September can be considered as a neither good nor bad month to travel to Japan. As the summer fades and autumn begins, the temperature drops gradually, and the weather turns to be relatively pleasant. However, it is a crazy time of typhoons. There are 4-5 typhoons in this month generally, which brings a quantity of rainfall. The typhoons and heavy rains aggravate the situation and might lead to secondary disasters, most clearly in cities, flooding and waterlogging in low-lying areas.

Hokkaido is barely affected by typhoons. It makes this northern Japan destination good to visit in September, with early autumn leaves.

Yes, it rains much in September around Japan, with averagely 7-10 rainy days. For coastal regions that typhoons would attack, often the eastern coast in central and southern Japan, it is supposed to be the rainiest month.

This is a month of dramatic weather changes when summer turns to autumn, which causes torrential rains from time to time. Then, typhoons make the rains heavier in September.

In most of Japan, summer heat has not relented in early September. Later, it becomes mild gradually after rains and typhoons, as the temperature would be no more than 27°C (80.6°F) / 28℃ (82.4℉). However, it is still hot in Okinawa.

Short-sleeve clothes are also wearable in September in most areas in Japan. For the decreased temperature, you may need to add a thin top or change into a long shirt if feeling cool. Due to typhoons, raincoat, umbrella, rain boots, or more rain gear should be prepared. Even so, it’s optimal to stay indoors if you encounter a typhoon.

1. Kishiwada Danjiri Festival in Osaka

In September, you can go to experience Kishiwada Danjiri Festival if travel to Osaka or nearby areas. It is held on the weekend of mid-September, usually on September 13-15th, in Kishiwada south to Osaka downtown, the eastern shore of Osaka Bay, which is close to Wakayama. Kishiwada Danjiri Festival is unique and grand to present special scenes of racing in the parade. During the day, men in traditional clothes pull the huge Japanese-style float and sprint around the corners at full speed. Imagine that you were one of them on a high float, what a thrilling thing it is! At night, the parade becomes peaceful, as people walk slowly, with lanterns hang all over the floats. It’s like a carnival for speed of Japanese, while you can also discover the local specialties and snacks at stalls roadsides.

People in Festival Bests

2. Owara Kaze no Bon Festival, Toyama

This is another big festival in Japan on the first 3 days of September. In the town of Yatsuo, or called Yatsuomachi, south to Tayama city, girls wearing a special straw hat dance during the procession. The parade would last from the midafternoon to midnight, a completely good chance to learn about Japanese music and local folk culture. It’s said this festival was to pray for harvests and good weather for crops in ancient times. Now, it becomes a local folk activity.

3. Sumo Wrestling Matches in Tokyo

The Sumo Tournament is an interesting indoor event to watch in Tokyo in September, to learn about this Japanese combat sport. It will be held at Ryogoku Kokugikan stadium, during September 14-28th in 2025. By the way, you can also visit the sumo museum in the stadium, with a lot of equipment for a game on display. It’s free to enter on weekdays without a contest.