, lakes and waterfalls that offer unmissable natural spectacles in October.