Wakayama Weather in September

Season: Autumn
Quick Look: still hot; rainy and relatively humid; typhoon peak period; fewer tourists

Still Hot

Average Temperature: 22-28℃ (72-82℉)

In September, the heat of summer still lingers in Wakayama, although the overall temperature is on a downward trend. In the beginning and middle of the month, the daily maximum easily reaches 30-34℃ (86-93℉); towards the end of the month, it drops by around 4 degrees Celsius (39 degrees Fahrenheit). Meanwhile, there is a relatively large diurnal temperature variation of 7-9℃ (45-48℉), when the daily minimum often fluctuates between 18℃ (64℉) and 26℃ (79℉).

Rich Rainfall & Relatively High Humidity

September is the second rainiest month of the year with the average precipitation of 195 mm (7.7 in) spreading over 16 rainy days. According to recent years’ weather data, light rain is most frequent, and it tends to last for a short period but occurs several times throughout a day. Occasionally, it might rain heavily, coupled with slightly dropping temperatures. And the likelihood of rain is higher in the morning than in the afternoon.

Influenced by abundant rainfall, Wakayama’s weather in September features a relatively high humidity of 73%. Lots of hot days during early through mid-September make you often feel muggy and sticky, but as time progresses, the climate becomes much comfortable.

The Peak Period of Typhoons

Wakayama in September is highly susceptible to typhoons, with an average of 1.1 typhoons approaching and 1 typhoon making landfall. Apart from torrential rainfall and strong winds, they may also cause flight and train service cancellations, the temporary closure of attractions, and mountain disasters like mudslides and flash floods - finally disrupting your travel plan significantly.

 Warm suggestions:
1. Check the local weather forecast before coming here, and adjust your itinerary accordingly. 
2. For your trip to Wakayama in September 2026, choose a hotel with hot springs or indoor entertainment facilities, so you can kill the time when encountering a typhoon during your stay.

Perhaps Last Chance for Water Activities

Seawater temperature here is around 25-28℃ (77-82℉) in September. In early to mid-September, you may still warmly enjoy the water activities, but by late September, people of weak constitution may feel a tad chilly in the sea.

Daylength & Sunshine Hours

Sunrise Time: 5:33 - 5:53
Sunset Time: 17:44 - 18:26
Daylength: 12 hours 53 minutes - 11 hours 51 minutes
Sunshine Hours: around 8.5 hours per day

There are sufficient sunshine hours and intense sunlight with the UV index of 8 - 9, so sun-protective items, including sunglasses, sun hats and sunscreen, are needed, particularly by the sea.

Sun viewing is a must-do itinerary for many travelers. If you cannot get up early to catch the sunrise, why not opt for the sunset instead? Aside from some popular spots - Engetsu Island and Shirahama Beach, the top of Kimiidera Temple is also an ideal place: the whole sky glowing in fiery red and golden hues provides a breathtaking backdrop for the tall buildings illuminated by neon signs.

Pros and Cons of Visiting Wakayama in September

 Pros:
By September, when Japan’s summer holiday has ended, the number of domestic tourists reduce greatly, especially at famous attractions. For instance, Shirahama Beach receives around 30%-40% of its peak visitor flow this month, so you can easily find a quiet place and enjoy a more relaxing atmosphere.

 Cons:
1. When it rains or a typhoon passes by, it’s not a favorable time for outdoor sightseeing, let alone hiking in the mountains.
2. Without a variety of grand events, Wakayama may lose much of its charm for some travelers.

What to Wear in Wakayama in September

 Outfit: To adapt to Wakayama’s climate in September, summer clothes in breathable fabric are the best, such as cotton or linen short-sleeved shirts, chiffon dresses, and chambray pants or beach shorts. If you are sensitive to temperature changes, it’s better to bring along a light long-sleeved layer. For footwear, choose comfy walking shoes and sandals, considering a large expanse of scenic spots.

 Others: 
1. Pack a parasol for both strong sunshine and rain.
2. Swimming gear: swimsuits, googles and towels.

Travel Suggestions & Tips

1. After rain, the ground is wet everywhere, so don’t risk climbing the seaside steep cliffs. Otherwise, uneven and slippery rocks may make you slip or even fall into the sea.
2. For those planning to visit Bandoko Garden, please set off early. Although September enjoys relatively long daylength, the shuttle service has infrequent schedules, so miss one means a long wait.
3. This month brings a comfortable mix of sunny and overcast weather. But on sunny periods, lush natural landscapes and ancient monuments look even more striking under the blue sky and abundant light.

Wakayama Weather by Month