Why Autumn Is the Perfect Time for UK Travellers to Visit Japan
Photo Credit: Ryutaro Tsukata / Pexels
If you're planning your next holiday and Japan is on your radar, consider visiting during autumn. From late September through early December, Japan transforms into one of the most picturesque destinations in the world. For UK travellers, this season offers a perfect mix of favourable weather, stunning scenery, cultural depth and value for money. Here’s an in-depth look at why autumn in Japan could be the best travel decision you’ll make this year.
1. Comfortable and Reliable Weather
Autumn in Japan means clear skies, crisp air, and comfortable temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C depending on the region. It’s a refreshing change from the UK's damp and grey autumn days. Whether you're wandering the streets of Tokyo, cycling through Kyoto, or hiking in the Japanese Alps, you’ll enjoy ideal conditions for exploring.
Rainfall is minimal compared to the summer months and the humidity is low. This makes walking tours, outdoor dining and visits to historical sites far more enjoyable. From mid-October onwards, you can expect consistently beautiful days, especially in central and southern regions.
2. Breathtaking Autumn Foliage
Japan's autumn foliage—called kōyō—is world-renowned. Vibrant reds, oranges and yellows sweep across the country from north to south. In the UK, autumn leaves are familiar, but in Japan, the colours are intensified by the cultural settings: shrines framed by blazing maple trees, temples mirrored in still ponds surrounded by golden ginkgo leaves and mountainsides lit up with a tapestry of colour.
Top viewing spots include:
Kyoto’s Arashiyama and Tōfuku-ji Temple
Nikkō National Park
Lake Kawaguchi near Mount Fuji
Daisetsuzan National Park in Hokkaido
Leaf-viewing is a national pastime in Japan and the meticulous landscaping of gardens, parks and temple grounds make the experience uniquely Japanese. The colours typically peak in November, though timing varies by region—another reason to plan ahead.
3. Fewer Crowds Than Cherry Blossom Season
Japan is famously busy during spring's cherry blossom season, when millions of tourists arrive for the brief sakura bloom. In contrast, autumn—though celebrated by locals—draws fewer international visitors. This means you can experience the same level of beauty and cultural depth with shorter queues, less crowded trains and easier access to popular sites.
For those who want immersive experiences without being overwhelmed by crowds, autumn offers the perfect balance.
4. Authentic Cultural Experiences and Festivals
Japan’s rich cultural calendar continues into autumn, with several noteworthy festivals that highlight the country's heritage:
Jidai Matsuri (Kyoto, 22 October) – A spectacular parade featuring historical costumes from various Japanese eras.
Takayama Autumn Festival (9–10 October) – Ornate floats and mechanical puppets fill the streets in one of Japan’s most beautiful towns.
Kawagoe Festival (mid-October) – Held in a charming Edo-period town near Tokyo, with traditional music, food and floats.
Autumn also marks the start of the shichi-go-san season in November, when children aged 3, 5, and 7 are dressed in kimono and taken to shrines for blessings—an endearing and photogenic sight.
5. Seasonal Japanese Cuisine at Its Best
Japan’s food culture is heavily seasonal, and autumn is a highlight for gourmets. This is harvest season, when some of the country’s most prized ingredients are at their peak. Specialities include:
Matsutake mushrooms – Earthy and aromatic, they’re considered a delicacy.
Kabocha squash – Used in soups and side dishes.
Chestnuts and sweet potatoes – Found in traditional sweets and street snacks.
Pacific saury (sanma) – A grilled fish enjoyed at home and in restaurants.
Many restaurants, especially in Kyoto, offer autumn-themed kaiseki meals that celebrate these ingredients in a multi-course dining experience. Street food vendors also reflect the season, with hot chestnuts, roasted sweet potatoes, and warm treats becoming common sights.
6. Better Value for Flights and Accommodation
Autumn doesn’t coincide with Japan’s major domestic holiday periods, making it easier to find good deals on flights and hotels. While the peak foliage weeks in November can see some price increases, early autumn (late September to mid-October) is often more affordable.
For UK travellers booking in advance, direct return flights to Tokyo or Osaka can often be found at reasonable prices—especially outside of school half-term holidays. Accommodation options range from luxury ryokan to modern business hotels.
7. Smooth Travel Logistics
Japan offers visa-free entry for UK citizens for up to 90 days, and there are direct flights from London to Tokyo (Haneda or Narita) and Osaka. Once in Japan, the rail network is fast, efficient, and foreigner-friendly. The Japan Rail Pass can be a cost-effective option if you plan to travel between cities.
With good signage in English, a low crime rate and high cleanliness standards, Japan is one of the easiest countries in Asia for independent travel.
8. Unmissable Photography Opportunities
Autumn in Japan is a photographer’s dream. The light is softer, the skies are clearer and the contrast between nature and man-made beauty is at its most vivid. Whether you're capturing:
Red maple leaves against a Shinto shrine
Geisha walking beneath golden ginkgo trees
A reflection of Mount Fuji in a still lake
Kyoto’s Philosopher’s Path covered in fallen leaves
—you’ll return with images that not only capture the moment but evoke the emotion and beauty of the season.
Autumn is arguably the most well-rounded and appealing time of year to visit Japan—especially for UK travellers. It combines natural beauty, pleasant weather, cultural richness and good value. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for a deeper experience, Japan in the autumn promises a memorable and meaningful journey.
Would you like personalised travel advice, itinerary help, or recommended tours? Get in touch today and start planning your autumn adventure to Japan.