Wakayama Weather in October
Season: AutumnWhat is the weather like in Wakayama in October: cooling down to a comfy level; moderate rainfall and low typhoon impact
Cooling Down
Average Temperature: 17-23℃ (63-73℉)
Besides, the temperature varies greatly throughout a day. During the daytime, you feel relatively warm, as the temperature is usually more than 24℃ (75℉), and occasionally even reaches up to 29 degrees Celsius (84 degrees Fahrenheit). However, early mornings and nights bring a hint of chill, with the temperature normally below 18℃ (64℉) - perhaps as low as 10℃ (50℉) in late October.
Not the Best Time for Fall Foliage Yet
Though the leaves in high-altitude regions start to change their colors at the end of October, the period is not the best time to enjoy autumn foliage. So, you’re advised to come here a bit late to see them, like in early November or later.
Is the seawater warm enough to swim in?
With tepid seawater, swimming is not recommended. In October, the water temperature averages 24℃ (75℉), so few people go swimming in the sea, but only walk barefoot on the sandy beach or splash in the waves. Meanwhile, there are no lifeguards any more, and the supporting facilities of the beach resorts are also unavailable. If you’d like to enjoy water activities, July to August is the best time.
Rainfall
The monthly precipitation in Wakayama plunges to 146 mm (5.8 in), spreading over 14 days. October features light and intermittent showers, but moderate or heavy rain is also possible, although occasionally. Overall, the rainfall rarely affects your travel itinerary as long as you make some preparations for it.Another bright side is that this month is unfrequently affected by typhoons, with only 0.3 landfalls recorded on average. But to be on the safe side, keep an eye on the relevant information before your departure and during your stay, if you plan to visit Wakayama in this period of 2026.
Humidity
Due to decreasing rainfall, the relative humidity also falls to an average of 69%, and the air tends to be fresh and clean, particularly in the mountains such as Mount Koya and Kumano Kodo.Daytime Hours & Sunshine Hours
Sunrise Time: 5:53 - 6:18Sunset Time: 17:07 - 17:44
Daytime Hours: 11 hours 50 minutes - 10 hours 49 minutes
Less-than-12-hour daylength means you should arrange your schedule effectively to make full use of daytime. If you plan a day trip to the scenic spots around Wakayama City, also leave aside some time for transportation and return to town before it gets dark.
The north and south of Wakayama have different sunshine hours: the former receives 8 hours, while the latter has 7.4 hours. Although ultraviolet rays in October are much gentler than in summer, moderate sun protection is still necessary, especially if you stay by the seaside for a long time.
How to Dress in Wakayama in October
Clothing:1. Relatively Warm Periods: During the sunny daytime, short-sleeved clothes and summer sweatpants are acceptable in early and middle October, while thin long-sleeve shirts and jeans are advised in the rest of the month.
2. Cool Periods: Aside from the above-mentioned clothing, pack a 3-in-1 jacket with a removable fleece lining. In early mornings and late evenings, adding an outer shell is enough, but on rainy days with lower temperatures, particularly in late October, the inner layer should come in handy.
Shoes: It’s advisable to choose the shoes convenient for walking, such as well-fitting loafers or sneakers. Hikers had better wear non-slip hiking shoes. Others: Prepare raingear in case it rains. Best Things to Do in Wakayama in October
Hike on Kumano Kodo
Given the pleasant climate of Wakayama, October is one of the best periods to hike in mountainous regions, especially Kumano Kodo, a glamorous destination in the hearts of hikers. Among a network of pilgrim routes, the 7-kilometer stretch of the Nakahechi Route between Hosshinmon Oji and Kumano Hongu Taisha Shrine is the most quintessential part, highly recommended for novices. Sunlight slants through the towering lush trees onto the trails, and the air is fragrant with scents from the leaves; sometimes, the chirps of the birds and the gurgle of the stream from afar can be heard.Bonus Tip: Bears are more likely to wander around the Kumano Kodo during autumn, particularly along some deserted trails. For safety, it’s better to travel in groups or take a bear bell.
