Shizuoka Weather in October

Season: Autumn
Key points: mildly cool; moderate rainfall; not many tourists

Mildly Cool Overall

Average Temperature: 14-23℃ (57-73℉)

Overall, Shizuoka in October sees mildly cool weather. Daytime is mostly quite warm: high temperatures generally stay around 25℃ (77℉) in early October, occasionally rise to 29℃ (84℉); later, fall to 20-25℃ (68-77℉). At night, people often feel a chill in the air because the temperature is around 9 degrees Celsius (48 degrees Fahrenheit) lower than that of the day, and it varies from around 20℃ (68℉) at the start of the month to 10℃ (50℉) at the end.

Mt. Fuji Under Rosy Dawn

Moderate Rainfall and Possible Typhoons

Monthly Precipitation: 170 mm (6.7 in) across 15 rainy days
Average Relative Humidity: around 74%

Mostly, rain is drizzly and intermittent. In some rainier years, all-day rain can be expected for 2-3 days. Because of fickle rainy conditions in this month, it’s always smart to check the real-time weather forecast and get an umbrella or a raincoat ready before you head out.

During this period, Shizuoka is still possibly affected by typhoons. When a typhoon is approaching, it’s best not to get close to the coast such as Jogasaki Coast, even if the typhoon is not intense.

When is the first snowcap formation on Mount Fuji?

Generally speaking, Mount Fuji sees its first snowfall in early October, after which the top is covered in a thin layer of fresh snow. However, as the climate of Shizuoka in October becomes warmer in recent years, the timing seems to be postponed, for about 20 days, moving to late October. You may want to know these practical tips:
1. The first snowcap usually doesn’t last long, so to be on the safe side, it’s better to go for it after late November.
2. Recommended viewing locations: Miho no Matsubara and Nihon Daira Yume Terrace.
3. Visit time: early mornings on sunny days, which have the highest chance of seeing a clear panorama of Mount Fuji throughout a day.

Daylight Hours & Sunshine Hours

Beautiful Coast in October

Sunrise Time: 05:43 - 06:09
Sunset Time: 16:56 - 17:34
Daylight Hours: 10 hours 46 minutes - 11 hours 50 minutes
Average Sunshine Hours: roughly 5 hours each day

The duration of daytime in October averages no more than 12 hours, which means you should plan your travel schedule wisely to make full use of time. It’s always right to start your journey early since this allows you to visit more scenic spots in a day.

Pros and Cons for Visiting Shizuoka in October

Pros:
1. Pleasant temperatures and moderate rainfall make October a suitable time for traveling around.
2. With fewer visitors, popular scenic spots are uncrowded, making your experience more delightful. Plus, shop owners have more spare time to chat with you, which is a nice channel to learn more about local cultures and customs.

Cons:
1. There are no large-scale events and activities during this period. Though you can attend fireworks shows including Atami Fireworks Festival in mid-October and Dogashima Sunset Fireworks in early October, they are far less magnificent than summer’s counterparts.
2. The month is not an optimal time to capture the snowcapped Mount Fuji and admire stunning autumn leaves.

Packing List for Shizuoka in October

Clothing: Short sleeve T-shirts and thin overalls are suitable outfits for your daily sightseeing in early October; in the middle of the month, it’s advised to change the top to a long sleeve one or add a light jacket outside; towards the end of the month, pack hoodies, cardigans and jeans. In the mountains with lower temperatures, lightweight down jackets or fleece coats are more advised.

Footwear: Well-fitting sneakers or casual shoes are all great options.

Others: The UV index in this month declines from 6 to 4, so light UV protection is sufficient, like thinly applying SPF30+ sunblock and wearing sunglasses, which is also a good way to add a touch of fashion.

Travel Recommendations & Tips

1. During early October through mid-November, many places in Shuzenji Onsen Town are adorned with colorful chrysanthemum flowers. Also, it’s advisable to enjoy a hot spring here in the chilly evening.
2. If you plan to visit Izu Peninsula in October, its seasonal seafood Ise lobster is worth savoring. It has been regarded as a top-quality delicacy for a delightful mix of chewy texture and sweet flavor. During the Ise Lobster Festival between early October and November, you can get a feast of best Ise lobsters.

Interior of Onsen Inn Room